Upholstery Fabric Calculator

How This Upholstery Calculator Works

The calculator starts with a generalized panel template for the selected furniture type. Overall dimensions scale that template, then fabric width, repeat, nap, preshrink, cutting allowance, welt, and skirt settings adjust the estimate.

Choose the Right Starting Point

If you know only the furniture category, begin with the reference chart below. If you have overall measurements, use the calculator to see the assumptions and modeled panels. If the old cover is available, a labelled tear-down gives the best project-specific information because it reveals every seam, tuck, boxing strip, and hidden surface.

• Chart: useful for an early fabric budget when the piece has not been measured.
• Calculator: useful for comparing dimensions, fabric widths, repeat settings, nap, welt, and skirts.
• Measured cut list: the better choice before ordering expensive cloth or dismantling unusual furniture.

For a matching set, calculate each furniture style separately. Keep the rounded results on one shopping list and ask the seller whether the required continuous length is available.

Check the Fabric, Not Just the Colour

• Usable width: measure between selvages or coated edges that will not be part of a finished panel.
• Intended use: read the product sheet and confirm that the cloth is sold for the furniture, exposure, and cleaning routine you have in mind.
• Direction: brush or turn the sample under room light. Nap, sheen, stripes, and one-way motifs may prevent rotation.
• Repeat: record vertical and horizontal repeat, then decide where the motif should sit on the most visible panels.
• Performance data: abrasion tests use different methods and do not describe every kind of wear. Compare like with like and follow the supplier's use guidance.
• Handling: test seams, needles, staples, steam, and cleaning products on a sample before working on the full cut.

Worked Example: When Width Changes the Layout

Select the ottoman template and keep its default dimensions of 36 by 24 by 18 inches. With plain fabric, no nap, the default 3% preshrink setting, and the DIY cutting allowance, the current model gives these results:

The change is not a simple 54 divided by 36 multiplier. At 36 inches, modeled panels cross fit thresholds and need more running rows or piecing. An actual ottoman with a separate cushion, tufting, a directional print, or reusable hidden fabric may differ. Reproduce the comparison in the calculator, then replace the defaults with your measurements.

Before the Shop Cuts the Fabric

1. Compare the modeled piece list with photographs, measurements, or the removed cover.
2. Ask whether the full amount can be supplied as one continuous cut and whether batch matching matters for the product.
3. Mark any visible panel that needs a centered motif, matched stripe, or one-way direction.
4. Check whether welt, skirt, repair pieces, arm covers, and test samples are already included in your total.
5. For a costly job, have the upholsterer or workroom approve the quantity before ordering.