 |
| Friendship Rings Quilt by Quilting Daily |
Measuring your quilt of the right size is essential to ensure fitting well into the intended use, as a bed quilt, wall hanging, or throw. Although the standard quilt sizes are given on charts and provide a good guideline, modifying your quilt size based on special requirements and preferences ensures the fit is ideal.
Tips in Learning Mattress and Quilt Sizes:
Standard mattress sizes are commonly known:
- Twin: 39" x 75"
- Full: 54" x 75"
- Queen: 60" x 80"
- King: 76" x 80"
- California King: 72" x 84"
But when making a quilt, keep in mind how much overhang, or "drop," you prefer on the bed's sides and foot. The drop is a matter of personal preference and the quilt's intended use—a comforter, coverlet, or bedspread.
Determining the Perfect Quilt Size:
To determine the perfect quilt size:
1. Measure the Mattress: Start with the mattress's width and length.
2. Select the Drop Length: Determine how far you want the quilt to hang over the sides and foot of the bed. For instance, if you want a 12" drop on each side and at the foot, you will add 24" to the width and 12" to the length.
3. Add Pillow Tuck: If you prefer the quilt to tuck into pillows, add extra length—typically 10" to 20"—for that reason.
Example Calculation for a Queen Bed:
- Mattress Size: 60" x 80"
- Desired Drop: 12" on sides and foot
- Pillow Tuck: 20"
Final Quilt Sizes:
- Width: 60" + (12" x 2) = 84"
- Length: 80" + 12" + 20" = 112"
Therefore, the quilt should be approximately 84" x 112".
Custom Designing Quilt Patterns:
If your chosen quilt pattern is not your ideal measurements, the below adjustments can be made:
- Add Borders: Add borders to expand the size of the quilt without changing the central design.
- Adjust Block Size: Resize individual blocks to get the required overall dimensions.
- Modify Sashing: Thickening sashing between blocks adds to the size of the quilt.
These changes provide design flexibility while allowing the quilt to fit snugly.
Estimating Fabric Requirements:
Knowledge of the finished dimensions of the quilt is beneficial to establishing fabric yardage needs. Remember:
- Top Fabric: Depending on the quilt size and complexity of its design.
- Backing Fabric: Typically add 4" to 6" to each dimension of the quilt to allow adequate coverage.
- Batting: Should be roughly a little larger than the quilt top, usually by 2" to 4" on each dimension.
Precise measurements prevent fabric shortages and allow for a trouble-free quilting experience.
For additional information and resources to assist you in deciding on the size of your quilt, see QuiltingHub's information on how to measure quilt sizes.
Final Thoughts!
Investing a little time in accurately measuring your quilt size ensures that your finished quilt will be what you are seeking and fit its specific use. By considering mattress size, desired drop length, and potential pattern adjustments, you are setting yourself up for quilting success.
