Selecting Needles

Hand-sewing needles can be purchased in packages with all one size or with a variety of sizes. Needles are numbered 1 through 12 and categorized as sharps or betweens. Sharps are all-purpose needles used for applique and piecing. Betweens are used for quilting. The higher the number, the finer and shorter the needle. The recommended size range for quiltmaking is 7-12.

Many types of sewing-machine needles are available. The size of the needle used is determined by the fabrics, threads and types of stitches being used. Your sewing machine manual will offer suggestions.

Generally, a size #80/12 needle is used for everyday sewing, and for heavier fabrics, a #90/14 is used. Remember, when you are machine-quilting layers, a larger needle (at least #90/14) will be required. Special machine-quilting needles are also available from sewing supply shops.