How't this for the technical definition? I agree it is equal to 1/4 yard of cut fabric, but the measurements are cut in order to give you more length to work with. I have always thought this was strange. But then, I don't have to buy them if I don't like them, right?
" cut piece of fabric which is made by cutting a half yard in half again vertically. The piece is therefore approximately 18" x 22". This allows for cutting larger blocks than a standard quarter yard which is 9" x 44".
quilting.about.com/library/0lib/bl0_quiltterms.htm - Definition in context
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