Types of Needles for Different Fabrics

Using the right kind of needle when sewing, quilting and embroidering, means that you make your job easier and the result better. I was a lazy bugger who couldn’t be bothered to change the needle as I changed projects, but soon I found that spending a minute to change the needle is easier than having to cope with ruined projects and a frustrating disappointment.

Here are the types of needles commonly used:

Universal Point Needle – The standard needle used for all kinds of light sewing.

Ballpoint Needle – Just like its name, this kind of needle has round instead of sharp point and goes through between the threads of the fabric. This is good for knits and mesh-like fabrics.

Denim Needle –This kind of needle is used for denim and heavy fabrics. This has a stronger shaft and sharper point for easier piercing.

Embroidery Needle – Use this for embroidery. The eye is large and there is a groove on the eye that will prevent slicing or breaking the rayon or acrylic threads.

Quilting Needle –Use this for quilting. This kind of needle can pierce several layers of fabric.

Top stitching Needle – Use this for quilting heavy material. The eye is extra large and the groove is deeper; great for thicker threads.

Metallic Needle – Use with heavy threads like metallic threads. The large eye will prevent the threads breaking.

Sharp Point or Microtex Needle – This kind of needle is long and thin, and it is sharper than most needles. Use this for delicate fabrics.

Self-threading Needle – This kind of needle is easy to thread because it has a slotted eye.

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