I bought the John James and while they are easier to thread, I can still break them. Local handquilters have convinced me to try the Roxannes on the next project. Many of the Dear Jane retreat gals also recommended the Roxannes. I have not heard of Tulip. I looked them up on google and found sashiko and embroidery needles, a couple called Hiroshima needles. Pink castle fabrics had a pack but they are sold out that included several types of quilting needles.

I found them---they are the Hiroshima ones. United notions (Moda) carries the line. A promo is available on youtube that explains the process. Interesting! I'll have to check them out. Thanks for posting.

First, your quilt might be to tight in your hoop. The second is try a different quilting needle brand. I have tried John James betweens and found that they bend way to easily for me. I use Roxanne betweens and never had any bending problems.

I bend needles when I'm stressed. My grip is way too much at times.

I also like the Tulip needles. I haven't used them for quilting but, really like them for applique. Karen K. Buckley sells them on her website.

I am the renegade!! As a beginner, you may it very hard to use and do what many have done for years. Do not start on a precious heirloom. I started hand quilting while waiting to take a class. I used whatever I had available, including any needle in the pincushion. I also found I do not like using a hoop. I quilt in my lap. There are several videos out on the how-to's of hoopless. Try to keep the thread reasonable, even though it is tempting to use a longer one so you don't have to thread so often. Don't, instead load several needles. Ad last but not least, just do a little at a time, your hands will thank you. And no matter how awful it is take pictures, close pictures with a ruler to show those stitches, so you can compare next year and see how you have improved!! One more, your flannel backing may be making it harder than a cotton backing. Good Luck, I know once you get comfortable, you will LOVE it!!!!

I, too, bent needles when I was learning to hand quilt, but as I learned, I learned to relax, use a well-fitting thimble (Tommie Lane) the proper thread, and waxing my thread, the bent needle problem resolved.

Yep me too!! LOL

My needles want to bend also, but I have found that if I use a bent needle, it fits my hold just perfect.

From one needle bender to another- I bend mine because I grip them very tight. Have never used a hand sewing needle that was not bent by the time I was done. Drove my grandmother nuts. She made me buy my own.