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How much backing for a throw size quilt?
Throw quilts need 3 1/4 to 5 yd of backing fabric, or 1 5/8 to 2 yd of 108″ wide backing. The most common throw size, 60″ × 70″, takes 3 7/8 yd.
Every throw size
| Quilt | 42″–44″ fabric | Seams | 108″ wide | Metric (110 cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 × 60 | 3 1/4 yd | 2 panels, horizontal seam | 1 5/8 yd | 3.0 m |
| 50 × 65 | 3 1/4 yd | 2 panels, horizontal seam | 1 5/8 yd | 3.0 m |
| 54 × 72 | 4 1/2 yd | 2 panels, vertical seam | 1 3/4 yd | 4.1 m |
| 60 × 60 | 3 7/8 yd | 2 panels, vertical seam | 2 yd | 3.5 m |
| 60 × 70 | 3 7/8 yd | 2 panels, horizontal seam | 2 yd | 3.5 m |
| 60 × 72 | 4 1/2 yd | 2 panels, vertical seam | 2 yd | 4.1 m |
| 60 × 80 | 5 yd | 2 panels, vertical seam | 2 yd | 4.5 m |
Each size allows 4″ extra on every side for quilting (most long-arm quilters ask for 4″–6″) and about 40″ of usable width from 42″–44″ cotton. Open a size for the step-by-step math and other overhangs.
Which throw size is yours?
Throw quilts are not made for a particular mattress, so sizes vary with the pattern. See the full quilt size chart for bed sizes. Same quilts: how much binding for a throw quilt, batting and all the fabric.
Questions quilters ask
How much backing do I need for a throw size quilt?
3 1/4 to 5 yd of 42-44 inch quilting cotton, depending on the size. A 60 x 70 inch throw quilt needs 3 7/8 yd (2 panels, horizontal seam), allowing 4 inches extra on every side for quilting.
How much 108 inch wide backing for a throw quilt?
1 5/8 to 2 yd. Every common throw size fits on one width of 108 inch backing, so there are no seams.
Which way should the seams run on a throw quilt backing?
For 60 x 70, horizontal seams take 3 7/8 yd and vertical seams take 4 3/8 yd. Work out both: the cheaper direction depends on the quilt's width and length.
Try your own numbers
Updated 2026-11-14. How we calculate.
Every quilt calculator in your pocket: borders, setting triangles, HSTs, saved projects and a fabric shopping list.