Figuring out how many yards I need (sewing)

[Hunter's Moon]

For DH's birthday, I want to sew him two pillowcases with a Patriot's pattern. I think each pillowcase will be 20 x 31 in. How do I figure out how much to buy?

 

Thanks.

[Lawana]

2 yds of 45 " wide fabric. That allows about a 3-4" hem and seam allowances.

[PrairieSong]

Hi Elizabeth! I am presuming you will be using 45" wide fabric. For each pillowcase, you will need a piece about 40 by 31inches, plus some for the seam allowances and some for the pillowcase hem. So figure about 41 by 34 or so, for a 3 inch hem. You will need about two yards of fabric. Your pillowcase would be running the long way on your fabric. If you lay it out crosswise, you will need about two and a half yards. I hope that makes sense.

[Hunter's Moon]

The width for the fabric says 59/60'' wide.

[Lawana]

You will still need 2 yds because of the size and shape of the pillowcase piece.

[Hunter's Moon]

Thanks :)

[happi duck]

I haven't used this yet but dd and I are planning to make pillowcase with this pattern: http://conkerrcancer.org/pdf/hotdogmethod.pdf

 

There is also this pattern: http://conkerrcancer.org/pillowdirections.html

 

The patterns above are from the ConKerr Cancer website. People make and donate fun pillowcases that are distributed at children's hospitals. dd and I are hoping to get over our fear of the sewing machine and make some to donate. We are especially looking forward to picking out the fun fabrics!