Sewing Machine Needles
Our range of sewing machine needles come in a huge variety of types and sizes. It is very important to select the correct type of needle for the fabric and technique you are using to ensure your sewing machine produces a great quality stitch. As needles are a standard size they are suitable for any make of domestic sewing machine.
Along with our collection of sewing machine needles, we also stock many more sewing machine accessories to suit every sewist’s needs.
So many sewing machine needles!
The wide variety of sewing machine needle types and sizes can be quite overwhelming for the beginner sewist - and even for the more seasoned veterans amongst us! Don't worry though, Sew Essential are here to help you select the right sewing machine needle for your project and simplify the selection. You'll be an expert in no time!
It's all about the stitch quality
Why is choosing the right sewing machine needle for each task so important? Simply put, the type of sewing machine needle is crucial for stitch quality because it determines how well the needle interacts with both the fabric and thread. Each needle type, such as ballpoint, sharp, or universal, is designed to handle specific materials and stitching tasks, ensuring that the needle can penetrate the fabric cleanly and create even, consistent stitches. Using the appropriate needle helps prevent issues like skipped stitches, fabric damage, and uneven tension, leading to a more polished and professional finish in your sewing projects.
Less hassle equals more fun
Using the right sewing machine needle is more fun because it ensures a smooth and trouble-free sewing experience, allowing you to focus on creativity rather than technical issues. With the correct needle, your stitching is more even and professional, making it easier to achieve the results you want. This success boosts your confidence and encourages you to explore new fabrics and techniques, making the entire sewing process more enjoyable and rewarding.
Sewing Machine Needle FAQ
► Do any sewing machine needles fit all machines?
All of the sewing machines needles on our site will be compatible with any domestic sewing machine from the last 30 years or more. If you have a Brother, Janome, Husqvarna Viking, Pfaff, Bernina, Singer or any other relatively modern domestic sewing machine you can be confident that our needles will fit.
However, there are exception to the rule and these are really old machines, industrial sewing machines and overlockers for which you may need specific needle types. In this case, it's time to check your manual!
► I want a 'normal' sewing machine needle. Which needle should I use?
Universal sewing machine needles in size 80/12 are perfect for 'normal' sewing. These are the needles you get with your sewing machine, and are great for general purpose use with medium weight woven fabrics and 'normal' weight polyester thread like Gutermann Sew-All.
► What do the size numbers mean i.e. 80/12 or 80(12)?
For an 80/12 sewing machine needle, the '80' is the European size and and '12' is the American size. We love to be different! The smaller the number the finer the needle, the larger the number the thicker the needle. Finer needles are great on delicate and lightweight fabrics, whereas the thicker needles are ideal for heavy weight fabrics with heavier threads.
► How do I choose the right needle type for my fabric?
Selecting the correct sewing machine needle will give the best stitching results. The right needle type depends on both the fabric type and the fabric weight.
Firstly, you need to match the needle type to the fabric. For general sewing on woven cottons and polyesters, use a universal needle. For sewing with jersey and stretch fabrics use a 'stretch' or 'ball point' needle, and a 'jeans' needle is perfect for denim.
For fabric weight, select a size 80/12 for a medium weight fabrics, for light weight fabrics drop to a size 60 or 70, and for heavier weight try size 90 to 110. For example, for a very heavy weight denim use 110/18 jeans needles.
For a comprehensive guide see our 'How to Choose the Right Sewing Machine Needle' article.
► How often should I change my needle?
Changing the needle regularly ensures smooth stitching and prevents damage to your fabric. You should change your sewing machine needle after every 8 hours of sewing or at the start of a new project. Just remember that your needle will wear out sooner if you're working with heavy fabrics. Replace the needle sooner if you notice any issues like skipped stitches, fabric snags, or a dull point. Some seasoned sewists can actually hear when the needle needs changing - it starts to make more of a 'thumping' noise as it penetrates the fabric.
► Is there anything else I need to know about sewing machine needles?
Well, actually there is. Please please do not use your sewing machines needle threader on a needle smaller than a size 80/12. You risk having the fine metal hook of the needle threader crashing into the needle and bending.
