Outdoor Fabric Yardage Guide
Outdoor fabric is engineered for sun, rain, and heavy use. It is typically 54–60 inches wide with minimal shrinkage. Here is how to calculate yardage for outdoor projects.
Common Outdoor Fabric Types
| Type | Width | Key Properties | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solution-dyed acrylic (Sunbrella) | 54–60" | UV-resistant, water-repellent | Cushions, awnings, curtains |
| Polyester outdoor | 54" | Fade-resistant, quick-dry | Cushions, pillows |
| Marine vinyl | 54" | Waterproof, mildew-resistant | Boat seats, poolside furniture |
| Outdoor canvas | 54–60" | Heavy-duty, treated for water | Covers, bags, awnings |
Yardage for Common Outdoor Projects
| Project | 54" Fabric |
|---|---|
| Patio chair cushion (20×20×3") | 0.75–1 yd |
| Chaise lounge cushion | 2.5–3.5 yd |
| Bench cushion (48×18×3") | 1.5–2 yd |
| Outdoor sofa set (4 seat + 4 back) | 6–10 yd |
| Outdoor curtain panel (84" drop) | 2.5–3 yd |
For exact cushion yardage, try our pillow yardage tool. For outdoor curtains, use the curtain calculator.
Buying Tips
- Outdoor fabric has minimal shrinkage (0–2%) — no need to pre-wash or buy extra for shrinkage.
- Pattern repeats on outdoor fabric tend to be small or medium — check before ordering.
- Buy all your yardage at once. Outdoor fabric dye lots are particularly hard to match later because the solution-dyeing process varies between runs.
- Premium brands like Sunbrella cost $20–$40+ per yard, so an accurate calculation saves significant money.
Planning a full outdoor setup with cushions, curtains, and seating? You can size every piece in one place so the entire order comes from a single roll.