Precut quilt size.

Answer

A 60 x 80 in quilt from 10 in layer cake squares needs a grid of 7 x 9 = 63 squares, which is 2 layer cakes at 42 squares per pack. Each 10 in square finishes at 9.5 in with a 1/4 in seam.

Worked example

Target 60 x 80 in, layer cakes, 42 per pack. Finished block = 10 - 2 x 0.25 = 9.5 in. Across: 60 / 9.5 = 6.3, rounded up to 7. Down: 80 / 9.5 = 8.4, rounded up to 9. That is 63 squares, so 2 packs with 21 spare. The top measures 66.5 x 85.5 in. In the other direction, 3 charm packs (126 squares) laid 12 across make 10 rows, a 54 x 45 in top with 6 squares left over.

How it works

The Sewing Studio lists layer cakes as 10 in squares, charm packs as 5 in squares and mini charms as 2.5 in squares, usually around 42 pieces per pack, with finished blocks of about 9.5, 4.5 and 2 in. Their guide gives a 6 x 5 layer cake grid as roughly 57 x 47.5 in; the formula here reproduces that exactly (57 x 47.5 in). Finished block = cut size - 2 x seam allowance; the top is columns x block across and rows x block down; packs = squares / squares per pack, rounded up. Borders, sashing and cutting squares smaller are not included, and you may want a border for a bed-sized quilt.

Sources (opened 2026-10-08): Moda pre-cut fabric - a complete guide (The Sewing Studio).

FAQ

How many layer cakes do I need for a quilt?

It depends on the size. A 60 x 80 in top from 10 in squares is 7 x 9 = 63 squares, so 2 layer cakes at about 42 squares each. Enter your own target size above.

How big is a quilt made from one layer cake?

A 6 x 5 grid of 10 in squares (30 squares) finishes at about 57 x 47.5 in with 1/4 in seams, according to The Sewing Studio, and that is what this calculator gives.

How many squares are in a charm pack?

Charm packs are 5 in squares, usually around 42 per pack. Check the label, because some packs hold fewer; you can change the squares per pack above.

Why is the finished block smaller than the precut?

Each side loses a seam allowance when squares are sewn together. A 10 in square finishes at 9.5 in and a 5 in square at 4.5 in with a 1/4 in seam.

Does this include borders or sashing?

No. It covers a plain grid of squares only. Use the quilt layout calculator to add sashing and borders.