What Is Fabric Pattern Repeat?

When choosing a fabric for a home decor project, it is crucial to know the repeat of the pattern you are considering. The repeat will impact the fabric's appearance against a window, on furniture, or as pillows.

Any fabric pattern has a specific size, which repeats over and over across the fabric. The repeat designates how many inches before the pattern starts over again. Pattern repeat is measured both horizontally and vertically.

 

Matching patterns at every seam in your project requires additional fabric. The larger the pattern repeat, the more material you'll need to align every seam. So knowing the repeat of your chosen fabric is essential because it influences the yardage requirements for your upholstery, drapery, bedding, or pillow project.

 

Solid color fabrics have no pattern repeat and can be seamed together without worrying about matching a pattern at the edges.

Standard Repeat

To cut fabric with a standard repeat pattern, you increase the length to a whole number of pattern repeats and cut at identical points in the design. That way, the cut pieces will perfectly match when joined together. This is a widely used method to join fabric pieces because most patterns have a standard repeat.

Half-Drop Repeat

A half-drop pattern repeat means that every other pattern repeated across the width is dropped halfway down from the previous one (the horizontal design moves down on a diagonal).

With a half-drop repeat, you won't be able to match the pattern directly across the width, as you would with most fabrics. Instead, you will need to shift the cut pieces one-half a repeat for the panels to match at the seams. 

Summary

Now that you know all about fabric pattern repeats, it's time to put that knowledge to use! If you're in the market for new curtains, upholstery, bedding, or pillows, be sure to consider the pattern's repeat before making your purchase.

Let us know if you have any questions about matching fabric patterns, and we'll be happy to help!