I used jelly rolls, charm packs, FQ's and small amounts of cut yardage. Gus's estimate sounds about right...I think you will find the info in the softward. The EQ estimates are generous though, so you might keep that in mind. Having said that though....I would buy a bolt of the background fabric...especially if you are intending to use it for the plain tris, scallops, and backing. This quilt is HEAVY...it actually has more fabric inside it than it does outside!