How Much Fabric Do I Need for a Kaftan or Abaya?

"How many metres do I need?" is the question we hear most from makers buying fabric by the metre. The honest answer is it depends — on the garment, the length, your size and the print. But you can plan confidently with a few simple guidelines. Here's a practical starting chart, plus the factors that change it.

First, check the fabric width

Fabric is sold in different widths, and width changes how much length you need. Most African wax prints come around 44–46 inches (about 115 cm) wide. The guide below assumes that standard width — if your fabric is narrower, add a little extra.

Quick metre guide (standard 44–46" width)

• Kaftan (knee to midi): about 2.5–3 metres.
• Kaftan (maxi / floor length): about 3–4 metres.
• Abaya: about 3–3.5 metres.
• Simple dress: about 2.5–3 metres.
• Men's dashiki shirt: about 2–2.5 metres.
• Wrap skirt: about 2 metres.

These are comfortable starting figures for average adult sizes. Always confirm against your pattern if you're using one.

Add extra for prints and pattern matching

Bold, directional or large-repeat prints need more fabric so you can match panels at the seams. Add roughly 0.5 metre for pattern matching on a large repeat — more if the design is very large or one-directional. It's a small cost that makes the finished garment look professional.

Add for size, sleeves and fullness

• Taller or plus sizes: add about 0.5 metre for extra length and width.
• Long or full sleeves: add roughly 0.5 metre.
• Fuller, gathered cuts: add 0.5–1 metre depending on the volume.

A worked example

Say you want a maxi kaftan in a large-repeat Ankara for a taller frame. Start at 3.5 metres (maxi), add 0.5 for the print repeat, add 0.5 for extra height and sleeves — order about 4.5 metres. Rounding up slightly is always safer than falling short mid-project.

Why buying a little extra pays off

Offcuts are useful: matching headwraps, face masks, pocket linings, or repairs later. Dye lots can also vary, so buying your full quantity at once ensures colour consistency across the garment.

Frequently asked questions

How many metres for a floor-length kaftan?

About 3–4 metres at standard width, plus extra for large prints, sleeves or taller sizes.

How much fabric does an abaya need?

Roughly 3–3.5 metres at standard width, adding a little for length or fuller cuts.

Should I pre-wash before cutting?

Yes — pre-wash to remove excess dye and pre-shrink the cotton, so your finished garment keeps its fit. See our wax print care guide.

The bottom line

Start from the chart, add for prints, sleeves and size, and round up. When in doubt, buy an extra half-metre — offcuts always find a use. Shop prints by the metre on our fabrics page, or message us and we'll help you calculate for your exact project.