100% cotton preferred but Poly/Cotton blend can work for many things
Lightweight to medium weight fabric. Cotton muslim is useable though a bit on the light side.
45 inches wide
7 and 5/8 yards long (or 7 meters). If you have to order 8 yards, cut 3/8 yards off.
Preparation:
Wash at least once. In heavily dyed fabric (dark/bright colors) it would be preferable to wash twice to avoid bleeding onto surfaces when in hot environments.
Fold in half lengthwise but then roughly throw into a ball or bag for storage. The more wrinkles the better.