Machine Needles

The point shape is the key feature. Universal needles are slightly rounded and suit woven fabric; jersey and stretch needles have a distinctly ball shaped tip that pushes loops aside instead of piercing them.

For dense weaves there are denim needles with a reinforced shaft, for leather and faux leather a cutting point, for fine microfibres the particularly slim microtex. Once you know the fabric, the needle follows quickly.

Size depends on fabric thickness: lower numbers for fine fabrics, higher for thick ones. As a rule needle, thread and fabric have to match – a thick needle with fine thread produces loose stitches.

Change the needle at the latest when stitches are skipped, the thread breaks more often or the machine sounds different as it pierces. A blunt needle damages the fabric long before it looks blunt.