NC Stitches Blog

How To Topstitch a Landscape Quilt

By NC Stitches Monday, December 2, 2024

Olfa Cutting Products

By NC Stitches Friday, November 15, 2024

I recently watched a video produced by Olfa about their rotary cutter and cutting mats. Over the years, when my rotary cutters started skipping threads, I assumed it was due to a dull cutting blade. I would buy a new blade but still had the same problem...some of the ...

Stained-Glass Window Quilt Pattern

By NC Stitches Monday, October 21, 2024

When teaching a quilting class, an example of the quilt is displayed so prospective students can see the finished product. My Stained-Glass Window quilt has been exhibited over the past several months, and many shoppers have requested a pattern. Since this quilt was a...

Creating Borders That Don't Wave

By NC Stitches Thursday, September 12, 2024

It's not unusual for the four edges of an unfinished quilt top to all be slightly different lengths because the edges of quilts are often stretched out of shape a little during construction. These instructions for measuring and sewing straight borders to a quilt can be u...

Zipper Pocket Bag

By NC Stitches Friday, September 6, 2024

Adding a zippered pocket to any bag keeps your items organized but the process can be intimidating. However, it is easier than you think.Creating a zippered pocket is a three-step process: Construct the Pocket, Install the Zipper, and Attaching the Pocket to the Tote Bag.Sup...

Stay Sharp - Rotary Blade Sharpeners

By NC Stitches Tuesday, July 2, 2024

It happens to all of us, sometimes you are trying to finish a project, only to discover that your rotary blade is dull. Sharpening a rotary blade can be frustrating. I was frequently disappointed with blade sharpeners; the blade never was as sharp as I expected. Part of the ...

Debbie’s Best Practices

By NC Stitches Tuesday, June 25, 2024

You Don't Sew Over Your Own PinsOriginal Lyrics by Jim CroceYou don't tug on Superman's Cape You don't spit into the wind You don't pull the mask off that old lone ranger And you don't sew over your pins!

Tips for Sewing on the Bias

By NC Stitches Friday, June 14, 2024

What is the bias of fabric? A 45-degree angle from the selvage edge is the fabric’s bias.Cutting on the bias can distort the fabric. Since many patterns call for cutting on the bias, here are some tips to help create a beautiful project:·Before cutting any...

Taylor Seville Magic 2-in-1 Awl & Seam Ripper™

By NC Stitches Thursday, June 13, 2024

On a recent trip, I bought a souvenir shirt. I hadn’t noticed sequins stitched on the shirt…but the sequins had to go. Earlier that week, I was given a retractable Taylor Seville Magic Awl & Seam Ripper™ as a gift which I tossed into my purse. I...

Finding The Best Products – Taylor Seville Magic Pins

By NC Stitches Wednesday, June 5, 2024

Our Very Short History of PinsThe year is 1838.  You’re a quiltmaker in Birmingham, Connecticut.  John Howe has just moved his fancy new machines to town and has begun making sewing pins in his new factory.  These mass-produced pins are much better than the old handma...