I keep a spiral notebook on my countertop nearby - I have a page for needles - I write down what date I put the needle in, what type it is and what projects I used it for (some smaller projects don't require a needle change every time but most appliques/quilting do).
I also have a page to track when I last "cleaned" my machine at home.
The book also serves as a quick place to jot down things on projects that don't get finished all in one setting - like tensions, stitch length etc. Another page is a Wish List. Post It note flags mark important things. This way I don't have a ton of loose notes everywhere. I just check my book. I use one of those "journal" type spiral books - they are pretty reasonable and have lots of pages.

I did this with keys. It worked great

great idea, thanks

I put a small post-it note on my machine identifying what is in use.

Michaels has small wooden needle containers. I have written needle numbers and uses on each. When I remove a needle from my machine, that's still good, it goes into the appropriate container until needed again.

So far this is working for me!

This is what I do. I tape it right the top of the machine where it won't get in the way. I also put a post-it under the needle case with the date so I know how long the needle has been in there. I can usually remember by the date what project I was working on and how many hours I used that needle.

51 and yes I've often forgotten which needle is in which machine. And I just bought two new rolls of frog tape to prove it (at least I remembered I ran out!).

ditto! .... do hope that you will show us a pic

Looks like the mini could be rolled up like a jewellery roll in between times. Maybe could have a section for hand sewing needles too?

Thanks ladies. I'm going to use these ideas.

I bought an extra tomato just for needles. I used a sharpie marker and marked off the sizes. Then when I know I just used a certain one, I run it thru the starwberry and store on the right marked side. Great idea, when I was sewing only clothes.

Now the down side...I never marked it off for ball points, or now embroidery and quilting needles. Need to either buy a couple more for that, which is not what I want to do. Or make my own needle cushion.

It is still in the "when I am tired and bored and don't want to think much I'll design one" stage though. lol
Dawn

Ladies, I have seen some beautiful pincushions on this list any other ideas?

Dawn

Getting older . . 52? Don't I wish!
My problem is I don't know what needle to use for what! I rarely change my needle, maybe that is the next step in my thought process!!! My projects would probably go easier if I used the proper equipment!

Can't you reuse the plastic holder the needles come in? Just mark the one that been used. And 52 is not getting older,just better! P.S. I'm 53 and proud of it.