thinking small
J: Linda, can you tell me a little about small sewing machines. What are the advantages?
L: Joan, small sewing machines are great for taking to quilting and sewing classes because the large machines can be very heavy. They only weigh around 12 lbs which makes them ideal to take to classes and workshops. They are also perfect for travel.
J: Are they worth the extra expense though?
L: There are a variety of models available in a price range that will suit everybody. The mechanical models are the least expensive but they also offer the least in features. Usually they will offer basic straight, zig-zag and reverse stitching.
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Sewing machine needles come in a variety of types. You should always make your needle selection based on the type of fabric, and the weight and type of thread you are using
Ball Point Needle
Made especially for sewing on knits, its unique point does not damage or break knitted fibers.
Denim Needle
For jeans and similar densely woven materials.
Double Needle
Two needles mounted on a crossbar with a single shaft. Can be used with zig zag sewing machines that thread front to back. Sews two rows of stitching at the same time.
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Sewing machine needles are sized according to two systems – European and American – and both numbers are usually marked on the package.
Needle sizes range from the finest which is 60/8, to the thickest which is 120/19.
| European |
American |
| 60 |
8 |
| 65 |
9 |
| 70 |
10 |
| 75 |
11 |
| 80 |
12 |
| 90 |
14 |
| 100 |
16 |
| 110 |
18 |
| 120 |
19 |
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Using the correct type of sewing machine needle for your project will go a long way to determining your project’s success or failure.
Selecting a sewing machine needle is not difficult. The "Types Chart" details the different types of needles available as well as their unique applications.
Use this chart as a guideline only when selecting your needle. Just because one type of needle is recommended for a specific purpose, such as metallic needles for metallic thread, does not mean that another needle will not produce as good or better results.
If you find that one needle does not produce good stitching quality, swap it out for another type of needle.
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