Welcome to the Quilting Board!
I use a microtex for almost everything quilting related. I got them for use with batiks, but like the long taper for quilting and they're a dream for accurate piecing. When I first started (early 1970's), the universal needle was, well, universally accepted. Today, there are much more appropriate choices.
The Earth without art is just "Eh".
I find out the same way you did that the smaller needle is much better for batiks. I asked at the LQS and they all said the superior threads titanium needle.... I figured out that was a self serving recommendation and changed to the 70/10 and it made a much smaller hole. Sometimes I use a 70/8 and have very good results. the last thing I want when I take out stitching is to have the evidence ( the holes) permanently documenting my error. Unlike regular quilting cotton the holes from a larger needle do not disappear when washed.
I haven't had any problem with using the "quilting" needles by Schmetz. I haven't used their "universal " in a very long time.
A Good Friend, like an old quilt, is both a Treasure and a Comfort
I use a Microtex for piecing and a topstitch for quilting (larger hole so thread does not break) Works great.. I put a sticky note on my machines saying what type of needle I have in (just in case I forget what I was doing last) You need to use a sharp needle for batiks for sure.
Really like your suggestion about the post-it note, saying which needle is inserted. Way too easy to forget!Originally Posted by Sally J
Creative clutter is better than idle neatness.
This is such wonderful education! I've never used batiks, but I bought a bunch that I want to dig into!
SusanSusan33- Blessed by God at Age 33 (Oct '00) with B/G twins. U.S. Air Force Veteran (1995-2002).
I haven't used a different needle when sewing batiks as opposed to regular quilting cottons. I do use a different one for denim and upholstery fabrics. And if I forget I usually regret it!
As to finding which Walmart in your area has batiks, I've found that the ones with a 'real' fabric section will often have at least a few batiks. Otherwise there may or may not be a few precuts.
This observation is based on shopping in Texas, Colorado and Pennsylvania
I have several packages of Universal needles--that translates into about 20. I feel like I need to use them up. I don't know how I got so many !!! I thought Universal meant use for everything. Before I found this site and got educated about needles. When I get my supply whittled down, I want to try titanium needles. I have some blades for my cutter, and they last forever. Love them.
Sue
The thing that blows me away - those that think "universal" means it will work with any sewing machine. I've got 65 non-Singer vintage machines, and need about 15 different needle styles to fit them all.
My name is Cathy - and I'm addicted to old sewing machines and their attachments.
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