For years I used a universal 80/12 needle - that's what I was told to do. I did notice that the stitches looks very slightly asked - not marching along like little soldiers. But then I learned why I shouldn't use them - they are right between a sharp and a ball point. When I switched to a sharp/embroidery needle size 75/11 I really noticed the difference - so much sharper and the stitches looked much better. I use 75/11 jeans needles but they are hard to find anymore - and yes, jeans needles are very sharp and thin. Most people think they are really big and large - like 90/14. When I can't find any more I still try to use the 75 size. And I always use a 90/14 for paper piecing and lower my stitch length to 1.5 or so. Perforated better. The best quality thread always works for me.
Sandy in Mooresville, NC