How often do you change needles?
 

And don't answer when It breaks or bends! https://cdn.quiltingboard.com/images/smilies/cool.png After every project? After so many hours of sewing and if so how do you track those hours?

I only wind 2 bobbins at a time, when I have to wind more bobbins that is my sign to change my needle and clean out my bobbin area. Yes I can wind more bobbins, but this is what works for me to ensure that I clean my machine and change the needle on a regular basis.

Lisa, what a great idea!!! Love it. https://cdn.quiltingboard.com/images/smilies/sewing.gifhttps://cdn.quiltingboard.com/images/smilies/sewing.gif

I honestly only change my needles when I think about it. Probably after every 8-10 quilts.

That does sound like a great way to keep track.

I change mine when I think of it or when I hear it starting to sound thunkish.

If you listen carefully, you will hear the needle...pop, pop, pop through the fabric. It's time to change the needle.

I change the needle after about 8 hours of sewing.

If i get a jam.

Between projects.

My favorite needle is micro-tex 80/12. Lots of them in the needle box.

I'm like Tartan and Cindi. I wind 4 bobbins at a time and when they're empty I clean out the bobbin area and oil.

I use to change needles after every quilt. Now I check if I hear a pluck pluck or if I feel a burr on it.

After about 10 hrs of sewing.