Industrial Needles made easy!

There is a lot to think about when choosing the correct needle, and making sure the needle is right for the job makes things easier, run smoother and achieve a better overall finish. Unfortunately there is a lot to think about, its not very straight forward and multiple names and numbers that all mean different things!

1. Needle Systems:
   • Every sewing machine is compatible with a specific needle system. The needle system is determined by physical attributes like length and thickness.
   • Look for the needle system in your machine’s instruction manual or on the needle package. Examples include 135X17 or DPX17.
   • Some systems use numbers with letters (e.g., 134R) or just a series of numbers (e.g., 134-35).
2. Needle Sizes:
   • Needle size refers to the thickness or gauge of the needle. Larger sizes are thicker and stronger.
   • Use the right needle size based on the material thickness and thread size.
   • SIZE or NM: There are two sizing numbers you will see on needle packs. Although different number, they mean the same thing, for example 90/14, two numbers, same size. Think of it like shoe sizing, they have UK or US sizing.
   • Metric sizing ranges from 35 to 250 (diameter in hundredths of a millimeter). Size 100 is 1 mm thick.
   • Singer/US sizing ranges from 6 to 28.
3. Needle Points:
   • The needle point affects both the appearance of the hole in your fabric and the stitch itself.
   • Common needle points include:
     • Regular/Universal (Round) Point (R): Standard for lockstitch machines, suitable for general sewing on light to medium fabrics. A great all rounder!
     • Light Ball Point “SES”: Ideal for woven and knit fabrics, such as T-shirts and other stretchy fabrics. This needle point displaces fabrics, going through the gaps instead of damaging the fabric. Also come as regular or large ball point.
     • Medium ball point “SUK“: More round than its “light” counterpart. This point works perfectly with denim.
     • Triangular point “D” or “TRI”: This point gives a triangular incision, giving a straight seam. Great for plastics, upholstery, hard/dry leather e.g.
     • Reverse twist point “LR” or “R TW”: The cutting point on this needle is angled at 45°. Giving a decorative stitch and reducing a tear through. Perfect for leathers.
     • Sharp Point “SPI”: These needles have a very slim or sharp point, allowing accurate piercing. Great for densely woven fabrics, coated materials, smooth materials, taffata, fur and skins.
   • • Most needles systems are available in most points whether that be overlockers, flat machines or coverseams etc. Allowing the use of the correct needle point whenever you need them.