Types of Needles
Sewing with a sewing machine requires knowing the right type of needle to use. There are several types of needles available, each designed for different types of materials and fabrics. Sewing needles come in different sizes, shapes, and points to accommodate various kinds of fabrics and sewing needs. While some needles may be used for a variety of projects, it’s important to choose the right needle for the job.
Universally, needles are categorized by type and needle size. The most common needles are round shank, flat shank, and ball point needles. Each type of needle is designed to work with specific types of fabrics. Generally, flat shank needles are used for woven fabrics, round shank needles for fine and sheer fabrics, and ball point needles for knit fabrics. It is important to choose the right needle for the material being sewn, as the wrong needle can cause damage to the material.
Needles are labeled with a number, which is known as the needle size. The needle size is determined by the diameter of the needle shaft, which is measured in fractions of a millimeter. The higher the number, the thicker the diameter. The most common needle sizes range from 8/60 to 18/110. For most sewing projects, size 11/75 is perfectly suitable. It is important to note that the higher the needle size, the heavier fabrics and material it can accommodate.
Tips to Choose the Right Needle
When selecting a needle, it’s important to consider the weight of the material being sewn. A heavier needle should be used with heavy fabrics such as denim, upholstery fabrics, and canvas. A medium weight needle should be used with materials such as corduroy, flannel, and medium weight cottons. A light weight needle should be used with lightweight fabrics such as silk, chiffon, rayon, and thin cottons.
It is also important to remember that the needle size and type should change with the thickness of the fabric. For instance, when sewing a very thin and lightweight fabric, like chiffon, use a thin and lightweight needle. For heavier fabrics such as denim, choose a larger and more robust needle.
It’s also important to consider the thread and the stitch length. Thread and needle sizes should be matched; for example, if using a thin thread, select a thinner needle and vice-versa. A thin thread should be used with a small stitch length, while a heavier thread should be used with a longer stitch length.
What Needle to Use for Different Projects
When selecting the right needle for a sewing project, it is important to consider the type of fabric as well as the type of stitch being used. For instance, a zigzag stitch should use a sharp point needle, while a straight stitch should use a universal point needle. For embroidery projects, a sharp point, topstitching, or quilting needle should be used, depending on the type of fabric being stitched.
When sewing with denim, canvas, and other heavier materials, select a heavy-duty, topstitching, or quilting needle. When sewing stretch fabric and knits, select a ballpoint needle. When sewing lightweight fabrics such as silk, chiffon, and rayon, choose a thin, sharp point needle. For quilting projects, use a topstitching, quilting, or denim needle.
Notes on Needle Type and Size
When selecting the right needle for a sewing project, it’s important to remember that the type and size of the needle should match the fabric and thread being used. Choosing a wrong needle size or type can cause damage to the fabric or thread as well as result in skipped stitches and other malfunctions.
It is important to use a high-quality needle that has appropriate sharpness and is free of any imperfections. If the needle is blunt, excessively dull or bent, the fabric may be damaged during sewing. Old or worn-out needles should be replaced regularly to ensure a smooth and successful sewing project.
Precautions for Sewing with Right Needle
Before taking on a sewing project, determine the type and size of needle needed for the fabric and process. It is important to use the right needle for the job to ensure a successful project. Also, before beginning a project it is important to inspect the needle to make sure it is free from defects. Imperfections in the needle can cause damage to the fabric and lead to skipped stitches, broken threads, and other malfunctions.
It may be tempting to reuse needles, but this can be dangerous as they can become dull or bent over time. A sharp needle is necessary for a successful sewing experience, so it is important to replace needles when they become worn or when changing fabric types.
Testing the Needle
When selecting the right needle for a project, always test the needle on a scrap of the same fabric before beginning. This will allow you to get an idea of how the needle will perform on the material and allows time for adjusting stitch length and tension as needed.
Testing the needle can also reveal any defects that weren’t noticed during the initial inspection. Additionally, testing the needle allows you to make sure the fabric is not being damaged and that the thread is properly fed through the needle. Once the test is complete, begin the sewing project with confidence.
What to Do if Something Goes Wrong
Sometimes, even when the right needle is used, things can go wrong during sewing. Skipped stitches and broken threads are common issues that may occur when the wrong needle is used or if the needle is dull. From time to time it is normal to have to remove stitches and rethread the needle.
If this is the case, first examine the needle to make sure it is free from any defects. Also, make sure the needle size and type is suitable for the thread and fabric being used. If the needle is still not working correctly, replace it with a new needle and test it on a scrap of fabric before beginning the project.
Caring for Needles and Sewing Machine
It is important to care for your needles and sewing machine correctly to ensure that projects turn out correctly and last for a long time. Make sure to clean the machine and needles regularly according to manufacturer instructions. Also, regularly check for any signs of wear or damage.
Additionally, keep sewing needles in a safe and secure place and away from children as they can be dangerous. Also, make sure to store needles and other sewing tools in a dry and clean environment.
Storage and Disposal of Sewing Needles
When disposing of sewing needles, it is important to do so safely and properly.Unused needles should be stored in a secure container and disposed of in the appropriate manner.
Most needles can be recycled in the appropriate manner, however, it is important to check with the local recycling center to make sure. Self-sewn projects can often contain sharp objects such as needles, so disposing of them properly is essential.
If disposing of needles in the garbage, always place them in a puncture-resistant container before doing so. This will ensure that no one is harmed by the needle during garbage collection.
Conclusion
Choosing the right needle for a sewing project is essential for successful and professional results. When selecting a needle, it is important to consider the type and size of the needle as well as the fabric and thread being used. Additionally, it is important to test the needle on a scrap of fabric before beginning the project and to inspect the needle for any defects. Furthermore, it is important to store and dispose of needles safely and properly. With the right needle, the right fabric, and the right thread, the sewing project will be a success.
