How to Measure a Quilt Size

Measure a quilt size to determine what size to make a quilt.

Part of the process of making a quilt involves planning the project before you even begin sewing. Prior to putting hours of effort and time into making a quilt, determine how large you want the finished quilt. The size of the finished quilt depends on how you envision it looking on the bed. Because there are no special rules governing quilt sizes, the finished size is completely up to the individual quilter. Measure a quilt size carefully to ensure your quilt fits the bed the way you desire.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure

Instructions

1. Measure the mattress for which you are making the quilt, if possible, with the tape measure. If this is not possible, use standard mattress sizes to help you determine the size of your quilt.

2. Determine the drop you desire for the quilt (the amount of quilt you want to extend down from the side and bottom edges of the mattress. If you desire a comforter-style quilt that does not extend far down the sides of the bed, add 13 inches to the side edges and bottom edge of the mattress for the drop. If you desire a full quilt that extends farther down from the sides of the bed, add 21 inches to the side edges and bottom edge of the mattress for the drop.

3. Determine whether you want to include a dimension for a pillow tuck into the size of the quilt. Pillow tuck means tucking the quilt under pillows at the top of the bed. If you desire to add dimension for a pillow tuck, add an additional 10 inches to the overall length of the quilt. If you simply want to place pillows on top of the quilt, do not add an additional dimension for pillow tuck.

4. Figure the width of the quilt by adding the width of the mattress plus the drop for the left edge of the bed and the drop for the right edge. Figure the length of the quilt by adding the length of the mattress plus the drop for the bottom edge and the added length if you desire a pillow tuck. For example, if you are making a comforter-size quilt with a pillow tuck for a queen mattress, you would determine the width by adding 60 + 13 + 13 to equal 86 inches. Determine the length by adding 80 + 13 + 10 to equal 103 inches. These are the dimensions of the finished quilt you will need for this bed.

Tips & Warnings

• A crib mattress is 23 by 46 inches. A twin mattress is 39 by 74 inches. A full mattress is 54 by 75 inches. A queen mattress is 60 by 80 inches. A king mattress is 76 by 80 inches.

References

• Quilting Passion: Quilt Sizes
• Candy Apple Quilts: How to Choose a Quilt Size