Needle Size

[bolshiegirl]

Probably a very silly question, but here goes...
Can anyone tell me whether a higher number gauge when referring to needles means a smaller or larger needle? I am trying to order a stash from an online store and have had a major brain freeze. Doh!

[Rose]

I can actually help you with this one. A lower number needle means a larger size needle.

Example a 22 size needle is larger then a 26 size needle.

[Serinde]

Yes, indeed. And if you are planning on stitching with two strands on 14ct, then a size 24 will work well. The higher the fabric thread count, the smaller (and so the higher the gauge) of needle you need.
Everyone has their own likes and dislikes on needle size, but the eye of the needle is meant to be large enough to make the hole a bit bigger, pulling the thread through with less friction. Less friction on the thread means it doesn't fray as fast or (in the case of metallics) break at an awkward moment.
And then there is the equally vexed question of what the needles have been made of... but that's a different subject!

[bolshiegirl]

Thanks to all who helped out with my query on needle size - it's the sort of thing you just don't know as a newbie and sometimes feel a bit embarressed asking the shop assistant!

[freelady]

the eye of the needle is meant to be large enough to make the hole a bit bigger, pulling the thread through with less friction.

Thanks, Serinde, I didn't know that and thus have tried to use needles the same size/smaller than the holes. Live and learn!

[coffeeninja]

the eye of the needle is meant to be large enough to make the hole a bit bigger, pulling the thread through with less friction.

Thanks, Serinde, I didn't know that and thus have tried to use needles the same size/smaller than the holes. Live and learn!

I didn't know this either - thanks!

Sorry to hijack the thread, but what size needle should I use for 14count aida then? Or for 28count linen?

[Mabel Figworthy]

It's partly a matter of personal preference -- I use a 24 on both of the fabrics you mention, and sometimes even on 32ct; but some people prefer not to "push" the fabric when using aida (because the holes stay enlarged) and so might use a 26 even on 14ct aida.

The advice you'll generally find (but bear in mind that all stitching advice comes with the footnote "like this if it works for you -- if not, try other methods until you find what does work for you") seems to be a 24 on 14ct aida, a 26 on 28ct evenweave and 16ct aida, a 26 or a 28 on 36ct evenweave and 18ct aida.

Good luck experimenting!

[coffeeninja]

Cool, thanks!!

[Becca]

I use a size 24 on 14 or 16 count aida, and i use a size 28 on my 28 count evenweave for my HAED.

[Mabel Figworthy]

I should add that it also depends on the number of strands I'm working on. My kingfisher is worked on 27ct over two, partly in two strands, for which I use a 24, and partly in one strand, for which I use a 28 to keep the thread from slipping out. Oh, I also use a 28 for beading.

[Vani]

This is all very useful information to someone who could use a lot of help, like myself!. Thank you.