70/10 or 80/12
 

When piecing quilts, do you prefer 70/10 sewing machine needles or 80/12?

I usually piece with either an 80/12 or 75/11. Both seem to work well with my 3 ply 50 thread on my machine.

The needle size is determined by the thread. Superior has a chart that might help.

I use an 80/12 most of the time. I use Schmetz needles on my Bernina.

I use Gutermann thread. I want to use my Joann's 60% coupon to stock up on sewing machine needles, and I never know whether to get 70/10 or 80/12.

I use a 70/10 needle with Aurifil 50wt, which is a 2-ply thread. My seam allowances are more accurate (and flatter) using this thread rather than the standard 50/3 I used to use, and the finer thread allows me to also use a finer needle with no problems. When I used 50/3 thread, I used a 80/12 needle.

I use 80/12 titanium coated topstitch needle for all piecing. I usually use Aurifil or Superior 50wt or Connecting Threads Poly 70wt. Non Egyptian long staple cotton thread is too thick for piecing.

I like a 70/10 with Aurifil 50wt, but 80/12 also works fine & I usually can find those needles a little easier. Either way works because once I toss it in the wash, the holes contract around the thread anyways as the cotton shrinks & crinkles.

No preference, since the stitches aren't visible in the completed quilt.

I use 80/12 for piecing with Precencia 50/3 thread. Sometimes I use Aurifil 50/3. I personally think 2 ply thread is too light for piecing. That is the reason for the 'skant' 1/4 inch seam. I like to use it in the bobbin when I FMQ with Sulky or King Tut from Superior on the top. Then I use a 14 topstitch needle. The thread never shreds when I use this combination. So, if you are buying needles I would recommend getting a variety of needles. They really do make a difference. I have always thought that many of the problems some of you say you have with thread has more to do with needle selection than the thread.