National Sew A Jelly Roll Day

Happy NSAJRD (National Sew A Jelly Roll Day). 

Apparently it's a thing! I'm happy about it. I'm happy whenever I have a reason (excuse) to sew and NSAJRD is as good a reason as any (as if I need a reason!) and when I got up this morning I knew I was going to use a Jelly Roll.

A Jelly Roll is a set of two and one half inch wide by WOF (width of fabric) strips. They are typically sold in groups of about 42 pieces and rolled to resemble a jelly roll. There are many choices available by theme, color, seasonal or designer's fabric collection. There are many patterns available and they all look great since the fabrics are already coordinated for you.

If you are planning a sewing day with your quilting friends you may want to consider a Jelly Roll Race!! Great fun is had by groups holding sewing races to complete a Jelly Roll Race (which is a quick and easy way to complete a quilt top using one fabric Jelly Roll). A quilt top can be finished in about an hour. A bit less if you are really speedy!!

Start by sewing each strip of the Jelly Roll together end to end. Cut several inches (8 or so) off of the first piece so the strips become staggered. Cut your giant strip in half and sew the two long strips together side by side. You now have a four and one half wide, very long  piece. Cut that in half and sew for a eight and one half piece. Continue to complete a quilt top approximately 55 x 65 inches. You can certainly use two Jelly Rolls or add borders to make a larger quilt.

Have some fun!

Happy Quilting,
Laurel