Free Jelly Roll Table Runner Rug Pattern

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Jelly Roll Table Runner Rug Pattern

This jelly roll table runner made using the rug pattern method is so much fun, and will make a fabulous centerpiece on your table. This style of table runners is a great sewing project because it is an easy sewing project, and a fun way to make a centerpiece for your table using your fabric arts. 

These jelly roll table runner rugs are one of my personal favorite things, and I hope you will enjoy making them too! There are just a few things you need in order to make these beautiful table runners. They are also easy because you don’t have to worry about what fabric to use. All you have to do is pick out a jelly roll you love, and get started. 

table runner pattern with jelly rolls

What is a Jelly Roll? 

A jelly roll is a type of pre-cut theme fabric. These are strips of fabric cut at 2 ½ inches wide, and come in a package of matching fabric. Part of the joy of jelly-roll rug making is because it is easy to do. You don’t have to cut out your pieces. Simply choose a jelly roll with fabric combinations that you love. 

Jelly rolls are often used to make many different types of quilt patterns. You can make some amazing quilts with your favorite jelly roll fabric. Even though these table runners are not the only thing you can make using a jelly roll, they are one of my personal favorite things to make. 

Why a Jelly Roll Rug Table Runner?

I personally love these jelly roll table runners made using the rug method. While you can use the same method to make a rug, it is my personal opinion that it’s a shame to walk on such beautiful fabric. I much prefer to make a smaller version and use it as a beautiful table runner, and the centerpiece of your kitchen or dining room. 

Jelly Roll Rug Table Runner

In this free table runner pattern, I am so very excited to walk you through the step by step process in making a gorgeous table runner for your dining table. You can enjoy making seasonal table runners for yourself, or to give away as a very thoughtful gift. 

Are you ready to get started? Grab your favorite jelly roll charm pack, and let’s jump into the pattern instructions! 

how to make a strip jelly roll table runner

Jelly Roll Table Runner Pattern

Recommended Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner / Intermediate 

Materials 

20 pack of jelly rolls strips (a small jelly roll)

A sewing machine – straight stitch and zigzag stitch needed

Rotary cutters

Cutting mat

Scissors

How to make a Jelly Roll Table Runner Rug

Step 1: Cutting Instructions

The great thing about using a small jelly roll is that you can simply use the jelly roll strips, without doing any of your own cutting. If you are using a precut jelly roll, simply open the packaging and unroll your strips. Then decide what color order you want to use your strips in and arrange them accordingly. 

Can I cut my own strips?

Yes, if you do not have a jelly roll, and would like to cut your own strips, you absolutely can. You will want to cut long strips the width of fabric and 2 ½ inches wide. Usually the length of fabric for cotton fabric will be around 44 inches. Cut 20 strips using these dimensions, which is great because it means you only need a little bit of fabric to make this project. A total of 50 inches, or a total of 1.39 yards of fabric devided as you prefer. 

jelly roll before you begin
jelly roll ironing the shape

Step 2: Preparing the pieces

Now that your table runner pieces are prepared and organized into your desired pattern, it’s time to prepare the jelly roll pieces. 

To do this, you will want to choose an order for your fabric pieces to go in.

Step 3: Ironing Instructions

Next, it’s time to iron. Start by pressing the seam you created when joining the fabric strips, so that the seam is open. 

Next it’s time to iron the fabric in place, as you want it folded. To do this, you are going to fold each side into the center of the piece of fabric. The wrong side will be on the inside, with the right sides facing outward. 

When you make this first fold, imagine dividing your strips of fabric into ½ and then ½ again as you fold. First fold each side into the center, iron that in place. 

Then fold the fabric in half once more, and iron that in place. You will sew along the outer edge of this folded fabric. 

jelly roll table runner rug pattern step 1
jelly roll table runner rug pattern step 2
jelly roll table runner rug pattern step 3

Step 4: Making the Table Runner

First you will want to sew along the edge of the fabric opening, to create one long cord of fabric. 

Once you are done sewing the fabric pieces in place, it’s time to start assembling the table runner.

Line up the first two strips by placing them so that the edges with the seams are both facing out. Start sewing by using the zig zag stitch to attach the first two pices together. When sewing, make sure that your stitches are catching both pieces of fabric. Then when they are sewn together, set them aside.

Next, take your next two strips of fabric, with the seams both on the outer edges, and use the zig zag stitch to sew those together as well.

When you have the first two sets of fabric sewn together, use the zig zag stitch down the center to sew the two different pieces together.

Continue building onto the table runner by repeating these steps above, until your fabric strips are all used up.

jelly roll table runner rug pattern step 4
jelly roll table runner rug pattern step 5

Step 5: Trimming the Edge

When your fabric strips are completely assembled, take your table runner to your ironing board, and iron the fabric flat.

Then place your table runner on the cutting board, and trim the ends to make sure they are even.

jelly roll table runner rug pattern step 6
jelly roll table runner rug pattern step 7
jelly roll table runner rug pattern step 8

Step 6: Finishing

Use some extra fabric, folded the same as all of your other strips. Wrap the fabric around the edges of your table runner, and then sew along the inner edge.

Tips and Tricks for the Jelly Roll Rug Table Runner

Work so that your table runner grows out as you sew.

When you start your table runner, you will want to be careful that you are feeding it into your sewing machine so that it grows out, rather than bunching up between your needle and sewing machine. 

Iron well.

When you are finished assembling the table runner rug, you will want to make sure to iron it thoroughly so that it has a nice finished look to it. Make sure to iron along the outside edge as well, and use fabric stiffener if desired. 

The color scheme.

The great thing about using jelly rolls is that they come pre-packaged with a beautiful color scheme. All you have to do is select a jelly roll with fabric prints and colors that you like. Keep in mind that the color scheme can represent your desired home decor style, holidays, seasons, or even just because you like it. 

sewn jelly roll table runner

FAQs

Should I use batting rolls in addition to the fabric?

Batting rolls tucked inside of your fabric rope is not required, but it may be used if you prefer a puffier finished table runner. Often batting rolls are used in the making of rugs using jelly rolls, but because we are not walking on these table runners, there is no need for them to have the extra batting unless you prefer it. 

Can I use various colors?

Absolutely! If you want, you can use a jelly roll with lots of color options, or you can even select and cut your own fabric for this project. That way you get to choose the exact colors and fabric styles you prefer. Feel free to rearrange the color combinations even if you are using a jelly roll. There is not a hard rule that says you have to assemble your table runner in the order the fabric comes in. 

What is the finished size?

The finished size when using a small jelly roll, or one continuing 20 strips is approximately 14 by 34 inches. Keep in mind, the finished size will change, if you start wrapping the fabric rope at a different point than suggested in the pattern above. 

jelly roll table runner strip pattern

Jelly Roll Rug Pattern

This jelly roll table runner rug pattern is an easy project to make, and doesn’t require much work to create a beautiful table runner for your kitchen or dining room centerpiece. Making this project is a fabulous way to enjoy your love of fabric! 

Thank you so much for stopping by to check out our free jelly roll table runner rug pattern. I hope that you will give it a try, and I hope you love this version of making a table runner using a jelly roll charm pack. 

Happy Sewing!  

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sewn table runner with jelly roll

Jelly Roll Table Runner Rug Pattern

Materials

  • 20 pack of jelly rolls strips (a small jelly roll)
  • A sewing machine – straight stitch and zigzag stitch needed
  • Rotary cutters
  • Cutting mat
  • Scissors
  • Iron and Ironing Board

Instructions

    1. Step 1: Cutting Instructions
      The great thing about using a small jelly roll is that you can simply use the jelly roll strips, without doing any of your own cutting. If you are using a precut jelly roll, simply open the packaging and unroll your strips. Then decide what color order you want to use your strips in and arrange them accordingly.

      Can I cut my own strips?

      Yes, if you do not have a jelly roll, and would like to cut your own strips, you absolutely can. You will want to cut long strips the width of fabric and 2 ½ inches wide. Usually the length of fabric for cotton fabric will be around 44 inches. Cut 20 strips using these dimensions, which is great because it means you only need a little bit of fabric to make this project. A total of 50 inches, or a total of 1.39 yards of fabric devided as you prefer.
    2. Step 2: Preparing the pieces

      Now that your table runner pieces are prepared and organized into your desired pattern, it’s time to prepare the jelly roll pieces.

      To do this, you will want to choose an order for your fabric pieces to go in.
    3. Step 3: Ironing Instructions

      Next, it’s time to iron. Start by pressing the seam you created when joining the fabric strips, so that the seam is open.

      Next it’s time to iron the fabric in place, as you want it folded. To do this, you are going to fold each side into the center of the piece of fabric. The wrong side will be on the inside, with the right sides facing outward.

      When you make this first fold, imagine dividing your strips of fabric into ½ and then ½ again as you fold. First fold each side into the center, iron that in place.

      Then fold the fabric in half once more, and iron that in place. You will sew along the outer edge of this folded fabric.
    4. Step 4: Making the Table Runner

      First you will want to sew along the edge of the fabric opening, to create one long cord of fabric.

      Once you are done sewing the fabric pieces in place, it’s time to start assembling the table runner.

      Line up the first two strips by placing them so that the edges with the seams are both facing out. Start sewing by using the zig zag stitch to attach the first two pices together. When sewing, make sure that your stitches are catching both pieces of fabric. Then when they are sewn together, set them aside.

      Next, take your next two strips of fabric, with the seams both on the outer edges, and use the zig zag stitch to sew those together as well.

      When you have the first two sets of fabric sewn together, use the zig zag stitch down the center to sew the two different pieces together.

      Continue building onto the table runner by repeating these steps above, until your fabric strips are all used up.
    5. Step 5: Trimming the Edge

      When your fabric strips are completely assembled, take your table runner to your ironing board, and iron the fabric flat.

      Then place your table runner on the cutting board, and trim the ends to make sure they are even.
    6. Step 6: Finishing

      Use some extra fabric, folded the same as all of your other strips. Wrap the fabric around the edges of your table runner, and then sew along the inner edge.

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free jelly roll table runner rug pattern

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About the author

My name is Faith, and I am so glad you are here! I love all things crafts, and have created this site as a way to share my passion with YOU!

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