Reader1

I am hand sewing the binding on a quilt...one of my favorite parts of quilting. Today has been beyond frustrating. I don't have a specific needle size that I use and today started using one that was like putting a nail spike through the fabric. I changed to a better one, but maybe there is something better. I also have never had trouble with thread like I did today. I was using a dual purpose thread that knotted and felt bumpy even though it is new thread. So...What size needle do you use and what kind of thread??? I really, really appreciate your comments. Today it is cold in Ohio and I loved having the quilt on my lap as I sewed but I was frustrated!

dluvs2quilt

Sherri from A Quilting Life posted a YouTube video on Thursday on hand stitching your binding down and she used binding needles from Primitive Gatherings.
And when I have trouble pulling my needle through my binding I drop my needle so It can unwind.

ctrysass2012

I have used a size 8 Between needle & Aurifil thread. I have also used either wax or thread conditioner, I think it's Thread Heaven.

pocoellie

I use an 8 or 9 hand quilting needle and hand quilting thread with only 1 end knotted, I also use bee's wax, don't usually have any problems.

joe'smom

I use my Roxanne applique needle, and prefer using Presencia 50 wt. thread for binding, as it seems really strong. Last time I used some of the Superior Threads hand quilting thread because it was the best color match, even though it is thicker. I also use Thread Heaven thread conditioner.

Tartan

I love John James embroidery needles for sewing binding. They have a larger eye for easy threading but are super sharp. I use whatever thread is a good match to the binding mostly a polyester blend . It slides nicely and is strong. I use one strand that I use a split knot to lock it on my needle so it doesn’t unthread.

cashs_mom

I also use embroidery needles. I find they slide thru the fabric well and, as Tartan says, they have a large eye for easy threading and a very sharp point. I also like the slightly longer length. I usually use a cotton thread but have used whatever is on hand that matches. I have a couple of Thread Heaven conditioners around that I use to help keep the thread from tangling. Discovering that was a huge help to me.

Peckish

I bind quilts professionally and let me tell you, the binding needles from Primitive Gatherings are a game-changer. I won't use any other needle. For thread, I usually use Bottom Line, it's strong but very fine and nobody can see my stitches.

Regarding your description of "putting a nail spike through the fabric"... I have actually used a needle so much I wore the coating off of it. I realized I was getting drag on the needle, swapped it out for a new one, what a difference! Like a hot knife through butter.

And seriously - treat yourself and buy the binding needles.

illinois

There recently was a thread about threading needles that addressed the thing of the "warp" of thread. When I have tangling issues, I usually find I have knotted the wrong end of the thread and it's going into the fabric "backward". It should be used as it came off the spool.

SuzSLO

Can you tell me what a “split knot” is that you use with a single strand of thread?