What are the Differences in Sewing Machine Needles?

There are many types of sewing machine needles. Their use depends on the type of fabric you are using and the type of sewing you are doing. Using the correct needle for your project will save you frustration and leave you with your desired result.

Types of Needles

Types of needles include ballpoint and stretch, microtex and sharp, leather, denim, decorative, topstitching, embroidery, metallic, quilting, hemstitch, twin, triple, and spring.

Universal Needle

The universal needle is designed for the average sewer that uses midweight fabrics and threads, and avoids fancy stitches and difficult fabrics. If you want to avoid switching needles for every project, this needle will work well.

Needle Size

Needle size should be determined by fabric weight. The lighter the fabric (lace or organdy), the smaller the needle (size 60/8), the heavier the fabric (denim or vinyl) the larger the needle (100/16).

Self-Threading Needle

The self-threading needle helps those who have a difficult time threading needles or have vision problems.

Needle System

Every sewing machine uses a specific needle system (similar to a brand). Be sure to determine your machine's system by reading the manual or looking at a needle that came with your machine before purchasing additional needles.

References

• Sewing Machine Needles
• Machine Needle Know How