10 Eye-Catching Quilt Blocks Made Using Jelly Roll Strips
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When it comes to quilting, using 2.5″ precut fabric strips—also known as Jelly Rolls—can save a lot of time. They are a shortcut to quick quilt blocks and the variety of fabric in each roll makes for cohesive and eye-catching blocks.
These versatile strips are perfect for a wide variety of quilt blocks, allowing you to create everything from simple, beginner-friendly designs to more intricate patterns.
In this post, we’ll explore 10 quilt blocks that you can make using Jelly Roll strips. Whether you’re looking for a quick project or something a bit more advanced, these blocks will help you transform your Jelly Rolls into beautiful quilts, one strip at a time!
Need to restock your Jelly Roll stash? Check out Fat Quarter Shop for their amazing selection of precut fabric!
1. Granny Square Block
The Granny Square quilt block mimics the look of a traditional crocheted granny square. It consists of small squares arranged around a center square.
This quilt block uses small 2.5″ squares and places them on point, which can be tricky for a beginner quilter. But the final result is certainly worth it!
The block can be customized with different color arrangements to give it a vintage or modern feel. Choose as many or as few colors as you’d like.
Assembly: Cut 2.5″ squares from Jelly Roll strips. Sew the rows together the same as you would an on-point quilt, then sew the rows together. Trim the block leaving 1/4″ seam allowance around the perimeter of the block.
Here’s a comprehensive video tutorial from Olive & Elle Quilt Co to help you see how to assemble the block!
2. Rail Fence Block
The Rail Fence block is a simple yet striking pattern made by sewing strips together to form rows of fabric, which are then rotated to create a woven effect.
Assembly: Sew three Jelly Roll strips together lengthwise to create a strip set. Cut the strip set into 6.5″ squares, and then rotate the squares as you join them to create the distinctive “fence” pattern.
Here’s a video tutorial for my Jelly Roll Rail Fence Quilt Pattern. The video shows you how to sew strip sets to make Rail Fence blocks using one Jelly Roll.
3. Half Square Triangles (HST) Block
Half Square Triangles (HSTs) are a versatile unit used in many quilt patterns. They feature two right triangles, sewn together to form a square, allowing for endless design possibilities. There are a lot of ways to make a Half Square Triangle from Jelly Roll strips and the block above is just one option.
Assembly: Sew (6) Jelly Roll Strips together to make (1) 12.5″ square. Make 2. Assemble the HST using the Two at a Time HST method.
You can also make small HSTs using Jelly Roll strips. Check out the tutorial below from Coral & Co to learn how to do it!
4. Log Cabin Block
The Log Cabin block is a beloved classic with a central square surrounded by “logs” of fabric strips, creating a spiral effect.
Assembly: Start with a center square and sew jelly roll strips around it in a circular or spiral fashion. Alternate light and dark fabrics for contrast, creating the illusion of a glowing center.
This one is a bit better shown than explained, so check out the step by step tutorial by Missouri Star Quilt Co below!
5. Hourglass Block
The hourglass quilt block is a classic quilt block that gets a fun refresh when you use Jelly Roll strips!
Assembly: Sew (6) Jelly Roll Strips together to make (1) 12.5″ square. Make 2. Assemble the Hourglass using this tutorial.
If you want a step by step video tutorial, check out my Simple Hourglass quilt pattern below! The video uses Layer Cake squares, but you can make your own squares by sewing Jelly Rolls strips together lengthwise.
6. Four Patch Block
The Four Patch block is one of the simplest quilt blocks, consisting of four squares arranged in a 2×2 grid. It’s a perfect block for using up Jelly Roll scraps.
Assembly: Cut your Jelly Roll strips into 2.5″ squares, and then sew them together in pairs. Join the two pairs to create the classic Four Patch block.
To see how the four patch block comes together, check out my video tutorial below. I use charm packs in the tutorial, but cut them down to 2.5″ squares.
7. Nine Patch Block
The Nine Patch block features nine squares arranged in a 3×3 grid. This block is easy to make and offers endless color placement possibilities.
Assembly: Cut Jelly Roll strips into 2.5″ squares, then sew them together in rows of three. Once you have three rows, sew the rows together to complete the block.
You can also strip piece this block. To learn how to strip piece nine-patch blocks, check out my Irish Chain tutorial.
8. Sixteen Patch Block
The Sixteen Patch block is an expanded version of the Four Patch and Nine Patch blocks, consisting of sixteen squares arranged in a 4×4 grid.
Assembly: Cut Jelly Roll strips into 2.5″ squares. Arrange the squares in a 4×4 grid and sew them together, row by row.
You can also strip piece this block. To learn how to strip piece a sixteen patch block, check out my video tutorial. I use Fat Quarters in the tutorial, but you can use the same instructions to assemble the Jelly Roll version of the block.
9. Courthouse Steps Block
The Courthouse Steps block is a variation of the Log Cabin, with strips sewn around a central square, alternating between two opposite sides. You can use as many or as few colors as you’d like.
Assembly: Begin with a central square and sew jelly roll strips to opposite sides of the square. Continue adding strips in pairs on alternating sides, building outward from the center.
Check out this tutorial by Missouri Star Quilt Co to see how the Courthouse Steps block comes together.
10. String Block
The String Block is a scrappy, fun design that uses long strips (or “strings”) of fabric sewn together diagonally or vertically to create a patchwork block.
Assembly: Sew 7 Jelly Roll strips together. Turn your square ruler 45 degrees to get the on-point direction and then trim to size.
If you’d like to try Foundation Paper Piecing this block, check out this video tutorial by Missouri Quilt Co.
Jelly rolls are a fantastic way to add color, variety, and convenience to your quilting projects. With just a few 2.5″ precut strips, you can create an incredible range of quilt blocks.
Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or just getting started, these blocks offer endless possibilities to inspire your next project.
So, grab your favorite jelly roll, pick a block from this list, and start stitching away!
Other Posts You May Like:
30 Free Jelly Roll Quilt Patterns
A Beginner’s Guide to Precut Fabric
30 Free Layer Cake Quilt Patterns
40 Free Charm Pack Quilt Patterns