In this post, you will learn all about how a Fat Quarter Size works and all you need to know about this and other pre-cut fabrics.
You will learn how the Fat Quarter size works against a yardage of fabric. Discover its cost-effectiveness and find out everything from where to buy them, how to cut them, and where to use them.
Additionally, I will talk about other pre-cut fabric sizes like Charm Packs, Fat Eigths, Jelly Rolls, Layer Cakes, and Mini Charm Packs.
So, come with me to discover all the secrets about this magical material.
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As a seamstress, I’ve come across the term “Fat Quarter of Fabric” in my projects every now and there. And I even spent a good bunch of my sewing life not knowing what on earth this meant.
I have never understood the hype, honestly, and then I had a huge change of mind.
What exactly is a fat quarter, and why is it such a popular choice for small-medium projects in the world of sewing, particularly in quilting?
That is what we will learn today in this comprehensive guide that includes free charts!!
You will learn about the dimensions, utility, and all the reasons why a fat quarter size is loved and cherished by seamstresses worldwide.
NOTE: “As you read through this article, you’ll discover some great tips for Fat Quarters. Be sure to save this post on Pinterest so you can refer back to it later.”
What is a Fat Quarter?
First things first.
In simple terms, a fat quarter is a pre-cut piece of quilting fabric that measures 22 inches wide (56cm) and 18 inches (46cm) in height. Unlike full fabric bolts, fat quarters are conveniently folded in quarters, making them a perfect, grab-sized item at your local fabric shop.
These pre-cut pieces are mostly made from light to medium-weight cotton fabric, making them a great choice for diverse sewing and quilt patterns.
Anatomy of a Fat Quarter.
How Big is a Fat Quarter?
A fat quarter of fabric is not your standard cut fabric by the yard. Instead, a fat quarter size in inches, it’s a one-of-a-kind fabric cut that measures 18 inches by 22 inches. This cut of fabric is pretty special and stands out in the world of textiles and sewing projects because of its versatility and adaptability.
Traditionally, you will get your yardage fabrics by length. Because when you purchase fabric by the yard, it typically comes as a long piece. It will have a standard width, and you will get as much length as you need/want.
The size of fat quarters may vary slightly depending on the fabric’s width, but the dimensions of a fat quarter are 18 by 22 inches when derived from yards or 50 by 55 centimeters when sourced from meters.
That is why is so important to know what size is a fat quarter.
How many Fat Quarters are in a Yard of Fabric?
There are precisely four fat quarters in a yard, which is equivalent to approximately 0.90 meters. Picture it as dividing a yard of fabric into four equal pieces, each of which becomes a fat quarter. Given the standard width of quilting fabrics, which is typically 44-45 inches (112cm), fat quarters are rectangular rather than square.
On the other hand, if you do the same exercise with a standard fabric width, which is 60”, you will get four fat quarters and then two Fat Eighths.
Understanding the relationship between fat quarters and yardage is crucial for any sewist. And don’t worry if you don’t know what a fat eight is because I will explain it all down below.
Is a Fat Quarter Equals a Quarter Yard of Fabric?
Thinking that a Fat Quarter is the same as a Quarter Yard of fabric is a very common mistake. While both are the same in surface area, they are different in shape.
When you cut a quarter yard of fabric, you will do it by measuring the length of the yardage, and that will result in a piece that measures 9”(length) x 44” (width).
However, a fat quarter is cut by dividing in half the width of the fabric (22” each) and with 18” of length. This shape allows us for a bigger canvas to do different projects and quilt blocks.
This is where the fat quarter shines. Instead of slicing a yard into four long strips, fabric manufacturers and stores transform it into four rectangles that resemble squares.
Think about the many projects that require a somewhat large canvas. It wouldn’t be the same cutting a fabric hanging pod with only 9” in length rather than 18”.
And also another thing I also love is that it is very good to maintain the fabric print direction, especially when I have to cut several pieces.
How to Cut a Fat Quarter
Before cutting, it’s crucial to understand the cutting process and pattern orientation.
Cutting it the wrong way can affect your sewing project’s design. To make your own fat quarters, divide a one-yard, 44″ wide fabric in half widthwise and lengthwise, then cut along those lines with a rotary cutter or fabric scissors.
Easy, right? Fat quarters have many applications!
Creating your own fat quarters is a fun activity. You can have a beautiful set of your favorite patterns for craft shows or sewing parties.
I love hosting giveaways with Fat Quarter Bundles on my Facebook and Instagram each month, so make sure you follow me to win one!
What are Fat Quarters Used For?
The beauty of fat quarters is that it is a standard piece of usually gorgeous prints that you can use for many things like patterns for toys, bags, accessories, and so much more.
That’s right, my dearest friend! They are not only for quilting!
In fact, there are countless books dedicated to creative sewing projects that you can use with your fat quarters.
Here are some ideas for projects to use your Fat Quarter Fabrics:
- Quilting
- Throw Pillows
- Patchwork
- Homemade Bias Tape
- Tote bags
- Drawstring Bags
- Clothing accents
- Home Decor
- Storage Pods
- Decorate Dish Towels
- Fabric Bookmarks
- Dog Bandanas
- Cozy Fabric Bowls
- Sleeping Masks
- Accessories
- Fabric Bookmarks
- Bow ties
- Coasters
- Scrunchies
- Small Keychains
- Hair Fabric Bows
- Dog Poop Bag Holders
- Sunglasses cases
- A wine Tote Bag
- Quilted pot holders and oven mitts
- Fabric baskets and organizers
- Gift items
- Scrapbooking and cardmaking
- Doll clothing and toys
- Scrapy Dolls
- Quilted accessories
- Aprons
- Headbands and hair accessories
Where To Buy Fat Quarters
Okay. Don’t get me wrong. I know that fat quarters might sometimes be a bit more expensive than traditional yard or meter cuts.
Is the extra cost of a Fat Quarter justified? Absolutely. It provides extra width without needing more fabric or generating waste, making it a great choice for those who care about zero waste in the sewing room.
Here are some of the Best Selling Fat Quarter Bundles from Amazon:
- The colors remain fresh and bright even after repeated washing. No pilling, no staining. It is a very nice fine 100% cotton fabric.
- Size About 20"*20"(50 cm*50 cm),Package include 7 PCS cotton fabric,Cotton products may shrink, so please hand wash them
- Many adorable sewing ideas can be implemented, e.g. linen bags, tablecloths, decorations, children's bedding, wallet, diaper bags, protective covers, pennant chains, utensil, scarf, doll clothes.
- The Amount of Package: Includes 12 pieces of cotton fabric bundles, each has a different design, various designs and sufficient quantity can used for your holiday and daily
- Wildflower Patterns: Our cotton fabric bundles are printed with different wild flower patterns, and each has different bright colors, adopt retro style and aesthetic
- Premium Material: Our fat quarters are all made of cotton, it feels comfortable, odorless, suitable for cutting and sewing, not easy to fade after washing, and can be used for a long time
- ★ Good quilt quality cotton fabric: Our cotton quilting fabric is made by 100% premium cotton which has a medium-weight 5.2oz (145g/square meter) plain weave. Our cotton fabric in medium weight won’t shrink much after washing. It has great strength and durability, breathable and soft touch, which is perfect for any sewing and crafting projects, from toys and bags to home decoration.
- ★ Fat quarter pack: Each Bundle Collection contains 10 designs- 1 each of Fat Quarter (18”x21”each sheet) with different printed patterns. The collection subject of this cotton quilting fabric pack is about Starry Sky
- ★ Precut fabric is always the first choice to use and store: Our fat quarter cotton quilting fabric can be cut for making quilt blocks depending on your needs such as typical 10”squares, 5”charm, or 2.5”mini charm. Cutting fat quarters for making fabric binding is also available.
Now that you have a good grasp of what fat quarters are, you might be excited to start your collection!
There are a looooot of places that will have amazing bundles of Fat Quarters of different prints and color themes. You will find seasonal, floral, solid colors, and so much more in these following stores.
Top Online Stores to Buy Fat Quarters:
- Etsy: Etsy is a great platform for buying fabric, including fat quarters. Many independent sellers offer a wide range of fabrics, so you can find unique and creative options.
- Amazon: Amazon has a vast selection of fat quarters from various sellers. You can find bundles of fat quarters in a wide range of colors and patterns.
- Fat Quarter Shop: This online store specializes in fat quarters and other quilting fabrics. They offer a vast selection of fabric bundles and individual fat quarters.
- Jo-Ann Fabrics: Jo-Ann Fabrics, a popular craft store chain, has an online store where you can purchase fabric, including fat quarters. They often have a variety of sales and discounts.
- Fabric.com: Fabric.com is a large online fabric store with a wide selection of fat quarters and other fabric cuts.
- Hobby Lobby: Hobby Lobby has an online store where you can purchase fat quarters and other crafting materials.
- Missouri Star Quilt Co.: This store is known for its quilting fabrics and fat quarter bundles.
What Material Are Fat Quarters Made Of?
Fat quarters are commonly made from 100% cotton fabric. There are plenty of different cotton fabrics, so don’t be mistaken. This type of 100% cotton fabric is called quilting cotton. This fabric is known for its durability and is often used in quilting projects. Whether you’re creating a cozy quilt or a stylish accessory, the quality of cotton fabric is unmatched.
Other Pre-Cut Fabric Sizes.
Think about Fat Quarters as one of those toys in your childhood where you had so many different shaped pieces that you would put together and form a perfect square.
Well, Fat Quarters are exactly the same!
When you cut them down, you obtain a generous number of pieces, and each one of those has a different name and purpose!
The quarter can be further divided into fat eighth sizes, and the process can continue to create various sizes, including cute named options like charm squares, layer cake squares, and jelly rolls.
These pre-cut smaller pieces of fabric are perfect for oh-so-many different projects, from quilting to any type of fabric craft and project.
So, let’s dive into each one of them, will you?
Also, this tip is so handy; you may want to save it on Pinterest now!
- Fat Eighths: These are half of a fat quarter and can be used to cut charm packs and mini charm packs.
- Charm packs: Usually contain 5″ x 5″ squares and are great for baby quilts, bags, purses, and English paper piecing.
- Jelly rolls: These are cuts of 2.5″ wide and perfect for borders, binding, and quilting projects.
- Layer cakes are 10″ x 10″ squares that can be used for small quilts or decorative pillows.
- Mini charm packs: These are smaller versions of charm packs with 2.5″ x 2.5″ squares.
- Hunny buns: Less popular hunny buns are 1.5″ x 44″ precut fabric strips that are great for quilt sashing and strip quilting.
- Fusible applique shapes: make it easy to do awesome projects without breaking a sweat.
Final Thoughts About Fat Quarters and Pre-Cut Fabrics
If you found this wisdom valuable, don’t forget to save this post on Pinterest. for future reference.
So now you know all about the magnificent advantages of Fat Quarters. They are not only simple “over-prized” pieces of fabric.
Oh no, my gurl!
They are a cost-effective solution, convenient for easy cutting, they offer an infinite option of designs, and they are even green friendly, avoiding waste!!
So, whether you pick up a solitary fat quarter or an entire bundle, these little cuts of fabric will undoubtedly become a valuable asset in your patchwork projects.
At My Golden Thimble, we celebrate the art of sewing and are passionate about helping you elevate your craft. Discover a world of sewing inspiration, tutorials, and resources on our platform, and let the magic of the fat quarter elevate your sewing experience.
Don’t forget to leave me your thoughts in the comment section of this post, and remember to share this on Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram!
