I remember asking my sewing teacher. “How important is a
sewing needle?” When I first started
sewing I thought sewing needles were all the same. As I continued my sewing journey I learned
how important needles are to sewing.
Using the correct needle can make or break your sewing
project. We want our finished project to
look great! I learned this the hard
way. The wrong needle can cause skipped
stitches or puckers where you didn’t intend to have them. The needles are what make your machine form
the stitches.
Needles are sold in different sizes and styles. When you purchase needles for your sewing
project you buy the needle according to the sewing and thread you will be
using. Yes it all ties together---
I also have replaced my needle often. I usually use a new needle for the one
project I’m working on. The tip of the
needle will become dull with over usage.
Sometimes you may accidently hit a pin but still continue sewing. If the needle does not break and you continue
sewing you might not notice a difference.
But as you keep sewing your stitching may not look the same. It is because you have chipped the tip of the
needle. If this should happen while you are sewing change to a new needle right
away.
Here is a little guide on needles:
Fine fabrics need to be sewn with fine needles and also
fine thread. This would work on silk.
The size for silk sewing would be size 60/8 needle. When you are sewing with heavier fabrics such
as heavy upholstery and canvas you would use heavier thread and size 120/20
needle.
I have added a link to the Schmetz Needle Guide to help
you when buying needles. Take a look at this guide and even download it to keep
as a reference.
After awhile you will be able to buy your needles just by
knowing what type of fabric and thread you are using. It becomes second nature to you!
