Everything You Need to Know About Roller Quilts
Roller quilts are a fun and versatile type of quilt that allows you to curl up cozily without even getting under the covers. If you’ve searched for “roller quilt” online, you likely have some questions about these unique quilts. In this article, I’ll cover the basics of roller quilts as well as some tips from my experience working with them.
What is a roller quilt?
A roller quilt is a long, narrow quilt that can be wrapped around the body like a blanket. It gets its name from the way it “rolls” around the user for warmth and comfort. Roller quilts are typically made from the same quilting techniques and materials as larger bed quilts, but their elongated shape makes them perfectly portable for snuggling on the couch or curling up in an oversized chair.
How do you use a roller quilt?
Using a roller quilt is basically like wrapping yourself in a cozy burrito. Start by holding one end of the quilt against your body. Then slowly roll the rest of the quilt length around yourself, tugging it snugly as you go. The goal is to get your whole body wrapped up with just your head sticking out. From my experience, it’s easiest to start the rolling from a seated position on the couch or in a chair. Once you get the hang of it, you can even use a roller quilt while standing!
What sizes do roller quilts come in?
Roller quilts vary in length depending on the intended user, but a standard size is between 5-8 feet long. Narrow widths of 30-40 inches work best so the quilt can fully wrap around without dragging on the floor. For kids, look for roller quilts around 3-5 feet. Extra long adult sizes up to 10 feet are great for exceptionally tall folks. The most important thing is choosing a length that will allow the ends to comfortably overlap when rolled.
What materials are best for roller quilts?
Cotton quilting fabrics make excellent roller quilts thanks to their softness and breathability. Fleece backed cotton sherpa is another top choice – the fleece backing adds warmth without bulk. Microfiber is a great synthetic option that’s lightweight, quick drying, and cozy. Faux fur also works well for ultra plush roller quilts perfect for lounging. Whatever material you use, aim for a medium thickness that’s warm but not too heavy to roll up.
How do you assemble a roller quilt?
- Cut two pieces of fabric in the desired roller quilt length by about 40 inches wide.
- Layer the two pieces with batting in between and baste or pin the layers together.
- Quilt as desired using your favorite free motion, tied, or machine quilting method.
- Bind the raw edges of the quilt with complementary fabric.
- Add an optional hem or casing at one end for a loop to hold onto.
As with any quilt project, taking your time with quality materials and careful stitching is key. Of course, you can always purchase a pre-made roller quilt on Etsy or from independent quilt shops too if you’d rather not DIY.
How do you care for a roller quilt?
Caring for your new roller quilt is pretty low maintenance. Machine wash in cold water on a gentle cycle. For cotton quilts, tumble dry low is fine. For microfiber, air dry is best to maintain softness. Occasional vacuuming with the upholstery attachment helps freshen up fuzzier fabrics like sherpa or faux fur. Store rolled or folded to prevent creasing. With basic cleaning, a high quality roller quilt can last for years of cozy use.
I hope this gives you a better idea of how versatile roller quilts can be! From keeping little ones warm during story time to curling up with a movie on weekends, these quilts are perfect for any casual lounging situation. Let me know if you have any other questions – I’d be happy to share more of my experiences working with these fun comfort items.
Some inspiration for unique roller quilt designs:
- Mix prints and solids in a scrappy yet cohesive palette.
- Incorporate rugs, flannels or soft sherpas for ultra plush texture.
- Embellish with tassels, pom poms or quilted motifs for visual interest.
- Consider seasonal or character prints like stripes, polka dots or animals.
- Quilt detailed patterning or landscape scenes for viewers to discover as it rolls open.
That about covers the basics on roller quilts. Let me know if you have any other questions! I’d be stoked to help more folks discover the cozy joy of these versatile quilted creatures. Whether you DIY or purchase one, I hope a roller quilt brings you many snuggly moments of relaxation in the future. Tuck in and roll out – happy quilting!
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Roller Quilt
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Quilt Material | Consider fabric type (cotton, microfiber, fleece) and gauge/thread count for level of softness and durability needed. |
| Size | Measure your bed and choose appropriate width and length to prevent gaps or bunches when rolled. |
| Weighted Corners | Weighted corners help spread quilt evenly and keep it from shifting, rolling up or off the bed. |
| Ease of Use | Look for wide straps, handles or ties to roll up quilt smoothly and secure it easily. |
| Washing Instructions | Check if machine washable for easy care or needs hand washing to maintain shape and function over time. |
| Price | Affordable options available, but consider spending more for quality fabric and construction that lasts. |
FAQ
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What is a roller quilt?
A roller quilt is a type of blanket made up of cotton or flannel fabric that is wrapped around rollers at the top and bottom so it can easily be rolled up for storage. it is kind of like a sleeping bag without the zipper.
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How do you make a roller quilt?
To make a roller quilt you will need fabric, batting, and wooden roller dowels. First you cut the fabric and batting into rectangles a few inches bigger than the dowel size. Then you layer the batting between two pieces of fabric and baste or pin them together. Afterwards, you add elastic straps to hold it all together when rolled. Finally, you slide the wooden dowels into the sleeves you created. Presto – a handy roller quilt!
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What are roller quilts used for?
Roller quilts have several uses. Despite their name, they are not just for quilting – many people use them as all-purpose blankets both indoors and outdoors. On camping trips they can be wrapped around logs for extra seating. Teachers occasionally bring them to class for movie days. Some nursing homes even have them for residents to stay cozy in common areas. I guess you could say roller quilts are like the duct tape of blankets – SUPER useful!
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Are roller quilts easy to store?
You bet! One of the best things about roller quilts is how simple they are to store compared to regular quilts. Basically, you just roll them up tightly and slide the dowels back in to secure it all in place. Then you can stash it anywhere – under the bed, in the closet, in the car trunk, etc. It takes up way less space than a bulky bedspread. Plus no more wrestling with loose blankets! Overall, roller quilts seem to offer an amazing storage solution.
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What fabrics work well for roller quilts?
Cotton and flannel fabrics are commonly used for roller quilts because they are cozy, durable, and wash well. Corduroy could work too. But you might want to avoid delicate fabrics like silks or thin cottons, as they could rip easier when rolling and unrolling. Water resistant fabrics might be a good choice for outdoor use. Strong prints and textures are fun, though solids and tone-on-tones hide stains better over time. All in all, quilters recommend choosing rugger fabrics suitable for regular use and washings with a roller quilt.
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Are roller quilts more expensive than regular quilts?
Surprisingly, roller quilts may actually cost less to make than a full quilt! Since there is no quilting involved, the labor and materials required are somewhat simpler. You’ll save money by not needing binding, batting for the entire area, or a backing fabric. However, the wooden dowels increase the price a bit. But if you make your own dowels from craft wood, the cost difference should be minor. Overall, roller quilts seem like a fairly affordable quilting project – both financially and time-wise. It’s a great skill for beginners to practice.
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“Is there a best size for roller quilts?”
There’s no single “right” size that works for everyone. However, most roller quilts fall somewhere between 40×60 inches up to 60×90 inches. Smaller sizes are handy for carrying along places yet still big enough to bundle under. Larger quilts allow you to wrap up cozily but can be bulkier to haul around. Perhaps the ideal middle ground is a 50×70 inch roller quilt – not too massive yet large enough for multiple uses. But in the end, the perfect roller quilt measurement depends more on personal preference and intended function than strict rules.