Fat Quarters

18" x 21"1 piece$3-$6 each

What is a Fat Quarter?

A fat quarter is a quarter-yard of fabric cut in a unique way: instead of a standard quarter-yard cut (9" x 44"), the fabric is cut as a half-yard (18" x 44") and then halved again along the width, yielding an 18" x 21" rectangle. This gives quilters a more usable shape with greater cutting flexibility.

Fat quarters are the backbone of the quilting fabric economy. They are sold individually, in curated bundles, and as themed collections. Their generous dimensions let you cut a variety of shapes — squares, strips, triangles, even small applique pieces — from a single piece, something a standard quarter-yard cannot match.

Bundles of fat quarters (typically 8-24 pieces) are the most popular way quilters build coordinated fabric palettes. The format is large enough to be useful on its own yet affordable enough to collect, making fat quarters the gateway between pre-cuts and full yardage.

Best Quilt Patterns

Fat Quarter Dash

Beginner

Quick blocks using two fat quarters each — cut, sew, and assemble for a modern brick-like layout.

Turnover Quilt

Beginner

Cut half-square triangles from fat quarters for a simple, high-contrast design.

Scrappy Stars

Intermediate

Use a different fat quarter per star block for a cohesive yet scrappy quilt.

Tips for Working with Fat Quarters

  • Press and starch before cutting to stabilize the fabric and improve cutting accuracy.
  • Plan your cuts carefully — sketch a cutting diagram to maximize fabric use from each fat quarter.
  • Pre-wash only if you plan to pre-wash all your fabrics; mixing washed and unwashed can cause puckering.
  • Stack up to 4 fat quarters for efficient batch-cutting of identical pieces.
  • Store flat or loosely folded to prevent deep creases that can distort grain.
  • Use a 24" x 18" cutting mat specifically sized for fat quarter cutting.

Popular Brands

Moda (Fat Quarter Bundle)Robert Kaufman (Fat Quarter Bundle)Riley Blake (Fat Quarter Bundle)Art Gallery FabricsCotton+Steel

Also Known As

FQ, Fat Quarter Bundle (when sold as a set)

Compatible Quilt Blocks

Log CabinOhio StarNine PatchFlying GeeseBear PawPinwheelLone Star

Quick Specs

Dimensions
18" x 21"
Typical Count
1 piece
Equivalent Yardage
0.25 yards (cut differently)
Price Range
$3-$6 each
Best For
Any quilt pattern, small projects, applique, and building a coordinated fabric stash

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