3 Hand Stitching Needles for Project Success
There are many different hand stitching needles on the market today. I would like to focus on 3 types of
needles to keep in your toolbox that will work with Poorhouse Quilt Designs’ projects!
Poorhouse Quilt Designs patterns focus on using support materials other than 100% cotton quilt batting. We like to use foam, nonwoven interfacings, and stiffeners. You might encounter thick layers and your general sewing needle isn’t up for the job.
What should you consider when choosing a hand stitching needle?
· Type of Point
· Characteristics of the eye
· Needle length
· Needle diameter
Your choice of needle is a personal preference. Here are the 3 types of hand stitching needles that I have found helpful to keep on hand:
Embroidery Needles
Point - Sharp
Characteristics of the eye – long, extra-large eye for using multiple strands of thread
Needle Length – Medium, like sharps
Needle Diameter – Size 1-4 Heavier Fabrics, Size 5-9 General Sewing, Size- 10-12 fine delicate stitching
I like using these for attaching beads to projects, because I can thread multiple strands of thread and speed up my hand sewing. (I prefer a size 6 for the Fold’n Stitch projects!)
Chenille Needles
Point - Sharp
Characteristics of the eye – Large eye for ribbon and perle cotton
Needle Length – long
Needle Diameter – Size 13-16 for Heavier thicknesses, Size 18-26 lighter layers
Use the chenille needle to add hanging ribbons to ornaments.
Sharps (General Purpose Sewing)
Point - Sharp
Characteristics of the eye – short and round for a single strand of thread
Needle Length – Medium
Needle Diameter – Size 2-4 Heavier Fabrics, Size 5-9 General Sewing, Size- 10-12 fine delicate stitching
Tried and true sharps – keep a variety of these on hand for any general sewing job! I am partial to the Clover Black/Gold needles for binding! They are ultra-smooth and easy to work with!
Keeping the correct tool on hand saves you so much time and it really helps with a professional finish.
Stay stitching!-Kris
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