21
Needle Definitions
The illustration identifies the main parts of a sewing
machine needle.
q Body
w Shaft
e Long groove (round side of needle)
r Short groove (flat side of needle)
t Eye
y Point
Universal – an all-purpose needle that handles most
woven and knit fabrics.
Ball point – the point spreads the fibers, preventing tears
and is especially suited for loose knits and interlock knits.
Not recommended for embroidery.
Stretch – specially designed to prevent skipped stitches
in synthetic suedes and elasticized knits (swimwear).
Denim – the sharp point effectively pierces densely
woven fabrics such as denim and canvas.
Topstitching – the extra sharp point penetrates layers of
fabrics; extra large eye and large groove accommodate
heavyweight topstitching thread.
Metallic – the large grooved shaft helps prevent delicate
metallic threads from shredding. Another plus, a larger
than average eye makes for easier threading.
Embroidery – a slightly rounded tip minimizes breakage
and skipped stitching when using specialty threads like
rayon, acrylic or other high-sheen threads during
machine embroidery.
Self-Threading – the needle eye has a slit opening on
the side to allow the thread to be easily inserted.
Leather – the cutting point creates small holes in leather
and suede. Holes remain after stitching is removed.
Quilt – the tapered point easily penetrates through
multiple layers and crossed seams.
Wing/Hemstitch – wide flat edges (wings) extend
outwards near the eye; they separate fibers and create
holes for beautiful heirloom stitches.
Twin/Double – 2 needles are joined on a crossbar and
share a single shaft. Sews two parallel rows of stitching.
Available in universal and ballpoint.
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