The Right Needle for the Job

You decided to do a little hand sewing.  Picking out what needle to use should be the easiest part of the job, but when you peruse the selection in your local store it turns into a guessing game.  Sharps (aren’t all needles sharp?), Betweens (between what?!), Crewel (does that mean they are from Louisiana?), Milliners’(?!?!?); why can’t they just say “if you are mending use this; if you are quilting use this”.

So, let’s break it down.

Sharps are your basic needles.  These are a staple in every sewing kit or notion drawer.  They are great to use for just about any sewing.  They are your old stand-by and can be used when you can’t find a specialty needle to use.  They are generally medium in length with a round eye.

Crewel needles are used for embroidery and are sometimes referred to as embroidery needles.  Because they have a longer, bigger eye they are easier to thread.  They are great to use for cross stitch and embroidery because they are able to hold multiple thread and thicker yarns or flosses.

Betweens are usually used in quilting.  Their shorter length makes delicate work a breeze. Their rounded eye is great for threading.  These needles make fine stitches in heavy fabric or fabric layers possible.

Milliners’ needles are named after the craft they come from, millinery, hat making.  They are very thin and long with a fine eye.  They are also good to use for basing and pleating.

The size of the needle is just as important as the type.  They are numbered from one to ten.  One being very heavy and ten is very fine.  The size of the needle depends on the fabric.  You need a chose a needle that will go through the fabric by fitting between the threads; too heavy and you will break the fibers; too fine, it will be hard to thread and hold.

The only wrong needle is one that will make doing the job harder or damage your fabric.  Maybe you prefer a medium or longer needle because they are easier to hold on to.  If you can still create the delicate stitches you need, then it may be a better choice as opposed to a quilting needle.  The good news is, needles are inexpensive.  Buy several types and try them out.  In no time you will realize what is the right needle for you and your project.

Tags: Articles, Notions, Sewing