Originally Posted by thepolyparrot
Originally Posted by rosemary krupski
I just watched the video on needles. Superior needles (Topstitch and Metallic) are identical. Is this the same in Schmetz needles?Are the numbers the same? I get so confused. Help!!!
The terms "Topstitch" or "Metallic" should all mean the same thing from company to company - the eye is a little larger than the same needle in a regular sharp. (Other needles suitable for the same functions are called "Large Eye," and "Embroidery")
As for the numbers, the "standard" domestic machine needle system is the 15x1, but it's also known as the 130, 705, 2020 and HAx1 - probably a lot more names for it out there.
The size numbers within a needle system should be consistent from one manufacturer to another - the diameter of a size 12 needle shank, its length, depth of scarf and distance from point to eye should all be the same for the 15x1 system needle no matter who makes it or what they call it.
Hope that's at least a little clearer than mud. ;)
Thanks polyparrot. That sort of explains things. I'll have to try the different ones out even though I did pick up a bunch of Schmetz when they were on sale. Comparison is probably the only way to really know.