How To Make The North Carolina State Quilt Block

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On this significant day, September 28, 2023, we are thrilled to introduce the North Carolina State Quilt Block tutorial in celebration of National North Carolina State Day! Dedicated to preserving the storied tradition of quilt blocks in every state, we have taken meticulous steps to break down this block, ensuring that quilters of all proficiency levels can take part and discover delight in the process. Through our simplified method, you now have the chance to create the North Carolina State Quilt Block, transforming it into an enjoyable and gratifying project. Immerse yourself in North Carolina’s captivating shades as you stitch together this exceptional quilt block, capturing the true essence of the Tar Heel State in your quilting masterpiece. Prepare to quilt with pride and pay homage to North Carolina’s artistic legacy on this noteworthy occasion.

, How To Make The North Carolina State Quilt Block

Embark on a quilting odyssey as we venture into a captivating journey through time, delving into the intricate mosaic of historical heritage and artistic legacy that has shaped the enduring beauty of quilting. Within this enthralling expedition, we warmly welcome you to join us as we dive into the heartwarming tale of the Hearth and Home quilting project—an extraordinary initiative that united quilters from all corners of the United States during the early 1900s.

Today, our exploration turns to the enchanting state of North Carolina, where history and imagination converge to unveil the North Carolina State Quilt Block. This exquisite design takes inspiration from the charm of the Venus Flytrap, North Carolina’s distinctive state symbol. Skillfully blending contrasting tones, including the vibrant shades of the Venus Flytrap’s striking jaws and the serene, soothing hues of its foliage, infuses vitality into this captivating quilt block, turning it into a spectacle of sheer grandeur.

Embark with us on this journey deep into the heart of quilting – a domain where history, creativity, and legacy merge harmoniously. Together, let’s infuse vitality into the North Carolina State Quilt Block, advancing step by step, stitch by stitch. Uncover the profound satisfaction that arises from crafting a tangible piece of history, one destined to endure and reverberate throughout generations.

Stay engaged for upcoming state block tutorials as we persist in commemorating the quilt block heritage of every state, sharing the diverse beauty and essence of America, one block at a time! Happy quilting!

You can find the cutting instructions and templates for this block below, so let’s dive right in! The pattern incorporates rotary cutting guidelines and templates if you opt to print the pattern.

Go grab the rotary cutting directions for this block below and let’s get started!

Supplies

Rotating Cutting Board (0ptional) – to help turn your pieces without touching them.
Quilt ruler: Ensure you have a quilt ruler on hand, as it will help in drawing precise lines and measurements.
Marking Pens – I like Frixion because they erase with heat.

Step 1 – Cut the Pieces

Before progressing further, it’s crucial to possess precise cutting instructions. You can easily access these guidelines in our free resource library, a valuable collection of information. There, you’ll find the cutting instructions ready for your use.

Check out my video tutorial if you need help with cutting the pieces.

Step 2 – Let’s Build the Middle Sections

Let’s begin constructing the block by focusing on the central section. For the middle part, you’ll need pieces D, E, and I. Arrange the pieces as depicted below, even though it may appear unconventional; it will come together in a manner similar to a 9-patch block.

Start by placing two E pieces on either side of the I piece and press the iron towards the E pieces. Next, attach the D pieces to the E pieces so that the points of D align in the same direction. Sew the pieces together and iron towards the E piece.

Finally, assemble the three rows together, aligning the seams, and iron towards the central E/I row.

Step 3 – Outer Rows.

Now, let’s proceed to assemble the outer rows using pieces B, C, F, G, and H. Follow these steps:

Begin by attaching a G piece and an H piece to each side of the F piece. Iron the seams towards G and H.
Next, add the long side of the B and C pieces to the G and H pieces. Iron the seams towards the G and H piece.

Make 4 out rows!

Step 4 – Adding Outer Rows to the Inner Section

Adding Outer Rows to the Inner Section we created in Step 2. In this part of the construction, you will encounter Y seams. Follow these instructions carefully:

Begin by aligning the points of the F piece with the seams of the E/D piece. Start sewing from one seam to the other, stopping and starting at the seams, and perform a lock or backstitch at each end.
Next, align the C and B pieces in the outer row with the D pieces they are adjacent to. Sew from the edge of B to the seam we created earlier. Stop at the seam and perform a lock or backstitch.
Iron two opposite sides towards the outer row and two opposite sides towards the inner section for each of the four outer rows.

Check my video at the end of this post to see how I did the Y-seams!

Repeat these steps for all four outer rows, ensuring that you line up the seams and points accurately to create a precise and visually appealing quilt block.

Step 5 – Adding the Corners

Now, let’s add the A pieces to the G/H pieces in the outer rows. Follow these steps:

Place the A pieces onto the G/H pieces in the outer rows. Ensure that the center of A aligns with the point of F.
Sew along this alignment, attaching the A pieces to the G/H pieces. After sewing, iron the seams towards A.

Your North Carolina State Quilt Bock is complete!

As we approach the conclusion of our journey, we find ourselves fully immersed in the captivating realm of the North Carolina State Quilt Block. Originating in the early 1900s, particularly within the Hearth and Home quilting project, our contemporary interpretation of this block encapsulates both the rich artistic heritage and profound identity of the Tar Heel State. Through the meticulous assembly of this exquisite block, we’ve drawn inspiration from North Carolina’s distinctive state symbol, the Venus Flytrap. This artistic embodiment has empowered us to fashion a masterpiece that genuinely pays homage to the state’s inherent allure.

In the course of this creative odyssey, we’ve come to realize that quilting transcends being a mere craft; it’s a medium of self-expression that seamlessly weaves history, tradition, and heartfelt dedication. The North Carolina State Quilt Block stands as a testament to unity and camaraderie, fostering a space where quilters from all walks of life come together to honor the enduring legacy of this beloved art form.

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