Need an opinion

[lcamp]

I am returning to cross stitch after many years and need some feedback on fabric gauges, cross stitch gauges and needle size. My project when it arrives is a bread cloth(14 ct). I have purchased 18-22 size needles. Is this correct? I also have a needle that came with a kit. Should I use that one instead? Is there a hard and fast rule for needle size to fabric count?

I am contemplating the purchase of a fabric gauge and/or a cross stitch gauge. Do any of you use these?


Thanks for your input!
lcamp

[Sojourner]

I am far from an expert, and others on here will give you a better answer than this.
But, I would say a 26 needle for 14ct. Using 2 threads.
Again, as a (relative) beginner myself, I don't use fabric/needle gauges, but just go with the usual advice - for aida - 28 needle for 18/22ct, 26 needle for 14/16ct, 24 for larger stuff. Evenweave is another country, for me, but there are lots of experts on here to advise you.
Good stitching!

[perftangel]

I personally use 26 the majority of the time whichout regards to what count my stuff is, but according to the yarntreecalculator (http://yarntree.com/java/xstitchcal.htm) you can use 24 too for a 14 count

[Sojourner]

Yes, me too. Just bought a mega pack of gold plated 26 needles....

[richardandtracy]

I use size 26 needles in 14ct Aida, 28ct Evenweave & 32ct Linen, all with 2 threads. The 14ct Aida is a little sparse with only 2 threads.

Possibly I should mention that a size 26 is what I got with my first kit and have stuck with it since.

Regards,

Richard

[Rose]

Like the others I tend to use a 26 for just about all of my work. I have 28's as well but I do not use them as much. Certainly if you are more comfortable with the 18 or 22 tapestry needles then you can use them.

As for the fabric gauge I have a ruler from years ago that has a gauge on it but find I rarely use it.

[Mabel Figworthy]

It's partly a personal thing - within certain limitations (the needle shouldn't be so big it distorts the fabric, or so small it can't take the desired number of threads) you can do pretty much what you like. I like using a 24 and would probably use it on anything up to a 28ct fabric, but for miniature work I prefer a 28 or even a beading needle. And when doing Hardanger I use a 22 needle when using the thicker of my threads, whether I work on 22ct or on 25ct.

My advice would be to try a few different sized needles on diffferent sized fabric with different numbers of strands, and see which you prefer!

[Allyn]

I don't do kits, but from what I've been told the needle that comes with a kit can be quite a cheapo. That's not really a bad thing since the needle only has to last through that one project, so sure, you can use that needle that comes with it. It's probably going to be a #24 needle, which is okay. As the others have said, a #26 or even #28 is fine, too. I'd be concerned that a #18 might open the holes too wide, but try it around the edge of the fabric and see what you think.

I bought those fabric gauges years ago, but I end up using a ruler; so in my opinion, the gauges aren't really all that helpful.

[rcperryls]

I generally prefer a 28 needle and definitely use that for 25 and 28 ct fabric or anything higher. I do use 1 a 26 for my afghans which are 18 ct fabrics, but if I pick up a 28 I don't mind. Trying different sizes until you find the one(s) you like best and suit your style is most important.

Carole

[crosstitcher1]

I started my "needle collection" 31 yrs. ago with kits. I have them in a plastic covered container, stuck in those paper things when you buy needles, that my Mom gave me , when she found that I was "into" sewing. (Not her kind, but into to "sewing" period.) I have been using them for years. Personally, I like the "feel" of the kit needles.

HAPPY STITCHING IN STITCHING LAND