National Sew a Jelly Roll Day

National Sew a Jelly Roll Day, observed annually on September 19th, is a special occasion dedicated to celebrating the art of quilting, particularly through the use of jelly roll fabric bundles. This day honours the craft of quilting and encourages both seasoned quilters and beginners to explore their creativity using these versatile fabric collections.

What is a Jelly Roll?

In the world of quilting, a “jelly roll” refers to a pre-cut bundle of fabric strips, typically measuring 2.5 inches wide by 42 inches long. These strips are cut from a collection of coordinated fabrics, often from a single fabric line or designer, and are rolled together to form a convenient package. Jelly rolls are popular among quilters for their convenience and the ease they bring to quilt-making projects.

Jelly rolls offer several advantages:

• Coordinated Fabrics: The fabrics in a jelly roll are chosen to complement each other, eliminating the need for quilters to select and match individual fabrics.
• Pre-Cut Convenience: The strips are pre-cut, saving quilters time and effort in preparing fabric for their projects.
• Versatility: The strips can be used in a variety of quilt patterns and techniques, making them a versatile choice for many quilting designs.

The Art of Quilting with Jelly Rolls

Quilting with jelly rolls is both an accessible and creative way to engage in the art of quilting. Here’s a brief overview of how to get started and make the most of your jelly roll:

1. Choosing a Pattern: There are countless quilt patterns specifically designed for jelly rolls. These patterns often use the pre-cut strips in various ways, such as in strip piecing, log cabin blocks, or as the basis for more intricate designs. Selecting a pattern that suits your skill level and design preferences is the first step.
2. Preparing the Fabric: While jelly rolls come pre-cut, you may need to trim or adjust the strips depending on your chosen pattern. It’s essential to handle the fabric carefully and follow the pattern instructions closely for the best results.
3. Sewing Techniques: Jelly rolls are ideal for techniques like strip piecing, where fabric strips are sewn together to create larger sections that are then cut and assembled into quilt blocks. This method is not only efficient but also allows for a wide range of creative possibilities.
4. Assembling the Quilt: Once you have pieced together your quilt top, the next steps involve layering the quilt top with batting and backing fabric, then quilting the layers together. Finally, you’ll add binding to the edges to complete your quilt.
5. Finishing Touches: Adding personal touches, such as custom quilting patterns or decorative stitching, can enhance the final appearance of your quilt. This is also a great opportunity to showcase your individual style and creativity.

Celebrating National Sew a Jelly Roll Day

National Sew a Jelly Roll Day is not only about making quilts but also about celebrating the quilting community and the joy that comes from creating something beautiful. On this day, quilters and sewing enthusiasts often participate in various activities:

• Workshops and Classes: Many quilt shops and community centres offer special workshops or classes focused on using jelly rolls. These events provide an opportunity to learn new techniques, gain inspiration, and connect with other quilters.
• Social Media Sharing: Quilters often use social media platforms to share their jelly roll projects, exchange ideas, and showcase their finished quilts. This is a great way to gain inspiration and participate in a global quilting community.
• Charity Quilts: Some quilters use National Sew a Jelly Roll Day as an occasion to contribute to charitable causes by making quilts for hospitals, shelters, or other organisations. This is a meaningful way to give back and share the joy of quilting with others.

The Joy of Quilting

Quilting is more than just a craft; it’s a form of artistic expression and a way to create something lasting and meaningful. National Sew a Jelly Roll Day highlights the creativity, skill, and dedication of quilters around the world. By participating in this day, quilters celebrate their love for the craft and their ability to turn simple fabric strips into stunning works of art.

Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or new to the craft, National Sew a Jelly Roll Day offers a chance to explore new techniques, connect with others, and enjoy the process of making something beautiful. So gather your jelly rolls, choose a pattern, and celebrate this day by immersing yourself in the joy of quilting.