sewing machine needles Explained

Understanding Sizes

Needles have American and European sizes that describe their thicknesses.

Needle sizes are written with the European number followed by the American number.

The bigger the written size, the bigger and thicker the needle is.

Picking the Right Size

Choose a thicker needle for thick fabrics and a thinner needle for thin, delicate fabrics.

3 Main Point Types

Three common types of points exist on non-specialty sewing machine needles: ballpoint, sharp point, and universal point.

1. Ballpoint Needles

Use ballpoint sewing needles on stretchy fabric for the best results.

2. Sharp Needles

Use sharp needles for fabric with a tight weave or when topstitching.