Needle-Turn aplique question
#1
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Join Date: Oct 2012
Location: at the foot of the Ouichita Mountains, SE Oklahoma
Posts: 273
Needle-Turn aplique question
I am frustrated with my needle/threads. For those of you who frequently do this type of applique, what needle size and brand do you find most satisfying? I would also like to know that about the thread type/size/brand that you prefer.
Currently I really like the straw needles but I can't see to thread the eye, so I use the Bolton (?? I think that's the name). However, it is not consistant with threading the straw needle.
I also have used the richard (hum...cant remember the name at the moment), that is a size 8. I like the needle but it isn't as easy work through the applique layers.
Would love to know what you're doing.
Thanks.
Currently I really like the straw needles but I can't see to thread the eye, so I use the Bolton (?? I think that's the name). However, it is not consistant with threading the straw needle.
I also have used the richard (hum...cant remember the name at the moment), that is a size 8. I like the needle but it isn't as easy work through the applique layers.
Would love to know what you're doing.
Thanks.
#3
I like 100 wt silk thread for hand applique and like a size 10 or 11 milliner's needle. (Similar to a straw needle). A finer needle of the type you are already using would probably work for you, size 8 is fairly big for applique and the finer needle will go through easier.
#5
Super Member
Join Date: Nov 2010
Location: SoCal
Posts: 1,813
I use the straw needle that comes in a round glasslike tube. Not sure, but it might be by Roxanne? I bought them at quilt shows from Jean Brown that demo'd the Aunt Becky's tool.
I have heard that the Tulip needles do not bend and have a larger eye. They are fairly new. I haven't tried them as yet. (I was going to buy them the last time I was at my LQS, but they had a 40% off a line I loved, and spent all my $$ on fabric instead.) One of these days.......lol
I have heard that the Tulip needles do not bend and have a larger eye. They are fairly new. I haven't tried them as yet. (I was going to buy them the last time I was at my LQS, but they had a 40% off a line I loved, and spent all my $$ on fabric instead.) One of these days.......lol
#6
I like 100 wt silk thread for hand applique and like a size 10 or 11 milliner's needle. (Similar to a straw needle). A finer needle of the type you are already using would probably work for you, size 8 is fairly big for applique and the finer needle will go through easier.
#7
Super Member
Join Date: May 2013
Location: Ballwin, MO
Posts: 4,271
I have only used the Roxanne applique needle, and have no complaints with it. It is easy to distinguish from my betweens, as the applique needle is significantly longer and the eye more elongated. I use Aurifil 50 wt thread because it is fine and available in so many colors. I haven't had trouble threading my needles since I saw Sharon Schamber do it at the beginning of the second video of her basting tutorial. I had read about threading this way, but seeing it done made the difference.
#8
Power Poster
Join Date: May 2009
Location: NY
Posts: 10,590
Roxanne Applique needles
http://www.connectingthreads.com/too...s__D21054.html
Silk thread or Invisifil thread. Do not think you need to get all kinds of colors of silk. Because it is so fine it sinks right into the fabric and blends in with most colors. I found this set covered 90% of my needs and then bought a dark gray to go with
http://www.connectingthreads.com/Too...5__D20310.HTML
My overly generous, awesome brother later bought me the entire set of Superior Kimono silk so I am set for a long time.
http://www.connectingthreads.com/too...s__D21054.html
Silk thread or Invisifil thread. Do not think you need to get all kinds of colors of silk. Because it is so fine it sinks right into the fabric and blends in with most colors. I found this set covered 90% of my needs and then bought a dark gray to go with
http://www.connectingthreads.com/Too...5__D20310.HTML
My overly generous, awesome brother later bought me the entire set of Superior Kimono silk so I am set for a long time.
#9
Super Member
Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: Illinois
Posts: 2,140
John James Gold'n Glide Milliner's size 10. It has a gold eye making it easier for me to see to thread the needle. It's also Teflon coated so I can push it through the fabric easier. I use those with Aurifil 50wt thread (2 ply).
I agree with bjchad that an 8 is really quite thick for doing needle turn. A 10 or 11 would be better. Maybe consider investing in a needle threader. Silk thread is wonderful & super fine, but having to tie it onto the needle every time is more work than I'm usually willing to do.
EDIT: Sorry, just read that you were using some kind of threader. Wanted to point out that John James makes needle theaders for their needles. I haven't used them very much, but they worked well the few times I've needed them (mostly back before I bought better lighting for my studio space).
I agree with bjchad that an 8 is really quite thick for doing needle turn. A 10 or 11 would be better. Maybe consider investing in a needle threader. Silk thread is wonderful & super fine, but having to tie it onto the needle every time is more work than I'm usually willing to do.
EDIT: Sorry, just read that you were using some kind of threader. Wanted to point out that John James makes needle theaders for their needles. I haven't used them very much, but they worked well the few times I've needed them (mostly back before I bought better lighting for my studio space).
Last edited by Bree123; 09-05-2015 at 09:27 AM.
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