What is the best type of needle for hand sewing?
 

I haven't done an awful lot of hand sewing in the past but I am currently doing an EPP hexagon project.

I'm amazed by how quickly my needles are getting tarnished, which makes them really difficult to push!

I'm wondering if there's a type of needle out there that will last a bit longer? I'm currently using John James sharps (the ones that come in a "pebble") which I guess are just pretty standard needles. I think i'm on about my 6th or 7th needle and i'm only about halfway through my project! This is going to cost me a fortune in needles if I can't find a better type!

I use John James and Bohin and have never had a problem. I don't usually throw needles away, only lose them.

When I first started learning to hand quilt, I was using any old needle and could hardly push it through. Then I ordered some Roxanne betweens from the Colonial Needle Co., and it was suddenly so easy to quilt! I couldn't believe the difference. I am also now using Roxanne basting and applique needles, and they seem great.

http://www.colonialneedle.com/cgi-bi...e_list_roxanne

I'm a believer in Roxanne needles as well. So far have only used the betweens for hand quilting but would not hesitate to use other types. And Colonial Needle has the best prices and awesome customer service. Just my experience.