Explore SCHMETZ Needle Types and Multi-Packs for every sewing project.

Yesterday, I explained the color codes you find on the SCHMETZ needles. It’s an easy and quick way to identify the needle type and size.

Today, I’m talking about the different SCHMETZ needle types.

Six of 11 SCHMETZ needle types

Over the last couple of years, I’ve been experimenting with different things in sewing. Quilting will always be my first love, but I also want to make some new shirts, T-shirts, and shorts for sunny holidays. Like I mentioned in Monday’s post, needle size matters—and it depends on the weight of the thread. As I work on picking up new sewing skills, I’ve also realized that the type of needle is just as important, especially when it comes to the kind of fabric you’re using.

Here’s a chart to help any sewist choose the right needle for the right fabric type.

Universal	All-purpose	Slightly rounded point, works on woven and knit fabrics. Ideal for everyday sewing.
Microtex (Sharp)	Fine wovens, silk, microfiber	Very slim, sharp point for precise stitching and minimal fabric damage.
Ball Point (Jersey)	Knits, jerseys	Medium ball point slides between fibers instead of piercing them. Prevents skipped stitches.
Stretch	Lycra, swimwear, elastic	Medium ball point + special eye/scarf to prevent skipped stitches on stretchy fabric.
Jeans/Denim	Denim, canvas	Strong, sharp point and reinforced shaft to penetrate dense fabrics.
Quilting	Quilting cotton, batting	Special taper to prevent fabric shifting and reduce skipped stitches on layers.
Embroidery	Rayon/poly embroidery thread	Larger eye and special groove to protect decorative threads.
Topstitch	Heavy thread, topstitching	Extra-large eye and deep groove for thicker threads.
Leather	Leather, vinyl	Wedge-shaped point cuts cleanly through leather without tearing.
Metallic	Metallic threads	Larger eye and longer groove reduce friction and breakage of delicate metallic threads.
Twin & Triple Needles	Decorative seams, hems	Two or three needles on one shank. Used with zigzag-capable machines. Multiple widths and types (universal, stretch, jeans, etc.).

Here’s a printable SCHMETZ needle and fabric recommendation PDF file.

If garment sewing is new to you, then let me suggest this. Buy one of these multi-pack cards. The SCHMETZ #1850 Costume Needles Pack Carded – Assorted – 9 count or the SCHMETZ #1851 Costume Needles Pack Carded – Assorted – 10 count. These are great when starting to sew as they provide a variety of needles to explore and learn about.

SCHMETZ 9 Needle Costume Pack

Some packs have the same type of needles but with multiple sizes, such as the SCHMETZ #1739 Quilting Needles Carded – Assorted Sizes – 5 count.

SCHMETZ Quilting Needles assorted sizes

Have fun exploring new sewing ideas with this variety of sewing needles and fun fabrics and fibers.

SCHMETZ multi-pack, there are some for all types of sewing and fabrics.

Another reason I love SCHMETZ multi-packs is that they’re convenient to have at a retreat or workshop. Bring them along so you’re well supplied away from home.

Join me tomorrow, I’m having fun with SCHMETZ Twin Needles.

This is part 3 of 5 in this series

Go back to part 2: Master SCHMETZ Needle Color Codes & stay organized with Grabbit myPad

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