I love applique and use a #12 ordinary needle. Think the quality of stitching can improve (nothing wrong with design) as it looks as if the appliqued fabric might tear away from the stitching in the future. I do use 100% cotton fabric.

I changed over to #12 universals - can get them by the 100 and so far so good. I was using #11 but can't get them in the 100 pack.

I don't do much applique, so I was very interested in the question and answer. Thanks

Hi Suzette, I also find the no.11 best for my embroidery, but even a no.12 is O.K. I always like to stitch with a thinner needle, rather than too thick.

2 comments

by marietta 16 Aug 2010

Forgot to mention that I also like stitching with embroidery needles from "Schmetz"

by suzettebritz 16 Aug 2010

Thanks Marietta, I do have Schmetz ones! Will change to 11 now!

Hi Suzette, Depends on what type of fabric I am sewing. For 100% cotton I would use a 11 . Hugs Yvonne

I do like to use 'Schmetz' brand Embroidery size 12
for all my embroidery and applique. The embroidery needle has a slightly elongated eye for embroidery threads.
The jersey/ballpoint needle, for stretch-knits and T-shirts.I will paint the shaft with a dot of my nailpolish . They prevent holes sewn into the knit fabric.They tend to break if you you use them on other farics.
Use the special Metalic needle for metalic Theads, and slow the speed for Metalic thread designs.
Here is a pic of my (painted) stretch needles so I know if it is left in the machine.
From Bev

1 images:[1]

4 comments

by suzettebritz 16 Aug 2010

Bev, thank you! We don't seem to get EMBROIDERY #12 at Bernina in SA. Only #11 and #14. That's why I use ordinary # 12. Will have to keep an eye out for them!

by castelyn 16 Aug 2010

Suzette, you can try at Elna, they sell the pack with different, sizes in them - Hugs Yvonne

by judybell 16 Aug 2010

Bev, thank's for the picture. I need to look for these needles. Judy

by suzettebritz 16 Aug 2010

Thanks Yvonne, will check Elna!

Most of my work is done with #11

1 comment

by suzettebritz 16 Aug 2010

Thanks Raelene!

I use the same as I do for embroidery and i'm Applique crazy try using other fabrics other than cotton you will be amazed I even use fur & polar fleece for Bears and satins and silks for flowers there is no end to what you can use Hugs Shazells

1 images:[1]

2 comments

by suzettebritz 16 Aug 2010

Shazells, Do you use #11 EMBROIDERY needle? I use #12 ORDINARY needle

by shazells 16 Aug 2010

Mostly #11 Embroidery but I have used #12 But try other Fabrics you will be amazed at the reults velvet on applique roses is divine