Throw Quilt Size Guide
Throw quilts are versatile. They are larger than baby quilts but smaller than bed quilts, making them a great everyday project for a couch, chair, or guest bed.
Standard Throw Quilt Size
A common throw quilt size is 50 inches by 60 inches. Some quilters prefer 55" × 65" or 60" × 72" for extra coverage.
Throw Quilt vs. Lap Quilt
A lap quilt is usually smaller, around 45" × 54", and designed to cover your legs while sitting. A throw quilt is larger and meant to drape over a couch or chair.
Fabric, Batting, and Binding
For a 50" × 60" throw quilt, backing requires about 3.5 yards of 44-inch fabric pieced, or 1.75 yards of 108-inch wide backing. Batting should measure about 58" × 68". Binding needs about 240 inches total, or 6 WOF strips at 2.5 inches.
Throw Quilt Planning Table
| Item | 50×60 throw | 60×72 large throw |
|---|---|---|
| Backing (pieced 42") | 3.5 yd | 4.5 yd |
| Backing (108" wide) | 1.75 yd | 2.25 yd |
| Batting cut | 58×68 | 68×80 |
| Binding (2.5") | 6 strips | 7 strips |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the standard throw quilt size?
A common throw quilt size is 50 inches by 60 inches. Some quilters prefer 55 by 65 or 60 by 72 inches for extra coverage on a couch or chair.
What is the difference between a throw and a lap quilt?
A lap quilt is usually smaller, around 45 by 54 inches, and designed to cover your legs while sitting. A throw quilt is larger and meant to drape over a couch or the back of a chair.
How much backing does a throw quilt need?
For a 50 by 60 inch throw quilt, backing requires about 3.5 yards of 44-inch fabric pieced, or 1.75 yards of 108-inch wide backing in a single piece.
How much binding does a throw quilt need?
A 50 by 60 inch throw quilt has a perimeter of 220 inches plus joining allowance, so you need about 240 inches of binding, or roughly 6 WOF strips at 2.5 inches wide.