I used a two jelly rolls from Walmart also. Each had 24 strips. I think that's the problem. Use no more than 40 or 42 and it runs sideways, otherwise the longer initial strip causes the strips to run up and down. I used mine just the way it worked best and added a couple of borders and some pinwheel blocks I had laying around and it looks fine. Just use it like it is. We won't tell the quilt police!