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I'm using solely cotton thread, 50 count from Connecting Threads for quilting. Other than the titanium coating, what really is the difference between using Schmetz Microtex needles & the Superior brand of titanium topsfitch needles also in size 90?

Microtex is a thinner, sharper needle. It makes the smallest hole in the fabric of any needle. The eye is smaller. I love them for all piecing & most quilting (for vintage/repro fabrics, I prefer a Quilting needle), but I have no problems threading my needle or changing needle type to do garment construction & home dec.

Topstitch needles were originally designed for topstitching heavy fabrics like jeans, upholstery & handbags. The industry then found they're great for all commercial sewing applications because you can go from one item to the next, from quilting to sewing jeans to working with vinyl or leather & the Topstitch needle will sew through them all. But I think of it like using a 7" chef's knife to stem & slice strawberries. Yeah, it'll work, but the results won't be as pretty as if you switched to a pairing knife. That said, if you're on a budget or if seconds matter to your schedule, Topstitch is the way to go. Likewise, if you just can't get your needles threaded, Topstitch will make things easier for you.
Also, I would switch to a size 80 Microtex for 50wt thread (70 for some brands). 90 Microtex partially defeats the purpose of the thinner needle design.
Good luck & happy quilting!

Topstitch needles have a larger eye, which makes them easier to thread. I used to use Microtex because of the sharp point, but once I used a topstitch needle and discovered how much easier it is for me to thread, I made the switch.

Edit: I want to mention, though, that I use a size 80 needle for piecing (70 or 75 for invisible machine applique). I don't see a need to use a size 90 needle, especially with a 50-wt thread. The needle holes will be unnecessarily large.

Thank you for all the info!

I apologize, I meant to type 80 not 90...

Superior sells a microtex needle too.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Prism99 (Post 7683270)

Topstitch needles have a larger eye, which makes them easier to thread.

They also have a long scarf, which is a groove that runs the length of the needle. This gives the thread a place to rest as the needle moves in and out of the fabric, thereby reducing friction on the thread. I personally don't think this matters much when piecing, but is invaluable when quilting.

I don't have much of a problem with large holes being left behind by quilting with a larger needle, because 95% of my quilts are washed after completion, and the holes close right up. I use a size 12 or 14 for piecing, and a 16 or 18 for quilting.