Fat Eighths

9" x 21"1 piece$1.50-$3.50 each

What is a Fat Eighth?

A fat eighth is half of a fat quarter, measuring 9 inches by 21 inches. Like its larger counterpart, the "fat" designation means it is cut to a more usable rectangle rather than the long, thin standard eighth-yard (4.5" x 44").

Fat eighths provide just enough fabric for smaller quilt components: a few squares, a couple of strips, or a handful of triangles. They are the most economical way to include a wide range of fabrics in a scrap quilt when you only need a small amount of each print.

Bundles of fat eighths (often 20-40 pieces) give quilters impressive variety at a lower price point than fat quarter bundles. They are especially popular for projects where color diversity matters more than having large amounts of any single fabric.

Best Quilt Patterns

Scrappy Trip Along

Beginner

Cut strips from fat eighths and arrange them in a woven pattern for a vibrant, scrappy design.

Plus Quilt

Beginner

Cut plus/cross shapes from fat eighths on a solid background for a clean, modern look.

English Paper Pieced Hexagons

Intermediate

Cut 1-inch hexagons from fat eighths for a hand-stitched grandmother's flower garden.

Tips for Working with Fat Eighths

  • Plan cuts carefully — the narrow 9" dimension limits the shapes you can cut.
  • Use fat eighths for accent fabrics and pair with yardage or fat quarters for primary pieces.
  • Stack and batch-cut when using multiple fat eighths for the same shape.
  • Great for English paper piecing where small pieces are the norm.
  • Keep a cutting diagram handy — waste is noticeable with less fabric to work with.
  • Press before cutting to ensure you get maximum usable area from the 9" width.

Popular Brands

Moda (Fat Eighth Bundle)Art Gallery FabricsRobert KaufmanCotton+Steel

Also Known As

FE, Fat Eighth Bundle (when sold as a set), Half Fat Quarter

Compatible Quilt Blocks

Nine PatchFour PatchFlying GeesePinwheel

Quick Specs

Dimensions
9" x 21"
Typical Count
1 piece
Equivalent Yardage
0.125 yards (cut differently)
Price Range
$1.50-$3.50 each
Best For
Scrap quilts, small components, color variety on a budget, and applique

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