Sewing machine needles
 

I am new at sewing on a machine. When do I change needles and what needles do I need to use? My machine came with regular needles. Reading some of your blogs, I need to use different needles. Would you offer me suggestions?

I have an older Bernina and I use Schmetz quilting needles size 14 for piecing and quilting. We can't suggest a specific needle unless you tell us what you are going to be doing.

maybe this chart will help you. http://www.sewing.org/files/guidelin...dle_charts.pdf


or this one http://www.joann.com/on/demandware.s...df/PA00223.pdf

here's another one: http://www.sewmamasew.com/2009/06/se...o-choose-them/ or this one: http://www.craftstylish.com/item/145...ge-your-needle
. I usually change my needle when I see a difference in the sewing. If I have gone thru many thicki layers for a long time ( working on a quilt) it will be one needle per quilt. If it's just sewing on plain fabric, it may not be as often.

Check out Superior Threads, They tell you about threads and needles, lots of good info there!

The needle size depends on the thread type and the weight and ply of the thread. I use thin thread for piecing and in my bobbin so I use a size 80 needle. I use Superior (Organ) Titanium topstitch needles for machine quilting and piecing.

You might want to check nearby LQS's. The one nearest me had coupon specials at least monthly and sells the needles in boxes of 100.

I don't use the titanium needles because I would rather the needle break than my machine. I guess I am old fashioned.

LOL the titanium needles will break easly if you pull or push your fabric the same using a Schultz needles. The titanium needles are coated with titanium not solid titanium. Titanium-coated needles last longer and run cooler, that last 10 times longer than ordinary ones.

I use schmetz 11/75 quilting needles to piece and the 14/90 to quilt.