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Recently, I discovered a Hidden Wells quilt block tutorial on TikTok and was inspired to create a vibrant, scrappy quilt. Here’s how it came together.
Materials Used
I chose the Ruby Star Society Flowerland Jelly Roll for its stunning array of colors and patterns, perfect for the scrappy aesthetic I envisioned. Here’s a quick rundown of the materials:
Backing Fabric: Ruby Star Society Juicy Sorbet Yardage (2 yards, which was perfect for the quilt top size)
Batting: Purchased from Joann’s
Binding: Made from leftover jelly roll remnants
Supplies I Used
To achieve precise results, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what I used:
Sewing Machine: For piecing and quilting. I own a vintage Pfaff 230 that I use for both!
Rotary Cutter: I love the Martelli EC004 Ergo 2000 45mm Rotary Cutter
Quilting Rulers: To keep cuts straight and measurements accurate
Cutting Mat: To protect your workspace and facilitate cutting
Magnetic Seam Guide: Helps maintain consistent 1/4-inch seam allowances
Iron and Pressing Surface: For pressing seams
Quilt Construction
Constructing a Hidden Wells Quilt Block
To create the Hidden Wells quilt blocks, I used four jelly roll strips to create 2 blocks. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Select Four Strips: Choose four jelly roll strips with contrasting colors and patterns for a visually striking block.
Sew Together: Sew the strips together lengthwise to create a strip set. Use a 1/4-inch seam allowance, and press the seams open or to one side, as preferred. I used a magnetic seam guide to help maintain consistent seam allowances.
Cut Squares: Subcut the strip set into equal squares. The square size depends on your desired final block size; I cut mine into 8.5” squares.
Layer and Slice:
Place one square right side up with the strips running vertically.
Stack a second square right side down with the strips running horizontally.
Sew the squares together along all four edges using a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
Slice diagonally from corner to corner in both directions, creating four triangles.
Rearrange and Sew: Rearrange the triangles to form the Hidden Wells pattern, ensuring the seams create a dynamic, radiating design. Sew the triangles together to complete the block using a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
I repeated this process to construct 20 quilt blocks, using a single jelly roll. The Hidden Wells technique is a fantastic way to achieve intricate designs with minimal cutting and piecing. The tutorial I followed made the process straightforward and enjoyable.
Assembling the Quilt Top
Once all the blocks were completed, I arranged them into a cohesive pattern and sewed them together. My layout was four blocks wide by five blocks high, creating a final quilt dimension of 41” x 50”—an ideal size for a baby quilt. You could easily scale up the project by using additional jelly rolls.
Binding & Backing
The backing fabric, Ruby Star Society Juicy Sorbet (2 yards), perfectly complemented the quilt top. Its whimsical design tied the entire piece together beautifully. After layering the quilt sandwich, I stitched 1/4 inch along each diagonal seam on both sides. I loved how the simple diagonal quilting made parts of the quilt blocks pop with a simple diamond pattern.
For the binding, I wanted to continue the scrappy theme. Using remnants from my jelly roll, I sewed them into one long strip. This reduced waste while adding a charming, coordinated finish to the quilt.
Final Thoughts
Traditional Hidden Wells quilts often use the same fabrics throughout each block for a bold, consistent design. By using a jelly roll, I achieved a mix-and-match look that retained the striking visual appeal while embracing the scrappy charm I love.
I sourced my fabrics from the Fat Quarter Shop, my favorite stop for online shopping. The batting from Joann’s provided just the right amount of loft and warmth.
This project was an absolute joy to make. The Hidden Wells blocks added a unique and eye-catching element to the quilt. If you’re looking for a fun, beginner-friendly project, I highly recommend trying this technique. Whether you’re making a baby quilt or a larger throw, the possibilities are endless with a jelly roll and a bit of creativity!
Tiktok Video Series
Video Overview Part 1
Video Overview Part 2
Video Overview Part 3
Video Overview Part 4
If you, too, were inspired by a viral video to tackle the hidden wells quilt block, I’d love to hear how it turns out—feel free to share your experience in the comments or tag me on social media.
With love and creativity,
Jacquie
Atom Heart Cross Stitch
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