My problem isn't so much not changing often enough, or not changing when doing something completely different (ie paper piecing vs piecing batiks), my problem is that I sew so infrequently and don't necessarily finish project A and launch into project B in the same day - so by the time I go back into the sewing room I forget what needle is in the machine. Some (all?) needles have markings on the shank that tell you what they are, but my husband took my mag glass to his shop so I'll be darned if I can see what the markings are! So I don't know where to put it back into my needle collection! I need a good "habit" ...perhaps taping the needle case to the top of the machine so I know which needle is in there or something like that. Of course that will only help when I pull a needle from a case of all like needles - I think I still have a pkg of "mixed" that is my main problem. I won't be buying mixed size pkgs anymore.

As for changing needles ... If I keep the same needle in the machine from start to finish through a project I'll change it at the end of the project. Otherwise I'll leave it in until I have a failure of some kind (ie the pop or thwack it makes when it hits the fabric, or thread breakage not caused by other means).

Currently I use Schmetz and I have some Klasse. Might give those organ titanium's a try the next time I need needles. I just bought 7 pkgs various sizes/types (Schmetz) on an amazing sale (70% off with my completed thread card and the purchase of 10 additional spools of thread!!).

Thank you - I bookmarked them. Be ordering soon!

I try to change my needle with each new project----notice I said "try"!

probably not as often as I should. I do change it with every project.

I have gotten the same answer from several repair / service men over the years. :lol:

maybe the old machines were not so fussy but I have 2 very expensive machines and was told when I bought them to change the needle after every 8 hours of sewing or each new project or when starts a thumping noise as a dull needle can cause damage to the bobbin casing and is very expensive for a new one I try to buy my needles at Joanns with a coupn

Buy more magnifying glasses! I have about six around the house. We use them all the time. The cable guy even borrowed one when he was behind the tv to read the tv markings. You got a great deal on the needles!

I used to let it go until the needle broke, but have learned that if I change after each large project, my machine seems to run smoother, and at least quieter

I start a new quilt with a new needle. Schmetz #14 Quilting or Universal. Quilting seems to punch through the fabric easier than Universal.

I learned this with my new machine. Also cleaning out the lint in the bobbin area. Take the plate off and clean it out. It is worth the time in smooth sewing.