Jolly Bar 5 Quilt Along – Block 8: Variations

We’re back with another block in the Jolly Bar 5 Quilt Along with Fat Quarter Shop, and this week’s block proves just how much fun layout changes can be! Block 8 is the Variations block, and while it shares construction techniques with last week’s block, the final result is completely different.

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Alt Text: Finished Variations block unit for the Jolly Bar 5 Quilt Along made from four 8.5-inch blocks using Berry & Pine fabrics.

About the Variations Block

You’ll find the Variations block on page 70 of the Jolly Bar Book Vol. 5. Each individual block finishes at 8.5 inches square, and for this quilt, I made four Variations blocks and sewed them together into one 16.5 inch square unit.

These blocks use four-patch units and half square triangles—just like last week’s Timberland Roses block—but the layout is completely rearranged for a bold, graphic effect. It’s a great example of how you can get a totally different look using the same basic components.

Flat lay of the Jolly Bar Book Vol. 5 with Berry & Pine Jolly Bars used for the Variations block in the Jolly Bar 5 Quilt Along.

My Fabric Choices

For the four Variations blocks, I pulled four different prints for each one from the Berry & Pine collection by Lella Boutique. I continued my approach of mixing reds, darker greens, lighter greens, and low volume prints for a balanced and coordinated feel across all four.

The background is, of course, my go-to Christmas Magic Dot by Lella Boutique. It keeps everything festive and consistent across the quilt.

Fabric selection for the Variations block unit using multiple Jolly Bar rectangles from the Berry & Pine collection.

Each small block came together quickly with basic piecing, and the fun really came in seeing how they looked once all four were sewn together. I paid attention to color placement and block rotation to make sure the overall layout felt cohesive and interesting.

Angled overhead close-up of the finished Variations block showing fabric details and piecing in the Jolly Bar 5 Quilt Along.

A New Twist on Tradition

That’s a wrap on Block 8 of the Jolly Bar 5 Quilt Along! I love how this Variations block came together and how it transforms basic elements into something bold and unique. Just a few layout shifts can completely change the look—and that’s what makes sampler quilts so fun!

I’ll be back in two weeks with Block 9. We’re getting close!