I use Piecemakers and Roxanne for all hand sewing and handquilting. Roxanne's betweens have a larger eye! I think these two brands are the best you can use. I haven't found any other brand that will glide in the fabric like these and I've tried every brand. If I have to push the needle in fabric it goes in the trash. Needles made in Japan are made from quality steel (The Japanese are very particular about their needles)then needles made in Germany or England so always look for made in Japan.