Print Guide
Knowing how a fabric’s print is oriented helps you choose yardage wisely—especially for fuller or flared styles. Quilting cottons and Indian block-print cottons in particular are often 1-way prints.
One-Way Prints
A one-way print has a clear “top” and “bottom” (e.g., words, animals, flowers with stems). All pattern pieces must be cut in the same direction to keep the garment visually consistent.
- Sewing note: Do not rotate pieces. Keep the print upright across all panels.
- Yardage impact: Typically needs extra fabric—especially for flared or full skirts.
Two-Way Prints
A two-way print looks correct when flipped 180° (top-to-bottom), but not sideways. This offers a bit more layout flexibility than one-way prints.
- Sewing note: You may rotate pieces 180°, but avoid side rotations.
- Yardage impact: Sometimes needs a little extra, depending on the layout.
- Note: Yardage requirements for Two-Way and Multi-Directional prints are the same.
Multi-Directional (All-Over) Prints
A multi-directional or all-over print has no obvious “top” or “bottom” (e.g., polka dots, ditsy florals, scattered stars). Pieces can be rotated freely without changing the look.
- Sewing note: Orient pieces however they fit best.
- Yardage impact: Most efficient—usually requires less fabric.
- Note: Yardage requirements for Two-Way and Multi-Directional prints are the same.
- One-way prints = extra yardage to keep panels aligned.
- Two-way prints = middle ground; some flexibility.
- Multi-directional prints = most efficient use of fabric.
Tip: Drape the fabric on a hanger. If it looks upside down in one direction, it’s a one-way print.