Rolling in Style: The Ultimate Guide to Making a King Size Quilt with Jelly Rolls

Are you tired of trying to piece together multiple fabric cuts to create a king size quilt? Look no further because the answer may be sitting in your pantry. Jelly rolls, those colorful bundles of pre-cut fabric strips, have become a popular choice among quilters for their convenience and variety. But just how many jelly rolls do you need to make a king size quilt? In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of using jelly rolls for quilt making and give you all the necessary information to create your own beautiful and cozy king size quilt. Get ready to roll into quilting bliss!

When it comes to quilting, one of the most popular methods is using pre-cut fabric strips called jelly rolls. These pre-cut strips not only save time and effort in cutting fabric but also allow for a variety of patterns and designs. However, when making a king size quilt, many quilters are left wondering how many jelly rolls they will need to complete their project. In this detailed guide, we will break down the calculations and steps needed to determine exactly how many jelly rolls you will need for your king size quilt.

Jelly Rolls Explained

Before diving into how many jelly rolls you need for a king size quilt, let’s first understand what exactly jelly rolls are. Jelly rolls are bundles of fabric strips that are cut to a specific width and length, usually 2 ½ inches by width of fabric (WOF). The term “jelly roll” was made popular by the company Moda Fabrics, but there are other brands that also offer pre-cut bundles such as layer cakes and charm packs.

Jelly rolls typically come in packs of 40 strips, though some may have more or less depending on the brand. They also come in different fabrics, colors, and patterns making them a convenient option for those who want to save time on cutting fabric or add some variety to their projects.

Calculating Jelly Rolls Needed for a King Size Quilt

The first step in determining how many jelly rolls you will need for your king size quilt is to know the dimensions of your quilt size. A standard king size bed measures at 76 by 80 inches. For the quilt size itself, you will need to add an additional length on each side for overhang. Depending on personal preference, this can range from 6-12 inches on each side.

Next, you will need to decide on the pattern you will be using for your quilt. Some patterns require more fabric while others may need less. For example, a basic patchwork pattern may only need 2 jelly rolls, while a more intricate design may require 3-4 jelly rolls.

The final step is to calculate the number of strips needed per jelly roll and determine how many jelly rolls you will need based on your desired quilt size. For a standard 2 ½ inch strip width and a king size quilt measuring at 80 inches in width, you will need approximately 32 strips per row. The number of rows needed will depend on the length of the quilt and how many strips are left after piecing together the top row.

Factors to Consider

Aside from the dimensions and pattern of your quilt, there are other factors to consider when determining how many jelly rolls you need for a king size quilt.

First is the seam allowance. When sewing together fabric strips, each seam allowance takes up approximately ¼ inch on each side. This means that you will lose about an inch of fabric for every 4 strips you sew together. So if your pattern requires 32 strips per row, you may actually need an additional 4 strips to account for seam allowances.

Another factor is fabric shrinkage. Some fabrics may shrink during the quilting process, which can lead to a slightly smaller finished quilt. To avoid any issues with not having enough fabric, it’s recommended to purchase an extra half of a jelly roll just in case.

Jelly Rolls vs Yardage

For those who prefer using pre-cut fabrics rather than traditional yardage for their quilting projects, comparing jelly rolls to yardage can also help determine how many jelly rolls are needed for a king size quilt.

A standard king size quilt made with pre-cut fabric strips would require anywhere between 3-5 jelly rolls depending on the pattern used. However, if you were to purchase traditional yardage instead, you would need approximately 9-10 yards of fabric, which is equivalent to 8-9 jelly rolls.

So in terms of convenience and cost-effectiveness, using jelly rolls is a more practical option for making a king size quilt.

In conclusion, the number of jelly rolls needed for a king size quilt will ultimately depend on the dimensions of your desired quilt size, the pattern used, as well as factors such as seam allowances and fabric shrinkage. By following the steps mentioned in this guide, you can easily calculate how many jelly rolls are needed to complete your project. Jelly rolls not only save time and effort in cutting fabric but also offer a variety of patterns and designs for quilting projects. So next time you’re working on a king size quilt, don’t forget to factor in the number of jelly rolls needed for a stress-free and enjoyable quilting experience.

Understanding the Basics of Jelly Rolls for Quilting

Jelly rolls are a popular choice for quilters of all levels, providing a convenient and time-saving way to create stunning quilts. But what exactly are jelly rolls and how many do you need to make a king size quilt? Let’s dive into the basics.

Jelly rolls are precut fabric strips usually measuring 2.5 inches by the width of the fabric, typically 42-45 inches long. These strips are then bundled together and sold as pre-coordinated color schemes, making them perfect for beginners or those looking to save time on selecting fabrics.

The Benefits of Using Jelly Rolls

There are several advantages to using jelly rolls for quilting. Firstly, they eliminate the need for cutting large quantities of fabric into strips yourself, saving you both time and effort. This makes them a great option for quilters who want to get straight to the fun part – sewing!

Jelly rolls also provide a coordinated color palette, ensuring your quilt has a cohesive and visually pleasing look without all the guesswork. Plus, with each strip being already cut to the same width, you can easily mix and match different collections and fabrics to create unique designs.

How Many Jelly Rolls Do You Need?

Now, let’s get down to business – how many jelly rolls do you need to make a king size quilt? The average number required depends on several factors such as the desired finished size of your quilt, how big your blocks will be, and if there will be any additional borders or sashing.

Typically, a king size quilt measures approximately 108 inches by 92 inches. A rough estimate would be around 100-120 strips or approximately 2-3 jelly roll bundles. However, this is just an estimate; the actual number will vary depending on your specific pattern and desired design.

Choosing Jelly Rolls for a King Size Quilt

When selecting jelly rolls for a king size quilt, you’ll want to consider how much variety you want in your quilt. Most jelly rolls come with 40 strips, meaning you may need to purchase multiple bundles of the same collection or mix and match with other jelly rolls to get the desired color palette.

Additionally, be mindful of the fabric quality and composition. Since jelly rolls often come pre-cut and bundled, it can be challenging to check for faults or inconsistencies in the fabric. It’s best to stick with reputable fabric companies known for their high-quality materials, ensuring your quilt will last for years to come.

How to Make a King Size Quilt Using Jelly Rolls

So, you’ve selected your jelly rolls and are ready to start quilting. Where do you begin? The first step is deciding on a quilt pattern that works well with jelly roll strips. Patterns such as strip quilts, log cabin quilts, and rail fence quilts are great options that utilize the full width of each strip without any additional cutting.

Once you have your pattern selected, it’s time to sew! Jelly roll strips are typically sewn together on the long sides using a 1/4 inch seam allowance. After all the strips are joined together, you can then cut them into smaller blocks or follow your pattern’s instructions for assembling your quilt top.

The Importance of Accuracy in Measurements

When using jelly rolls for quilting, accuracy is key. Each strip is precisely cut at 2.5 inches wide; therefore, any variation in seam allowances can throw off the overall measurements of your quilt top. Always be sure to measure and cut accurately and check that your seams are consistent throughout the entire project.

Although it may seem tedious, taking the time to accurately measure and cut will ultimately result in a better-finished quilt. For larger projects such as a king size quilt, using quilt rulers and rotary cutters can help speed up the process while maintaining accuracy.

In conclusion, jelly rolls are an excellent option for creating a king size quilt. They offer convenience, coordination, and endless possibilities for unique designs. How many jelly rolls you will need will depend on your specific project, and it’s always best to have a few extra on hand to ensure you have enough fabric.

Remember to choose high-quality fabrics and measure accurately to ensure your quilt is durable and visually appealing. Now, armed with this knowledge, you’re ready to create your own beautiful king size quilt using jelly rolls!

Q: How many jelly rolls do I need to make a king size quilt?
A: It depends on the size of the jelly rolls and the desired size of the quilt. A safe estimate is around 2-3 jelly rolls, but it’s best to have a few extra to ensure you have enough fabric to work with.

Q: Can I use less than 2 jelly rolls for a king size quilt?
A: It’s possible, but it may not be enough to have sufficient fabric for the quilt top. If you’re using smaller jelly rolls or if you want to create a patterned design, it may require more than 2-3 jelly rolls.

Q: How many yards of fabric are in one jelly roll?
A: Generally, a jelly roll contains about 40 strips of fabric, each measuring 2.5 inches by the width of fabric (usually around 44 inches). This equates to about 2.75 yards of fabric.

Q: Is it better to use pre-cuts or yardage for a king size quilt?
A: Using pre-cuts like jelly rolls can save time and effort in cutting fabric, but if you prefer more flexibility and control over your design, using yardage may be better suited for your needs.

Q: Can I mix different types of jelly rolls to make a king size quilt?
A: Yes, you can mix and match different colors, patterns and collections of jelly rolls as long as they are all the same width (usually 2.5 inches). This allows for more variety and creativity in your quilt design.

Q: Will I have leftover fabric from the jelly rolls when making a king size quilt?
A: It’s likely that there will be leftover strips from your jelly rolls when making a king size quilt. These extra strips can be used for other small projects or can be saved for future quilting projects.

In conclusion, creating a king size quilt using jelly rolls can be a fun and rewarding project for any quilting enthusiast. However, it is important to keep in mind that the number of jelly rolls needed will depend on various factors such as the size and design of the quilt, as well as the desired thickness and width of the strips. Additionally, paying attention to fabric quality and color coordination is crucial in order to achieve a cohesive and visually appealing final product.

Moreover, proper planning and organization are key to successfully completing this project. This includes accurately measuring the dimensions of the quilt and determining the number of strips needed, as well as ensuring enough fabric is purchased to avoid any interruptions in the quilting process.

Another important aspect to consider is technique. While there are various methods for assembling a jelly roll quilt, it is important to choose one that works best for individual preferences and skill level.

Furthermore, incorporating personal touches such as embroidery or applique can add unique elements to the quilt and make it truly one-of-a-kind. And finally, patience and perseverance are essential qualities when creating any quilt, especially a king size one using jelly rolls.

Overall, making a king size quilt using jelly rolls requires careful planning, attention to detail, an understanding of different techniques, and most importantly passion for

Author Profile

Jill Nammar

My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.