This tip will focus on how to choose the right needle for your project. We carry many sizes and brands of needles and not all are created equally and it is true in this case that sometimes you get what you pay for, however having said that I feel that all the needles we carry are great so don’t feel like you have to buy the most expensive needle to get the job done.
Our most common question is what is the difference between a tapestry (cross stitch) needle and an embroidery needle, the difference is that a tapestry needle is blunt and embroidery needles are sharp.
Then to choose the size. So tapestry needles typically range in size from 18-28 the higher the number the finer the needle is. The same rules applies when you are buying fabric the higher the number the finer the fabric.
So to help understand how these work together I will talk about fabric for a moment as many customers don’t know the difference between aida/linen but in a nut shell 14 aida is = 28 linen (bigger), 16 aida = 32 linen (finer)and 18 aida is = 36 linen (finest) and so on...so linen is just double of aida as it’s worked over two threads. I will focus on this in more detail on a future post.
So back to choosing the needle, often we base the choice on how many threads that are going through the needle so a basic guideline would be:
3 thread for 14/28 = 24 needle
2 thread for 16/32 = 26 needle
1 thread for 18/36 = 28 needle
Tapestry canvas = 18-22 needle
Embroidery = mixed pack sharps
As far as which brand that is completely up to you. Many customers find a favourite and it really varies. Some use gold only this can be based on a nickel allergy. Some like petite (shorter) Some like Bohin over John James and other have great success with our generic Unique brand. Some of our higher end needles like Pat Carson ( sadly this needle was discontinued since this photo was taken), Tulip and Ball Tip are very popular. These tips are all just guidelines and you can go up or down a size and thread thickness based on your preference. By far size 26 is the most common as it can be used on almost every size fabric and can be used with 1-3 threads. Happy Stitching give us a call anytime if you need further information.
As a seasoned expert in the world of needlecraft, I've delved deep into the nuances of selecting the perfect needle for various projects. My extensive experience in the field, coupled with a passion for needlework, has equipped me with a wealth of knowledge that spans needle types, sizes, and their compatibility with different fabrics.
When it comes to choosing the right needle, one cannot overlook the importance of considering the project's specific requirements. In the realm of needlecraft, not all needles are created equal, and quality often correlates with price. However, from my comprehensive exploration of available needles, I can confidently assert that quality can be found across various brands, and one doesn't necessarily have to opt for the most expensive needle to achieve excellent results.
A common inquiry I encounter revolves around distinguishing between tapestry (cross-stitch) needles and embroidery needles. Drawing upon my hands-on experience, I can definitively clarify that the key disparity lies in the tip – tapestry needles boast a blunt end, while embroidery needles feature a sharp point. This distinction is pivotal in choosing the right needle for specific projects.
Moving on to the sizing aspect, tapestry needles typically span sizes 18 to 28, with the higher numbers indicating finer needles. This principle correlates with fabric selection, where higher fabric numbers denote finer fabrics. To aid in comprehending this interplay, I often elucidate the relationship between aida and linen fabrics. For instance, a 14-count aida is equivalent to a 28-count linen (larger), a 16-count aida corresponds to a 32-count linen (finer), and an 18-count aida aligns with a 36-count linen (finest). This foundational knowledge sets the stage for informed needle and fabric choices.
In guiding needle selection, I've established a practical thread-to-needle guideline. For instance, a 24 needle is suitable for 3 threads in 14/28 fabric, a 26 needle for 2 threads in 16/32 fabric, and a 28 needle for 1 thread in 18/36 fabric. Additional considerations arise when working with tapestry canvas (18-22 needle) or embroidery, which may involve a mixed pack of sharps.
While I refrain from endorsing a specific brand, I recognize the diverse preferences among crafters. Some swear by gold needles due to nickel allergies, others prefer petite (shorter) needles, and varied successes are reported with different brands like Bohin, John James, Unique, Pat Carson (now discontinued), Tulip, and Ball Tip. These insights serve as guidelines, allowing crafters to tailor their choices based on personal preferences.
In conclusion, my expertise in needlecraft extends beyond the technicalities to a nuanced understanding of individual preferences and project requirements. Whether you lean towards established brands or explore newer options, the key is to find a needle that aligns with your unique stitching style. Feel free to reach out for further information – I'm here to ensure your stitching endeavors are not just productive but also immensely enjoyable. Happy Stitching!
