Yard-to-Meter & Metric Converter
Convert between imperial and metric measurements for quilting
Quick Presets (click to convert):
Conversion Formulas:
- • 1 inch = 2.54 cm
- • 1 yard = 0.9144 meters (91.44 cm)
- • 1 meter = 1.0936 yards
- • 1 yard = 36 inches
- • 1 meter = 100 cm
💡 Tips for International Quilters
- • Round metric measurements to practical values (e.g., 6mm or 7.5mm instead of 6.35mm for 1/4" seam)
- • Many European quilters use 6mm seam allowance instead of 1/4"
- • Metric fabric is often sold in 10cm increments (roughly equivalent to 1/8 yard)
- • When converting patterns, round block sizes to convenient numbers (25cm, 30cm, etc.)
Understanding Imperial & Metric Measurements in Quilting
Why Do We Need Metric Conversion?
Quilting patterns and tutorials originated primarily in the United States, where imperial measurements (inches, yards, feet) are standard. However, most of the world uses the metric system (centimeters, meters). International quilters often need to convert measurements when:
- Following American quilting patterns and tutorials
- Shopping for fabric sold by the meter instead of by the yard
- Using rulers and rotary mats marked in centimeters
- Calculating seam allowances for international sewing machines
- Sharing patterns with quilters in other countries
Our converter makes it easy to work between both systems, whether you're converting an entire pattern or just checking a single measurement.
Essential Conversion Factors
Length Conversions
- 1 inch = 2.54 centimeters (exact)
- 1 yard = 0.9144 meters (or 91.44 cm)
- 1 meter = 1.0936 yards (or 39.37 inches)
- 1 foot = 30.48 centimeters
These are exact mathematical conversions. In practice, quilters often round to convenient numbers for easier cutting and piecing.
Working with Fractions
Imperial measurements frequently use fractions (1/4", 3/8", 1/2"), while metric uses decimals. Understanding these equivalents is crucial:
| Fraction | Decimal | Millimeters | Centimeters |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1/8" | 0.125" | 3.2 mm | 0.32 cm |
| 1/4" | 0.25" | 6.4 mm | 0.64 cm |
| 1/2" | 0.5" | 12.7 mm | 1.27 cm |
| 3/4" | 0.75" | 19.1 mm | 1.91 cm |
Seam Allowances: A Special Case
The standard quilting seam allowance in the US is 1/4" (6.35mm exactly). However, metric quilters typically use one of two approaches:
Option 1: 6mm Seam Allowance
Many metric quilters use exactly 6mm instead of 6.35mm. This is close enough for most projects and much easier to mark on metric rulers.
Impact: Blocks will be approximately 0.35mm (less than 1/64") smaller per seam - negligible for most quilts.
Option 2: 7.5mm Seam Allowance
Some metric sewers prefer 7.5mm (which equals just under 5/16") because it's easier to measure accurately and provides a bit more seam stability.
Impact: Finished blocks will be slightly smaller than the pattern indicates, so adjust cutting sizes accordingly.
Pro Tip: The most important factor is consistency. Pick one seam allowance (6mm or 7.5mm) and use it throughout your entire project. Test with a sample block first.
Fabric Widths Around the World
Standard fabric widths vary slightly between countries, though most quilting cotton follows these conventions:
| Region | Standard Width | Metric Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| USA/Canada | 42-44" WOF | 107-112 cm |
| UK/Europe/Australia | 110 cm (typical) | ~43.3" |
| Wide Backing | 90", 108", 120" | 228 cm, 274 cm, 305 cm |
Important: Always measure your actual fabric width before cutting, as it can vary by manufacturer and may shrink after pre-washing.
Buying Fabric by the Meter
In metric countries, fabric is typically sold by the meter (or fractions thereof) rather than by the yard. Here are common equivalents:
Imperial to Metric
- 1/8 yard ≈ 11.4 cm (often sold as 10 cm)
- 1/4 yard ≈ 22.9 cm (often sold as 25 cm)
- 1/2 yard ≈ 45.7 cm (often sold as 50 cm)
- 3/4 yard ≈ 68.6 cm (often sold as 70 cm)
- 1 yard ≈ 91.4 cm (often sold as 1 meter)
Metric Increments
- 10 cm ≈ 4" (roughly 1/8 yard)
- 25 cm ≈ 9.8" (roughly 1/4 yard)
- 50 cm ≈ 19.7" (roughly 1/2 yard)
- 75 cm ≈ 29.5" (roughly 3/4 yard)
- 1 meter ≈ 39.4" (roughly 1.1 yards)
Shopping Tip: When converting a pattern that calls for 1 yard, buying 1 meter gives you about 3.5" extra fabric - perfect for shrinkage and errors! However, 1/2 yard and 50cm are very close (within 2"), so be more careful with tight yardage calculations.
Converting Quilt Block Sizes
Common imperial block sizes don't always convert to convenient metric measurements. Many metric quilters round to practical values:
| Imperial | Exact Metric | Rounded (Practical) |
|---|---|---|
| 6" block | 15.24 cm | 15 cm or 15.5 cm |
| 10" block | 25.4 cm | 25 cm or 25.5 cm |
| 12" block | 30.48 cm | 30 cm or 30.5 cm |
Note: Using rounded measurements will make your finished quilt slightly smaller or larger than the original pattern. Calculate the difference before starting to ensure the final size meets your needs.
Practical Tips for Metric Quilters
Test Your Seam Allowance
Make a test block using your chosen seam allowance (6mm or 7.5mm) before cutting all your fabric. Measure the finished size to ensure accuracy.
Invest in Quality Metric Tools
Use rulers, mats, and templates marked in both metric and imperial. This eliminates constant conversion during cutting.
Round Strategically
Round measurements to the nearest 0.5cm or 5mm for easier cutting. Small differences won't significantly impact most quilts.
Keep a Conversion Chart Handy
Print or save common conversions for quick reference while quilting. Our Quick Reference tab provides essential measurements.
Buy Extra Fabric
When converting patterns, always buy 10-20% extra fabric to account for rounding differences and potential errors.
Join International Quilting Communities
Connect with other metric quilters to share tips, converted patterns, and measurement strategies.
Tools & Resources
Our Metric Converter provides three powerful modes to help international quilters:
- Length Converter: Convert individual measurements with support for fractions and decimals. Perfect for quick conversions while following a pattern.
- Quick Reference: Access tables of common conversions including fractions, fabric widths, block sizes, and seam allowances. Great for printing and keeping by your sewing machine.
- Batch Convert: Convert multiple measurements at once. Ideal for converting an entire cut list or pattern instructions.