What size and type of machine needles do you generally use the most?
 

Hi,
Looking to be educated about what needles you use the most for piecing and quilting. I have not been very picky in the past and a friend suggested I become more particular in a nice,noncritical and loving way. She said that Universal needles are good for nothing.
Looking forward to your ideas...thanks!
lots2do

I use 80's for piecing, and just about everything. I keep some 90's around too.

I've always used 90/14 for just about everything...but then again I never change the feet on my machine. I may not be the best one to answer this question. LOL

Visit Superior Threads website. They have free information charts teaching you a lot about different needles, threads, weights, sizes, uses. A great resource with a wealth of information. The size needle you use is dependent on the type/ weight of thread being used along with what you are using it for.

What thread are you using? Thread size in large part determines needle size. As to needle type, I'd have to check. I believe sharps, quilting, microtex have all worked for me for piecing. Superior threads recommends a top stitch needle:
https://www.superiorthreads.com/educ...-right-needle/

For a thorough education in needles and threads, check out their information here:
https://www.superiorthreads.com/education/

I used to use a size 80 needle for piecing. However, I have found that with my Aurifil 50wt 2-ply thread I can get away with using a size 70 or 75. The advantage of a smaller needle size is that the holes in the fabric are smaller. I also like the size 70 for machine applique using nylon monofilament thread (which is very fine). I think the needle I'm currently using for piecing is a microtex, but not sure.

I usually use 90/14 microtex top stitch needles, mainly because the eye is large enough for me to thread without having to use a lot of bad words to get it threaded. Most of the time I use Gutterman 50 weight thread, sometimes Superiors King Tut.

I use Organ needles most of the time and 90/14. Sometimes Schmetz, same size. I only piece and quilt with a very rare mending job on something heavier, lighter, or stretchier, in which case I change needle sizes. I found a huge amount of Organ needles (10 packs of 10) for a ridiculously good price on Amazon about six months ago. I change needles after every big project.

When I bought my Juki TL2010Q, I received 10 packages of Organ needles, various sizes. I had never used that brand before. They are great. When I have a problem with thread breaking or fraying, I might switch to Schmetz topstitch, usually size 16, and that seems to solve the problem.

I use 75/11 or 80/12 needles usually quilting or sharps for piecing and usually 90/14 topstitch for FMQ

The needle size depends on the wt and ply and type of thread. Superior Threads is best education online about thread and needles.