Get the basics - sewing machine needles

By Spotlight

Needle selection is determined by the type of fabric (knit, weave, stretch or leather), the weight of the fabric (sheer, cotton, canvas, denim or upholstery) and the type of sewing being done (seams, hems, topstitching, embroidery or quilting).

Materials

Your preference

Step 1

Universal needle is ideal for most woven fabrics, knits and synthetics. The slight ball point makes it extremely versatile. Most common sizes are 60/8, 70/10, 80/12 or assorted packs.

Step 2

Sharp needle is perfect for stitching tightly woven fabrics including silk, microfibre and other synthetics; ideal for topstitching and patchwork. Most common sizes are 60/8, 70/10, 80/12 or assorted packs.

Step 3

Stretch needle is for two way stretch knits, lycra, jersey, spandex and highly elasticised synthetic fabrics and has a deeper scarf to prevent skipped stitches. Sizes 75/11 and 90/14.

Step 4

Metallic needle for sewing and embroidery using rayon or metallic threads. Size 80/12.

Step 5

Jeans needle has very sharp point and stiff shank for stitching denim, canvas and dense fabrics. Most common size 90/14 or assorted packs.

Step 6

Embroidery needle is for rayon, polyester or cotton machine embroidery threads and is designed to prevent shredding and breakage. Sizes 75/11 to 90/14.

Step 7

Quilting needle is tapered with a sharp point for piecing and stitching through multiple layers of fabric. Size 75/11 to 90/14.

Step 8

Twin needle sews two rows of stitching at the same time and is used for decorative sewing such as pintucks, seams finishes, topstitching and heirloom sewing.

Handy Hint

• Always start each project with a new needle or change the needle after every eight hours of sewing.

• If a stitching problem occurs change the needle.

• Select the needle size based on the weight of the fabric & the type of thread being used.

Handy Hint

Needle size is listed in both European (metric) and American i.e. 70/10

Parts of a needle:
1. Shank can be round or flat on one side.
2. Blade with groove.
3. Scarf supports the hook to pick up thread to form a stitch.
4. Eye varies with size of needle for different size threads.
5. Point pierces fabric.

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