Choosing the Best Needles for Cross Stitch
Are you a cross stitch enthusiast looking for the perfect needles to enhance your stitching experience? Look no further! In this blog post, we will guide you through the world of cross stitch needles and help you choose the right ones for your projects.
It's easy to overlook the humble needle, but the right one makes stitching smoother, protects your fabric and keeps your thread from fraying. Here's how to choose the best needles for every cross stitch project.
Types of Cross Stitch Needles
Tapestry Needles
Tapestry needles, often sold as cross stitch needles, are what you'll use for almost every project. They have a blunt, rounded tip that slips between the threads of Aida or evenweave instead of piercing them, and a large eye that's easy to thread with several strands of floss.
They come in sizes from about 18 to 28. The higher the number, the finer the needle: 28 is the smallest and 18 the largest.
Beading Needles
Beading needles are very thin and long, designed to pass through the tiny holes of seed beads. They're usually sized from 10 (thicker) to 15 (finest). Many stitchers also use a size 28 tapestry needle or a "petite" needle for beading. See our guide to beading in cross stitch.
Sharp Embroidery Needles
For stitching onto clothing or non-countable fabric with waste canvas, you'll need a sharp embroidery (crewel) needle that can pierce the fabric underneath.
Which Needle Size Should You Choose?
Match the needle to your fabric count. The needle should pass easily through the holes without stretching them. A handy guide:
- 11-count Aida: size 22
- 14-count Aida / 28-count evenweave: size 24
- 16-count Aida / 32-count evenweave: size 26
- 18-count Aida and finer: size 26 or 28
If you're using more strands than usual, for example three instead of two, go up one size so the thread doesn't get crushed in the eye. Learn more in understanding fabric count and floss strands.
Signs You're Using the Wrong Needle
- The thread frays or keeps tangling: the eye may be too small. Try a larger size. See preventing twists and knots.
- The needle drags or stretches the holes: it's too thick for your fabric.
- The needle feels slippery and hard to control: it may be too fine for comfortable stitching.
Needle Care Tips
- Use a needle minder. A small magnet keeps your needle safe between stitches. Needles disappear with supernatural efficiency.
- Replace dull or rough needles. A plated needle that's lost its smooth finish can snag your thread.
- Don't leave a needle in your fabric. It can leave rust marks or holes over time.
- Keep spares. Hold on to the needles from your kits. See saving money on cross stitch.
Conclusion
Choosing the right needle is a small decision that makes a big difference. Consider your fabric count, number of strands and whether you're adding beads, and stitching becomes smoother and more enjoyable. For the full rundown on supplies, read Cross Stitch Essentials: Choosing Fabric, Needles and Floss. Happy stitching!
Stock up on quality tapestry needles for your next project.
