Most machine needle all look much the same and all modern machines use the same type however there are differences in thickness and the tip types that work with different types of fabric.
Machine needles are numbered, in either metric/ European or imperial / American, of course we /U.K. use a bit of each! Most packets have both numbers on but some don't!
European size 60 65 70 75 80 90 100 110 120
American size 8 9 10 11 12 14 16 18 19
The higher the number the thicker, heavier the fabric your working with. The lower the number the finer the fabric.
Most mid weight fabrics, cottons, are best with a 80/12 or 90/14
The finer the needle the harder it is to thread as the hole seems to get very small, be warned those of you just approaching the needing glasses age!
If your needle is too fine it can cause the thread to shred, and could lead to the machine jamming. Back to the dreaded bunching up!
All machine needles have a flat edge to the round of the shaft. This has to be inserted into the machine towards the back.
Some needles are Universal which means they should go through different types of fabric, like jersey, knits and wovens. However to get best results when using different fabrics I advise to change the needle. Here is a list of some of the different types you can buy.
- Ballpoint needles are made especially for knits
- Sharps are for very tightly woven fabrics
- Denim
- Leather
- Stretch for microfibers and fabric with high spandex content/swimwear
- Twin needle for stretch fabrics this creates a very professional look and really works well.
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