I now use only Titanium Topstitch needles. I purchased them from Superior Threads. I love them. The eye is larger and for my old tired eyes that is great. I usually remove all my pins before I sew. Yesterday I was sewing two pieces of fleece together and left some pins in (just to see if it would go over them) carefully I sewed over the pins with no problems. I am still going to remove the pins from now on, just wanted to try it. I did use a longer stitch. I am sold on these needles. I do have to say that I use a Simplicity machine not a fancy new one. Don't know if that makes a difference or not. BrendaK