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about needles...
richsgirl Member since 2/4/12 Posts: 8	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 2/8/12 1:56 AM How do you know exactly when it's time to change out a sewing machine needle? We just got a singer quantum stylist for my daughter and I, we are enjoying it very much so far! Also, how do you know exactly which size needle to use for each project. I ambout to start a baby blanket with really thick material. How do I know what to use?
Red Dragon Intermediate AUSTRALIA Member since 2/4/08 Posts: 336	Login to reply to this post In reply to richsgirl Like this post Date: 2/8/12 2:25 AM In general terms I've been told to change the needle for each project or every 4 sewing hours. Sometimes I let it go longer, especially if I'm working on similar fabric on back to back projects, or just doing repairs and so forth. I got a little pamphlet some time back when I bought some needles, so your local sewing store may have something similar, that describes the different needle types and what needles goes with which weight of fabric. I did find this link to a blog that has a good summary that should help you start off. HTH and good luck ------ Tracy, Canberra Janome 7700QCP, Janome 4618QC, Husky S25 overlock/coverstitch
julie w Intermediate AUSTRALIA Member since 12/25/06 Posts: 665	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 2/8/12 4:59 AM I do the same as Red Dragon and change needles after most projects except for alterations which I tend to do in bulk anyway. This from the Threads website may be of help. ------ Julie, Perth, WA
CathrynR   Intermediate NH USA Member since 6/26/08 Posts: 703	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 2/8/12 5:25 AM I put in a new needle for each new project. But keep and label the used needles to use on muslins. To label the used needles, I use a sharpy and write in each section of a red tomato pin cushion a different needle size, (i.e. 70 sharp) and then stick the corresponding used needle into that section.
DreinPA   Intermediate PA USA Member since 4/5/06 Posts: 250	Login to reply to this post In reply to richsgirl Like this post Date: 2/8/12 8:20 AM It is rare for a sewing machine manual to be printed without a chart of needles and thread, for different fabrics. You may wish to start there. ------ Don't confuse accessibility with ease; just because anybody can pick up a needle and thread doesn't mean sewing quality garments is easy.
jynclr   Advanced Beginner TX USA Member since 12/20/11 Posts: 839	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 2/8/12 8:36 AM What DreInPA said. Here's your manual: Pg 8 - Needles and what to use -- Edited on 2/8/12 8:40 AM -- ------ Evelyn: Pfaff Creative Performance Helen V: Babylock Companion BL1550
gramma b Advanced USA Member since 7/25/08 Posts: 2264	Login to reply to this post In reply to CathrynR Like this post Date: 2/8/12 9:10 AM OOO, I like that tomato idea. Just wish they would make those teeny-tiny #'s on the needles bigger, even with specs we can't read. I recommend you pick up a couple Nancy's Notions Tip books, you will have answers to every little thing like this for a quick reference--Favorite Hints and 10-20-30 Minutes to Sew--I found them in Half-Price Books. Also Sew Fast, Faster Fastest by Hausmann. **You will rely on Tip books instead of the pattern instructions, which are often outdated (why??) with new methods.
richsgirl Member since 2/4/12 Posts: 8	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 2/8/12 4:00 PM Thanks everyone
hazelnut   Beginner USA Member since 1/7/09 Posts: 2286	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 2/8/12 7:57 PM I found this Singer needle cushion after marking up a red tomato pin cushion too. Now I have a cushion for each sewing machine and the serger. Singer Needle cushion The singer doesn't have all the needle sizes and types, so I write in what I need, but I like how the side (divided) sections are divided by the number of hours used. -- Edited on 2/8/12 8:01 PM --
tgm and Kittys   Advanced Beginner WI USA Member since 3/8/10 Posts: 6940	Login to reply to this post In reply to richsgirl Like this post Date: 2/8/12 8:36 PM I have been using Organ needles the past several months. I find they are nice & sturdy. I agree with other posters check your sewing machine manual for needle sizes. Whenever you have any stitch getting weird looking be sure to change the needle right away that is something I learned here on PR & really does make a big difference. ------ I am a gal from Kalamazoo.... oh what a gal... smile.... It is in Michigan... la la la ...love that Glen Miller classic! Home of Abigail The Babykins & Lil Mittee kitty >^,,^ Be Still, & Know That I am, God + Please say a prayer for my poor feet. ... + ..one month down .. 6 weeks more to go.. They are healing. Thanks everyone for your prayers. 5/8/13 smile

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