Quilt Direct

Katherine Letherby, founder and owner of Quilt Direct, answered our questions...

Where did the business start and how has it developed over the years?

It all began in 1986 when I opened a needlework shop in Paddons Row, Tavistock, called Moor Silks and Yarns. Over the years the business has evolved and grown, I moved from Paddons Row to bigger premises on Market Street, Tavistock, before realising my dream and creating an online store. In 2018 we moved into our current premises in Pitts Cleave, just outside Tavistock and we’ve not looked back since! We are proud to say we now have two teaching studios and stock over 14,000 items.

How did you learn about the art of sewing?

Having come from a family of sewers, I have always had a keen interest in all things sewing. I found out several years after setting up my shop to my surprise my great grandmother was actually a professional quilt maker. My Aunt was also a skilled seamstress and created a Princess Ann ‘Sindy’ wedding dress in within 2 hours of seeing the original. So, I guess it was in my genes.

What is the most ambitious quilted item you have created?

That’s a tough one but, I’d have to say creating three different sampler quilts in 3 weeks during lockdown was quite a challenge. We took part in the Moda ‘Stitch Pink’ Challenge for breast cancer in 2020 and we created four different colour ways for our customers to choose from. This was not made any easier by the lack of supply of fabrics and threads at this time.

What products does Quilt Direct offer?

We stock everything sewing related. From hand sewing needles to top of the range Bernina sewing overlocker & longarm machines and everything in between. We are also the only stockists in the UK of Accuquilt, a Fabric Cutting System.  

What additional services can customers take advantage of?

We have 5 Bernina longarm quilting machines and offer a quilt finishing service but we are passionate and always encourage people to come along and learn how to use the longarm machines and finish their own quilts. After spending so many hours putting a quilt together it is very rewarding to finish it yourself too. We have two spacious teaching rooms where we offer demonstrations on Bernina & Accuquilt products, host our tuition and have visiting guest tutors too. We also offer a click and collect service so you can order online and pick up in store, where you will be assured a friendly face and warm welcome when popping in to pick up your sewing supplies.

What do you most enjoy about your role?

I enjoy resourcing, working, and practicing with the best quality products and then helping customers achieve the best possible results whatever project they are working on. It makes me so proud to know have helped so many customers achieve so much enjoyment with their precious sewing time in my past 36 years in the business.