Straw needles are often referred to as applique needles. Connecting Threads sell John James them but I'm sure a lot of other suppliers do too.

I was taught to put the first end of thread through the needle, then cut the other end from the spool and knot it. That way your thread is always going in the direction it was spun. (?????)

i agree with quiltinNsmilin as needles are punched out at the manafactors and that mkes a right side and wrong try it it really helps

I've been habd quilting for over a decade. I've tried and tried to use a size 10, but (like you) have difficulty threading them, even with a needle threader, and they also bend and break. Talk about frustrating!!! Now I use a size 9. Brand doesn't seem to matter since I rarely have trouble threading them. Best of luck to you!

I also like Roxanne needles. And Rose Cottage needles also.

I used to use size 9 betweens but now my fingers are gnarly with arthritis so I use longer needles like size 9 straws.

I love 10's, I like them short and sharp, seems easier for me to handle. But I do use a threader and magnafing glass.

That's the way I thread my needles. It works better for me.

when I can thread them, I love the 10s for appliqueing-- they bent and broke when I handquilted with them -- 9s keep bending, although there is no problem threading them -- I will try 8s next although I like the sharpness and thinness of the 9s-- this seems to be a matter of trying needles to see what fits you best

Threading a whole bunch of needles is a great tip.

Try cutting your thread at an angle and instead of wetting the thread wet your needle. It sound weired, but it does work.