A fat quarter is a pre-cut piece of fabric made by dividing a larger piece into quarters in a way that creates a useful, roughly rectangular shape rather than a long, narrow strip. This gives you more flexibility for cutting patchwork pieces, appliqué and smaller sewing projects. The exact dimensions depend on the width of the original fabric and whether the fat quarter has been cut from a metre or a yard, so always check the individual product description for measurements.

Fat quarters are wonderfully versatile for patchwork and smaller sewing projects. Use them for quilt blocks, patchwork cushions, zipped pouches, appliqué, fabric baskets, accessories and handmade gifts. They’re also useful for pockets, linings and contrast details in dressmaking. Explore our quilting and patchwork patterns or bag and accessory patterns for ideas, checking the fabric requirements before you begin.

A bundle gives you a selection of fabrics that work beautifully together without needing to choose and buy a larger length of every design. They’re particularly useful for patchwork, where you want plenty of colour and print variation within one project. Bundles are also a lovely way to explore a fabric collection or build up your fabric stash with coordinating prints.

The main difference is the shape and size of the pre-cut pieces. Fat quarters are larger rectangles that you can cut into your own shapes, while charm packs contain ready-cut squares – often 10" squares in our collection – and strip or jelly rolls contain long, narrow strips. Each format lends itself to different patchwork designs, so check the measurements and number of pieces in the individual pack before choosing.

Not at all. Although fat quarters, charm squares and strip rolls are particularly popular for patchwork and quilting, they can be used for all sorts of creative sewing. Depending on the size of the pieces, try bags, pouches, appliqué, patch pockets, accessories, fabric decorations and smaller home projects. Pre-cuts are also brilliant for projects where you want to combine lots of different prints without buying fabric by the metre.

Both can make beautiful patchwork, but they have quite different handles. Liberty Tana Lawn is exceptionally fine, smooth and lightweight, while Lasenby Quilting Cotton has more body and is specifically designed with quilting and craft projects in mind. Either can be used successfully; consider the style of your project and the weight of any other fabrics you plan to combine with them.

Yes, although fabrics with a similar weight and handle are generally easier to cut, piece and press together. Mixing different textures can create a beautiful result, but very fine fabrics alongside substantially heavier ones may behave differently when stitched. If you’re new to patchwork, starting with fabrics of a similar weight can make the process more straightforward.

There isn’t a single answer because it depends on the finished quilt size, block design, seam allowances and how efficiently the pieces can be cut. Use the fabric requirements supplied with your quilting pattern, then compare these with the dimensions and number of fat quarters in your chosen bundle. Remember that backing, binding and background fabric may need to be purchased separately.

It depends on the project and fabric. Pre-washing very small pre-cut pieces can sometimes cause fraying or distortion, so many quilters prefer to work with them as supplied. If you’re combining pre-cuts with other fabrics, consider how the different fabrics will behave when the finished project is washed and follow the care guidance for the individual products.

Absolutely. They’re a lovely choice for quilters, patchworkers and anyone who enjoys smaller sewing projects, particularly because a bundle offers several coordinating prints to experiment with. They’re also an easy fabric gift when you know someone loves sewing but don’t want to choose a dressmaking fabric or guess how many metres they might need.