This is so interesting.
I think I'm going to make some pincushions. I never knew what to put in them before.
Thanks everyone

Thanks for the information. I was going to buy some steel wool to do this when I went for groceries, but now I am not. Its not worth damaging your sewing machine just to save a little money by not just using a new needle. I am fortunate I have probably 15 needles or so, but I still don't change the needle like I am supposed to.

there is also an emery-type sanding sponge that i have cut strips from to smooth out any nicks on the needle plate. I suppose you could use it for needles too.

Keepsake Quilting has a picture of one being used on the bed of the machine. I freaked out when I saw that! Not a good idea, I wouldn't think.

Is real emery better than ruby and diamond dust? My strawberry is about 14 years old. Which would it have? The velvet is all worn out and I am scared one of these days it is gonna pop when I poke it! :lol:

I have used the steel wool when I make pin cushions, to hold pins and needles. I would never have thought to use it on my machine. Thanks for the tip.

I heard lambs wool will sharpen needles also but really couldn't figure out how that would work. Has anyone ever heard of this?

make it a NEW case...with a small piece of velvet or corduroy!
it is probably real emery!

yes, but it does not really sharpen them, it just makes them slick from the lanolin!

Thanks, that's what I thought. I was also wondering, if you threaded the needle and pulled the thread thru if it would act kinda like Thread Heaven and help smooth the thread, less knotting.

Thank you, I was going to do it today, and mentioning it to DH he said that could be detrimental to machine. He said it like I should have known that and I feel kind of dumb. So thank you for the warning so I didn't ruin my machine!