FAT QUARTER & FAT EIGHTH: TIPS, TRICKS & USES

What exactly is a fat quarter? Have you ever wondered why this term is widely used in the world of sewing and quilting? How does a fat quarter differ from traditional fabric cuts? If you’re new to the sewing scene or looking to expand your fabric knowledge, understanding the ins and outs of a fat quarter can open up a world of creative possibilities. So, let’s delve into the intriguing world of fat quarter and fat eighth and discover why they have become an indispensable resource for quilters, crafters, and seamstresses alike.

What is a fabric fat quarter?

A fabric fat quarter is a term commonly used in sewing and quilting to describe a specific cut of fabric. Unlike traditional fabric cuts, which are typically measured in yards or meters, a fat quarter is created by cutting a half-yard of fabric in half lengthwise. This results in a rectangular piece of fabric measuring approximately 18 inches by 22 inches (or 45 cm by 55 cm).

Why is it called a fat quarter?

A fat quarter is called so because it is a quarter-yard of fabric, but it is cut wider than a traditional quarter-yard. The term “fat” refers to the increased width of the fabric cut, allowing for more versatile usage and creative possibilities. This wider shape distinguishes it from a standard quarter-yard and gives it its unique name of “fat quarter” in the sewing and quilting community.
The “fat” in the name refers to the increased width of the cut, allowing for greater flexibility and versatility in creative projects. This wider shape offers several advantages, such as the ability to accommodate larger patterns and designs, as well as providing ample fabric for various sewing and quilting endeavors. The term “fat quarter” has become widely adopted in the sewing and quilting community due to its practicality and the unique possibilities it offers for crafting beautiful and diverse fabric creations.

Can fat quarter be made from other fabrics?

Yes, fat quarters can be made from various types of fabrics. The term “fat quarter” refers to the size and shape of the fabric cut, rather than the specific material used. Whether its cotton, flannel, or even specialty fabrics like silk or velvet, any fabric can be cut into a fat quarter as long as it follows the dimensions of approximately 18 inches by 22 inches.

Ways to cut fat quarter

Method 1: Half-Yard Lengthwise

This method involves taking a half-yard of fabric and cutting it in half lengthwise. This results in two fat quarters, each measuring approximately 18 inches by 22 inches. It’s a straightforward and commonly used technique to create fat quarters.

Method 2: Full Yard Fold and Width

With this method, a full yard of fabric is folded in half and then cut along the fold and width. This process yields four fat quarters, each measuring approximately 18 inches by 22 inches. It provides a larger quantity of fat quarters from a single piece of fabric.

Convenience: Pre-cut Fat Quarter Bundles

Alternatively, you can opt for pre-cut fat quarter bundles available in fabric stores. These bundles come with an assortment of coordinating fabrics, already cut into fat quarters. They offer convenience and a curated selection of fabrics, making it easier to start a project without the need for individual cutting.

What is a Fat quarter in centimeters?

A fat quarter is approximately (45 centimeters by 55 centimeters). This versatile fabric cut is widely used in sewing and quilting projects. With its convenient size, a fat quarter provides ample fabric for various crafts and allows for creative flexibility in designing and combining different patterns and textures.

How big is a fat quarter?

A fat quarter is a rectangular piece of fabric that typically measures around 45 centimeters by 55 centimeters (or 18 inches by 22 inches). This size provides ample fabric for sewing and quilting projects, allowing for various creative applications.

With its dimensions, a fat quarter is versatile and well-suited for making patchwork quilts, small accessories, and intricate appliqué work. Its compact size makes it easy to handle and store, while still offering enough fabric to showcase different designs, patterns, and textures in a single piece.

More ways to cut fat quarter?

Strip Cutting

Instead of cutting the fat quarter into individual pieces, you can cut it into long strips of varying widths. These strips can then be used for strip piecing, borders, or binding in quilting projects.

Charm Pack

Cut the fat quarter into smaller squares, typically measuring 5 inches by 5 inches. These squares can be used to create charm packs, which are popular for small patchwork projects or to add variety to quilt blocks.

Triangle Cutting

Cut the fat quarter into triangles of different sizes, such as half-square triangles or quarter-square triangles. These triangles can be used for creating interesting geometric patterns or for adding design elements to quilts.

Shape Cutting

Use templates or specialty rulers to cut the fat quarter into specific shapes like circles, hexagons, or diamonds. These shapes can then be used for appliqué, English paper piecing, or creating unique quilt blocks.

FAT QUARTER CUTTING QUICK TIP

Remember, the possibilities for cutting fat quarters are virtually endless, limited only by your creativity and the specific needs of your project.

Methods for Cutting Fat Quarter: Quick overview

Fat quarter cutting Method	Description for cutting	Uses of fat quarter
Half-Yard Lengthwise	Two fat quarters measuring 18″ x 22″ each	Versatile for various sewing and quilting projects.
Full Yard Fold and Width	Four fat quarters measuring 18″ x 22″ each	Provides a larger quantity of fat quarters for projects requiring more fabric.
Pre-cut Fat Quarter Bundles	Ready-made bundles of coordinating fabrics already cut into fat quarters.	Convenient option, saves time and offers coordinated fabrics for projects.
Strip Cutting	Cut fat quarter into long strips of varying widths.	Ideal for strip piecing, borders, or binding in quilting projects.
Charm Pack	Cut fat quarter into smaller squares (typically 5″x5″).	Perfect for small patchwork projects or adding variety to quilt blocks.
Triangle Cutting	Cut fat quarter into triangles of different sizes.	Great for creating geometric patterns or adding design elements to quilts.
Shape Cutting	Use templates to cut fat quarter into specific shapes.	Ideal for appliqué, English paper piecing, or creating unique quilt blocks.
Diagonal Cutting	Cut fat quarter diagonally to create triangles.	Adds interest to quilt layouts, borders, or design elements in projects.
Curved Cutting	Cut fat quarter into curved shapes using templates or freehand cutting.	Adds fluidity and movement to quilt blocks or appliqué designs.
Specialty Shapes	Cut fat quarter into unique specialty shapes (e.g., hearts, stars, flowers).	Use as focal points or embellishments in sewing or quilting projects.
Layered Cutting	Stack multiple fat quarters together and cut them simultaneously.	Useful for creating coordinated pieces for larger-scale projects.

How many fat quarters are present in one yard of fabric?

In one yard of fabric, you can get four fat quarters. By folding the yard in half lengthwise and then cutting along the fold and width, you will end up with four individual fat quarters, each measuring approximately 18 inches by 22 inches. This cutting method maximizes the number of fat quarters you can obtain from a single yard of fabric, providing versatility and options for your sewing and quilting projects.

Are all fat quarters same?

Fat quarters are not all the same. They vary in design, color, and fabric content. With a wide variety of prints and patterns available, each fat quarter offers unique creative possibilities for sewing and quilting projects. Only standard measurements remain the same.

What is the difference between fat quarter and quarter yard of fabric?

The main difference between a fat quarter and a quarter yard of fabric lies in their dimensions and cutting method. A fat quarter is cut wider, measuring approximately 18 inches by 22 inches, while a quarter yard is a long, narrow strip measuring 9 inches by the full width of the fabric. This difference in cutting allows fat quarters to provide more versatility and larger usable fabric pieces compared to quarter yards.

How to buy fat quarter?

Visit fabric stores or online retailers that offer fat quarters as pre-cut pieces.
Look for fat quarters sold individually or in bundles with coordinating fabrics.
Check for a variety of fabric types and designs to suit your project needs.
You can find fat quarters for sale on various online fabric retailers such as Etsy, Fabric.com, Fat Quarter Shop, and Connecting Threads.

Uses of fat quarter – Best DIY projects of fat quarter

Quilting: Fat quarters are popular for quilting projects, allowing you to incorporate a variety of coordinated fabrics into patchwork blocks, borders, and bindings.
Sewing Accessories: Fat quarters are great for making small accessories like pouches, wallets, headbands, and fabric baskets, providing a convenient size and a wide range of fabric choices.
Home Decor: Use fat quarters to create decorative items such as throw pillows, table runners, placemats, or fabric wall art to add a personalized touch to your living space.
Appliqué and Embellishments: Fat quarters are ideal for appliqué work, allowing you to cut out shapes and designs to embellish clothing, tote bags, or decorative items.
Crafts and DIY Gifts: Fat quarters can be used for various craft projects like fabric flowers, fabric-covered journals, key chains, or fabric bookmarks. They also make excellent materials for DIY gifts, allowing you to create personalized and thoughtful presents.

Quick tips – to sew with fat quarters

Pre-washing and Preparation
Planning and Maximizing Fabric Usage
Stabilizing Raw Edges
Seam Allowances and Adjustments
Careful Pressing Techniques
Mixing and Matching Fabrics
Trimming Excess Threads
Saving and Utilizing Scraps

What is fat eighth?

A fat eighth is a term used in the world of quilting and fabric crafts to refer to a piece of fabric that is cut in half widthwise and then cut in half again lengthwise. This results in a piece of fabric that measures approximately 9 inches by 22 inches. A fat eighth is half the size of a fat quarter and is often used for smaller projects or when a smaller amount of fabric is needed. It provides a convenient size for various sewing and quilting applications, offering versatility and allowing for efficient use of fabric.

More ways to cut pre-cut fabrics

Charm Packs

Cut fabric into small squares, typically measuring 5 inches by 5 inches, often used for patchwork projects or creating variety in quilt blocks.

Jelly Rolls

Cut fabric into long strips, usually 2.5 inches wide, allowing for quick and easy strip piecing.

Layer Cakes

Cut fabric into larger squares, typically 10 inches by 10 inches, offering a generous size for block construction or creating large-scale quilt designs.

Honey Buns

Cut fabric into narrower strips, usually 1.5 inches wide, suitable for strip piecing or intricate designs.

Fat quarter and fabric eighth cutting chart
Characteristic	Fat Quarter	Fabric Eighth
Size	Approximately 18″ x 22″ (W x L)	Approximately 9″ x 22″ (W x L)
Dimensions	Wider and longer rectangular shape	Narrower and shorter rectangular shape
Fabric Quantity	Provides more fabric for projects	Provides a smaller amount of fabric
Versatility	Suitable for a wide range of projects, including larger-scale designs	Ideal for smaller projects or when less fabric is needed
Common Uses	Quilting, large-scale projects, bags, garments	Small-scale projects, accents, appliqué
Cutting Methods	Can be cut into various shapes, strips, or squares	Can be cut into strips, squares, or triangles

How Sewers Can Use Fat Quarters

Conclusion

In conclusion, fat quarters and fat eighths are valuable fabric cuts that offer endless creative possibilities in sewing, quilting, and crafting. With their unique dimensions and versatility, they allow for efficient fabric utilization and provide options for projects of various scales. Whether you’re quilting, creating accessories, or embellishing your crafts, incorporating fat quarters and fat eighths into your fabric stash opens up a world of design opportunities. So, embrace the potential of these fabric cuts and let your imagination soar as you bring your fabric creations to life.