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How to Calculate Bias Binding Yardage Yields

Bias binding is the edging of choice for finishing fabric projects such as quilts and place mats, especially if the object has any curve to it since fabric cut on the bias has natural stretch. This easy method and formula for calculating yardage needed will be helpful to any sewer or quilter wondering how much fabric is needed to make bias strips for projects of any size, ensuring you will purchase enough fabric to finish the task.

Things You'll Need

Fabric
Measuring tape
Calculator

Instructions

- 1
  Measure completely around the perimeter of your project. Add an extra 2 inches to allow for overlap when sewing the ends of bias strips together. Divide by 36 to determine the number of yards of bias binding necessary. Multiply by the width of bias binding you are planning to create.
- 2
  Multiply the length by the width of a square of fabric. Divide this number by the width of bias strips you want to create. This equals the number of inches of bias available. Divide the number of inches by 36 (the number of inches in one yard) to calculate the number of yards of bias binding the fabric will yield.
- 3
  Compare the number you calculated in Step 1 with the number you calculated in Step 2 to determine if you have enough fabric for your project.

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