Needles

Needles come in different shapes and sizes, according to their use. They are characterised by the type of point, the size and shape of the eye and the thickness and length of the needle. Listed below are the most commonly used needles.

Within each type of needle there is a range of sizes available. The larger the size number, the smaller the needle.

Blunt Pointed

Tapestry Needles are blunt-pointed, with a large elongated eye to accomodate needlecraft threads. Perfect not only for needlepoint and tapestry, but also for cross stitch.

Bodkins are large blunt needles, sometimes flat, with a very large eye to accomodate cords, elastics etc.

Sharp Pointed

Betweens are short sharp-pointed needles, with a round eye, for fine sewing and quilting.

Sharps are medium length sharp-pointed needles with a round eye for general sewing.

Embroidery/Crewel Needles are similar to sharps, but with a long eye for embroidery thread. Used for embroidery and crewel work.

Chenille Needles are short, but with a long eye to accomodate thick yarns, for stitching dense materials. Used for ribbon embroidery.

Beading needles are very long and thin, with a round eye, suitable for bead work.

Leather Point

Leather Needles have a special triangular shaped point to avoid tearing when sewing leather and other similar fabrics.

Needles for Cross Stitch

Tapestry needles are ideal for cross stitch as they can pass smoothly through the holes in the fabric, without piercing the fabric threads.

You should use the correct size of needle to suit both the fabric and the thread. The correct size needle should pass smoothly through the fabric with only light pressure. Below is a rough guide to the size of needle for the popular fabrics; but the final choice of needle size is the one which you find works best for you.

6 count binca ... needle size 20

6 and 11 count aida ... needle size 22

14 count aida and 28 count evenweave ... needle size 24

16 and 18 count aida and 32 count evenweave ... needle size 26

Note for Overseas Customers: If you live outside of the European Union, the 20% VAT(tax) is automatically deducted from the prices during checkout.

CREDIT CARD SECURITY To provide the highest level of security, our online sales are processed by Worldpay, on a secure encrypted connection.

Shop SECURELY ON LINE or by mail or phone 01670 511241
(international +44 1670 511241) Monday to Saturday, 10am till 5pm.
All designs on this cross stitch and tapestry site are protected by copyright.
Website ©2003-2012 Cross Stitch Centre.