StitchablesStitchablesLayout and quilt size from block size and count
Enter your block size and count to see possible quilt layouts and what mattress size each one fits.
Start with the bed, not the blocks. Measure the mattress top, add the drop you want on each side (usually 10–15" for a nice drape), and that's your target. Then figure out what combination of block size, count, sashing, and borders gets you there. This is much better than making a pile of blocks and discovering you're six short with no matching fabric left.
Sashing adds up fast and it's your best friend for hitting a target size without making more blocks. In a 6x7 layout of 12" blocks, adding 2" sashing adds 10" to the width and 12" to the length. Borders are even easier — a 4" border on all sides tacks on 8" each way. Working backward from target size to figure out sashing and border widths is almost always simpler (and cheaper) than making more blocks.
Use a design wall or a flannel sheet on the floor to audition your layout before sewing anything together. Take a photo from directly above — your phone camera sees things your eyes miss when you're standing over the blocks. Move things around until it looks right. This costs nothing and saves real heartache.
Save your calculations, log fabric purchases, and see your project through to the gallery.
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