quilting needles
 

I am doing FMQ for first time. Do you recommend any particular brand or size of needle. I am currently using a 90/14 and not sure of the brand as I had them all in a container so probably Dritz or Klasse. I have a Husquvarna Saphire 870 Q machine if that is important and it has a FMQ setting so just wondering if I should be investing in a particular needle. All a learning curve for me.

Thanks,
Evelyn

Match the needle to the thread, just as you do with piecing. Nothing special needed for FMQ.

Agreed.

I most typically quilt (and sew) with a 50wt top thread and I use an 80/12. Are you getting any breakage with the 90/14?

As for manufacturer ... I usually buy Klasse or Schmetz, and a few labeled as Janome (but I'm sure are made by someone else). I've not noticed any difference in any of them. Have never tried Dritz, but I love their pins.

if unsure what size needle to use with which weight thread visit the Superior Threads web site- they have free charts that tell you which size needle to use with which thread. the type of needle is not as important as the size being correct for the thread being used. I most of the time use 'sharps' or universal needles- but always the size for the thread being used. a 90 is a pretty large needle- are you using heavy thread? most of the time I quilt with 50-60 wt thread and use a 80/12 needle...but if you are quilting with 30 or 40 wt thread the 90 is probably right.

I tried FMQ too recently. I have one suggestion.....as I got a very stiff neck! Someone told me I should just do 30 mins at a time to start with.. So you may want to consider that... Anyway - take care. Have fun! I liked doing cobblestones.

Dunster is right - match the needle to the thread. That being said I usually use a 70/10 for thin polyester threads and an 80/12 or a 90/14 for heavier cotton threads. I usually have my tension set higher when free motion quilting with cottons as well. :) Good luck!

I only hand quilt so I can't help you on this one.

I used to buy lots of different kind of needles, but now I use 80/20 universal for pretty much everything. Unless I'm using an unusual thread for a very specific job (jeans topstitch?) I don't bother with special needles anymore.