Neddle size
 

What size needle do you use for quilting on your domestic machine? Any pointers?

If I am FMQ,I use a size 16 and the same weight thread on top as in the bottom. If I’m using a walking foot,I use a fairly long( 3) stitch length.

16 for me is most versatile (I can piece and quilt w/o changing needles). I can piece with a 14, but have had trouble quilting with it sometimes.

I'm fairly sure mine are size 14. I bought a bunch like the ones that came with my Juki.

The needle size should be based on the thread. Superior Threads has an online chart that helps. I usually use a 70 because I piece with Bottom Line.

I think you are asking for the actual quilting, not piecing. Yes? No?

It's not just the size, but also the type of needle that needs to be considered.

Whether FMQing or straight line quilting, I mostly use a 14 Embroidery or Topstitch needle.
However, that is with no finality, as I may switch the needle out
according to the batting type, numbers of seams, cotton vs. batik, etc.

The hardest "right" needle to me is when working with batiks.
I've actually been considering using a Jeans needle ... haven't tried it yet. Just thinking!

Getting ready to quilt, I make a sandwich replicating the fabrics, backing and batting used. It might be an extra block or two, or something I put together otherwise, but always replicating what is used in the quilt. Most times this might be a small topper, runner or even a mug rug, so I have something usable once I do the practice work. It gives me the opportunity to get things "right" ... needle, tension, quilting design, thread, etc. before I go to the "real" quilt!

I use a jeans needle for everything, as I haven't sewn finer fabrics etc for ages, and find the smaller needles too much of a problem with threading.

Never thought of it in that way ... was just thinking about how easily it stitched through heavy tapestry when I saw sewing at Christmas. So was thinking, it might be a perfect option for batiks.

Yes, I am talking about the quilting aspect. I will be using a walking foot.

I use a size 14 or 16 "Topstitch" needle. The eye is longer and smoother and gives your machine a little help to catch the thread off the back of the needle.

I use either a 90/14 or an 80/12 depending on the thread, topstitch needle. I've been using titanium and they do seem to last longer.

Watson

When I use a thick thread like Connecting Threads Essential cotton I use a 90/14. Usually I use a size 70 when using Aurifil or any thread higher then 50 wt 3 ply. You really have to know thread weight and ply and type that goes with what needle size and what application it will be used for. It's another side of sewing that is important to understand.

I use a 14, but I stay away from titanium needles. A repair person told me they do break less often, but can damage your machine by not breaking. I rather just replace a needle then send machine in for repair.

I use 16s for quilting, also. They are big enough not to break very easily, and if they leave big holes, they close up again fast enough.

I use 16 for quilting. When I try a 14 there is a lot of thread breakage as I go over seam allowances. As soon as I change to a 16 it stps.

80/12 for piecing and usually a 90/14 for quilting. Although I have been known to use the 80/12 for quilting (usually FMQ) if it's already in the machine. My Bernina in particular seems okay with the 80/12 for quilting.

I wish repair people would get on the same page to what they are telling people. Two techs told me the titanium needles were fine to use, they stay sharp longer as they were titanium coated not made from it so no harder then regular needles.

My service tech lady who is a Pfaff expert gave me the tip that the 80/12 works best with my Pfaff. I found this to be true after I decided to take notice. I also use the Topstitching or Microtex varieties. I continue to use the 80/12 with quilting as it is still the one that works best. I use Aurifil or So Fine thread.
Please note this is the quirkiness of my Pfaff.

90/14 topstitch for all quilting/piecing. There are some threads that require the Microtex needle. Most threads work fine with the 90/14 topstitch. I am thinking of trying the 100/16 on a top with lots of seams....the holes will shrink when washed.

It depends on the thread size, type of thread and fabric being sewn on.

11/12/80 for piecing. Same for FMQ unless the thread tells me I need a 14 quilting needle. I had one thread/fabric combo that needed a 16.