A fat quarter is a popular fabric cut often used in quilting and crafting. It is typically 18 inches by 22 inches.
Explanation and Examples:
- Dimensions:
- Standard Quarter Yard: If you buy a quarter yard of fabric off the bolt, it measures 9 inches by the width of the fabric (usually 42-44 inches).
- Fat Quarter: A fat quarter is made by cutting a half yard of fabric (18 inches by the width of the fabric) and then cutting that piece in half widthwise. This results in a piece that is 18 inches by 22 inches.
Use Cases:
- Quilting:
- Fat quarters are especially popular in quilting because their dimensions allow for more versatility in cutting various shapes (squares, strips, rectangles) compared to a standard quarter yard.
- Appliqué and Patchwork:
- The larger surface area of a fat quarter is perfect for appliqué work, allowing for larger shapes to be cut without seams. It’s also useful in patchwork, as it offers more design possibilities.
- Small Sewing Projects:
- Projects like fabric baskets, small bags, pillow covers, and placemats can often be completed with just a fat quarter or two.
- Fabric Collections:
- Fabric designers and manufacturers often sell bundles of coordinating fat quarters. This is convenient for crafters who want a variety of prints from the same collection without buying larger cuts.
Visual Example:
Imagine a standard piece of fabric measuring 36 inches by 44 inches:
- Quarter Yard: Cut along the 36-inch side to get 9 inches by 44 inches.
- Fat Quarter: Cut along the 44-inch side to get 18 inches by 22 inches.
This larger, more square-like piece (fat quarter) is more versatile for various crafting projects than the longer, narrower piece obtained by a standard quarter yard cut.
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