Borntohandquilt

I think so! :) You quilt batiks without having any problems...for me it is a proof that your hands are really strong! :thumbup:

Curley

I had been using Roxanne needles for a long time. Yes, I do bend them.
An experienced quilter that I know recommended John James gold eye needles. They are stronger and do not bend as easily.

nanna-up-north

Thanks everyone..... I've used the John James gold eye needles but it seems that they are harder to pull through the fabric layers. I guess I can't have 'easy to pull through' and 'strong enough to not bend' at the same time. I have learned not to put too much tension on the quilt while it's on the frame. I did that mistake on my first handquilted project.

I'll try the Roxanne needles if I can find them. Do you all get them at your LQS? I have to go in to pick up the feathers templates so I'll check out the size 11s.

It's so good to have quilting friends that know the answers to my questions.

Curley

I use a #11 Roxanne and a #11 John James gold eye. Roxannes are available at most lqs or on line. When I go to the Lancaster quilt show, most of the vendors have them.
I do not limit the number of stitches I put on my needle unless I am going around a curve and then I put on about 3 or 4

Becky Crafts

I also bend needles hand-sewing. I have trouble with dropping stuff, so grip too tightly. Having said that, changing it is something else again...I'm working with a bent needle now as I stitch down the binding to the back of my topper.

Hinterland

Just like Superman...er, Superwoman: capable of bending steel with my bare hands. 8-)

Borntohandquilt

:D :-D Are you afraid of Kryptonite???

nycquilter

I don't handquilt, but I applique every day. I start with straight needles, but with time, they bend. They sort of fit my hand better that way so until they are really wonky, I'll keep using them. of course, I only do one stitch at a time and only through the one layer, so it's not a problem.

quilter68

For those who said the needles get stuck going through the fabric - run the needle through your hair. It will slide ever easy. I used to do this with diaper pins. Cloth diapers back then.

rebeccalr

How do you adjust the top tension when hand quilting? ;-) I have actually broken needles, but haven't noticed them bending.