bearisgray

So far, my favorite brand is John James.

Are there "better" ones available? if so, are they available "locally" - or do they need to be ordered?

ckcowl

I use John James most of the time. I do have some Roxanne needles that are also nice, smooth - they seem to bend a bit sooner than the John James though

cashs_mom

For most hand work, I use Japanese embroidery needles. They are very thin and got thru the fabric quite smoothly and have an elongated eye that is very easy to thread.

SusieQOH

I just got some Japanese as well. I love them.

bearisgray

Is there a brand name for the Japanese needles?

homecaregiver

I prefer Richard Hemming needles. Have not heard anything about the Japenese needles.

bearisgray

The ones I actually use are the ones I can find and that I can get threaded! I start small and work up. If I can get an 11 John James Sharp or between (quilting ) needle threaded, I am a happy camper.

SusieQOH

Bear, the Japanese brand I have is Tulip. I can't remember where I got them!

peaceandjoy

My favorites are Foxglove Cottage or Tulip. The Tulip brand are available at many LQS, they come in a cardboard box, with each type in a different color. Foxglove I use most, but have only been able to get them by ordering online. They do have a variety pack in each type available, so that you can try different sizes within that type of needle.

mic-pa

I like John James for hand quilting #11 but for sewing binding on by hand I prefer straw needles as they are longer and very slender