In our latest YouTube video, we revisit Emily Dennis’s beautiful and versatile Granny Square Quilt pattern from Quilty Love—but with a twist. This time, we’re taking it a step further by using our custom jelly roll expansion pack we made last time (read the full article HERE) to explore how this timeless pattern can be adapted using scraps, pre-cuts, and leftover strips from your stash. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a structured project or an experienced quilter searching for fresh ways to use your fabric collection, this video is packed with ideas.
👉 Watch the full tutorial here: How to Use the Granny Square Quilt Pattern with Jelly Rolls and Scraps – YouTube
A Fresh Take on a Classic Quilt Block
The Granny Square Quilt pattern is a favorite among modern quilters for its clean lines, geometric symmetry, and endless potential for personalization. Inspired by the classic crochet block of the same name, Emily Dennis’s version simplifies piecing without sacrificing visual impact.
In this post, we show you how to use the Granny Square block as a flexible framework for color play, value contrast, and fabric mixing. It’s a perfect project for diving into that stash of cherished scraps or pre-cuts that you’ve been saving for something special.
Making the Most of Jelly Rolls and Scraps
One of the most exciting parts of this project is how it encourages creative fabric use. Rather than cutting into new yardage, we’re using a combination of scrap fabrics and our custom jelly roll expansion pack introduced in our previous video and blog post.
Here’s what we cover in the Jelly Roll Expansion Pack tutorial:
- How to build a curated jelly roll from your existing fabric stash
- Organizing your strips by color, value, or print size for optimal contrast
- Tips for mixing designer prints with solids or blenders
Jelly rolls aren’t just convenient—they’re an excellent way to explore color theory and work economically. And if you don’t have a pre-packaged roll, we’ll walk you through how to make your own using leftover strips from past projects.
🧵 Check out the original Jelly Roll Expansion blog post here: DIY Jelly Roll Expansion Pack
Scrap Quilting with Purpose
Scrap quilting can sometimes feel chaotic, but when paired with a structured block like the Granny Square, it becomes something entirely cohesive. By following a consistent layout and working within a block-by-block framework, you can mix dozens of fabrics without losing control of the overall design.
We offer tips in the video for:
- Maintaining a balance between bold and subtle prints
- Using scraps of different sizes and trimming them to fit
- Creating a cohesive look even with high-contrast or novelty fabrics
- Chain piecing your blocks for efficient sewing
This approach is especially rewarding because it’s low-pressure, eco-friendly, and allows for a high level of creative play. Every block becomes its own little design playground.
Bonus: A Wearable Twist
While the main focus of this video is on quilting techniques, fabric usage, and block construction, we do share a preview of how we’re using these quilt blocks as an inspiration for an upcoming wearable quilt project. By piecing Granny Square blocks into quilted panels, we’re setting the stage for a cozy, patchwork-inspired garment.
If that piques your interest, be sure to subscribe and keep an eye out for a future video and blog post, where we’ll dive into turning these blocks into something you can actually wear.
Final Thoughts
Quilting doesn’t have to mean buying new fabric or committing to large-scale projects. With a thoughtful pattern like the Granny Square Quilt and a bit of resourceful planning, you can breathe new life into your scraps and pre-cuts. Whether you’re looking to build a cozy throw, test out color combinations, or just enjoy the meditative rhythm of piecing, this project offers the perfect mix of structure and creativity.
🎥 Don’t forget to watch the full video to see all the tips, fabric ideas, and step-by-step demos in action: Watch Now on YouTube
Let me know if you create a Granny Square project using this method.
La Rue de Fleurs/Janice Bailor (@laruedefleurs) • Instagram photos and videos
Keep quilting and keep creating! Janice
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