Fat Quarter Bundles = Quilty Happiness in a Stack

Hello, my quilty friends!

Okay, today we’re diving into a topic I love talking about—and that a lot of beginner quilters have questions about: fat quarter bundles. (AKA the gateway drug of quilting. 😏)

If you've ever stared at a bundle of folded fabric and wondered, "Wait… what is this exactly? And why does everyone freak out over them?"—this post is for you.

So, what is a fat quarter?

Let’s start with the basics. A fat quarter is a specific cut of fabric that measures approximately 18" x 21". It comes from cutting a half yard of fabric (18" x 44") in half the short way, instead of in long strips. That gives you a squarish, chubby rectangle—hence the “fat” part of the name. Quilters love this size because it's super versatile. You can cut a variety of shapes from it—squares, strips, triangles, you name it—without a ton of leftover weirdness.

Why are fat quarter bundles so popular?

Great question! A fat quarter bundle is a set of coordinating fat quarters from a single fabric collection or color story. Someone (bless the designers and fabric reps of the world) has curated them to look great together. That means less guesswork for you and more time making.

They’re perfect if:

• You’re starting a new project and want a head start on choosing colors.
• You want to try out a whole fabric line without buying full yards.
• You’re building your stash and want to be ready when inspiration strikes.
• You simply love fabric and want to display it on your shelf like the art it is. (No shame. I do it too.)

How many fat quarters do I need to make something?

Another common question when you're starting out, and the answer is: it depends on what you're making! Here’s a rough guide to get you started:

• Mini quilt or table runner: 3–6 fat quarters
• Baby quilt: 6–12 fat quarters
• Lap quilt: 12–18 fat quarters
• Throw or twin quilt: 18–24+ fat quarters

You’ll still need background or accent fabric for most quilt patterns, but fat quarters are a great base to build around.

Can I use fat quarters for any quilt pattern?

Not every pattern is fat quarter friendly, but lots of them are—especially scrappy or sampler quilts. Look for patterns that specifically say “fat quarter friendly,” or check the fabric requirements to see if they list cuts like 18" x 21". Bonus: fat quarters are also amazing for making bags, pouches, zipper wallets, fabric baskets, and even clothing accents (hello, patchwork skirts!).

Where can I get fat quarter bundles?

Right this way, friend! We’ve got a delicious selection of fat quarter bundles in our Fabric Bundles section. I hand-pick every bundle we carry, and I only bring in fabric that I personally love and would use in my own projects. If you see something you love, don’t wait—some bundles sell out fast!

TL;DR?

Fat quarter bundles are beginner-friendly, stash-building, creativity-sparking bundles of joy. They're perfect for when you want to try out a new fabric line, get a little quilty inspiration, or just surround yourself with beautiful fabric (because fabric = happiness).

So go ahead—grab a bundle, grab a rotary cutter, and let's make something beautiful!

Happy making,

🩵 Holly