DoubtCalc
DoubtCalc

Quilt Batting Calculator

Enter your quilt dimensions to calculate exactly how much batting you need, including overhang allowance and yardage from a bolt.

How to use this calculator

Select a standard quilt size such as twin, full, queen, or king, or choose custom to enter your own dimensions in inches. The calculator uses your quilt top measurements as the starting point and builds the batting estimate from there.

Set the overhang allowance per side, which is typically 3 to 6 inches depending on your quilting method. The calculator adds this to each edge, then determines how many linear yards of batting you need based on common bolt widths. If you plan to buy prepackaged batting, compare the package dimensions shown to your total batting size needed.

Choosing the right batting type

Cotton batting is the most popular choice for quilters. It is easy to needle through, gives a flat traditional appearance, and softens beautifully with each wash. Cotton does shrink slightly, so prewash if you want a smooth finish or leave it unwashed for a crinkled vintage look.

Polyester batting resists moisture and holds its loft over time, making it a good choice for bed quilts that will be washed frequently. Wool batting provides excellent warmth with very little weight and drapes beautifully, though it costs more. Bamboo and silk blends offer a silky hand and lightweight warmth for special projects.

Frequently asked questions

How much bigger should batting be than a quilt top?
Your batting should extend at least 3 to 4 inches beyond the quilt top on all sides. This gives you room for shifting during quilting and ensures full coverage after trimming. For longarm quilting, add 4 to 6 inches per side because the loading process can pull the batting unevenly.
What batting loft should I choose?
Low loft batting (about 1/4 inch thick) is best for machine quilting and gives a flat, traditional look. Medium loft (about 1/2 inch) works well for most projects and provides a gentle puff between quilting lines. High loft (3/4 inch or more) creates a puffy comforter look but is harder to quilt through and best reserved for tied quilts.
Can I piece batting scraps together?
Yes, you can join batting scraps to save money. Butt the edges together without overlapping and stitch them with a wide zigzag or whip stitch by hand. The seam will be invisible in the finished quilt. Make sure the scraps are the same fiber type and loft so the quilt feels uniform.
How much batting do I need for a queen size quilt?
A standard queen quilt top measures about 90 by 90 inches. Adding 4 inches of overhang on each side brings your batting to 98 by 98 inches. Batting sold by the yard on a 96 inch wide bolt would need about 2.75 yards. Prepackaged queen batting typically comes at 90 by 108 inches or 96 by 108 inches, which covers a queen quilt with room to spare.

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