How to Measure Usable Fabric Width
Measure usable fabric width correctly so yardage calculators reflect the cloth you can actually cut and sew.
Measure perpendicular to the selvedge
Lay the fabric flat without stretching it and measure from one usable edge to the other across the width of goods. If you will remove selvedges, exclude them from the usable measurement.
Use the narrower reliable width
If width varies along the fabric, calculate with the narrower usable width. That produces a safer cutting plan than assuming the maximum width.
Last reviewed: 2026-08-23. Measurements and construction practices vary; verify project-specific requirements before cutting expensive fabric.