Upholsterer how-to

How to Estimate Fabric Yardage

Accurate yardage saves money.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Accurate yardage saves money. In short: measure; add; account, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Measure each piece.

  2. Add seam allowances.

  3. Account for pattern repeat.

  4. Plan cuts.

  5. Add extra.

  6. Order.

Safety reminders for upholsterers

  • Use staplers safely
  • Lift furniture with help
  • Ventilate foam dust
  • Handle springs carefully

Webbing · Eight-way hand-tied springs · Welting · Batting · Muslin · Tack strip: see the full upholsterer glossary.

More upholsterer how-to guides

Learn this in Upholsterer trainingTake the practice test
Enroll in trainingTake fit quiz