I never knew their were so many types of needles. Although most of my sewing would only require a "regular" or ball point needle, its great to have learned there are other needles for those special purposes.
Very good information! I’m not a “beginner” as far as how many years I’ve been sewing. I am watching each of your beginner tutorials and am learning a number of things no one has ever taught or told me before. Thank you!
Hi there. Thank you so much for your help. I was not aware of so many different types of needles. I especially was surprised when you showed a two eye needle. I didn't know they existed. Thanks again. Take care and God bless.
Oh my - I started my sewing journey about a year ago - I so wish I’d come across these tutorials sooner!!! Thankyou so much, I gave learned a great deal and feel so much more confident!!
You perfectly hit alot of my points. Your my problem solver in this case. Your tutorials have done great to improve my project. Thanks for being a great teacher and sharing your experience. Love you.
You are wonderful at teaching. I have been reading and studying all this and it seemed so overwhelming. You have taken all the complication and stress out of this part of sewing. You have also explained quite a few of my mistakes. Thank you so much! You are absolutely a beautiful lady!
I am new at sewing and is collecting information before buying supplies for my new machine which I have not used yet. I have learned enough to know that the general purpose needles will work for most of the work I will be doing, but want to learn even more. The information you gave us along with that which I have heard from some others will be helpful when shopping for my supplies.
This serie of the videos are so helpful...I already broken 2 needles as a beginner but after that you saved my other needles...Can't wait for the next video..Good work keep going and help us!!
Love your channel, thank you. Hubby bought me a sewing machine a year or so ago. We'll we are in house lock down. Here in Battle Creek, Michigan. Better time than never to learn. New to your channel, and sewing. You are very detailed, I appreciate all of your help. Many blessings 🙏💜 to you and your family 🙏.🌺♥️ Stay safe, and healthy.😇😍
Thank you for such a lovely message Amber. I am so pleased that I can help you learn a new skill during this difficult time. Sending lots of love to you and your family. Stay safe. Aneka x
I had those little wrinkles around my sewing line - just recently started sewing - and I was like "I probably pulled on the fabric or something I messed up"... changed from 80 to 70 needle and it's GONE!! Thank you so much Aneka once again! :)
I'm so glad I found your video! I'm a beginner, and I've been doing pretty well with cotton fabrics. When I got to jersey fabric, I've just been pulling my hair out! But now I understand I need a ballpoint needle, and maybe a stretch needle. Thanks again for the information, I'm positive this is going to save me a lot of frustration.
Hi! Loved this! Took the mystery out of needles. I wonder if you could do a series on materials. I went to make a pair of jeans and ordered 4 different materials of stretch denim and none of them were blue jean material? And what is Japanese slub? That was a mystery! 😮
Hi Georgia-Rose, I am planning a fabric 'what is' video, so pleased stayed tuned. Sorry to hear you have been having problems purchasing denim fabric. Japanese denim is usually very good and sort after (I used to work for Levi's) :-)). A slub fabric is a fabric that has knots or texture on the surface, basically irregularities in the weave (they can be created intentionally). The denim is made using warp yarn that differs in thickness, and therefore it has these irregularities, it won't look uniform. I hope that helps?Thank you, Aneka x
Thank you. A wool coat of jacket can be sewn with a Universal Needle (unless it is knitted), and I would say 90/14 or greater, depending on the thickness of the wool fabric. Aneka x
You are very articulate and informative in your instruction and I thank you for that. I am looking to sew quite heavy materials like 1000 denier, ripstop nylons, and full grain leather if possible. I'm starting off with a Brother 7000i and would like an assortment pack of quality needles that I can try out to get started on my new hobby. 😊😎
Would it be possible to have more information on what type of thread is suitable for different fabrics, please? I am very new to this and don't want to use the wrong thread and have it break either when I am sewing or when it is being worn or washed. I hope this is not a very foolish question.
Hi Sue, it is not a foolish question at all. I am planning a thread video, but there is a lot of debate about thread so I have contacted a couple of expert companies to ask for their opinions, so that I am providing the best information. If in double a quality Polyester thread will work on pretty much every fabric. I use Gutermann Sew All Polyester with my students. Aneka x
Many thanks for your speedy reply. I will use the thread you suggest and await your video on the subject. I have found your blog extremely interesting and informative , especially for a raw beginner. Regards Sue
Thank you for sharing your knowledge 🙏! Beginner here so please be patient, you might see few questions from me in your videos 😊! For this one I’d like to know what needle would be appropriate for sewing paper on paper ( few layers together). I’d like to sew journals pages. Thanks in advance!
watched this nice video, but I learned by breaking as many needles as possible in all kinds of ways. Once I let the thread wrap around the underside of the bobbin and my bobbin gear broke, had to trash the machine. I also watched your darts video and learned your darts are much prettier and perfect, I will be doing it your way. And I love your pink shirt with those sleeves and color too, Anika you get prettier every day, I wish you were my side chick and we were both so filthy-rich we both sew together on gold plated Berninas ( I have a nice Bernina by the way, not gold plated though), and I was in your class too. Do you feel like the Queen of sewing? I bet The Queen Elizabeth ll watches your sewing class too and we're here with her Majesty too, Hi Elizabeth! I bet she sews her buttons by hand like I do, the old fashioned way. That's the way a button shirt should be done. Anika, Elizabeth is a close friend and said we could take the carriage out for a ride in the fields of flowers then a dip in the Queens pool before dinner with her Majesty, OK with you Anika. Don't be a drunk in front of the Queen like my last side chick was. Thank you Anika
Thank you so very much for this tutorial. I have been having problems figuring out what needles to use. Now I KNOW. Greetings from Bakersfield California USA 🇺🇸 😀
Hi Matthew, I am planning a guide to using the overlocker. In terms ot needles you will need to check your machine; I believe some machines require specific 'overlocker' needles; whereas others you can use the same needles you would use in your sewing machine. You will want a ball point needle if you are working with a knitted fabric, like I talk about here. Hope this helps in the meantime. Aneka
How do you dispose of your needles? I've got a small tin that I've been putting my needles, rotary blades and razor blades into, not sure what the safest next move is? Thanks.
Yes, I would suggest a small tin. That is what I use, so that when they have to be thrown away, they are not going to harm or damage anything/anyone. Aneka
If you have a metal recycling place, they might take it. Dunno. If not, I would tape the tin closed. I know someone sells a secure disposal tin for razor blades, but thats probably overkill.
Hi Barbara, it is always worth testing in this situations. Heavy weight and light weight together, I would probably aim for a lighter needle as the larger sized needle might snag the light weight fabric. You might find you can get away with a middle of the road size. Woven and a knit together, I would test this, but aim to try a knit needle first. You don't want the standard needle to cut the knit fibres. But equally you need to make sure the knit needle is able to go through the woven fabric without catching. The key is just to test with samples to see what works. Hope this helps?
Thank you Aneka! You are a wonder at explaining tools and techniques. I will definitely stay tuned for more presentations. Any chance you will tackle thread types?
Thank you. I personally don't use the metallic thread in bobbin (generally), I will use a lightweight polyester to silk thread. I will plan something. Hope this helps in the meantime. Aneka x
Hi there. I have been trying to sew a garment using Scuba fabric and the needles used just are stitching at all. I am using an Empisol sewing machine and have tried using Singer size 14 needles, size 14 universal needles and various ballpoint needle sizes. Please assist on what I can do or maybe what I'm doing wrong
Hello, sorry you are having trouble. I can't believe it would be the needle if it isn't stitching at all. Have you watched my troubleshooting video? ruclips.net/video/4rdWWAsTgro/видео.html Are you threading everything correctly? Aneka x
I've been using 90 on thin stretchy fabrics and wondering why I had problems, thanks. Very good info. I'm off to Amazon right now (again!) Just wondering if you might know: I used a 100 leather needle on some PVC boots to reinforce where I put eyelets in. It struggles a bit to go through at slow speeds so I run it faster, but the bobbin refuses to catch at all and I can't figure out why.
Is this on your brother machine? Just replying to your other question about it struggling to go through thick layers of fabric. I would have thought the leather 100 needle would work. Without seeing the thickness of the PVC it is hard to tell, you could t5ry a 110?
@@MadetoSew Hi Aneka, it is on the Brother, yes. It is going through two layers but I think I have figured out the problem in my head.... the PVC fabric is very stretchy, and I believe where the needle raises up, the fabric raises up slightly through the hole, and pulls the thread up with it, not leaving a loop below to hook onto most of the time. Perhaps I should try a thinner thread of a different material. I will try on the Emerald 118 when it arrives tomorrow because you can alter the needle position and I'll try putting it right up against the edge of the foot to mitigate the pulling effect. Thank you for taking the time to reply, much appreciated! :-)
@@ArcanePath360 I would also try and get a walking foot for the Emerald 118, this will help with tricky fabrics. You don't have to get the Husqvarna one as these can be expensive. But a quality generic will work and that's what I have for the machines. Maybe try a smaller needle as well it sounds like the fabric is getting stuck on the needle? Good luck! Aneka
@@MadetoSew Funny you should suggest that, I have ordered one for delivery today through Amazon Prime. It may even arrive before the Emerald 118, lol. Thanks for the advice!
Thanks Trefor, I'm glad you found it informative. In answer to your question, it depends on the needle size. A larger sized needle will be able to cope with more layers of fabric and/or a greater thickness. I hope that helps?
Many thanks for the reply, that probably explains why I find missed stitches, no zigzag. I must be forcing an 80/12 needle through too many layers and bending it enough to cause problems. I'll try the next size up. I'm 70+ and only took up sewing during the lockdown.
@@treforjones6289 Wow! Fantastic that you have taken up sewing. Lockdown has had some positives and for many it's been finding sewing as a hobby and a form of relaxation. It sounds like you could be using too fine a needle for the job. If changing needle doesn't resolve your problem feel free to ask again. Good Luck! And happy sewing.
Would anyone have any advice on my issue please: I am making dog coats out of old human coats. The inside of the dog coat is fleece and the outside is either an old waterproof coat or an old Barbour oiled coat. What type of needle would I need for that combo? Many thanks for any help that can be offered.
I would probably use a 90/14 standard (universal needle). Of course lots of cotton fabrics are different, some are closer woven than others (you might need a Microtex) so just test it on your machine. Settings wise, you could do a satin stitch like this video: ruclips.net/video/xIsczgkBTZo/видео.html
I often do small projects using a variety of fabrics. I have to change the needles often, from stretch to universal and back. Sometimes I forget which needle is in the machine. Do you have tips on identifying them? Also, I usually pop the used needle back into the pack but then I have no idea which is used up or which is fresh. Any hints and tips on storage?
Hi Taryn, Most of the time once I have finished a project the needle will be finished and probably should be heading for the bin. This is for example if I have sewn a whole dress, or a whole jacket. If it is a smaller project or I have only had to use one needle for a small amount of time I will either pop it back in the original case (if I have used it to do one seam, or something that I don't believe has really affected the needle). Or if I have used it for a while I won't put it in the original case I will instead put it in my large pin cushion, OR needle booklet. You should be able to read what type of needle it is (on the side, very small writing), but if this is tricky I would suggest putting the used needle in a needle book/case with a little scrap of paper pinned it that says what it is. Or you could even pre-write in pen different types of needles in a sort of table and put the used needle in the right place? Hope this helps, Aneka
Hi Jason, there isn't really a disadvantage, you could by all means try a stretch needle with your jersey (test it first). If it works ok then use it. I pretty much always start with a ball point needle and test that first, then if I am having problems I jump to the stretch needle. I probably use my ball point needle on looser weave jersey knits, heavier fabrics and the stretch needle on the stretchier fabrics. However it's all about testing, start with stretch if you want and just keep a pack of ball point needles just incase the stretch doesn't look right? I do believe that ball point needles are slightly cheaper too. Sorry that there isn't a hard and fast rule here. Aneka :-))
Hi! I know this is an old video but I was wondering: what if I want to see two fabrics of different weights together? Do I choose the needle for the heavier one, or the lightest?
Hi Laura, I would probably choose the smaller needle. However it depends on the two fabrics, I would probably try the smaller needle first (as the larger needle might catch and fabric and pucker the lighter fabric). Then if you find the needle is breaking increase the size. Hope this helps, Aneka
This is a hard question to answer as it really depends on what you are making, and how long you have used the needle for. A lot of needle manufacturers will say you need to change the needle after X number of hours sewing. BUT I don't remember how many hours of sewing I have done - I don't know about you! :-)) I usually say that you want to change it after each project, but you have to use your judgement here. If you have only hemmed a pair of trousers you can use the needle again. If you have made a whole jacket you probably want to change it. You will also learn to see what a needle seems blunt and perhaps isn't doing as good a job as it did before. Hope this helps? Aneka
Hi Aneka. Thanks for your clear and concise videos. I have recently bought some Sharp machine needles to sew some lightweight viscose challis. Are Sharp needles the same as the Microtex needles you mentioned?
Look for another video. Don't let this scare you! This is an example of Too much information (TMI), Too nuch verbiage! It is so confusing and anxiety triggering! There are other videos that directly/briefly tell you which size to choose.
Really sorry you feel that way, I would never want to cause any anxiety or worry anyone. I was solely trying to make people aware of all the options available, so that they could make the most informed choice for their work. I apologise and wish you all the best with your sewing. Aneka x
What a strange comment. The information is exactly what I was looking for. I think anyone who is serious about and takes pride in their work will appreciate Aneka’s detailed videos . …On the other hand, if you’re just someone who wants to throw something together really quick and don’t care about proper technique and finishing, then yes, I suppose this would be too much. Aneka, you should never, ever apologize for trying to help people (for free!). Thank you so, so much for taking the time to share your professional knowledge with the world, it is truly invaluable. All the best to you in 2024 ❤❤❤
I am having trouble finishing some family pijamas. I have messed around with the tension but it still doesn't work. The fabric is knit fabric 50 stretch. The machine keeps braking the thread and the teeth on the machine keep eating the fabric. 😔 I have no idea what to do next. After this video i still don't know what needle I need
Hi there, for a knit fabric I would recommend a knit needle; it will be called knit, jersey or ballpoint (they are all the same thing). You must use a knit needle for knitted fabric to prevent the fabric from breaking; the needle cutting the knit of the fabric. If the machine stitches are skipping you can also try a stretch needle. In terms of your machine I presume it is threaded correctly and it is sewing all other fabrics ok? I would leave the thread, needle and tension settings for this fabric and try running a plain cotton through the machine to eliminate any other issues. If it is sewing the plain cotton ok, then what about trying a walking foot? What are you trying to sew? Are you hemming? Aneka x
@@MadetoSew thank you! So I am trying to hem the pants once I am finished with them, but also i an beginning to sew a pijama shirt and pants for my daughter. Also I noticed when i see regular cotton on the 00 or 01 stitch it's totally fine. It's just that fabric that I am having trouble with and my machine keeps "eating" the fabric with the bottom teeth. I do have a few different walking feet maybe if I try a different one? By the way My machine is a brother idk if that detail is important 😊. Thank you!
@@hellooli2825 Hi there, yes I would give the walking foot a try. If the machine is eating the fabric it may be struggling to feed it through the machine, so walking foot is always my first step. If that doesn't work then you could try placing some stabiliser, you can buy tear away or wash away stabiliser (you can even try paper, baking paper etc. as a test), place this against the feed dogs and the material on the top. I would keep the walking foot on, hopefully this will help the machine to feed it through better? Let me know if either of this work? Aneka x
@@MadetoSew thank you so much! I appreciate you! I'm in a group and they don't help with any type of machine issues so I'm trying to find the problem looking at yt videos. I will try that and let you know! Thank you!
@@hellooli2825 Such a pleasure. I am glad it helps a bit. I have this video on troubleshooting problems too: ruclips.net/video/4rdWWAsTgro/видео.html it might be useful in the future? A
Yes I believe so. I know that one of my students with an old machine had to get a special double needle for her machine. The needle is set to the left on her machine I think so her double needle had to come off the shank differently. And make sure you have a plate on the machine bed that will allow two needles to enter, i.e. don't use a single stitch plate. Aneka :-))
OMG what is "14" a measurement of? What's "110" a measurement of? Like what units? Are they Pressure measurements? Is it 14psi? Is it some kind of length measurement? How is one metric and one imperial? I thought they were just arbitrary numbers assigned to like clothing sizes that have absolutely nothing to do with anything but some reason that size = a 00.
Yes the metric (European) numbers are measurements based on the diameter of the needle blade in hundredths of a mm (or something like that)! The other numbers are American, I presume they are imperial and based on the same principle? Hope that helps! Aneka 😊
@@MadetoSew So I did a goggle aperntly the 14, 18, ECT sizing system is braised off of the measurements for wire gauge. And wire gauge # is braised of how the amount of electrical current that can flow throw it. Because 1/14 of an inch or 1/10 of an inch just was like too big to be anything and we don't really use anything smaller units. So I'm pretty sure it's still not imperial because I don't think the King came up with it but it's also not metric either. Also surprisingly difficult Google...
LifeLostSoul very interesting thanks for sharing. I tried to google it after reading your message and couldn’t find anything on the American sizing. The Schmetz website talks about the European sizes, but doesn’t mention the American sized and how they are created?! Perhaps the American sizes are just random numbers??
@@MadetoSew It looks like the US sizing system goes back to wire gauge including medical needles, knitting needles, music strings/guitar, ECT. Here is at least one link. Honestly I wonder if they were being produced in the same factories originally. m.convert-me.com/en/convert/wire_gauge/needleOldUS.html?u=needleOldUS&v=1 I'm mostly just happy that the numbers aren't like aperture where bigger numbers mean the hole is smaller. Thank you 😊
@@MadetoSew Thank you What thread will be best to sew a canvas tote bag I was thinking heavy polyester thread heres the thing I will be using cotton twill or cotton webbing and was thinking heavy cotton thread will work best but I really want to use the heavy polyester fabric but the internet saids not to mix cotton and polyester together and the handles are cotton twill
@@caramelrose5241 I would suggest that you use a heavy weight polyester thread too. Even the upholstery style thread would work. This will give the bag some added strength and the threads will be thicker and show up more, which can be a nice design detail. You may need a larger eyed needle for this thread though. In terms of the internet talking about only using cotton thread with cotton fabric. I think this is a rule that can be followed 'some' of the time. Some people believe this is a hard rule, I personally don't agree with that. In my opinion you do not need to use the same thread type with the same fabric, and in industry often polyester thread will be used for lots of different fabric types. Generally I might choose a cotton thread if I was working with a fabric that was lightweight, potentially silk fabric, and if I were to use polyester thread the thread would be stronger than the fabric, so you might find that the fabric tears before the thread breaks if the garment is put under strain. I hope that helps? Aneka
@@MadetoSewThank you glad you answered and this is also helpful to others yes you helpd me I didn't quiet get what about the cotton twill tape what thread can I use with that fabric to make my canvas tote bag
I never knew their were so many types of needles. Although most of my sewing would only require a "regular" or ball point needle, its great to have learned there are other needles for those special purposes.
Glad I could help. X
Very good information! I’m not a “beginner” as far as how many years I’ve been sewing. I am watching each of your beginner tutorials and am learning a number of things no one has ever taught or told me before. Thank you!
Thank you so much Diann, I really appreciate your opinion. Aneka x
Hi there. Thank you so much for your help. I was not aware of so many different types of needles. I especially was surprised when you showed a two eye needle. I didn't know they existed. Thanks again. Take care and God bless.
Thank you. I'm glad it was helpful.
Oh my - I started my sewing journey about a year ago - I so wish I’d come across these tutorials sooner!!! Thankyou so much, I gave learned a great deal and feel so much more confident!!
Thank you so much. So pleased you enjoy my tutorials. Aneka x
You perfectly hit alot of my points. Your my problem solver in this case. Your tutorials have done great to improve my project. Thanks for being a great teacher and sharing your experience. Love you.
Really pleased I could help. Thank you.
You are wonderful at teaching. I have been reading and studying all this and it seemed so overwhelming. You have taken all the complication and stress out of this part of sewing. You have also explained quite a few of my mistakes. Thank you so much! You are absolutely a beautiful lady!
Thank you. So pleased I could help.
I am new at sewing and is collecting information before buying supplies for my new machine which I have not used yet. I have learned enough to know that the general purpose needles will work for most of the work I will be doing, but want to learn even more. The information you gave us along with that which I have heard from some others will be helpful when shopping for my supplies.
Really pleased could help Sidney. Good luck with your sewingl. Aneka
You are an excellent teacher and I appreciate everything that you teach us
Thank you so much Louise. Aneka x
Thanks very much for the tip about the difference between a ballpoint and a stretch needle. I'd long been wondering!
Thank you Celia. Aneka x
This serie of the videos are so helpful...I already broken 2 needles as a beginner but after that you saved my other needles...Can't wait for the next video..Good work keep going and help us!!
Thank you so much, and SO pleased I could help. Good luck! Aneka x
Love your channel, thank you. Hubby bought me a sewing machine a year or so ago. We'll we are in house lock down. Here in Battle Creek, Michigan. Better time than never to learn. New to your channel, and sewing. You are very detailed, I appreciate all of your help. Many blessings 🙏💜 to you and your family 🙏.🌺♥️ Stay safe, and healthy.😇😍
Thank you for such a lovely message Amber. I am so pleased that I can help you learn a new skill during this difficult time. Sending lots of love to you and your family. Stay safe. Aneka x
As always, explained so well.
Thank you Janet. Aneka :-))
I've watched a couple vids on needles and yours is by far the best. I don't need to watch any more. Thank you for such great explanations!
I really needed this lesson, Thank you all 💐
Glad it was helpful!
Fabulous explanation. You’re always clear! Very helpful.
Thank you Mary.
This series has so much useful information! Thank you, Aneka. xx
Thank you so much Laura. Aneka xx
I had those little wrinkles around my sewing line - just recently started sewing - and I was like "I probably pulled on the fabric or something I messed up"... changed from 80 to 70 needle and it's GONE!! Thank you so much Aneka once again! :)
Wonderful. Well done for solving the issue. Glad I could help.
Thank you and very clear explanations really help me god bless you
Thank you.
Wow,this was thorough and informative! I love this new series, Aneka. You're such a good explainer.
Thank you so much. x
Amazingly helpful information from a professional. Really appreciate your generosity of time, knowledge and experience. Thank you very much.
Thank you for such a lovely message. Glad it was helpful. Aneka x
I'm so glad I found your video! I'm a beginner, and I've been doing pretty well with cotton fabrics. When I got to jersey fabric, I've just been pulling my hair out! But now I understand I need a ballpoint needle, and maybe a stretch needle. Thanks again for the information, I'm positive this is going to save me a lot of frustration.
So pleased I could help Dani! Good luck with the jersey fabric. Aneka x
Excellent video Aneka. I learned this morning ! Thanks
Thank you. Aneka x
Thank you Aneka. This was extremely helpful. I have struggled with this topic for a few months as a new seamstress. 🤗
So pleased I could help Stacy. Aneka x
omg! am overwhelmed! i will refer to this multiple times. thanks for sharing this wealth of info!
Glad it was helpful!
Really well put together video,easily understood, thank you 🙏
Thanks Barbara.
Very informative and clear. You really help me. Thank you.
Great! Thank you. Aneka x
Thank you Aneka, your tutorials are very helpful.
Thanks Malcolm.
THANK YOU I LEARNED SO MUCH!
You are so welcome!
OMG. Thank you so much for your videos! Very informative and straight to the point!!!
Thank you Christine. Aneka x
Fantastic overview! Thanks Aneka :)
Thank you Caitlin. Aneka x
Thanks so much for such clear explanations. I am hooked on your tutorials 🤗🤗🤗
Thanks so much. Aneka xx
Love the series. Thanks so much.
Huge thank you. x
Hi! Loved this! Took the mystery out of needles. I wonder if you could do a series on materials. I went to make a pair of jeans and ordered 4 different materials of stretch denim and none of them were blue jean material? And what is Japanese slub? That was a mystery! 😮
Hi Georgia-Rose, I am planning a fabric 'what is' video, so pleased stayed tuned. Sorry to hear you have been having problems purchasing denim fabric. Japanese denim is usually very good and sort after (I used to work for Levi's) :-)). A slub fabric is a fabric that has knots or texture on the surface, basically irregularities in the weave (they can be created intentionally). The denim is made using warp yarn that differs in thickness, and therefore it has these irregularities, it won't look uniform. I hope that helps?Thank you, Aneka x
Excellent explnation. Thank you.
Thank you.
Very informative. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful!
Super explanation! Thorough as always. Thank you!
So pleased you liked it. Thank you.
Thank you so much for this very informative video and thank you for all your wonderful videos !
Thank you Lindsay. Aneka x
This was super handy . thank you :)
Thanks Kayla.
Good information, thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you. That was very helpful.
So pleased. Aneka
This was very interesting and helpful. Thanks!!
Thanks Nikki!
Very good explained, thank you!I still have a question about the right needle to sew wool, I meant wool for coats or jackets.😍
Thank you. A wool coat of jacket can be sewn with a Universal Needle (unless it is knitted), and I would say 90/14 or greater, depending on the thickness of the wool fabric. Aneka x
You are very articulate and informative in your instruction and I thank you for that.
I am looking to sew quite heavy materials like 1000 denier, ripstop nylons, and full grain leather if possible. I'm starting off with a Brother 7000i and would like an assortment pack of quality needles that I can try out to get started on my new hobby. 😊😎
Awesome. Good luck with the new project! Aneka 😊
This was very informative. Thank you so much. 🥰
Glad I could help. Aneka x
thank you Aneka 😍
You're welcome 😊
You are great at explaining things 💕 love the vid thanx
Thank you. Aneka x
Aneka, thank you! Oh, my ... I was so behind on those needles ... 🙉🙉🙉
So pleased I could help. Aneka x
Very helpful information. Thanks
Thank you. x
So helpful , thank you
Thank you. x
Can I use SINGER NEEDLES on a BROTHER Machine or get SCHMETZ needles ?
Yes you can use singer needles on a brother machine. I would use them first and then purchase Schmetz needles when you want to buy some more.
Would it be possible to have more information on what type of thread is suitable for different fabrics, please? I am very new to this and don't want to use the wrong thread and have it break either when I am sewing or when it is being worn or washed. I hope this is not a very foolish question.
Hi Sue, it is not a foolish question at all. I am planning a thread video, but there is a lot of debate about thread so I have contacted a couple of expert companies to ask for their opinions, so that I am providing the best information. If in double a quality Polyester thread will work on pretty much every fabric. I use Gutermann Sew All Polyester with my students. Aneka x
Many thanks for your speedy reply. I will use the thread you suggest and await your video on the subject. I have found your blog extremely interesting and informative , especially for a raw beginner. Regards Sue
Thank you for sharing your knowledge 🙏! Beginner here so please be patient, you might see few questions from me in your videos 😊! For this one I’d like to know what needle would be appropriate for sewing paper on paper ( few layers together). I’d like to sew journals pages. Thanks in advance!
Hi Daniela, I would try a 16 or 18 and maybe a Denim needle if you can find one? I hope that helps. Lovely to have you here. Aneka x
Thanks for your reply! I plan to buy the denim one, I have bought the leather ones...I will give them a go! Thanks so much 🙏
@@danielaexarhakos4282 I hope it helps. Let me know how you get on. 😊
watched this nice video, but I learned by breaking as many needles as possible in all kinds of ways. Once I let the thread wrap around the underside of the bobbin and my bobbin gear broke, had to trash the machine. I also watched your darts video and learned your darts are much prettier and perfect, I will be doing it your way. And I love your pink shirt with those sleeves and color too, Anika you get prettier every day, I wish you were my side chick and we were both so filthy-rich we both sew together on gold plated Berninas ( I have a nice Bernina by the way, not gold plated though), and I was in your class too. Do you feel like the Queen of sewing? I bet The Queen Elizabeth ll watches your sewing class too and we're here with her Majesty too, Hi Elizabeth! I bet she sews her buttons by hand like I do, the old fashioned way. That's the way a button shirt should be done. Anika, Elizabeth is a close friend and said we could take the carriage out for a ride in the fields of flowers then a dip in the Queens pool before dinner with her Majesty, OK with you Anika. Don't be a drunk in front of the Queen like my last side chick was. Thank you Anika
Wonderful Robert, this did make me chuckle. :-))
Hello madam, please thank you so much for helping me to understand, am most grateful to you, God richly bless you 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🥳🥳🥳🥳🥳
Really great info thanks
Thank you. Aneka x
Very helpful
Glad you think so!
Great video. Thank you!
Thank you.
Thank you so very much for this tutorial. I have been having problems figuring out what needles to use.
Now I KNOW.
Greetings from Bakersfield California USA 🇺🇸 😀
So glad I could help Laura. Wishing you all the best! ❤️
Love ur content. This helped me alot
Glad to hear it!
Great information ty for sharing
Thank you.
Aneka can you talk about overlocker(aka serger) needles
Hi Matthew, I am planning a guide to using the overlocker. In terms ot needles you will need to check your machine; I believe some machines require specific 'overlocker' needles; whereas others you can use the same needles you would use in your sewing machine. You will want a ball point needle if you are working with a knitted fabric, like I talk about here. Hope this helps in the meantime. Aneka
Your pink dress is beautiful
Thank you. x
How do you dispose of your needles? I've got a small tin that I've been putting my needles, rotary blades and razor blades into, not sure what the safest next move is? Thanks.
Yes, I would suggest a small tin. That is what I use, so that when they have to be thrown away, they are not going to harm or damage anything/anyone. Aneka
If you have a metal recycling place, they might take it. Dunno. If not, I would tape the tin closed. I know someone sells a secure disposal tin for razor blades, but thats probably overkill.
What about when mixing fabrics like sewing a knit to a woven or a light weight to a heavy weight?
Hi Barbara, it is always worth testing in this situations.
Heavy weight and light weight together, I would probably aim for a lighter needle as the larger sized needle might snag the light weight fabric. You might find you can get away with a middle of the road size.
Woven and a knit together, I would test this, but aim to try a knit needle first. You don't want the standard needle to cut the knit fibres. But equally you need to make sure the knit needle is able to go through the woven fabric without catching. The key is just to test with samples to see what works. Hope this helps?
Yooo my problem solved thank you 💃💃💃💃💃
So pleased!
Thank you Aneka! You are a wonder at explaining tools and techniques. I will definitely stay tuned for more presentations. Any chance you will tackle thread types?
Yes thread types are coming next week :-)). Aneka
Thank you I could solve my problem !
Great news.
great video, thank you, great information, hopefully will save hours of frustration! :)
So pleased I could help. Aneka x
What do you use for sewing felt? 3 mm is thick but not the thickest. Thanks
You can probably use a standard 90/14 or 100/16 unless it is really thick. Just test it first! 😊
Many thanks.
What type of needle would I use for nylon straps such as for a bag or dog collar?
Hi Kristin, I would try a Universal Needle; depending on the thickness of the strap you could try a 100/16?
Thanks so much!
nice presentation , would you tell us about the bobbin thread that matches or goes with metallic thread please. I am having hard time with that.
Thank you. I personally don't use the metallic thread in bobbin (generally), I will use a lightweight polyester to silk thread. I will plan something. Hope this helps in the meantime. Aneka x
Thanks for this video❤
Thank you. Aneka x
Thank you.
Hi there.
I have been trying to sew a garment using Scuba fabric and the needles used just are stitching at all. I am using an Empisol sewing machine and have tried using Singer size 14 needles, size 14 universal needles and various ballpoint needle sizes.
Please assist on what I can do or maybe what I'm doing wrong
Hello, sorry you are having trouble. I can't believe it would be the needle if it isn't stitching at all. Have you watched my troubleshooting video? ruclips.net/video/4rdWWAsTgro/видео.html Are you threading everything correctly? Aneka x
I've been using 90 on thin stretchy fabrics and wondering why I had problems, thanks. Very good info. I'm off to Amazon right now (again!)
Just wondering if you might know: I used a 100 leather needle on some PVC boots to reinforce where I put eyelets in. It struggles a bit to go through at slow speeds so I run it faster, but the bobbin refuses to catch at all and I can't figure out why.
Is this on your brother machine? Just replying to your other question about it struggling to go through thick layers of fabric. I would have thought the leather 100 needle would work. Without seeing the thickness of the PVC it is hard to tell, you could t5ry a 110?
@@MadetoSew Hi Aneka, it is on the Brother, yes. It is going through two layers but I think I have figured out the problem in my head.... the PVC fabric is very stretchy, and I believe where the needle raises up, the fabric raises up slightly through the hole, and pulls the thread up with it, not leaving a loop below to hook onto most of the time. Perhaps I should try a thinner thread of a different material. I will try on the Emerald 118 when it arrives tomorrow because you can alter the needle position and I'll try putting it right up against the edge of the foot to mitigate the pulling effect.
Thank you for taking the time to reply, much appreciated! :-)
@@ArcanePath360 I would also try and get a walking foot for the Emerald 118, this will help with tricky fabrics. You don't have to get the Husqvarna one as these can be expensive. But a quality generic will work and that's what I have for the machines. Maybe try a smaller needle as well it sounds like the fabric is getting stuck on the needle? Good luck! Aneka
@@MadetoSew Funny you should suggest that, I have ordered one for delivery today through Amazon Prime. It may even arrive before the Emerald 118, lol. Thanks for the advice!
Very good, informative video ... but how many layers of fabric / what total thickness can a needle cope with?
Thanks Trefor, I'm glad you found it informative. In answer to your question, it depends on the needle size. A larger sized needle will be able to cope with more layers of fabric and/or a greater thickness. I hope that helps?
Many thanks for the reply, that probably explains why I find missed stitches, no zigzag. I must be forcing an 80/12 needle through too many layers and bending it enough to cause problems. I'll try the next size up. I'm 70+ and only took up sewing during the lockdown.
@@treforjones6289 Wow! Fantastic that you have taken up sewing. Lockdown has had some positives and for many it's been finding sewing as a hobby and a form of relaxation. It sounds like you could be using too fine a needle for the job. If changing needle doesn't resolve your problem feel free to ask again. Good Luck! And happy sewing.
Thanks for the encouragement. I am finding very few sewable pattern ideas for male sewists!
@@treforjones6289 Thanks for the reminder! We are very keen to support male sewists so will give this some consideration.
How can you tell which needle is which tho? I am trying to figure out which needle in a set I have is a stretch needle after spilling the case a bit
Very helpful!!
Thank you!
I using prolectrix sewing machine and my needle broke can u tell me please which needle shall I use
It really depends on the fabric you are working with. Hopefully this video helped. :-))
Would anyone have any advice on my issue please: I am making dog coats out of old human coats. The inside of the dog coat is fleece and the outside is either an old waterproof coat or an old Barbour oiled coat. What type of needle would I need for that combo? Many thanks for any help that can be offered.
Hi Kerry, you will probably be fine with a Universal Needle, I would try a size 90/14 to start. Aneka x
@@MadetoSew Thanks for your response Aneka, it is much appreciated. Best regards, Kerry
@@kerry5586 No problem.
What needle and settings would you recommend for sewing cotton material onto a towel?
I would probably use a 90/14 standard (universal needle). Of course lots of cotton fabrics are different, some are closer woven than others (you might need a Microtex) so just test it on your machine. Settings wise, you could do a satin stitch like this video: ruclips.net/video/xIsczgkBTZo/видео.html
I often do small projects using a variety of fabrics. I have to change the needles often, from stretch to universal and back. Sometimes I forget which needle is in the machine. Do you have tips on identifying them? Also, I usually pop the used needle back into the pack but then I have no idea which is used up or which is fresh. Any hints and tips on storage?
Hi Taryn, Most of the time once I have finished a project the needle will be finished and probably should be heading for the bin. This is for example if I have sewn a whole dress, or a whole jacket. If it is a smaller project or I have only had to use one needle for a small amount of time I will either pop it back in the original case (if I have used it to do one seam, or something that I don't believe has really affected the needle). Or if I have used it for a while I won't put it in the original case I will instead put it in my large pin cushion, OR needle booklet. You should be able to read what type of needle it is (on the side, very small writing), but if this is tricky I would suggest putting the used needle in a needle book/case with a little scrap of paper pinned it that says what it is. Or you could even pre-write in pen different types of needles in a sort of table and put the used needle in the right place? Hope this helps, Aneka
@@MadetoSew thank you, those are such helpful hints which I will definitely implement 🙏🙏
@@1975tnp Glad it helped Taryn.
What is the disadvantage of always using a stretch instead of ballpoint or always sharp instead of universal?
Hi Jason, there isn't really a disadvantage, you could by all means try a stretch needle with your jersey (test it first). If it works ok then use it. I pretty much always start with a ball point needle and test that first, then if I am having problems I jump to the stretch needle. I probably use my ball point needle on looser weave jersey knits, heavier fabrics and the stretch needle on the stretchier fabrics. However it's all about testing, start with stretch if you want and just keep a pack of ball point needles just incase the stretch doesn't look right? I do believe that ball point needles are slightly cheaper too. Sorry that there isn't a hard and fast rule here. Aneka :-))
Thanks!
Hi! I know this is an old video but I was wondering: what if I want to see two fabrics of different weights together? Do I choose the needle for the heavier one, or the lightest?
Hi Laura, I would probably choose the smaller needle. However it depends on the two fabrics, I would probably try the smaller needle first (as the larger needle might catch and fabric and pucker the lighter fabric). Then if you find the needle is breaking increase the size. Hope this helps, Aneka
@@MadetoSew thank you so much for the reply! I'll try that!
@@lauras4638 No problem. Aneka x
How often should you change a needle?
This is a hard question to answer as it really depends on what you are making, and how long you have used the needle for. A lot of needle manufacturers will say you need to change the needle after X number of hours sewing. BUT I don't remember how many hours of sewing I have done - I don't know about you! :-)) I usually say that you want to change it after each project, but you have to use your judgement here. If you have only hemmed a pair of trousers you can use the needle again. If you have made a whole jacket you probably want to change it. You will also learn to see what a needle seems blunt and perhaps isn't doing as good a job as it did before. Hope this helps? Aneka
Could you please tell me if I am using a embroidery mashine does the same apply
Hi Louise, yes my Bernina 790+ is an embroidery machine and I would choose the suitable needle for the job. I hope this helps? Aneka x
@@MadetoSew Thank you
Hi Aneka. Thanks for your clear and concise videos. I have recently bought some Sharp machine needles to sew some lightweight viscose challis. Are Sharp needles the same as the Microtex needles you mentioned?
Hi Rebecca, thank you for your kind words. Yes sharp machine needles are the same as Microtex.
@@MadetoSew Great 👍 Thanks 🙏🏼
Look for another video. Don't let this scare you! This is an example of Too much information (TMI), Too nuch verbiage! It is so confusing and anxiety triggering! There are other videos that directly/briefly tell you which size to choose.
Really sorry you feel that way, I would never want to cause any anxiety or worry anyone. I was solely trying to make people aware of all the options available, so that they could make the most informed choice for their work. I apologise and wish you all the best with your sewing. Aneka x
What a strange comment. The information is exactly what I was looking for. I think anyone who is serious about and takes pride in their work will appreciate Aneka’s detailed videos . …On the other hand, if you’re just someone who wants to throw something together really quick and don’t care about proper technique and finishing, then yes, I suppose this would be too much.
Aneka, you should never, ever apologize for trying to help people (for free!). Thank you so, so much for taking the time to share your professional knowledge with the world, it is truly invaluable. All the best to you in 2024 ❤❤❤
I am having trouble finishing some family pijamas. I have messed around with the tension but it still doesn't work. The fabric is knit fabric 50 stretch. The machine keeps braking the thread and the teeth on the machine keep eating the fabric. 😔 I have no idea what to do next. After this video i still don't know what needle I need
Hi there, for a knit fabric I would recommend a knit needle; it will be called knit, jersey or ballpoint (they are all the same thing). You must use a knit needle for knitted fabric to prevent the fabric from breaking; the needle cutting the knit of the fabric. If the machine stitches are skipping you can also try a stretch needle.
In terms of your machine I presume it is threaded correctly and it is sewing all other fabrics ok? I would leave the thread, needle and tension settings for this fabric and try running a plain cotton through the machine to eliminate any other issues.
If it is sewing the plain cotton ok, then what about trying a walking foot? What are you trying to sew? Are you hemming?
Aneka x
@@MadetoSew thank you! So I am trying to hem the pants once I am finished with them, but also i an beginning to sew a pijama shirt and pants for my daughter. Also I noticed when i see regular cotton on the 00 or 01 stitch it's totally fine. It's just that fabric that I am having trouble with and my machine keeps "eating" the fabric with the bottom teeth. I do have a few different walking feet maybe if I try a different one? By the way My machine is a brother idk if that detail is important 😊. Thank you!
@@hellooli2825 Hi there, yes I would give the walking foot a try. If the machine is eating the fabric it may be struggling to feed it through the machine, so walking foot is always my first step. If that doesn't work then you could try placing some stabiliser, you can buy tear away or wash away stabiliser (you can even try paper, baking paper etc. as a test), place this against the feed dogs and the material on the top. I would keep the walking foot on, hopefully this will help the machine to feed it through better? Let me know if either of this work? Aneka x
@@MadetoSew thank you so much! I appreciate you! I'm in a group and they don't help with any type of machine issues so I'm trying to find the problem looking at yt videos. I will try that and let you know! Thank you!
@@hellooli2825 Such a pleasure. I am glad it helps a bit. I have this video on troubleshooting problems too: ruclips.net/video/4rdWWAsTgro/видео.html it might be useful in the future? A
Can you use double needles on any machine?
Yes I believe so. I know that one of my students with an old machine had to get a special double needle for her machine. The needle is set to the left on her machine I think so her double needle had to come off the shank differently. And make sure you have a plate on the machine bed that will allow two needles to enter, i.e. don't use a single stitch plate. Aneka :-))
@@MadetoSew ok thanks a bunch!
OMG what is "14" a measurement of? What's "110" a measurement of? Like what units? Are they Pressure measurements? Is it 14psi? Is it some kind of length measurement?
How is one metric and one imperial?
I thought they were just arbitrary numbers assigned to like clothing sizes that have absolutely nothing to do with anything but some reason that size = a 00.
Yes the metric (European) numbers are measurements based on the diameter of the needle blade in hundredths of a mm (or something like that)!
The other numbers are American, I presume they are imperial and based on the same principle?
Hope that helps! Aneka 😊
@@MadetoSew So I did a goggle aperntly the 14, 18, ECT sizing system is braised off of the measurements for wire gauge. And wire gauge # is braised of how the amount of electrical current that can flow throw it.
Because 1/14 of an inch or 1/10 of an inch just was like too big to be anything and we don't really use anything smaller units.
So I'm pretty sure it's still not imperial because I don't think the King came up with it but it's also not metric either.
Also surprisingly difficult Google...
LifeLostSoul very interesting thanks for sharing. I tried to google it after reading your message and couldn’t find anything on the American sizing.
The Schmetz website talks about the European sizes, but doesn’t mention the American sized and how they are created?! Perhaps the American sizes are just random numbers??
@@MadetoSew
It looks like the US sizing system goes back to wire gauge including medical needles, knitting needles, music strings/guitar, ECT. Here is at least one link.
Honestly I wonder if they were being produced in the same factories originally.
m.convert-me.com/en/convert/wire_gauge/needleOldUS.html?u=needleOldUS&v=1
I'm mostly just happy that the numbers aren't like aperture where bigger numbers mean the hole is smaller.
Thank you 😊
This is so interesting, thank you so much for enlightening me! ❤️🙏 It is great to learn something new / understand it better! Thank you! 😊
What kind of needle with cotton
You can still use a Universal needle with cotton thread.
@@MadetoSew Thank you
What thread will be best to sew a canvas tote bag I was thinking heavy polyester thread heres the thing I will be using cotton twill or cotton webbing and was thinking heavy cotton thread will work best but I really want to use the heavy polyester fabric but the internet saids not to mix cotton and polyester together and the handles are cotton twill
@@caramelrose5241 I would suggest that you use a heavy weight polyester thread too. Even the upholstery style thread would work. This will give the bag some added strength and the threads will be thicker and show up more, which can be a nice design detail. You may need a larger eyed needle for this thread though.
In terms of the internet talking about only using cotton thread with cotton fabric. I think this is a rule that can be followed 'some' of the time. Some people believe this is a hard rule, I personally don't agree with that. In my opinion you do not need to use the same thread type with the same fabric, and in industry often polyester thread will be used for lots of different fabric types. Generally I might choose a cotton thread if I was working with a fabric that was lightweight, potentially silk fabric, and if I were to use polyester thread the thread would be stronger than the fabric, so you might find that the fabric tears before the thread breaks if the garment is put under strain.
I hope that helps? Aneka
@@MadetoSewThank you glad you answered and this is also helpful to others yes you helpd me I didn't quiet get what about the cotton twill tape what thread can I use with that fabric to make my canvas tote bag
I will be using a denim Jean needle 100/18
*
Great video! Thanks so much♥️
Glad you enjoyed it.
(Y)
No me importa el vidio solo lo necesito para la tarea de tecnología programación y robótica
I'm glad it was helpful.