Me too--I seldom change a needle unless I've broken one. I also use the "popping sound" as an indicator.

changing needles I didn't realize that they do get dull. I kept hearing this Pop Pop when sewing but didn't realize it was the dull needle . so now I change for each new project if I have sewn for at east eight hours and dI do nt hear that pop sound.

Unless it is titanium, most people recommend after 8 hours of sewing it should be replaced. Titanium needles last about 5times longer.
A good rule of thumb is to know that it is already too late when you hear the popping sound as it goes into the fabric. Definitely change it then.

I listen to the sound as the needle passes thru the material. I change the needle when it sounds like the needle is punching it's way thru the material. Just a louder sound than usual.

Hi
When I purchased by Bernina 440 EQ last year, I was told by my dealer that you should change the needle after 8 hours of sewing. Not sure if this holds true for a long arm quilting machine.
NormaBeth

Like a few others have mentioned, I can hear when I need to change the needle and I'm guessing you'll get to that point as well. In case you aren't sure what to listen for, do a simple test. Put in a new needle and listen closely. Then, put in the old needle and see if you can hear the popping noise.

I also change the needle when I've spent a fair amount of time doing something like paper piecing.

I guess I should change my needle, I don't remember the last time I changed it.... oops :oops:

On the same subject, but a slightly different direction. I've learned when you have problems to first check if your needle is all the way up in the needle holder. If it loosens & slips just a bit, there will be issues.

I love this idea! I don't change my needle often enough for sure - and this would be a great way to force myself to do it! Thanks (and thanks to your HomeEc teacher too...too bad they don't still offer HomeEc classes!)

I'm not sure what other's do but my rule of thumb is to change the needle about every 8 hours of sewing time, unless it get's jammed and nicked or bent, change it immediately!

I clean out the bobbin area using a 3/4" paint bruh and give the machine a tiny drop of oil every time I change the bobbin. This helps prevent thread jams from the lint.