Hand And Machine Needles

Choosing the right needle point and eye for your project

Different hand stitching techniques require distinct combinations of needle points and eye shapes. Standard sharps made from hardened steel suit everyday sewing, providing medium and long lengths for regular construction and repair. For decorative work, crewel and embroidery needles feature a standard sharp point paired with an elongated eye designed to accommodate stranded cotton. Fine embroidery and silk work typically use sharp-pointed chenille needles.

Open-weave materials and needlecraft canvas require a different tip. Tapestry needles have a blunted end that passes cleanly between the woven strands without piercing or damaging the weave, alongside a longer eye to accept thicker threads. Multi-packs and needle compacts bring these options together, combining sharps, betweens, embroidery, and tapestry styles in one set.

Specialist needles for leather, upholstery, and knitwear

Dense materials and structural crafts require purpose-built needle shapes rather than standard straight shafts:

• Leather needles: Also known as glover's needles, these feature a triangular cutting point that pierces cleanly through leather without tearing.
• Curved upholsterer's needles: Semi-circular needles designed to guide thread through cushions, upholstery, and curved areas where a straight needle cannot pass.
• Yarn needles: Blunt metal needles with large eyes intended for threading wool and seaming knitted garments together.