Sewing with Batiks
 

I am working on a project using Batiks, and found when I have to rip out a seam, the needle I'm using creates a big hole, even though I just put a new one in. (Universal 80/12).

I went to a quilt store today, and 3 of the ladies said they all use a Universal, 80/12, also.

I looked it up on the internet, and it was suggested to use a "Sharp" or a "Microtex" 70/10. I happened to have a Superior Topstitch 80/12 on hand, (thinking it was a "Sharp"), and I couldn't believe the difference. My sewing machine hummed along like it was gliding through butter.

I was wondering what has been your experience with sewing Batiks. Do you use the same needle you use for regular quilter's cotton, or do you switch to a "Sharp".

Thanks in advance!

I always use a sharp needle when sewing cotton or other woven fabrics and a ball point when sewing knits. I was taught when learning to sew that a universal needle is universally good for nothing.

Cari

I change my needle according to what I'm sewing - Sharp or Microtex for batiks and appliqué, Quilting for layers and piecing (and of course quilting, lol), Topstitch/Metallic for metallics etc. I've recently tried the titanium Topstitch and quite like it. The test will be to see how long it lasts.

As an aside - I was recently at a quilting class. A new lady proudly announced that she'd never had to change a needle in the 25 years or she'd had the machine............. Not often I'm lost for words! :D

I never use top stitch needles, I use sharps and sometimes universals for general sewing in the size appropriate for the thread I am using. If doing any specialty sewing I use the needle appropriate for the task ( metallic for metallic thread, embroidery, ball point for knits, etc. )

I use microtex needles to sew batiks. (80 for piecing and 90 for quilting) I love working with batiks.

Topstitch has a bump on the shaft to open up the fabric and will make a bigger hole. It is used for quilting. You want to use microtex or sharp. It sounds like you might also need a thinner thread like aurifil. I use 80/12 microtex and I use mainly Hoffman or Walmart batiks.

I use a microtex for almost everything quilting related. I got them for use with batiks, but like the long taper for quilting and they're a dream for accurate piecing. When I first started (early 1970's), the universal needle was, well, universally accepted. Today, there are much more appropriate choices.

I find out the same way you did that the smaller needle is much better for batiks. I asked at the LQS and they all said the superior threads titanium needle.... I figured out that was a self serving recommendation and changed to the 70/10 and it made a much smaller hole. Sometimes I use a 70/8 and have very good results. the last thing I want when I take out stitching is to have the evidence ( the holes) permanently documenting my error. Unlike regular quilting cotton the holes from a larger needle do not disappear when washed.

I haven't had any problem with using the "quilting" needles by Schmetz. I haven't used their "universal " in a very long time.

This is such wonderful education! I've never used batiks, but I bought a bunch that I want to dig into!

I use a Microtex for piecing and a topstitch for quilting (larger hole so thread does not break) Works great.. I put a sticky note on my machines saying what type of needle I have in (just in case I forget what I was doing last) You need to use a sharp needle for batiks for sure.

This absolutely blows my mind. How were you able not to say anything? LOL. I've never heard of anything so outrageous.

Thank you, Annaquilts, I didn't realize that about Topstitch needles. I will keep that in mind. Yes, I definitely use Aurifil thread, in fact, I buy it by the cone! It's all I use. Am a huge believer of Aurifil thread.

I bet Walmart has better prices on needles....and Batik. Just wondering which Walmart you are able to find Batiks? The ones close to me don't carry fabric. (: I noticed you are in SoCa.

Really like your suggestion about the post-it note, saying which needle is inserted. Way too easy to forget!

I haven't used a different needle when sewing batiks as opposed to regular quilting cottons. I do use a different one for denim and upholstery fabrics. And if I forget I usually regret it!

As to finding which Walmart in your area has batiks, I've found that the ones with a 'real' fabric section will often have at least a few batiks. Otherwise there may or may not be a few precuts.

This observation is based on shopping in Texas, Colorado and Pennsylvania

I have several packages of Universal needles--that translates into about 20. I feel like I need to use them up. I don't know how I got so many !!! I thought Universal meant use for everything. Before I found this site and got educated about needles. When I get my supply whittled down, I want to try titanium needles. I have some blades for my cutter, and they last forever. Love them.
Sue

Ha! I agree! I would bet it's never been serviced either... :eek: I loved the titanium needles, but my brother machine, not so much. I'll have to try them in my bernina and see if she likes them. :) When y'all change needle size, do you change your thread as well? And do you use different threads when working with batiks?

The thing that blows me away - those that think "universal" means it will work with any sewing machine. I've got 65 non-Singer vintage machines, and need about 15 different needle styles to fit them all.

Now that's a needle!!!! :D Either that, or she's never sewn with that machine.....

Thank you for this thread as I will be working with batiks soon.

In my never ending quest to get that illusive "scant" 1/4 inch I had read use aurfil thread with a 70/10 needle. Did make a difference...couldn't believe it but it did!

I also use a 70/10 needle when machine embroidering lettering.

I use a Microtex sharp for everything.

I agree, the smaller needle is great for batiks.

I just started machine appliqueing some hexagons onto some background squares and I changed to a top stitch needle and couldn't believe the difference it made. The needle went through the fabric just like butter too.

I agree with Kinette about using a needle appropriate for what you are sewing. Batiks are more closely woven than other cotton fabrics, so you should definitely use a sharp when sewing on them. I was taught that you use the ball point needles when sewing on knits, as they would not "catch" on the fabric. Hope this helps a little. Can't wait to see your finished quilt, as batiks are some of my favorite fabrics for quilting.

This board is a "wealth" of good information. Thanks to you all.

Thank you to all who wrote on this thread...I learned a lot!