Needle-Turn aplique question
 

I am frustrated with my needle/threads. For those of you who frequently do this type of applique, what needle size and brand do you find most satisfying? I would also like to know that about the thread type/size/brand that you prefer.

Currently I really like the straw needles but I can't see to thread the eye, so I use the Bolton (?? I think that's the name). However, it is not consistant with threading the straw needle.

I also have used the richard (hum...cant remember the name at the moment), that is a size 8. I like the needle but it isn't as easy work through the applique layers.

Would love to know what you're doing.

Thanks.

I like the size 11 straw from Jeanna Kimball. But I have friends who used between and sharps. It's a finger thing. Whatever you are comfortable with.

I like 100 wt silk thread for hand applique and like a size 10 or 11 milliner's needle. (Similar to a straw needle). A finer needle of the type you are already using would probably work for you, size 8 is fairly big for applique and the finer needle will go through easier.

i use betweens and silk thread. the betweens thread well in the small end of the Bohin threader.

I use the straw needle that comes in a round glasslike tube. Not sure, but it might be by Roxanne? I bought them at quilt shows from Jean Brown that demo'd the Aunt Becky's tool.

I have heard that the Tulip needles do not bend and have a larger eye. They are fairly new. I haven't tried them as yet. (I was going to buy them the last time I was at my LQS, but they had a 40% off a line I loved, and spent all my $$ on fabric instead.) One of these days.......lol

I use silk thread also because it disappears in the fabric and a milliner's needle also!

I have only used the Roxanne applique needle, and have no complaints with it. It is easy to distinguish from my betweens, as the applique needle is significantly longer and the eye more elongated. I use Aurifil 50 wt thread because it is fine and available in so many colors. I haven't had trouble threading my needles since I saw Sharon Schamber do it at the beginning of the second video of her basting tutorial. I had read about threading this way, but seeing it done made the difference.

Roxanne Applique needles
http://www.connectingthreads.com/too...s__D21054.html

Silk thread or Invisifil thread. Do not think you need to get all kinds of colors of silk. Because it is so fine it sinks right into the fabric and blends in with most colors. I found this set covered 90% of my needs and then bought a dark gray to go with
http://www.connectingthreads.com/Too...5__D20310.HTML

My overly generous, awesome brother later bought me the entire set of Superior Kimono silk so I am set for a long time.

John James Gold'n Glide Milliner's size 10. It has a gold eye making it easier for me to see to thread the needle. It's also Teflon coated so I can push it through the fabric easier. I use those with Aurifil 50wt thread (2 ply).

I agree with bjchad that an 8 is really quite thick for doing needle turn. A 10 or 11 would be better. Maybe consider investing in a needle threader. Silk thread is wonderful & super fine, but having to tie it onto the needle every time is more work than I'm usually willing to do. ;)

EDIT: Sorry, just read that you were using some kind of threader. Wanted to point out that John James makes needle theaders for their needles. I haven't used them very much, but they worked well the few times I've needed them (mostly back before I bought better lighting for my studio space).

I buy needles that are made for applique. I bought mine from either Hobby Lobby or Nancy's Notions I can't remember where. I keep a needle threader right on hand also and love silk thread.