What are the dimensions of a yard of fabric?

A yard of fabric is always 36 inches long, but the width usually varies between 32 and 60 inches. Most fabrics are available in widths of 45 inches and 60 inches. Extra-large bolts up to 110 inches wide are available to back quilts, duvets and tablecloths.

A narrow yard of fabric provides less material than a wider one, which can affect the amount of yardage needed for a pattern. A pattern that requires 1 yard of a 60-inch-wide fabric needs 1 3/8 yards of a 45-inch-wide fabric. The amount of yardage required for a pattern is also affected by directional prints or large-scale graphics.