Ricoma Quick Start Guide
55
Anatomy of the needle
NEEDLES
Shank: The top section of the needle that attaches to the needle bar on the machine.
Shaft/blade: The part of the needle that ranges from the end of the shank to the top point of the
needle.
Taper: The narrowed end of the needle that lies below the eye.
Point: The very bottom of the needle. The part of the needle that pierces through the fabric.
Eye: The opening where the thread passes through the needle.
Groove: The indented surface that runs along the face (front) of the needle.
Scarf: The half-moon-shaped cut out on the back of the needle, located just above the eye.
Figure 124
There are several factors that determine the lifetime of a needle.
This includes but is not limited to:
• The material the needle is made of
• The style of the needle
• The material you are sewing on
• How often you use the needle
How long do needles last?