How Many Yards of Ankara Fabric Do You Need? A Simple Guide
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Ankara (African wax print) is usually sold in 6-yard pieces, and most fabric at Chinwe's Patterns is about 45 inches (115 cm) wide. Here is roughly how far that goes. Your sewing pattern's yardage chart is always the final word, so use these numbers to plan, not to cut.
Quick yardage chart for 45-inch Ankara
| Outfit | Typical yardage |
|---|---|
| Headwrap or gele | 1 to 2 yards |
| Fitted or A-line skirt | 1.5 to 2 yards |
| Simple knee-length dress | 2 to 3 yards |
| Men's shirt or dashiki top | 2 to 3 yards |
| Long gown or maxi dress | 4 to 5 yards |
| Iro and buba, or wrapper and top | 5 to 6 yards |
| Men's shirt and trouser set | 5 to 6 yards |
| Agbada (three-piece) | 8 yards or more |
Why Ankara comes in 6 yards
Six yards (about 5.5 metres) is the traditional West African length for one full outfit. That's why "6 yards" is the standard everywhere from Lagos markets to U.S. fabric shops. One piece can also make two simple dresses, or a dress plus a matching headwrap and bag.
When to buy extra
- Large or one-direction prints. Matching big motifs across seams uses more fabric. Add half a yard to a yard.
- Bigger sizes or full skirts. Gathered, pleated or mermaid skirts can double the fabric.
- Pre-washing. Real wax cotton can shrink slightly. Rinse before cutting, but only once you're sure you're keeping the fabric.
- Matching family or asoebi outfits. Buy all pieces from the same print at once. Each print is limited. See asoebi and group orders.
Which fabric for which outfit?
For everyday dresses, shirts and skirts, 100% cotton real wax Ankara is breathable and easy to sew. For parties and weddings, try stoned Ankara or flash gold. For agbada and statement menswear, look at brocade and Kente fabric.
More questions? Read our Ankara fabric FAQ or email hello@chinwe.io. U.S. shipping is free on orders of $75 or more.