Unrolling the Roll: Selecting a Quilt Pattern
Just a warning; don’t ever Google “jelly roll”.
In my ongoing search for new and interesting quilting patterns using jelly rolls, I’ve discovered that it’s best to be specific in what, exactly, I mean by “jelly roll” in the search bar. Let’s just say: I’m blushing. Now where was I …
I have made several quilts from jelly rolls in the past. My very first projects were “Jelly Roll Race” quilts that I made for my babies before they headed off to university. Jelly Roll Race quilt tops are very quick and simple because they are sewn together as you pull the strips from the roll. No planning, no cutting, no nothing. But then I got a little more ambitious…
Choosing a quilt pattern can depend upon so many different factors, for example:
How much time do you have to make this project?
How confident are you in your sewing skills?
Are you making it just for fun or do you have a specific purpose for the project (e.g., gift)?
Does your project have a colour theme that would be complemented by a distinct pattern?
Where do I find inspiration?
I’m a huge fan of Pinterest when it comes to any project. I have pin boards for gardening ideas, tattoos, renovations (this one terrifies my husband), hair styles. You name it, I likely have a pin board for it. I also have a pin board for quilts I like.
Another source of inspiration - and this will sound horribly old-fashioned - is actual quilting books. You know: glossy photos and instructions printed on paper and bound together. Just as a beautiful cookbook is, in my opinion, far superior to a quick online search when it comes to meal planning, so is a quilting book. I have a few of these, but my favourite ones are by Pam and Nicky Lintott of The Quilt Room in Surrey, England. The pictures are sumptuous, the patterns are suited for all levels of sewists and the instructions are clear. Highly recommended!
Based on the fabric I’ve chosen (and my desire to just get on with it), I’ve decided to go with a very traditional pattern called Rail Fence. There are multiple variations to this pattern, including different layouts. Take a look:
See how the fabric choices and layout each have an impact on the look of final product? But it’s all the exact same block construction! Except for that last one… which is, in fact, a Pinterest-inspired canvas involving spray paint and duct tape. Gotcha!
The bottom line is: if you can sew a straight seam, there is a jelly roll quilt pattern for you. I’m going to get started on the Rail Fence project this week and will fill you in on my progress. I hope it will inspire you to pick up a jelly roll and give it a try!
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Now, let me guess… you Googled it, didn’t you ;-)