Curious about starting easy and creative jelly roll fabric projects? You’re in the right place! A jelly roll is a bundle of fabric strips, each 2 1/2 inches wide and about 44 inches long, all rolled up like a cinnamon roll.
Fanda Fabrics offers high-quality fabric jelly roll bundles that make these projects simple and fun. You don’t need much experience—just a sense of adventure and a love for color. With every jelly roll fabric project, you’ll discover how enjoyable sewing can be!
Key Takeaways
Jelly rolls are pre-cut fabric strips that make sewing easy and fun for beginners.
Use simple tools like a rotary cutter, sewing machine, and iron with steam to get started.
Try quick projects like strip quilts, table runners, placemats, or coasters to build confidence.
Add personal touches by mixing colors, patterns, and hand-stitched details to make projects unique.
Save leftover strips to create new items like pillows, coasters, or mini quilts and reduce waste.
Jelly Roll Fabric Projects for Beginners
Quick Tips for Getting Started
Jumping into jelly roll fabric projects feels exciting, but a few simple tips can make your experience even smoother. Here’s what you should know before you unwrap your first jelly roll bundle:
Clean your jelly roll strips before you start. The pinked edges can leave a bit of fuzz, so a quick shake or gentle brush helps keep your workspace tidy.
Use steam when ironing your strips. This relaxes the fabric and helps reduce any curling, making your sewing more accurate.
Always measure carefully and sew with a precise 1/4″ seam allowance. Paying attention to the pinked edges ensures your quilt blocks come out just right.
Tip: Keep your jelly roll bundle intact until you’re ready to use it. Fanda Fabrics curates their jelly rolls so the colors and patterns coordinate beautifully, making it easier for you to plan your project.
When you open your jelly roll, try sorting the strips into groups by color—light, medium, and dark. This helps you see the contrast and plan your design. Lay out your strips from darkest to lightest within each group for a balanced look. If you have leftover strips, store them in a box for future projects or inspiration.
Essential Tools and Materials
You don’t need a lot of fancy equipment to start with jelly roll fabric projects. Here’s a quick checklist:
A fabric jelly roll or jelly roll bundle from Fanda Fabrics
Rotary cutter and self-healing mat
Quilting ruler (for straight, accurate cuts)
Sewing machine with a 1/4″ foot
Iron with a steam function
Pins or fabric clips
Choosing pre-cut fabric strips saves you time and reduces fabric waste. Many Fanda Fabrics jelly roll strips use eco-friendly cotton, which supports sustainable crafting and helps minimize your environmental impact. With these basics, you’re ready to dive into your first project and enjoy the creative process!
10 Creative Jelly Roll Projects
Simple Strip Quilt
You want a project that’s fast and satisfying? Try a simple strip quilt. You sew jelly roll strips end to end, then fold and stitch them together in a race against the clock. Many quilters finish the quilt top in about an hour.
You don’t need to worry about matching seams or complicated patterns. Just grab a Fanda Fabrics Jelly Roll, lay out your strips, and start sewing. This quilt is perfect for beginners because you see results quickly and build confidence with every seam.
Tip: Arrange your strips before sewing to create a balanced look. If you want extra flair, add a border after finishing the top.
Table Runner
A table runner brightens up any space and lets you practice piecing. You select strips from your jelly roll, lay them out in your favorite order, and sew them together. Cut the sewn strips into blocks, rotate them, and stitch them end to end.
Press your seams, add batting and backing, then quilt and bind the edges. You finish with a custom piece that shows off your style. Fanda Fabrics Jelly Rolls Quilting Fabric makes this project easy because the colors and patterns coordinate beautifully.
Tip: Use a walking foot when quilting to keep layers smooth and avoid puckers.
Placemats
Placemats are a fun way to use jelly roll strips and add color to your table. You need strips, backing fabric, fusible batting, and thread. Cut and sew strips together, layer with batting and backing, then quilt and bind. You can make a set in an afternoon. Fanda Fabrics Jelly Rolls offer plenty of variety, so each placemat can look unique.
Jelly Roll Strips (2.5″ wide)
Backing Fabric
Fusible Quilt Batting
Thread
Tip: Try mixing light and dark strips for contrast. Use Wonder Clips to keep layers aligned while sewing.
Coasters
Coasters are quick, practical, and perfect for using leftover jelly roll strips. You sew a few strips together, cut them into squares, add batting and backing, then quilt and bind.
You finish a set in less than an hour. These make great gifts or additions to your home. Fanda Fabrics Jelly Rolls Quilting Fabric gives you plenty of patterns to choose from.
Tip: Use scraps from other jelly roll fabric projects to make matching coasters for your placemats or table runner.
Patchwork Pillow
A patchwork pillow lets you experiment with color and design. You sew jelly roll strips into blocks, then arrange them into a 20″ x 20″ pillow top. You can adjust the size by adding or removing blocks.
This project helps you practice piecing and quilting on a small scale. Fanda Fabrics Jelly Rolls make it easy to create a coordinated look.
Tip: Use a variety of patterns for a lively patchwork quilt effect. Add a zipper or envelope closure for easy washing.
Tote Bag
A jelly roll tote bag is stylish and practical. You sew strips together to create panels, then assemble the bag with lining and handles. You can finish this project in a weekend. Fanda Fabrics Jelly Rolls Quilting Fabric gives you sturdy, colorful strips that hold up well for everyday use.
Tip: Reinforce the handles with extra stitching for durability. Try mixing patterns for a unique look.
Fabric Basket
You want a project that organizes your space and uses up jelly roll strips? Make a fabric basket. Sew five strips together, cut two pieces for the outer fabric, and prepare matching lining pieces.
Fuse fleece to the lining for structure. Sew the sides, box the corners, and assemble the basket. Turn it right side out, press, and topstitch to finish. Fanda Fabrics Jelly Rolls make this process simple and colorful.
Tip: Use fusible fleece for a sturdy basket. This project is great for storing sewing supplies or gifting.
Pencil Case
A pencil case is a small, useful project that helps you practice sewing zippers. Sew jelly roll strips together for the outer fabric, add a lining, and insert a zipper. You finish with a custom case for pens, makeup, or small tools. Fanda Fabrics Jelly Rolls Quilting Fabric offers plenty of patterns to make your case stand out.
Tip: Use a coordinating pattern for the lining. Try adding a decorative pull to the zipper for extra flair.
Quilt-As-You-Go Block
Quilt-as-you-go blocks let you quilt each block before joining them. You sew jelly roll strips onto batting, quilt the block, then square it up. After making several blocks, you join them to create a patchwork quilt.
This method is perfect for small sewing spaces and helps you avoid bulky quilts. Fanda Fabrics Jelly Rolls make it easy to mix patterns and colors.
Tip: Use scraps of batting for each block. This technique saves time and reduces waste.
Baby Quilt
A baby quilt is a sweet gift and a great beginner project. You sew jelly roll strips together, add batting and backing, then quilt and bind. Handle the fabric gently to avoid fraying.
Some quilters use lingerie bags or pillowcases to wash strips before sewing. Color catchers help prevent dye running when washing the finished quilt. Fanda Fabrics Jelly Rolls Quilting Fabric provides soft, durable strips for a safe and cozy patchwork quilt.
Tip: Avoid machine washing jelly roll strips before sewing. Wash the finished quilt with care to maintain color and shape.
🧵 Ready to start your own jelly roll quilt? Fanda Fabrics Jelly Rolls and Jelly Rolls Quilting Fabric give you everything you need for creative, beginner-friendly projects. Try one today and see how easy it is to make something beautiful!
Customizing Your Jelly Roll Projects
Personal Touches
You can make every jelly roll project feel like your own by adding special details. Try hand-stitching simple embellishments, such as little stars or hearts, onto your quilt blocks. Holiday-themed appliqués, like felt snowflakes or holly leaves, add a festive touch to your sewing patterns.
If you want to make a gift, sew a name or date onto the back of your project. You can also play with different sewing patterns for borders or binding. Even a basic jelly roll race quilt becomes unique when you add your favorite colors or a fun label.
Here are some beginner-friendly ways to personalize your projects:
Choose sewing patterns that match your style or the season.
Add hand-stitched details or small appliqués.
Use off-cuts to create a scrappy look in your quilt or cushion covers.
Try a jelly roll scarf or oven mitt for a quick, custom gift.
Mix and match sewing patterns for placemats or tote bags.
Tip: Don’t be afraid to experiment. Your creativity makes each project special!
Mixing Colors and Patterns
Mixing colors and patterns is where you can let your personality shine. Start by picking fabrics you like—even if you don’t love every single one, variety keeps your quilt interesting. Limit your palette to two or three main colors, then add different shades for depth. Balance light and dark fabrics to keep your sewing patterns lively.
Try these ideas for mixing patterns:
Use about 70% small patterns and 30% larger ones for detail and balance.
Add basic patterns like stripes, florals, or polka dots as anchors.
Toss in one or two whimsical patterns, like animals or hand-drawn shapes, for a focal point.
Keep each fabric pattern simple, with just two or three colors.
Add a few solids to tie your quilt together.
Lay out your strips and do a “squint test”—blur your eyes to see if the patterns work well together.
Note: Fanda Fabrics jelly rolls offer a wide range of coordinated patterns, making it easy to mix and match for any sewing patterns you choose.
Using Leftover Strips
Don’t let leftover jelly roll strips go to waste! You can turn scraps into new sewing patterns and projects. Sew leftover strips together to make fabric sheets for throw pillow covers or even a matching table runner.
Combine strips from different projects to create a scrappy quilt or star block. Some crafters use extra strips for coasters, oven mitts, or even a quick jelly roll strip cushion cover.
Make a set of placemats and coasters from scraps.
Create a patchwork pillow using leftover strips and simple sewing patterns.
Use strips to make a mini quilt or a fun wall hanging.
Try sewing strips together for a larger piece, then cut out shapes with a Cricut or by hand.
Tip: Watch online videos for inspiration on using scraps. You’ll find endless ways to turn leftovers into beautiful, useful projects.
Conclusion
Starting with jelly roll fabric projects helps you build skills like straight sewing, fabric coordination, and patchwork. You learn to match seams, press and trim blocks, and gain confidence with your sewing machine.
Fanda Fabrics Jelly Rolls make it easy to jump in and create something beautiful. When you finish a project, share it with the Fanda Fabrics community or post on platforms like Aquilting Life or Shabby Fabrics. You’ll inspire others and become part of a creative, supportive group.
FAQ
How do you choose the best jelly roll for your project?
Pick a jelly roll with colors and patterns you love. Fanda Fabrics offers bundles that coordinate beautifully. Think about your project’s style and size. You can always mix and match strips for a unique look.
Can you wash jelly roll strips before sewing?
You don’t need to wash jelly roll strips before sewing. The pre-cut edges help prevent fraying. If you want to wash your finished project, use gentle settings and a color catcher to keep colors bright.
What sewing machine settings work best for jelly roll projects?
Set your machine to a straight stitch. Use a 1/4″ seam allowance for most jelly roll projects. Lower the stitch length slightly for extra durability. Always test on a scrap strip first.
What can you do with leftover jelly roll strips?
Leftover strips work great for coasters, patchwork pillows, or scrappy quilt blocks. You can sew them into bookmarks, key fobs, or even a mini wall hanging. Get creative and use every last piece!
Where can you share your finished jelly roll projects?
Share your creations with the Fanda Fabrics community online. Post photos on social media or join quilting groups. You’ll inspire others and connect with fellow fabric lovers.
