What is a fat quarter? A fat quarter is where half a metre is cut off the fabric bolt, then cut in half again parallel to the selvedge - finished size is approximately 20" x 21-22" (50cm x 55cm) including the selvedge. A long quarter is simply quarter of a metre cut straight off the bolt - finished size is approximately 10" x 42-44" (25cm x 110cm) including the selvedge. If ordering just one unit, we will automatically send a fat quarter, unless you specifically ask for a long quarter.