Quilting Needle Notes

Needles used for hand quilting are called "betweens". These needles are sized by numbers-----the larger the number the smaller and thinner the needle. There are many different brands and some seem to break or bend easier than others. Experiment until you find a brand that is right for you. I have found Piecemakers and Richard Hemming & Son to be good brands of needles. The Piecemakers has a larger eye for its size which is helpful. If you are new to quilting you might want to start with a size 8 and gradually work to a size 10 or 12. Most information I have read says the smaller the needle the smaller the stitch However I don't think that is necessary so, as many other factors influence your quilting stitch. The most important thing is practice, practice, practice. Most judges would rather see even stitches then very small stitches. That means even on both the top side and back. I must admit as much as I have quilted my stitches aren't always even on both sides... but I am continuing to work on that problem! 

A few of conditions that will affect hand quilting are whether you are quilting over many seams. Also quilting on the bias grain of the fabric is easier than quilting on the straight of grain. Quilting in "the ditch" is also more difficult. And believe it or not the weather and you frame of mind that particular day will also have an effect on you quilting. 

Here are a few hints on threading the needle. Cut the thread on a slant and hold it against a white background. Also, if you are still having trouble, turn the needle around, as the hole in the eye is larger on one side. If you are happy with your quilting, that what really counts.

 Happy Quilting!
- Carol