I am new to sewing and I have a stupid question. Ok maybe not stupid just simple.
I do not know what type of needles to buy and or use. I have some with different colored base (non business end) and some with different colored dots on the throat of the needle. I bought a package of quilting needles, will these be good for piecing and the occasional sewing repair.

Thanks for your help.
G


edit- sorry machine needles.

Are you talking about macine needles or hand quilting needles?

I usually use a size 11 for general piecing. If doing machine applique, I use anywhere from an 11 to a 14 depending on how much thickness I have. If I'm using rayon or glittery type threads for machine quilting, I will use a size 9.
Some machines do better with their brand of needles, but my Husquvarna works great with just a universal needle. Hope this helps!

Don't worry about inexperience. I just started using a machine to piece and the needle thats working the best for me is size 11.

We love questions! Don't be afraid, just jump in! You'll be doing well very soon.

http://www.threadsmagazine.com/item/...eedle-know-how

http://www.threadsmagazine.com/item/...es-an-overview

i refer to these articles quite often

Thanks PatriceJ. Girl you rule...

Thanks everyone else for your response.

Regards from the sunny but frozen south.

G

Patrice ~ Great article for referencing needles. Thanks

QUESTION: Has anyone used that "spring" type needle for free motion quilting?

I've never even heard of such a thing? I was wondering how well it works? Does it make free motion any easier? Does it improve the quality of the quilting?

I'm interested in any input. Nita