Using Jelly Rolls to Quilt : How Many Do You Need?

Feb 3, 2026 by Debbie NC Stitches

If you want to make an easy quilt, you’ve probably heard the advice: “Start with precuts!” And it’s true—using jelly rolls is one of the easiest ways to make a quilt. With coordinated fabric strips, you can focus on learning techniques, enjoying the process, and creating a quilt you’ll be proud of.

Just decide what size quilt you want to make. The quilt size you choose will determine how many jelly rolls you’ll need.

Quilt Size = Number of Jelly Rolls. The guide below will help you determine how many jelly rolls you need for your quilt.

Jelly Rolls – sold as rolls or as strips

What is a Jelly Roll?

A jelly roll is a bundle of precut fabric strips (each strip is 2½” x 42″). Jelly rolls come from a single fabric collection, which means:

1. The colors and prints already coordinate
2. You don’t have to stress about choosing fabrics
3. Every strip works beautifully with the others

A standard jelly roll includes 42 fabric strips (usually made from 24 different fabrics). Using jelly roll strips lets you jump right into your project, saving time and effort in cutting fabric. Jelly rolls are sold flat or in a roll – the packaging is the only difference. They are ideal for both beginners and experienced quilters.

Tip: A single jelly roll is perfect for a lap-size quilt.

Jelly Roll Quilt Size Guide