Do I need the same amount of lining as outer fabric?

Usually not. Lining does not include facings, collars, cuffs or external details, so you typically need 70–90% of the outer fabric amount, depending on the garment type. Jackets and coats need proportionally more lining; skirts need less.

What width does lining fabric come in?

Lining fabrics in the UK typically come in 137cm (54″) or 150cm (60″) widths. Polyester lining is usually 150cm; acetate and cupro linings may be narrower at 137cm.

What type of lining should I use?

Polyester lining is the most affordable and easy-care. Acetate is smoother and more breathable. Bemberg (cupro) rayon is premium — it breathes like cotton, drapes beautifully, and is antistatic. Cotton lawn or voile can line cotton garments.

Should I pre-wash lining fabric?

If you pre-wash your outer fabric, pre-wash the lining too. This ensures both fabrics shrink before construction rather than pulling against each other when the finished garment is washed.

SewCalcs

Lining Fabric Calculator — How Much Lining Do I Need?

Calculate lining fabric requirements based on your outer fabric amount and garment type.

Outer Fabric Amount

Metres of outer fabric for your project

Garment TypeSets the typical lining-to-outer ratio (jackets use more lining than skirts)

Outer Fabric WidthBolt width of your outer/fashion fabric

Lining Fabric WidthBolt width of the lining (UK polyester lining is usually 150cm)

Include 10% wastage

Adds a buffer for cutting errors and shrinkage (default 10%; adjust in Advanced Options)

Lining Price Per Metre (optional)

Optional — lining price per metre to estimate cost

How We Calculate This

Lining requirements are estimated as a proportion of the outer fabric, adjusted for the width difference between outer and lining fabrics.

The formula

Lining = Outer metres × Ratio × (Outer width ÷ Lining width)

Jacket/Blazer: 85% of outer
Coat: 90% of outer
Dress: 80% of outer
Skirt: 75% of outer
Trousers: 70% of outer
Bag: 100% of outer

The ratios above are heuristic estimates — lining omits facings, collars, cuffs and external details, so it uses roughly 70–90% of the outer fabric (SewGuide dressmaking yardage guidance). The width factor is the standard yardage-width conversion: narrower fabric needs proportionally more length (new metres = original metres × original width ÷ new width — Sew4Home / Historical Sewing fabric conversion charts). Always confirm against your pattern envelope, which gives lining yardage for a specific bolt width.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before cutting or purchasing fabric.