retrogirl02

Hi everyone! I've not done hand embroidery in a number of years but was asked to do a detailed block for a charity not long ago. I was doing OK until I bent my last few needles. I'm about 35 hours into this project and still have quite a bit to go.

I have betweens on hand and some new quilting needles I picked up my last trip to LQS. Can I substitute for the embroidery needles, especially as I get to tiny details? Or do I need to make another trip today?

Thanks in advance. =)

thimblebug6000

I use what ever needle is handy, but I mostly use the back stitch with 2 threads.

jmabby

I don't use special needles and the projects look great.

amma

I always used whatever was handy and had the right sized eye for the thread I was using :D:D:D

ckcowl

it depends on what you are using for embroidery floss- your you using strands of dmc embroidery floss? or are you using some sort of sewing thread? the needle needs to be right for the thread/floss going through the eye- eyes are shaped differently-and if you have the wrong needle you will know soon enough= the thread will fray and break or knot up constantly-or it will be difficult to thread--
you can try it- if you can thread it and if it works- you have your answer= if it breaks, frays, spins, knots= you need a different needle.

justwannaquilt

I use #9 quilting needles for eveything that is sewn in my house. Including but not limited to embroidery, putting a button back on, making my GMFG, oh...and quilting! lol
I always use two strands of DMC to do embroidery and I don't have a problem with the #9s.

retrogirl02

thanks so much for your responses. I should have mentioned that the project requires single strands of DMC floss. I have some spare #9s that are about the same length as my old embroidery needles. I've yet to get to the tiny detail work but for the directional fill, these seem to be doing the trick.
Happy Stitching. =)