Pillowcase Calculator — Fabric for Pillowcases
Work out fabric for standard, housewife or Oxford pillowcases.
How We Calculate This
A pillowcase is cut as one long piece that wraps around the pillow with a tuck-in flap. The Oxford style adds a flat border (flange) that surrounds all four edges, so its border is added to both the width and the length — not just the ends.
The formula
Housewife cut width = Pillow height + (Seam × 2)
Housewife cut length = Pillow width × 2 + Tuck-in + (Seam × 2) + 3cm closure
Oxford cut width = Housewife width + (Border × 2)
Oxford cut length = Housewife length + (Border × 2)
The 5cm Oxford border therefore adds 10cm to each dimension. Fabric is laid so each piece fits across the bolt width where possible; the metres needed is rows × cut length.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Last updated: February 2026
All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before cutting or purchasing fabric.