Quick Answer: How Much Is Fleece Fabric Per Yard?
If you’re wondering how much is fleece fabric per yard, the answer depends on quality, type, and source. On average, fleece fabric costs between $4 to $12 per yard, with standard polyester fleece being the most affordable and premium anti-pill or plush varieties on the higher end.
Buyers looking for larger quantities—like manufacturers or crafters producing fleece blankets wholesale or fleece blankets bulk—can often secure discounted pricing by purchasing directly from textile suppliers or wholesalers rather than retail stores.
Now let’s dive deeper.

Why Fleece Fabric Is So Popular?
Fleece fabric has become a staple material across industries—from apparel and bedding to promotional products and crafts. Its soft texture, durability, and insulation make it ideal for creating warm blankets, jackets, throws, and accessories.
However, before starting any project or production run, one essential question arises: how much is fleece fabric per yard?
The cost of fleece varies significantly based on several factors, including material type, quality, supplier, and purchase volume. Understanding these variables helps buyers—from small DIY creators to large-scale retailers—plan budgets effectively and find the right balance between quality and affordability.
1. Understanding What Fleece Fabric Is
Fleece is a synthetic material, typically made from polyester fibers, that mimics the warmth and softness of wool. It’s lightweight, breathable, and moisture-resistant, which makes it ideal for both winter wear and cozy home textiles.
Fleece comes in various forms:
- Polar fleece: Standard soft, midweight fleece used for blankets and jackets.
- Microfleece: Lighter, thinner version ideal for layering.
- Anti-pill fleece: Treated to resist pilling and maintain a smooth finish.
- Plush or Sherpa fleece: Extra soft, high-pile fleece often used in luxury blankets or linings.
- Printed fleece: Custom designs or patterns for crafts and décor.
Each type of fleece affects the cost per yard, so knowing your intended use helps determine which option suits your needs best.
2. Average Price Range: How Much Is Fleece Fabric Per Yard?
The cost of fleece fabric can vary widely depending on material quality and supplier type. Here’s a general breakdown:
| Type of Fleece Fabric | Average Price Per Yard (Retail) | Wholesale Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Polyester Fleece | $4 – $6 | $2.50 – $4 |
| Anti-Pill Fleece | $6 – $9 | $4 – $6 |
| Plush / Sherpa Fleece | $8 – $12 | $6 – $9 |
| Microfleece | $5 – $8 | $3.50 – $5.50 |
| Printed / Custom Fleece | $9 – $15 | $6 – $10 |
Retail vs. Wholesale
- Retail pricing applies when buying small quantities (1–5 yards) from fabric stores like Joann, Walmart, or online marketplaces like Amazon.
- Wholesale pricing applies when purchasing directly from mills or distributors, usually with a minimum order quantity (MOQ) of 20–50 yards.
For businesses making fleece blankets wholesale or designing custom products, wholesale pricing offers significant cost savings—sometimes cutting costs by 30–50%.
3. Key Factors That Affect the Price of Fleece Fabric
a. Fabric Quality and Weight
Fleece is measured in grams per square meter (GSM)—the higher the GSM, the thicker and warmer the fabric. Heavier fleeces (250–400 GSM) cost more than lightweight versions (100–200 GSM).
b. Type of Fleece
Anti-pill or plush fleece requires extra finishing and processing, leading to higher costs. Basic polyester fleece remains the most economical option for large-scale production.
c. Color and Design
Solid colors cost less to produce than custom prints or specialty dyes. Patterned fleece, such as holiday or animal prints, can increase costs by 10–20%.
d. Source and Supplier Type
Buying directly from a textile manufacturer or wholesaler is always cheaper than purchasing from retailers. Online bulk suppliers, such as Fabric.com, Fleece4Sale, or Alibaba, often provide discounts on orders exceeding 50 yards.
e. Order Quantity
The larger the order, the lower the price per yard. Manufacturers making fleece blankets bulk benefit from economies of scale—reducing per-unit fabric costs and improving profit margins.
f. Customization and Branding
If you’re ordering printed fleece with logos or custom designs, expect setup costs for printing and design fees, typically $1–$3 extra per yard.
4. Where to Buy Fleece Fabric — Best Sources
1. Local Fabric Stores
Great for small-scale projects or testing material quality. Stores like Joann Fabrics, Hobby Lobby, and Michael’s often have seasonal discounts.
2. Online Retailers
Websites such as Amazon, Etsy, and Fabric.com offer a wide variety of fleece types with customer reviews to guide your purchase. However, prices here are closer to retail.
3. Wholesalers and Manufacturers
For business orders or bulk production:
- WholesaleFabrics.com
- Mood Fabrics Wholesale
- Fabric Wholesale Direct
- Alibaba and Made-in-China for international sourcing.
These suppliers offer wholesale discounts for fleece blankets bulk or yardage purchases over 50–100 yards.
5. Comparing Domestic vs. Imported Fleece
Domestic Suppliers (U.S.-Based)
- Pros: Faster shipping, better quality control, local compliance, easier communication.
- Cons: Slightly higher costs due to labor and manufacturing expenses.
Imported Suppliers (China, India, Vietnam)
- Pros: Lower per-yard cost and flexible MOQ options.
- Cons: Longer shipping times, import duties, and varying quality standards.
If you’re manufacturing fleece blankets wholesale, it’s often worth testing both options before committing to a long-term supply source.
6. Cost Breakdown for Blanket Makers
For businesses creating custom or branded blankets, here’s how fleece cost contributes to overall pricing:
| Cost Component | Average Cost per Blanket (60″x80″) |
|---|---|
| Fleece Fabric (2 yards @ $4/yard wholesale) | $8 |
| Stitching and Finishing | $3 |
| Custom Printing or Embroidery | $2–$4 |
| Packaging | $1 |
| Total Production Cost | $14–$16 per blanket |
With retail prices ranging from $25 to $50, bulk fleece blanket manufacturing offers strong margins—especially when materials are purchased in large quantities.
7. How to Save Money When Buying Fleece Fabric?
a. Buy in Bulk
Purchasing 20+ yards often qualifies for wholesale pricing. Larger orders bring steeper discounts and reduced shipping per unit.
b. Watch for Seasonal Sales
Winter clearance sales (January–March) often feature fleece fabric discounts of 30–50% as stores make room for new inventory.
c. Request Samples Before Ordering
Always order fabric swatches to confirm color, texture, and weight. This small step can prevent large-scale mismatches or returns.
d. Optimize Fabric Usage
When designing blankets or apparel, plan your cuts efficiently to minimize waste and reduce total yardage needed.
e. Partner with a Reliable Supplier
Build long-term relationships with suppliers who understand your business needs. Consistent buyers often receive loyalty discounts or early access to limited batches.
8. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Fleece Options
Sustainability is an emerging trend in the textile industry. Recycled polyester fleece—made from plastic bottles—is gaining popularity due to its reduced environmental footprint.
Though slightly more expensive (around $7–$10 per yard wholesale), it appeals to eco-conscious consumers and brands aiming to promote sustainability. Businesses producing fleece blankets wholesale for retail or corporate gifting often choose eco-friendly fabrics as part of their branding and social responsibility initiatives.
9. What to Expect When Ordering Fleece in Bulk?
When placing a bulk order:
- Minimum quantities may range from 20 to 100 yards.
- Payment terms vary—some suppliers require full payment upfront, others 50% deposits.
- Turnaround times average 1–3 weeks for domestic suppliers and 4–8 weeks for international shipments.
- Always review return and defect policies before finalizing the purchase.
Proper planning ensures uninterrupted production and protects your investment.
10. Why Understanding Fleece Pricing Matters?
Knowing how much fleece fabric costs per yard empowers both hobbyists and business owners to make smarter purchasing decisions. Small crafters can avoid overspending on high-end fleece when a mid-range option suffices, while manufacturers can calculate material costs accurately to maintain healthy profit margins.
Whether you’re crafting personalized gifts, producing apparel, or scaling up fleece blankets wholesale, understanding the factors behind fabric pricing ensures long-term success in both quality and affordability.
Final Thoughts
So, how much is fleece fabric per yard? The answer depends on what you’re buying, where you’re buying it, and how much you need. For individual crafters, expect prices between $5 and $10 per yard; for manufacturers or retailers, wholesale pricing can bring that down to as little as $3 per yard.
The key to success is balancing cost with quality—choosing fleece that feels soft, performs well, and fits your project’s purpose. Whether you’re sourcing fleece blankets wholesale for your business or ordering fleece blankets bulk for a seasonal promotion, understanding fabric pricing helps you stay competitive, creative, and cost-efficient.
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