Counted Cross Stitch: Hand Sewing Needles
by Mary Wilkins of
Sew-Whats-New
HAND SEWING NEEDLES: Today I thought it would
be a good idea to discuss the types of hand sewing needles we all use and their
uses. The right type of needle makes a world of difference in the appearance and
quality of our handwork. Needles are numbered according to scale. The smaller
the number - the longer and thicker the needle. I had the darndest time
remembering that when I first started to sew.
SHARPS: All purpose hand sewing needles
for sewing and dressmaking. Medium length with small rounded eyes.
BETWEENS: For detailed hand work and
quilting. These are a shorter needle with a small rounded eye.
BALLPOINT: All purpose hand sewing
needle for sewing and hemming on knits. These have a rounded tip to go between
your threads, not through them.
CHENILLE: These are for heavy embroidery
or ribbon embroidery. They are short and thick with a large eye and a very sharp
point.
TAPESTRY: For embroidery on loosely
woven fabrics. These are short with a blunt tip and long eye for using wool or
several strands.
SELF-THREADING: Also known as calyx-eye
needles. For our "mature eyes". These needles have two eyes. To thread your
needle, snap your thread through the top eye. The needle is open at the top.
EMBROIDERY: Also known as crewel
needles. Medium length and has a long oval eye for numerous strands.
LEATHER: Also called glovers. For
piercing leather, suede and vinyl. They are long and strong with a wedge tip.
BEADING: These attach beads or small
pearls. They are very long and fine with a small round eye.
UPHOLSTERY: For use on thick, tightly
woven upholstery fabrics. They can be either straight or curved. Also used
widely for tying quilts.
DOLL: For working on soft sculpture
dolls. They are great for creating facial features. Up to 6" long.
Mary Wilkins has three grown children and six
perfect grandchildren. Completely self taught, she has been sewing, and crafting
for over 30 years. Her website
Sew-Whats-New has
been recognized in many sewing magazines and newsletters alike.
