What I learned about needles for your hand quilters out there

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02-04-2011, 06:20 AM

Happy Treadler

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Did you know that there is actually a right side and a wrong side to thread a hand needle?? Learned it yesterday in my new American Patchwork & Quilting magazine. It said if you're having trouble threading a needle, turn it around. It actually worked!!

Just wanted to share in case I wasn't the only one who didn't know that.

Trina

02-04-2011, 06:23 AM

Hinterland

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Another trick is to wet the needle eye - it wicks the thread through.

02-04-2011, 06:26 AM

pheasantduster

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What great tips - thanks - after all these years you can always learn something new!

02-04-2011, 06:27 AM

grendelskin

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I've turned the needle around to make threading easier but I can't identify which is the "good" side before I try it! Thanks for the tip!

02-04-2011, 07:01 AM

jcrilley

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Location: NE OH

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Quote:

Originally Posted by grendelskin

I've turned the needle around to make threading easier but I can't identify which is the "good" side before I try it! Thanks for the tip!

Unrelated to needle post, but I like your avitar - what's the pattern?

02-04-2011, 07:14 AM

AgapeStitches

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I have found that the wrong side of the eye is very smooth and the right side seems to "dip" like scratch in a smooth finish.

02-04-2011, 08:08 AM

amma

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Thank you for passing on this great tip!! :D:D:D

02-04-2011, 08:10 AM

sewwhat85

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i didnt know that but i do have better luck putting needle on thread not putting thread in the needle, if that makes sense

02-04-2011, 08:11 AM

brookemarie19

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Thanks for the tip. I have to remember that next time I need to thread a needle

02-04-2011, 11:31 AM

#10

quilter68

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Location: Pennsylvania

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FYI...when needles are made they are just blanks and then a machine punches the holes in them. So one side is the back side.

It also helps if you cut your thread on a slant.