Graduating to a Smaller Needle
 

I do not know what size I was using before, but it was slightly difficult to pull through without the rubber puller Jim got me. I decided yesterday to go with one a little smaller. I do not need the puller so much anymore. I don't know if I will ever get down the size am SUPPOSED to be using, but this is a step in the right direction.

(Actually the tiny ones scare me. They look like they would snap in half and stab me in my hand.)

Guessing you are referring to hand quilting needles? I generally use #11 or #12 Roxannes. I use a rubber fingertip on my index finger for pulling the needle through. If I load too many stitches, or if I'm quilting through difficult fabrics (some batiks I've encountered), I have a set of needle nose pliers that I use. I thought the grooves on the pliers would damage the needle but that has not been the case.

I've noticed that certain needles (especially the Dritz I got at Joann's and Walmart) just seem to resist going through fabric. I've been much happier with John James and Roxanne needles.

I usually use Roxanne #11, but I still need the Hedgehog needle-puller when I take more than a few stitches on my needle (this needle-puller is produced in the Netherlands, I don't know if it's available in the States too)

http://www.tdreefhuys.com/Naaldtrekker

Yes, it is amazing how much difference the needle makes. I usually only take two stitches at a time so that it doesn't get too hard to push the needle through.

I use john james needles- size 11. I have some from the jeanna kimball foxglove cottage sight. Size 11 quilting/between. I still use the rubbery needle grabbers. In the beginning, I think I used a 9-10, cant remember. But now, I'm hooked on size 11's.

When I have difficulty pulling my needle through I use a flat tipped long nose tweezer. I'm going to try NJ Quilter's idea of a rubber finger. Love this board, we exchange so many great ideas!

I can get easily john James no. 10 but would prefer 11 or 12. Have to use post and very expensive that way.
When given a larger size it feels like a poker.