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  • What size and type of machine needles do you generally use the most?

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    Old 08-10-2016, 01:12 PM
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    Default What size and type of machine needles do you generally use the most?

    Hi,
    Looking to be educated about what needles you use the most for piecing and quilting. I have not been very picky in the past and a friend suggested I become more particular in a nice,noncritical and loving way. She said that Universal needles are good for nothing.
    Looking forward to your ideas...thanks!
    lots2do
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    Old 08-10-2016, 01:28 PM
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    I use 80's for piecing, and just about everything. I keep some 90's around too.
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    Old 08-10-2016, 01:30 PM
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    I've always used 90/14 for just about everything...but then again I never change the feet on my machine. I may not be the best one to answer this question. LOL
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    Old 08-10-2016, 01:45 PM
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    Visit Superior Threads website. They have free information charts teaching you a lot about different needles, threads, weights, sizes, uses. A great resource with a wealth of information. The size needle you use is dependent on the type/ weight of thread being used along with what you are using it for.
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    Old 08-10-2016, 01:46 PM
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    What thread are you using? Thread size in large part determines needle size. As to needle type, I'd have to check. I believe sharps, quilting, microtex have all worked for me for piecing. Superior threads recommends a top stitch needle:
    https://www.superiorthreads.com/educ...-right-needle/

    For a thorough education in needles and threads, check out their information here:
    https://www.superiorthreads.com/education/

    I used to use a size 80 needle for piecing. However, I have found that with my Aurifil 50wt 2-ply thread I can get away with using a size 70 or 75. The advantage of a smaller needle size is that the holes in the fabric are smaller. I also like the size 70 for machine applique using nylon monofilament thread (which is very fine). I think the needle I'm currently using for piecing is a microtex, but not sure.
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    Old 08-10-2016, 01:54 PM
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    I usually use 90/14 microtex top stitch needles, mainly because the eye is large enough for me to thread without having to use a lot of bad words to get it threaded. Most of the time I use Gutterman 50 weight thread, sometimes Superiors King Tut.
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    Old 08-10-2016, 02:10 PM
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    I use Organ needles most of the time and 90/14. Sometimes Schmetz, same size. I only piece and quilt with a very rare mending job on something heavier, lighter, or stretchier, in which case I change needle sizes. I found a huge amount of Organ needles (10 packs of 10) for a ridiculously good price on Amazon about six months ago. I change needles after every big project.
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    Old 08-10-2016, 04:00 PM
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    When I bought my Juki TL2010Q, I received 10 packages of Organ needles, various sizes. I had never used that brand before. They are great. When I have a problem with thread breaking or fraying, I might switch to Schmetz topstitch, usually size 16, and that seems to solve the problem.
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    Old 08-10-2016, 04:11 PM
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    I use 75/11 or 80/12 needles usually quilting or sharps for piecing and usually 90/14 topstitch for FMQ
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    Old 08-10-2016, 04:31 PM
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    The needle size depends on the wt and ply and type of thread. Superior Threads is best education online about thread and needles.
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