i guess i buy my needles at mrs blows that is where i bought my machines

Check Superior Threads.com. It is having a sale on topstitch needles through end of May and shipping is only $3.95 no matter how much stuff you order. Also during the month of May, you can order the DVD on threads for free as long as you pay the shipping charge. So if you happen to order something from Superior Threads this month, you might as well ask for the free DVD which usually sells for $24.95, I think.

Ok, going to show my ignorance here. What is the difference between regular needles and top stitch needles?

when i bought my last machine the dealer told me---the where is not important- the brand is- for me to be sure to buy Schmetz needles-
i generally get them either at joannes (coupons come in handy) or the lqs.
i do not have to buy needles often- they are one of those things hubby always buys me a large assortment of for (stocking stuffers) every year- he gets an assortment of sizes & different types- so i am so well stocked i could (almost) open a needle shop :)

I also am a JHittle fan, great prices, speedy shipping.

I only use Organ Titanium coated top stitch needles and I buy them from Superior Threads.com or sometimes from a yahoo group called pins and needles where you can buy at a great discount. The members have to meet a minimum order but you can buy as little or a much as you like.

I use the Schmetz 90/14 topstitch exclusively on my Pfaff machine on the frame. It's the only needles it likes. LOL
I buy them at Joanns. I request them for Christmas - they make a nice stocking gift.