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Needle ?

Posted: Mon Jan 08, 2018 11:02 am
by nonnato4
Which size is best for needle? I have a golden very narrow one, it is good to go into fabric easy but hole for thread is sometimes problem. Some days thread go in OK & other times not OK & take me longer to place into hole. I have fatter needles with bigger piece for thread but some not feel good in my hand & I not like use them.

How do you know needle size? I cannot see marks on mine to tell me. I think I read size 26 is best but am not certain. I forget to make note of size in kits I buy. When use chart from magazine I not sure which to choose from needles I have in needle holder.

Re: Needle ?

Posted: Mon Jan 08, 2018 11:10 am
by Nicola Main
If you're stitching on 14 count aida (or 28 count evenweave) then a size 24 tapestry needle is best.

Re: Needle ?

Posted: Mon Jan 08, 2018 12:40 pm
by Mabel Figworthy
Much of it is a matter of taste - some people prefer a size 24 or a size 28 whatever they stitch on. Personally I use a size 24 and 22 for Hardanger, a 24 for cross stitch on anything up to 28ct, and a 26 for anything finer. So basically that means that whatever works for you is fine :-).

I don't think needles are ever marked, so you will have to get a needle whose size you know and compare them. Or there are needle charts online that you can print out, and compare the needles to. (be sure to read at what size/percentage the chart needs to be printed to be life-size.)

Re: Needle ?

Posted: Mon Jan 08, 2018 1:34 pm
by nonnato4
Thank for fast replies. I order 1 packet each of 24 & 26, Will place a packet in different small plastic boxes so not mix them up. Can write size on box tops.

Re: Needle ?

Posted: Mon Jan 08, 2018 4:35 pm
by rcperryls
Just to repeat what others have said, there is no rule about needle size. For the longest time I used 24's and 26's but then discovered petite 28's and use those almost exclusively. The only problem is that if I drop one its harder to find on the floor or rug. Another example of why this is such a great hobby (or obsession): virtually no rules besides the ones you make for yourself.

Carole
:dance:

Re: Needle ?

Posted: Mon Jan 08, 2018 9:07 pm
by nonnato4
Thank you. The more information I read the more I learn. Many members have much knowledge of this craft, it is very good place to be for helping those not sure :)

I did see petite needles but last few years I add weight to my body & fingers :roll: Wider fingers mean I probably would drop them often but thank you for information.

Thank you all for answering my question.

Re: Needle ?

Posted: Tue Jan 09, 2018 9:14 am
by Serinde
I pretty much do what Mabel does. It's important that the needle is big enough to allow the thread to go through the hole with as little friction on it as possible. This reduces wear and tear (and fuzziness) on the thread itself. If you are using any combination of thread and metallic thread (blending filament, for example), a larger needle with a larger eye will always be easier to use and control.

Re: Needle ?

Posted: Tue Jan 09, 2018 12:20 pm
by nonnato4
Thank you. I take a small notebook & write these things down. Can also write how long my projects take to stitch, like another member who has new x stitch notebook. New notebook for new start of year & my start on this Forum :)