I use the Superior top stitch needle...they last a long time. When you hear an unfamiliar clack, clack, clack..it is definitely time to change. I usually change after quilting several handbags or a large quilt. i do not throw that needle away if it is not bent or broken. I save it marked used and keep it for emergency projects like ...if you break a needle trying to topstitch a very thick tote...I don't want a new needle for that because it might break again.