Measure the length of the completed work and cut and sew the same fabric to the remaining sides, creating a frame of like fabric around the original square. Use this quilt on a hospital bed for added warmth and cheer, or as a lap quilt when sitting in chairs or wheelchairs. Divide the additional sides so that they are even on each side. Take a look at your quilt sketch. Choices, choices. Measure from edge to edge. Either is fine as long as you stay consistent and use the same measurement throughout this process. Standard dimensions for a twin quilt provide for a 15-inch drop on both long sides and the bed end. Then line up the edge of your square ruler with the vertical edge of your quilt top. Although it's tempting to use a bed sheet because of its size, sheets don't make good quilt backs. When measuring, have the blankets, sheets, and pillows on the bed that will be used with the quilt. If you use pillow shams or decorative pillows, then you are finished measuring your bed. Stop at the edge and do not add the drop to your first measurement; it will be added next. As you make decisions on these matters, refer back to your quilt sketch. To plan your ideal quilt size, you need a measuring tape, the bed in question and a note pad. 1. This is the portion of the quilt that will be viewed on the top of the bed. Rarely will you find a pattern in your precise planned quilt size. Don't toss this sketch until you're finished with this project. If you are unable to measure the bed, use this chart as a helpful reference. Step 2: Add an extra 8 inches to both the length and width of your quilt if it’s going to be machine quilted, that’s 4 inches on each side and 4 on the top and bottom. A full length quilt drops to within 1/2" of the floor. Cut a 90° angle on the second corner. This post is part of a series:  the Big Bed Quilt-Along. Maybe that's just fine? Add two long, thin rectangles to your quilt sketch, which signify the side drops. Maybe your block's dimensions results in a quilt 2" narrower than you wanted. If a bed as a footboard, Decide how far you want the quilt to go down the end of the bed. Rotate your quilt, so the next edge is closest to you. For example, if your bed is 48 inches wide, and you want a runner that is 18 inches wide, you would mark a 74-inch (48 inches + 26 inches) by 19-inch rectangle. The thread count is much higher in sheeting than in common quilting fabric. There’s nothing nicer than a custom-made quilt that perfectly fits your bed. If you place pillows on top of the quilt, you don't need to add to your current dimensions. Add these additional inches to the length of the quilt. While we are all familiar with the terms twin, double, queen, king and California king. The top-of-the-bed measurement is an important part of your quilt design. This is the amount of yardage you will need. As others have mentioned, one thing to consider is whether you want it small enough to carry around (just barely big enough to cover the bed) or whether this is a quilt that can go with them to their big girl/boy bed. Take your initial ideal quilt size and add 5% to determine your planned quilt size. Do you have any size quandaries? Add this measurement to the quilt’s length. Repeat, … Add one long, thin rectangle at the bottom, to signify the foot drop. Here's how to calculate your ideal bed quilt size. Step 4 Sew strips of like fabric around the work, creating a second frame of contrasting fabric. Having the right size bed sheet can make the difference between a night's sleep and a good night's sleep. Compare this measurement to the measurement of simple mattress length. At the head of your bed, how do you like to style your pillows? When taking these measurements, remember to add length for the quilt to hang off the edges of the mattress. King — For your king-size bed, you'll want a coverlet that measures at least 108 inches / 274cm by 108 inches / 274cm for nice coverage all around. For a pillow tuck, add 10" for your pillow addition. Measure a Bed for Sheets and Bedding. As the second step in how to make a patchwork quilt quickly, determine your quilt’s dimensions. Measure as far down the side of the bed as you want the quilt to drop from the top edge. Simple and As Is. You may wish to cover the bed's side rail or to show it. SIZE & CASING. What this means for you, the Quiltmaker If the size you’ve chosen just barely covers the mattress, and covering the mattress is important to you, consider adding a block to each row or column for insurance. Stop at the edge and do not add the drop to your first measurement; it will be added next. My mattress is 61" x 79". how to Prep Your Quilt Top for Longarm Quilting. For a pillow tuck, add 10" for your pillow addition. Stop at the edge and do not add the drop to your first measurement; it will be added next. Finally, place the quilt top, face up, on top of the batting. Add up the total dimensions in width and in length. A coverlet drops about 3" below mattress bottom to cover the top of the dust ruffle. 3. Next, place the unrolled quilt batting on top of it. I make mine 65x65" for 3 reasons. How far do you want the quilt to fall at the foot of the bed?