If you've been around the quilting world for a while, you've probably heard the term “precuts” floating around. And if you haven’t heard of them before, let us give you everything you need to know about using precuts in your quilts.
What is a Precut?
Precuts are bundles of fabric that have been pre-cut (hence the name) into specific predetermined sizes. It’s an easy way to save you time and effort when you’re working on your quilting projects. Here at Bits 'n Pieces Quilt Shop, we love precuts because they simplify fabric selection and help you jump into your projects faster. But there’s more than one type of precut. Keep reading to see our guide on the different types of precuts, sizes, and why they’re your best friend in the sewing room.
Common Precut Sizes and Names
Charm Packs
Charm packs are collections of 5" x 5" squares. They typically contain 40-42 pieces, featuring an assortment of fabrics from a single collection. Also can be called Nickel Packs, Charm Squares, or Charms.
Layer Cakes
A layer cake is a pack of 10" x 10" squares, usually with 40-42 pieces. Think of it as a jumbo charm pack. These squares give you more fabric to work with, making them ideal for larger quilts or cutting into smaller pieces if needed.
Jelly Rolls
Jelly rolls are rolls of 2.5" x width of fabric strips. They typically include 40 strips from a fabric collection. Jelly rolls are super versatile and perfect for making strip quilts, log cabin blocks, and binding. Also can be called Roll ups, Rolie Polies, Design Roll, Fabric Roll, Pops, Bali Pops (for batiks), and Strip Sets.
Fat Quarters
Fat quarters can be cut off the bolt as well as coming pre-cut from the manufacturer. Fat quarters measure 18” by half the width of fabric, so about 18” x 21”. Fat quarters are great for a variety of projects and allow for more cutting flexibility than other precuts.
Honey Buns
Honey buns are another type of precut strips but smaller than a jelly roll; a honey bun is a set of strips that are 1.5" x width of fabric.
Why Work with Precuts?
There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with precuts! Precuts save you time, by bringing home an already-coordinated stack of fabric you know that everything works well together. It also means that there’s less fabric waste, particularly if you’re using a pattern that is designed to make the most of your precuts. And we love that precuts are beginner-friendly. So many times we have a new quilter walk into Bits ‘n Pieces and get overwhelmed by the selection. How do you pick from 17,000 bolts? With precuts you know that you can make a beautiful quilt every time.
Ready to make your first quilt with precuts? Stop by Bits 'n Pieces Quilt Shop, we’re the largest quilt shop in New England, and find your new favorites. We’re always ready to help you decide which project is the perfect fit for you.
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