Do You Know What a Jelly Roll Is? Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Have you ever wanted to try quilting, but don’t know where to start? 

Jelly Roll quilts, known for their ease of assembly and eye-catching designs, offer quilters of all skill levels the opportunity to create beautiful, intricate patterns without the complexity typically associated with patchwork quilting. Named after the pre-cut strips of fabric that resemble the shape of a jelly roll pastry, these quilts utilize 2.5-inch-wide strips sewn together in various configurations to form blocks or patterns. The strips are often sold in bundles that contain coordinating or contrasting fabrics, making it easy for quilters to achieve a harmonious design without the labor-intensive process of cutting and matching fabrics themselves.

One of the most appealing aspects of Jelly Roll quilts is the vast array of patterns available, ranging from simple strip piecing to intricate designs that mimic traditional quilt blocks. Beginners might start with a basic strip quilt, sewing strips end-to-end and then sewing those long strips together, creating a colorful and dynamic pattern. More experienced quilters may venture into more complex patterns, such as ‘Log Cabin,’ ‘Star,’ or ‘Pinwheel’ designs, using the strips in innovative ways to achieve these classic looks. The versatility of Jelly Roll quilts means that there’s a pattern or project suitable for every quilter, regardless of their experience level.

The community aspect of Jelly Roll quilting cannot be overstated. Quilters around the world share their patterns, tips, and finished projects through social media, blogs, and quilting groups, creating a vibrant and supportive community. Annual events, such as National Jelly Roll Day, encourage quilters to start new projects and share their love of Jelly Roll quilting with others. This sense of community not only fosters creativity and collaboration but also helps to keep the tradition of quilting alive and evolving.

Sustainability is another significant benefit of Jelly Roll quilts. The use of pre-cut strips can lead to less waste, as quilters are able to utilize nearly every inch of fabric in their projects. Moreover, Jelly Roll quilts often incorporate a wide variety of fabrics, allowing quilters to mix and match leftovers from other projects, further reducing waste. This efficient use of materials, combined with the communal and creative aspects of quilting, makes Jelly Roll quilting a fulfilling and environmentally friendly hobby.

“Jelly rolls can be the perfect tool if you are looking to get into quilting, as it allows you the opportunity to try out quilting before jumping right in and purchasing a ton of fabric. Since jelly rolls come in pre-cut slices, you will often find that these fabric strips complement one another, so regardless of which quilting pattern you use, you can go into it with confidence,” says Corey Pearson, Master Quilter and VP of Customer Success at Linda’s Electric Quilters. 

Jelly rolls are a great way to find a quilting community too.

“Jelly rolls are also an introduction to the quilting community as well, and once you invest in quilting fabric you’ll be able to make your own jelly rolls with scrap fabric and share them with your quilter friends,” he says.

Jelly Roll quilts serve as an ideal entry point for those new to the quilting world, as well as a source of inspiration and challenge for seasoned crafters. They demystify the quilting process, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone. The combination of ease, versatility, community, and sustainability makes Jelly Roll quilting not just a hobby, but a passion for many. Whether you’re drawn to the simplicity of stitching together strips of fabric or to the deeper layers of community engagement and environmental responsibility, Jelly Roll quilts offer a rewarding and enriching experience. So, if you’ve been hesitant to take up quilting, consider starting with a Jelly Roll. It could unravel into a lifelong journey of creativity, connection, and craftsmanship.