# Petticoat Fabric Calculator — How Much Cloth for a Saree Petticoat

> A 4-panel petticoat needs about 2.3 metres of 44 inch cloth, a 6-panel about 3.4 metres and an 8-panel fish cut about 4.5 metres.

Source: https://prernaas.shop/tools/petticoat-fabric-calculator

Last updated: 2026-10-28

- Free interactive tool; the page runs the calculation in the browser. The text below is the same explanation.

## How to use this tool

1. Measure your petticoat length from the waist to just above the ankle.
2. Choose the cut: 4-panel, 6-panel or 8-panel fish cut.
3. Select the width of the cloth.
4. Read the quantity to buy.

## How the estimate works

A petticoat is cut as long tapered panels, called kalis. The calculator checks whether two panels fit side by side on your cloth width when cut head to toe, works out how many lengths of cloth are needed, and adds hem allowance and a small amount for the waistband and drawstring. The result is rounded up to the next quarter metre.

## Typical amounts on 44 inch cloth, 38 inch length

| Cut | Panels | Fabric |
| --- | --- | --- |
| A-line | 4 | about 2.3 m |
| Classic | 6 | about 3.4 m |
| Fish cut | 8 | about 4.5 m |

## Tips

- Cotton shrinks in the first wash, so buy a little extra or pre-wash it.
- A petticoat should be close to the colour of the saree, or a neutral shade.
- Fish-cut petticoats are fitted at the hips and flare at the knee, so they need accurate hip measurements.

## Related

- [Blouse fabric calculator](/tools/blouse-fabric-calculator)
- [Saree blouse colour guide](/guides/how-to-pick-a-saree-blouse-colour)
- [Glossary: petticoat](/glossary/petticoat)

## Frequently asked questions

### How much cloth is needed for a petticoat?

Most petticoats need about 2.3 to 4.5 metres of 44 inch cloth, depending on the number of panels.

### What is a kali in a petticoat?

A kali is one tapered panel of the petticoat. More kalis give a fuller sweep and a shaped hem.

### What length should a petticoat be?

It should end just above the floor or ankle, a little shorter than the saree hem so it does not show.

### Is a 4-panel or 6-panel petticoat better?

A 4-panel is simpler and lighter, and a 6-panel gives more room to walk and a smoother drape.

### Can you stitch a petticoat?

Yes. Petticoats are part of custom stitching, and can be made to match your saree and measurements.