Common Quilt Sizes Chart
Quick reference for standard quilt dimensions, block counts, and fabric requirements
Crib
Perfect for baby cribs and toddler beds
Finished Size:
45" × 36"
Suggested Block Sizes:
- 6" blocks: 6 × 7 = 42 blocks
- 9" blocks: 4 × 5 = 20 blocks
Approximate Fabric:
- Top: 1.5-2 yards
- Backing: 1.5 yards
- Binding: 0.5 yards
Baby
Larger baby quilt for play mat or stroller
Finished Size:
52" × 42"
Suggested Block Sizes:
- 6" blocks: 7 × 8 = 56 blocks
- 7" blocks: 6 × 7 = 42 blocks
Approximate Fabric:
- Top: 2-2.5 yards
- Backing: 1.75 yards
- Binding: 0.5 yards
Throw / Lap
Cozy lap quilt for sofas and armchairs
Finished Size:
60" × 50"
Suggested Block Sizes:
- 10" blocks: 5 × 6 = 30 blocks
- 12" blocks: 4 × 5 = 20 blocks
Approximate Fabric:
- Top: 2.5-3.5 yards
- Backing: 2 yards
- Binding: 0.5 yards
Twin
Standard twin bed quilt with generous drop
Finished Size:
90" × 68"
Suggested Block Sizes:
- 10" blocks: 6 × 9 = 54 blocks
- 12" blocks: 5 × 7 = 35 blocks
Approximate Fabric:
- Top: 4-5 yards
- Backing: 5.5 yards
- Binding: 0.75 yards
Full / Double
Full-size bed with standard coverage
Finished Size:
90" × 84"
Suggested Block Sizes:
- 12" blocks: 7 × 7 = 49 blocks
- 14" blocks: 6 × 6 = 36 blocks
Approximate Fabric:
- Top: 5-6 yards
- Backing: 7 yards
- Binding: 0.75 yards
Queen
Queen bed with generous coverage
Finished Size:
96" × 92"
Suggested Block Sizes:
- 12" blocks: 7 × 8 = 56 blocks
- 16" blocks: 5 × 6 = 30 blocks
Approximate Fabric:
- Top: 6-7.5 yards
- Backing: 8 yards
- Binding: 0.875 yards
King
Standard king bed with full coverage
Finished Size:
104" × 104"
Suggested Block Sizes:
- 12" blocks: 8 × 8 = 64 blocks
- 16" blocks: 6 × 6 = 36 blocks
Approximate Fabric:
- Top: 8-10 yards
- Backing: 9 yards
- Binding: 1 yard
California King
California king - longer and narrower than standard king
Finished Size:
110" × 98"
Suggested Block Sizes:
- 14" blocks: 7 × 7 = 49 blocks
- 16" blocks: 6 × 6 = 36 blocks
Approximate Fabric:
- Top: 8-10 yards
- Backing: 9 yards
- Binding: 1 yard
Important Notes
- •Add 10% extra fabric to account for shrinkage, seam allowances, and cutting errors
- •Measure your mattress before starting - mattress depths vary significantly
- •Sashing and borders will increase finished size - adjust block counts accordingly
- •Backing fabric estimates assume standard 42-44" fabric width. Wide backing reduces seaming
- •These are guidelines - use our detailed calculators for precise measurements for your specific project
For Detailed Calculations, Use These Tools:
Block Layout Calculator
Calculate exact block counts for your desired quilt size
Fabric Yardage Calculator
Precise fabric requirements including blocks, sashing, borders
Backing & Batting Calculator
Calculate backing panels and batting size recommendations
Border & Sashing Calculator
Exact measurements for sashing strips and borders
Binding Calculator
Calculate binding requirements for any quilt size
Metric Converter
Convert between imperial and metric measurements
Understanding Quilt Sizes and Measurements
How to Choose the Right Quilt Size
Selecting the appropriate quilt size depends on several factors beyond just the bed dimensions. Consider these key aspects when planning your quilt:
- Mattress Depth: Modern mattresses can be 8-18 inches deep. Measure from the top of the mattress to determine how much drop you need on the sides
- Drop Length: Standard quilts typically have a 10-15 inch drop on each side. For a bed skirt look, you may want 18-20 inches
- Pillow Tuck: If you want the quilt to cover pillows, add 10-20 inches to the length
- Personal Preference: Some prefer quilts that just cover the mattress top, while others want them to drape to the floor
Working with Block Sizes
The chart shows suggested block sizes and counts for each quilt size. Here's how to use this information:
Block Size Selection Tips
- Larger blocks (12-16"): Faster to complete, great for showcasing fabric prints, ideal for beginners
- Medium blocks (8-10"): Balanced approach, versatile for most patterns, good for intermediate quilters
- Smaller blocks (6" or less): More detailed designs, longer to complete, best for experienced quilters
Remember that adding sashing (strips between blocks) or borders will increase the finished quilt size. Use our Block Layout Calculator to determine exact measurements when including these elements.
Understanding Fabric Yardage Estimates
The fabric yardage shown in this chart is approximate and based on standard 42-44" wide quilting cotton. Actual requirements vary based on:
Quilt Top Fabric
The range accounts for simple vs. complex block designs, with or without sashing, and the number of different fabrics used. Complex blocks with many pieces require more fabric due to cutting waste.
Backing Fabric
Estimates assume you'll piece 2-3 panels horizontally or vertically. Consider wide backing (90-120" width) to eliminate seams for queen and king sizes.
Binding Fabric
Based on 2.5" wide strips for standard double-fold binding. Slightly more is needed for bias binding or scrappy/pieced binding designs.
Pro Tip: Always buy 10-20% extra fabric beyond what's calculated. This accounts for shrinkage (if pre-washing), cutting errors, pattern matching for directional prints, and having enough for binding if you make a mistake.
Standard Quilt Sizes vs. Custom Sizes
The sizes shown in this chart are industry-standard measurements, but you're not limited to these dimensions:
- •Custom Sizes: Any quilt can be customized to your exact needs. Use our calculators to determine fabric requirements for non-standard sizes
- •Regional Variations: Mattress sizes can vary slightly by country and manufacturer. Always measure your specific mattress
- •Specialty Sizes: Don't forget about specialty quilts like table runners, wall hangings, and oversized throws - these fall outside standard bed sizes
Batting Size Recommendations
When purchasing batting, you'll need it slightly larger than your quilt top to allow for quilting take-up and trimming:
| Quilt Top Size | Recommended Batting Overhang | Batting Size Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Hand/Domestic Quilting | 4-6 inches on all sides | Add 8-12" to length and width |
| Longarm Quilting | 6-8 inches on all sides | Add 12-16" to length and width |
Check with your longarm quilter for their specific requirements, as they may have different preferences.
Planning Your Quilt Project
Use this chart as a starting point, then refine your measurements with our detailed calculators:
Choose Your Quilt Size
Start with a standard size from this chart, then adjust based on your bed measurements and desired drop
Select Block Size and Pattern
Use suggested block options or choose your own. Consider your skill level and available time
Calculate Exact Requirements
Use our Block Layout Calculator to determine precise block counts, then Fabric Calculator for yardage
Add Sashing and Borders
Use Border & Sashing Calculator if you want to add these elements to your design
Calculate Backing and Binding
Use Backing & Batting Calculator and Binding Calculator for final measurements
Plan Your Timeline and Budget
Use Time Estimator and Project Cost Calculator to plan realistically
Common Questions About Quilt Sizes
Q: Should I make my quilt to fit the mattress top or include the drop?
A: It depends on how you'll use the quilt. For display quilts or modern styled beds, a mattress-top fit looks great. For traditional bed coverings or colder climates, include at least a 10-15 inch drop for warmth and aesthetics.
Q: How do I adjust for pillow shams vs. pillow tuck?
A: If using pillow shams, your quilt can end where the pillows start. For pillow tuck coverage, add 10-20 inches to the length. Measure with pillows on the bed to determine your preference.
Q: Can I use any block size for any quilt?
A: Yes! The suggested block sizes are starting points. Any block size can be used - just adjust the number of blocks and add sashing or borders to reach your target dimensions. Use our Block Layout Calculator for custom combinations.
Q: Why do fabric estimates vary so much?
A: Fabric requirements depend on block complexity, number of colors, cutting layout efficiency, and whether you use sashing or borders. Simple two-color blocks need less than complex scrappy designs. Always use our calculators for precise estimates.