Originally Posted by sewjoyce
I use a ball point needle when doing machine embroidery on sweatshirts and t-shirts. I don't know if they get "dull" but after a couple of projects, the thread will start to "shred" -- a good sign that I need to change needles :lol:
Yes, needles get dull or slightly bent. The first thing to do if your stitching isn't right is to check your threading on your machine and then to change your needle. If the thread is fraying, perhaps your needle isn't inserted in it's position perfectly or you need a larger needle size. I remember when I first got my sewing machine, the dealer told me to change my needle after 3 hours of sewing with it. Also, if when sewing you start to hear sort of a "plunking" noise instead of no noise, that's another indication you need a new needle.