For any hand work I use a general sewing needle..no thought to size/style. If the thread is a challenge to thread through the eye of the needle, yes, you will probably have issues with shredding, etc. Honestly, I've also never paid attention to what weight thread I am using for any hand sewing (or machine sewing for that matter) as long as it is the color closest to what I am looking. I normally hand quilt so only really pay attention to using specific 'hand quilting' thread for that purpose. Otherwise, as long as it holds two pieces of fabric together...I'm good!