Avoid THIS rookie sewing mistake

[@nancyhelpinstill1834]

I teach quilt classes and I tell my students to change the needle at the start of a new project and clean out your bobbin area EVERY TIME YOU SIT DOWN TO SEW!! it only takes a minute to brush out your bobbin area and that REALLY helps to keep your machine purring! 💕

[@SewSewLounge]

That’s a great tip! I need to start cleaning my bobbin area before I start a new project. I usually do it every 2-3 projects. Or if my fabric is super linty.

[@trinitywright7122]

I've never heard anyone say this and I've taken so many classes and we actually had sewing in school and our teacher never told us this and now I'm sitting here going " well. ...Yeah duh , I should have known that" Thank you young lady

[@lindajohnson7657]

What size needle do you use for 100% cotton quilt piecing

[@connie6690]

I never know how many hours I've used a needle for. Like you, I work on a few projects at once and change needles for them. However ... yesterday I was sewing along and your voice popped into my head. "Change the needle, it's cheaper than getting your machine serviced". So right. So I changed the needle. 😊

[@SewSewLounge]

That’s pretty funny. Thanks for letting me know 😉

[@pamz7531]

Thank you. I have been sewing for about 66 years and you said a couple of things I never knew. I have never gone to the Schmetz website. I like that pad to stick the needles in. I have never seen a tomato like yours. I didn't know the difference between Jersey and Knit. You have a new fan.

[@SewSewLounge]

You are so welcome! Thank you for your comment. The Schmetz needle website is great.

[@Jean2235177]

Excellent advice! I’m a quilter. Buy my schmetz needles in bulk boxes of 100 much more economical for me. I have found that if I change my needles (at least) every project my seams come out better and my Bernina is happier. I sometimes use 2-3 needles, depending on the project. And keeping my machine cleaned and oiled goes a LONG way with my sewing experience and also helps the needles last longer - less lint, drag, pull. I second your Needles! Needles! Needles! Message 👍🏻❤️

[@SewSewLounge]

I saw those bulk packs on the Schmetz website and I was wondering who bought them! It would take me years to go through that many needles. Using them for quilting makes so much sense!

[@bobbiedurham5010]

I used to, in my younger days, sew until my needle broke !!

[@karenpoole8957]

@@bobbiedurham5010 that’s how I was taught as a kid! What a difference a good needle makes!

[@lindab.716]

I took a sewing class as an adult (I had been sewing 20 years) The best takeaways were change needle often and don’t use cheap thread.

[@SewSewLounge]

Or cheap fabric 😉

[@smokeydog67]

Totally agree, use only if you want issues cause you’re gonna get plenty of them!!

[@judyheim6888]

Thank you so much, Toni! Last night I was sewing and my machine was skipping stitches. I thought oh-no, I'm going to have to take it in to the sewing-machine repair guy...AGAIN. But wait, maybe...it's the needle? It's crazy, but as a child of Depression kids you are taught to use needles until they break, like your grandma. I've been sewing for over 50 years but I still learn so many things from your wonderful videos. Thank you, Toni! 🙂

[@SewSewLounge]

That may be the same reason Grandma forgets to change her needle! Hopefully the needle change fixed your machine problems 😉

[@megfreeth4377]

I love microtex needles they are so sharp and give a lovely stitch, I do have packs of different needles for different fabrics but buy microtex and universal in hundred packs in different sizes, I I would not cope if I broke one and had no replacements lol, I also change my needle every new project or 8 hrs or so when quilting. Good tips x

[@SewSewLounge]

I’ve only really used microtex needles on fleece but they worked great! I have a lot of needles on hand too. The last thing I want to do is run to the store in the middle of a project because I don’t have a spare!

[@raraavis7782]

That needle ball is so cool, though. I put mine back into the package with a little permanent marker dot for 'lightly used'. I've always been team 'when in doubt, throw away', when it comes to needles. They're not that expensive, after all.

[@SewSewLounge]

So true! And if you buy them on sale you always have fresh needles ready to go.

[@RoundMtnDryGoods]

I do the same thing, except I recently got a pincushion with the needle types and sizes on it to store my lightly used ones.

[@darlenehealy3150]

@@RoundMtnDryGoodswhere did you find one?

[@Tinyteacher1111]

@@RoundMtnDryGoodsoh! I want one!

[@merrim7765]

@@darlenehealy3150 Maybe at RoundMtn DryGoods?? : ) I'm looking up that name!

[@bigfamilyaffair]

I need to get stretch needles now. This was quite an eye-opener. My mom, Rip, gave me her 1957 Singer 401 because it skipped stitches. I took it home, changed the needle, and oiled a few parts and it sewed beautifully! I asked my mom when was the last time she changed the needle and she said she had never changed it! I could not believe it. She did not want it back. This happened about 10 years ago. I still have it and I always think of her when I sew on it. Thank you so much for your video. I am now a new subscriber!

[@SewSewLounge]

Your mom and my Grandma have that in common 🤣 glad that you still use it and think of her when you sew. Thanks for subscribing ❤️

[@musikkfamilien]

Again, Tony; openly admitting and pin pointing your faults. We are all the same. We need to hear this! There were years and years I did not know you had to change needles. Very informative! Thank you so much. Both for the info, as well for your time. Thanks😊👏👏👏👏❤️

[@SewSewLounge]

Thank you for your comment. It means so much to me ❤️

[@kathleensauerbrei5199]

What an excellent tutorial. I’ve been sewing for years and you just taught me how much I don’t know. Thank you so much. 🇨🇦

[@SewSewLounge]

Thank you for watching! I’m glad it was helpful ❤️

[@theresaromatowski9536]

I've been sewing for 70yrs. A very relaxing hobby, and have made many useful items. This was such a wonderful and informative video. Great for newbies and veterans. I didn't know there is a Non- stick Needle, but will be getting some soon. I have needles for leather sewing, but I'm sure these will work with leather. Maybe make the process smoother. Can't wait to try them. Thank you for all of this information. Keep the video's coming.

[@SewSewLounge]

Thank you for your comment!Thank you for being here!

[@m.e.bartula6714]

My machine was clattering, changed needle, still noisy. A friend asked when was the last time I cleaned under the feed dog? Wow, full of lint. Cleaned it out and no more noise.

[@SewSewLounge]

Yay! That’s awesome. And so much cheaper than having it serviced 😉

[@elizabethguzman6024]

Thank you sooooo much for all this information. Schmetz should hire you to give needle classes. This post was so helpful to me.

[@SewSewLounge]

Glad it was helpful! I’m a huge fan of Schmetz needles. They are the best!

[@DerrithWieman]

Needles also need to match thread sizes. Thread a needle on the thread you intend to use then hold the thread taut at a 45 degree angle. If the needle does not easily slide down the thread, change to a larger needle size.

[@SewSewLounge]

Good tip!

[@craftymystic4868]

Yes, indeed, that’s what the sewing machine mechanics do, my brother was one for years, he used to roll his eyes at me about feeling a bit guilty taking money from a sewist who didn’t know to change their needles. Didn’t stop him, mind you, but that was MOST of his business. So, Just do it. Needles are a consumable, I teach in my sewing classes. And while you’re doing that, get the dust out of the bobbin area. Dust in the area that is trying to form that stitch will also cause a lot of the symptoms Toni mentioned. Skipped stitches, funny noises, etc.

[@SewSewLounge]

Omg that’s so funny about your brother servicing machines. I’ll usually try everything I can think of before taking it in for service.

[@yesiamsharon]

So glad I was recommended this channel. I change my needle with each project.

[@SewSewLounge]

Oh yay! Thank you for watching 😊

[@deborahwalton9689]

I used to think the same thing. All needles are built the same. Learned lesson. Now I buy the needle geared to my project and fabric. And I love, live Schmetz. They are the bomb!!!

[@SewSewLounge]

They really are the best needles around with the most options 😉

[@badfish420]

Same here. I paid little to no attention to type and size and basically used a size 70 universal for everything and used each needle for waaayyy too long. It's safe to say that the quality of my garments has gone way up since I figured out the science of sewing machine needles.

[@alycewich4472]

💯💯💯Love my Schmetz!

[@cynthiafiloromo1432]

They do sell that needle cushion on Amazon for $8.99 but it is now a pin cushion pillow with the writing on it . I bought the plate with all that information on it that helped me ! In front of my machine for quick reference. Thanks for posting this confusing information about needles. Helps!

[@SewSewLounge]

That is awesome! Glad you found it helpful. The pin cushion tomatoes are available but writing on them can be a challenge.

[@SparkyOne549]

I received a tin of all the Schmetz needles for Christmas, all the needle packs are categorized into Leather, microtex, quilting etc etc etc. It makes selecting needles so much easier. When i take a needle out of a pack, I tape it to my machine with the date I last used it for and how long I used it, so I know what needle is in the machine, I’ve always done it that way.

[@SewSewLounge]

That is such a great idea to keep track of your needles!

[@Robbie-mw5uu]

giving someone needles is an ...interesting gift for christmas

[@SuzetteG316]

I am a quilter with 26 years experience and I use only 100% cotton fabric and thread. For the last 15 years the only needle I ever use for my piecing and quilting is a Schmetz Universal 80/12. I get the best and most consistent results with this needle.

[@SewSewLounge]

There are more variables sewing clothing when the fiber content and fabric type are always changing to go with the pattern, hence the need for a variety of sewing needles 😉

[@kayBTR]

I wish my high school home economics teacher had taught us this. Thanks so much!

[@SewSewLounge]

I'm so grateful for your kind words! 🙏

[@jeannylacey8026]

wow... I usually just grab an universal pack of Schmetz needles... I didn't realize there was a difference in sizes!!! I learned something new today 😀

[@SewSewLounge]

It makes a big difference, I promise! 😊

[@alissagonzales735]

This was a good reminder about needles. Especially having not sewn anything for about six months. Thank you.

[@SewSewLounge]

Your support means the world to me!Thanks!🙏

[@janne6957]

Wow. Did I learn a lot today! I was a home ec major in college (1960s) and a teacher, but you told me things I never knew before. THANK you.

[@SewSewLounge]

You are so welcome!

[@dialarkingsley3924]

Great info, thanks. Never heard of Schmetz sewing needles before last year. Getting back into sewing & quilting now that I retired a couple of years ago. Here is Ontario, Canada I'm surprised at how many fabric shops we have lost over the past 30 years. Even our little Singer Sewing Machine shop closed up just before Covid hit. That's where I got my last supply of sewing machine needles. Bought some Schmetz a few months ago, sales staff just said they were a good needle, not much more. Thanks for the link, now I feel much better using them knowing more about the product. And their needle size chart is downloadable which was great.

[@SewSewLounge]

Schmetz makes great needles, you won’t be disappointed. It’s very sad how many sewing shops have disappeared since the pandemic. I shop small and local whenever possible.

[@Zar2244]

I had a big problem with the stitches not right on the underside, turned out it was the cheap cotton reels I had purchased. Took me awhile to realise. Changed the cotton to a better brand and my sewing stitches were perfect. Who knew.

[@SewSewLounge]

I’m not a fan of cotton thread. It really depends on the thread your machine likes and sews best with. For mine that’s Coats dual duty xp

[@karenpoole8957]

@@SewSewLounge it has to be a good quality of cotton, not the kind you find at a dollar store. I was going to teach at a makers space until one of the admins had bought bulk dollar store thread spoils, scissors, pins and marking pencils, stocked their store with them and told the students signing up for the class those were the supplies they needed!! I had written a curriculum for the class, it was approved by the CEO and the supply list was given to the store manager with type and brands of supplies. When I entered the first class I saw every student with those awful “tools” in front of them and almost cried!! That they paid good money for this class (I was not being paid) and have the school provide this was unacceptable!! That class was spent explaining why those needed to be returned to the store for a full refund and I had lists of types and brands and had samples of each. They sampled their stuff and compared it to what my list suggested and couldn’t believe the difference. Anyway, that was the last class I taught, the manager wanted me to apologize to the person that was in charge of buying and selling those supplies to the students and to tell the students they were fine to use!! That makers space (which was not inexpensive to join) closed within a year.

[@vickiew8642]

I was taught every 7-8 hrs sewing, change yr needle. Also, sharp needles for cotton calico and denim. Match the thread to the fabric and the needle (light, medium, heavy weight thread).cotton thread on cotton fabric. Its confusing but keep notes in a sample notebook with examples of stitch length/width, etc. good info. That tomato deal is great.

[@SewSewLounge]

Thanks for sharing!

[@Prettyfunny40]

This was a super useful video. I had no idea sewing machines have different type of needles until mine broke and I had to change it and saw that the package of needles that came with my machine had different numbers! Thank you so much for explaining all this to newbies like me!

[@SewSewLounge]

Aww you’re welcome! I’m glad my video helped you. I have to remember to change my needle too!

[@lindaheckert8495]

Thank you for sharing this information, about the needles I wondered why my machine sounded funny. 😮😊

[@SewSewLounge]

I’m glad it helped! It’s amazing how much a bad needle can change the sound of a machine.😱

[@keithbell51]

Easy way to remember is thick fabric thick needle,,thin fabric thin needle .retired sewing machine mechanic 😊

[@SewSewLounge]

Good tip!! I’m sure you’ve seen plenty of damage from using the wrong needle!

[@sandybruce9092]

I stopped using Universal needles quite a few years ago when I learned what they really are! I have great stitches using Sharps and a few others!

[@SewSewLounge]

While they work for most things, there are more specific needles out there to do a better job 😉

[@koalasez1200]

HH, LL. Heavy fabric, Higher needle # Lighter fabric, lower needle # (I always use Schmetz ❤ and have a boatload of sizes w/different applications)

[@SewSewLounge]

Good tip! I ❤️ Schmetz needles too.

[@alycewich4472]

Thanks for that tip. Now if I can remember it...

[@aboveusonlysky2878]

Thank you. As a new sewer, decades ago, i was taught nothing about needles. I think i bought one size, and replaced it when it bent or broke. I can't imagine how awful my stitches were.

[@SewSewLounge]

I’m there with you! Except I was in college studying fashion design and there was never any mention of needles.

[@teresajackson-5775]

Such helpful info. I have been sewing for almost 60 years. I learned quite a bit. Thanks!!

[@SewSewLounge]

You’re welcome!! Thanks for watching 😊

[@karenpoole8957]

I’ve used a larger size pincushion and did my own marks like what’s on your pink one! The hours used is particularly helpful.

[@SewSewLounge]

It’s very helpful for keeping track of needle use. I find that my sewing is better too!

[@susanladouceur890]

I feel incredibly lucky to have found your channel ,thank you for So Many valuable tips!

[@SewSewLounge]

You are very welcome! Glad they are helping. Thank you for watching Susan ❤️

[@saralist1200]

Cleaning out your machine every time you change needles or start a new project will also help your machine work better! It takes like 2 minutes to pop the throat plate off and get in there with a brush to clean out the lint. I oil every few cleanings as well or any time the wick looks dry. Also, I don’t know about other machines, but I have a new-ish Singer and the tool kit they give is garbage. For like $5 you can get super short magnetic screwdrivers that will make this task 1000 times easier! 🙂. Also, check your manual because many say not to use canned air and they mean it.

[@SewSewLounge]

Very good tips! Unfortunately the throat plate can’t be removed on my Brother sewing machine and the manual says take it to be serviced instead of giving tips on how to clean and oil it yourself. So ridiculous.

[@saralist1200]

😮😮. I had no idea anyone made machines you can’t take apart! That could add up to a lot of service calls. 🙁

[@Beth_Ann_K]

I love a good Nerdy Needle video. Hard to believe we focus on so many details when sewing but don’t give the needle in the machine much thought. Great topic. Not sure if you ever listen to the Thread’s Magazine podcast, but they did an interview with a Schmetz VIP that was (oddly) interesting. 😊. Thanks for taking the time for this topic.

[@SewSewLounge]

In all fairness, I don’t think about my needle until I start having problems with my sewing project. I need to keep it top of mind and choose the right one before I start!! Glad you enjoyed my video. I will check out the threads podcast.

[@carriesaindon5382]

My sewing machine manual has a chart for which size needle to use with a particular fabric.

[@SewSewLounge]

That is awesome! Mine doesn’t 🤣

[@jesspeak7543]

The back of the needle package also has a reference guide.

[@koalasez1200]

When to change? If I hear slight “thumping” or the thread & seam get a bit wonky 😉. Been sewing since 1968. 😍

[@SewSewLounge]

Then you know! 😉

[@katyk7522]

Oh my Gosh! I’ve been ignorant for so long…let’s just say I’m on the same lines as your grandma. Thank you for this video. Very helpful indeed!

[@SewSewLounge]

You’re welcome! Trust me, it took me a while to figure out how important the needle was to the whole sewing process 😉

[@Apricity6534]

Thank you SO much for this informational video! You’ve saved my new sewing machine’s life! My machine and I are very grateful to you! 👍👍👍👍👍

[@SewSewLounge]

You are so welcome! Thank you for your wonderful support!

[@debkober7105]

Thank you so very much for this video! I’m 63 years old and didn’t know there were nonstick needles!! Learn something new every day 😊

[@SewSewLounge]

I only learned about them last summer when I was sewing a horrible metallic fabric with adhesive that gummed up the needle. Nonstick needles to the rescue!

[@BeautifulOaks]

Hi Sew Sew Lounge, will you please make a video about thread types, weights and selecting their corresponding needles, then to reasonable stitch length? Oh, yes, how are stitch lengths measured? Thanks

[@SewSewLounge]

I will add it to list for content in 2025! If not sooner 😉

[@FrenchyStitchy]

And tension related to it! My Babylock is having a moment right now because I sewed a heavier weight fabric with a sturdier needle and adjusted the tension to help. Going back to regular quilting cotton has caused upper thread tension issues. It's a mess!

[@disimmons4193]

Thank you certainly lookin forward to it 👍🏾👍🏾

[@tinas977]

@@FrenchyStitchyyuck. I’d love to learn more about tension

[@JulieDray-w2f]

Found this really interesting and full of useful information, now I am off to change my needle

[@SewSewLounge]

Glad it was helpful!

[@manuelitaruiz9783]

Thank you so much you gave a lot of good advice , on all about needles ,I’ll make sure am changing my needles as needed❤❤❤❤❤❤🎉

[@SewSewLounge]

You are very welcome!

[@ccsullivan9164]

Schmetz used to have a needle guide, printed on card stock, that listed all their needles and the fabric they worked best with. Don’t know if they still offer it or it was a promo item. Your grandmother’s story reminded me of a friend who was an occasional sewist asked me if I could take a look because something wasn’t “right”. The machine was making a noise somewhere between a grinding and thumping. The machine was a Christmas gift five years previously and once I opened the plate covering the feed dogs the problem was revealed: five years of accumulated dust, threads and debris. She had no idea that you could clean that area. Then I put a new needle in and vroom-vroom the machine was working fine. I recommended that she clean it out every couple of projects and if she was making teddy bears again, clean the feed dog area every time she used the machine. Finally, Schmetz used to make a needle marked Handicap on the package. It has an outsized eye for ease of threading. Makes a big difference.

[@SewSewLounge]

I’ve heard about those needle guides but have yet to find one. I have a fabric book that gives needle suggestions. Omg your friend’s machine sounds just like Grandma’s. Hers was full of lint and thread too 🤣

[@pebblecritter]

Thank you for this video! I've been sewing longer than I care to admit (58 years....?) and what I learned, I learned when I was 10 or 12 in home ec classes (do they still have those?). I had a vague idea of sizes - smaller for smaller fabrics (that meant lighter to me), and larger for larger fabrics - but I knew nothing about the numbers. You didn't mention the second number - is that important as well? One other great needle is a leather needle - they have a very sharp triangular point that is sharp on all sides and can be really handy if you're having trouble sewing something very heavy (think multiple layers of denim). Also loved your hipsters (ahhh, brought me right back) and I detected a wee bit of NY in your accent.... :) Glad I found you - we never stop learning!

[@SewSewLounge]

The second number is the British sizing for needles. Why they use a different number is beyond me. Thank you for your comment. If I have a slight NY accent it’s from hanging out with my fiancée too long. He’s from there, I’m not 😉

[@pebblecritter]

@@SewSewLounge Thank you for your quick response - really appreciate it. Leave it to the Brits to be different.... (I live in the UK) ;) Isn't it funny how we pick up accents? I was born in London, lived in MA (ugh - slight Boston accent escapes now and then), and a wee bit of a Scottish accent from hanging out with some of my favourite people (plus I live right on the border!). Appreciate your knowledge - home ec class isn't the same as university courses. :) x

[@sherriekeller319]

Great video. I have been sewing since I was in the 7th grade, which has been a minute! I really learned from you and your tips. I also want to tell you, I love your personality. I'm glad I found you. A wealth of information. Thank you.

[@SewSewLounge]

Aww thank you Sherrie! I’m glad that you found my videos too. ❤️

[@staciesager3776]

Thanks for the tip on using an empty McCormick spice shaker to throw your used needles in. Great idea! I never know how to safely dispose of my old needles

[@SewSewLounge]

Glad it was helpful! I thought it was a good solution too.

[@ksgraham3477]

I weave discarded needles and pins into a piece of fabric for safety.

[@alycewich4472]

I like that idea as well. Just started back to sewing about a year ago and was weaving the old needles into a piece of newspaper and then taping it closed. Since I have lots of extra spice jars, this will be my go to method now.

[@izziey17]

I use old prescription bottles.

[@Nicoya]

Keeping a loupe in your sewing kit can be very useful, and you can easily find one for under $10. Damaged/worn needles are usually very obvious to see under magnification, and it can also help identify the type of needle if you don't have the stripes to go by.

[@SewSewLounge]

Great tip! Thanks for sharing 😊

[@teresacahlik6887]

What do you mean by the stripes?

[@Nicoya]

@@teresacahlik6887 The coloured bands on the shanks of the Schmetz needles.

[@xoombug830]

I feel like I just took a master class in needles. You mean to tell me there's more than two TYPES?? 🤯 I'm off to check out the Schmetz website....... Thank you so much for this info! 🌺🙏❤️

[@SewSewLounge]

Glad I could help! It’s a game changer to get the right needles! And the options are unbelievable 😳

[@nanasloves]

I’ve never seen the Teflon needle! Cool! I love your framed chart to stick your needles in, I wish there were pink needle tomatoes still.

[@SewSewLounge]

The Teflon needle is amazing. I loved the framed chart but the tomato is still the best

[@CazkiwiNZ]

You could just re-cover a red one with your own fabric 🤗

[@charlenea9589]

Thank you for the tip(s)! The book recommendation was awesome! I found it yesterday while thrifting (original edition) for $3. I wasn’t aware of much fabric differed from each other, when to use what, etc., so it will come in handy. Your sewing info/know-how is great to watch and learn as I’m just getting into sewing. Love your recent fabric hauls, too 😀 Hi from 🇨🇦

[@SewSewLounge]

Hi Charlene! I’m so glad you found the book. I got mine at half price books, but it wasn’t $3. What a bargain!! Thank you for your sweet comment. I’m glad you’re enjoying my videos ☺️

[@dianamarlowe3352]

Thank you for all this information. I am in Richmond Texas. Went from sewing my clothes to quilting and back to sewing my clothes again.

[@SewSewLounge]

You’re just down the highway from me! I’m in southwest Houston 😊

[@debiperkins]

Found a half round pin cushion at Dollar tree. I marked of the cushion. Wrote the sizes on it! Then I stuck my hand sewing needles in the other. Game changer! I will be going back and getting another for just machine needles. I am going to put a magnet on it and put it on my swing arm lamp. Just bought this for change. Schmitz has a guide. I have needle stash 🤦🏼‍♀️ Thank you for the info!!!!

[@SewSewLounge]

What great tips! Thanks for sharing 🙂 I’ve never seen pin cushions at my Dollar Tree!

[@louisefromNY]

Thank you! Thank you so much. I’ve been sewing for decades and never really thought about this! I blamed it on my sewing machine. This has to be the best video ever! My needles have been breaking since the dawn of time. I’ve never known why. I’ve thought bought the correct needle, but why? I just started to stick with light no stretch poly. I’m moving forward with this information from now on.

[@SewSewLounge]

You’re welcome! All during college I sewed with the wrong needle and broke so many. It’s funny because you’d think when I went to buy more someone would have told me about the different sizes. Now we both know! Happy day!

[@timetothink-mk7]

Brilliant. This explains a few things. I found the book at a thrift store today. Thrilled. It is presented in such a user friendly way. Thanks for sharing all this great information!

[@SewSewLounge]

Yay! I’m glad to know you’re getting the info you need to sew better❤️🧵🪡

[@sallybryant764]

Thanks for this, I'm a seasoned sewer but this was a great reminder, well put together.

[@SewSewLounge]

Glad it was helpful! Thank you for watching 😊

[@SHANDI1967]

I started using these needles during Covid. I love them over singer needles and they seem like they last so much longer. These are my go to needles.

[@SewSewLounge]

Thanks for watching! 😊

[@welshwitch2126]

I buy SCHMETZ in bulk, and don’t feel guilty about changing needles after every project.

[@SewSewLounge]

Great tip. Thank you for watching!

[@deannatolliver1656]

Super informative and well-presented. Thank you!

[@SewSewLounge]

Glad you enjoyed it and thanks for watching 😃

[@elizabethsloan3192]

I’ve been using different types of needles, but some of these are new to me! Thank you, this is so useful!

[@SewSewLounge]

You are so welcome! Thanks for your comment 😊

[@Sheri...]

Such useful information. Thank you. I really love your videos.

[@SewSewLounge]

Awww thank you for your comment ❤️

[@karenpoole8957]

Back when I was a kid, learning to sew on my mom’s really cool Singer machine, she wasn’t much of a sewer. She had no idea you should change needles or when needing a new color on your bobbin, you need an empty bobbin to start with. She’d just have me thread the new thread over the existing thread on the bobbin! It’s no wonder any of my projects turned out at all! Even now, as a senior, many women in my Quilt guild that have been sewing for years, don’t realize they need to change needles!! I’ve taught kids sewing classes and engrained in their brains, if you have an issue there’s certain steps to take to fix it. Of course in their brains case of the Kids many of them had just forgotten to put the pressure foot down! But rethreading is the first step, a new needle is the second step. It’s very easy to change needles often and in so many cases it fixes the issue! I’ve taught the parents of these kids to watch for sales and buy needles when on sale and keep a good stash of needles. Very important! Thanks for this great tutorial.

[@SewSewLounge]

Thank you for your comment Karen! In school some of my professors also recommended “not wasting thread” by putting one color on top of the other on a bobbin🤣 I’m happy to know that you’re teaching kids about threading and needles from the start!

[@Denise11Schultz]

I listen to the sound of new needles on the fabric I’m sewing, to notice what normal is. The worn needle will eventually make a plucking sound, but there are other sounds before the plucking, if I remember to notice. That helps me to change it in time.

[@SewSewLounge]

Once I started actually listening to my machine I realized it’s letting me know when things have changed. And it just for the needle! Now I can hear it when my bobbin is about to run out.

[@Denise11Schultz]

@@SewSewLounge Wow! 💃👗🏄‍♂️ I have to learn that. Times when it’s really crucial not to have the bobbin run out (maybe topstitching?) I have wound two bobbins, for top and bottom threads, so I can keep track of it. But to track it by the sound, that’s elegant. 😎👍🧵🧵

[@tinas977]

@@Denise11Schultzwow! Great idea: winding 2 bobbins for top and bottom!

[@teresamcdonald9069]

Great video thank you. For any Australians watching Spotlight has a sewing tomato with the time on it like in the video, it's called Birch Tomato Pin Cushion. I'll be purchasing mine tomorrow.

[@SewSewLounge]

You’re welcome! I’ll have to check out that tomato 😉

[@amyberg1413]

Oh, keep talking! I've learned so much. Awesome, important info! Thank you!

[@SewSewLounge]

You’re welcome. I appreciate your comment. Thank YOU for watching 😊

[@brendaanello9265]

Thank you. I always need a little reminder about my needles! So helpful.

[@SewSewLounge]

You are so welcome! I need the same reminder too 🤣

[@vivianweissmann217]

Hi; just found you. Really appreciate the advice on needles - evidently I've been totally ignorant on this. Thank you; take care.

[@SewSewLounge]

I’m so glad you found me and that my video was helpful! Happy sewing ❤️

[@debiperkins]

Just ordered the spiral bound book for cheap! Thank you. Headed to Schmitz now!

[@SewSewLounge]

You won’t be disappointed when you get your book!

[@debiperkins]

@@SewSewLounge I ordered no stick needles, costume needles, and one other. Lol. Plus the book! I do late night sewing and nowhere close to a store other than Walmart. 👿 I am now a follower! I’m eyeball deep in wedding and pageant alterations. 🤦🏼‍♀️ I call myself the Village Idiot. 😈

[@debiperkins]

5 pkgs of 10 universal needles too! Dang you…..😂

[@marydaquilla7589]

She gives such good advice and direction. Her work is impeccable ❤

[@SewSewLounge]

Thanks JoJo ❤️

[@patriciac4562]

Omg this opens up a whole new world to me! I never thought I could sew denim with my machine. True confessions, when I started sewing again after 35+ years I used the same needle that came with my machine🙄. The more you know!

[@SewSewLounge]

It’s so true!! I never knew why I broke so many needles. Who knew they came in different sizes 🤷🏽‍♀️ put that on the list of things that should have been taught in my college sewing class

[@auntiezann5146]

Super informative! I do clean my machine, and change needles, depending on my fabric, but who knew Schmitz was such an awesome resource! Of course they are, I’m ridiculous! Love your idea on storing the needles! Thank you so much!

[@SewSewLounge]

Glad it was helpful! I need to do a better job getting my machine serviced regularly-I can’t stand to be away from her 😉

[@kayemallory117]

I love the Schmetz topstitch needles because the size of the eye makes it sooo , it's just maddening. much easier to thread. When I have to thread a ball point needle, it's just maddening. I can't even get a needle threader through that eye!

[@SewSewLounge]

The only reason I don’t have trouble threading needles is because of muscle memory from only ever sewing on my Bernina 1080. I can’t actually see the eye anymore unless I switch to reading glasses 🤣

[@alycewich4472]

I have found it helpful if I place a different colored index card behind the needle. Mostly I use white, but I also have blue and yellow for the white shades of thread. I did have to cut the index cards down a bit to make them small enough to fit. I keep them in a clear heavyweight zipper style plastic bag so I can find them easily.

[@jojosewist8921]

@@alycewich4472 the end flaps on small boxes like tubes of cream or moisturizers come in are the correct size for using behind the needle. I keep an end flap and a small metal needle threader in zip lock bag in machine drawer. But those size 60 can be difficult to get the needle threader through unless press the wires together.

[@Jenny-oy3xs]

That was very interesting. I didn't understand the numbering system, so I usually used size 70 universal, which explains why I broke a needle when sewing jeans. I have signed up on the Schmetz site and will know what to look for when purchasing my sewing machine needles.

[@SewSewLounge]

Glad my video helped!

[@TheSuwanneeMama]

Not sewing related - those glasses are outstanding!

[@SewSewLounge]

Oh thank you. I got them at Costco. In hindsight I should have bought two pairs!

[@janeahrens572]

Loads of great tips and information! Thanks!

[@SewSewLounge]

I appreciate you taking the time to comment!

[@jeannie82024]

I appreciate this video because I know very little about needles. At first, I used to only sew rag quilts and I knew which needle to use and knew to change it after each quilt and clean the machine. But when I started sewing different projects, It was a challenge to figure out which needle to use and I am still in the same bind. So this helps tremendously. I also want to thank you for encourging me to sew the blouse I started. I finally finished it right before my beloved dad passed last than two weeks ago, so he got to see it and he was really proud that I had gotten it done and had plans to continue sewing. Well, August 1st. was sitting here in my sewing room trying to figure out what I was going to do, so I created a live video on why I started the KZbin channel with the purpose of holding myselft accountable for sewing a garment a week and participate in #fridaysews. I owe it to you and am trying to figure out how to get a link for my channel. I made the intro video and a friday sews showing the blouse I finished thanks to you. I posted the videos under Jeannie2024. I gave you a shout out in the second video.🙂

[@SewSewLounge]

Jeannie, thank you for the shout out. I just watched your videos and subscribed. I’m so excited and happy to be part of your sewing journey. I’m sad to hear that your dad passed a few weeks ago. I know how hard that is. Sending you a big hug ❤️

[@jeannie82024]

@@SewSewLounge Thank you Toni, I owe it to you. It is very sad to lose someone so special. Thanks for subscribing and the hug, I needed it.

[@nz-nz]

Your sewing machine manual (or my machine has a chart inside the lid), has materials matching the appropriate needle size. I changed my needle just last week and must say it makes SUCH a difference !!!!

[@SewSewLounge]

Unfortunately, my manual does not have needle info. And I was not taught about needles in college which was also problematic, to say the least. Needles are such a crucial element to successful sewing!

[@amcdmd]

Just put the updated version of the book (2017) on hold at the library. Thanks for the rec!!

[@SewSewLounge]

You are so welcome! It’s a great book for sewing!

[@kayBTR]

So thankful I found your channel!

[@SewSewLounge]

Thank you for being here!

[@MacCrafter707]

I was also shocked to learn that my Singer didn't require Singer needles. Great video.

[@SewSewLounge]

Thank you! 🎉🥳

[@grumpy_poo]

I love the schmetz needle range... I use the schmetz gold plated embroidery needles in my embroidery machine.... they are brilliant and can cope with most threads and the speed...

[@SewSewLounge]

Good to know! I’ve never tried embroidery needles.

[@grumpy_poo]

@@SewSewLounge I use them on my overlocker too. They have a larger eye and the groove at the front is slightly longer and deeper, so they cope with the speed of the thread running through. .

[@suek7086]

@@grumpy_poogreat info.

[@heatherroach7817]

It would be great to organise my needles like your needle ball. I'll think about how I can come up with a design. When I see long strips together for patchwork, my craft group were advised to sew seams from alternate directions to counter the seams bowing. They always used size 80 needles for cotton fabric. I used size 70 (smaller holes) and slightly lengthened the stitch (less holes). My seams were straight. I told them how I achieved it. Would they listen? No!😂

[@SewSewLounge]

I guess some people don’t like sewing tips 🤷🏽‍♀️ Their loss!

[@lisasorensen2305]

Really useful video. I learned a lot, especially how to temporarily store needles that are before their "end of life". I often do many small projects, but need to change needles from project to project as they are different weights or fabric type. When I look at the needle again, I don't know what it is or how long I used it. So then it just gets thrown out. I will devise a pin-cushion board to keep needles by type and time used, even if just by number of times used rather than by the hour. If I use for a long period, I can always designate it as 2 or 3 increments of use.

[@SewSewLounge]

I’m glad it helped you! I never learned the importance of using the right needle when I started sewing. I’m much better about it now.

[@retroredo9850]

Does everyone know the little strawberry attached to the Tomato pin cushion is sand that you can poke your pins and needles in to sharpen them a little. I also useca fine metal nail file. But any time in walmart I buy more needles! I have tons of all types!

[@SewSewLounge]

You know I have one of those from the 90s when I started sewing, but I haven’t seen them in ages.

[@melissasornprommas9819]

This is excellent info! Thanks so much

[@SewSewLounge]

Glad it was helpful! Thank YOU for watching 😊

[@babeyblu06]

I have a large variety of needles but I mostly use the 80 as I sew quilts using cotton fabric. I change my needle when I start a new quilt unless it is going to be a large (queen size/king) I will change half way through.

[@SewSewLounge]

Thanks for sharing!

[@creativitybycarilyn6634]

Very informative video!! I didn't know there was a non-stick needle. I want the tomato with the label so that if I slightly used a needle but it still has life in it it can be identified. I also want the book and charts. TFS

[@SewSewLounge]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching 😊

[@lilys4960]

Yes! Thanks Just as I was wondering why I was having issues

[@SewSewLounge]

Hope this video helped!

[@heidiann2435]

Hello, I have had that pop pop noise on tight weave fabrics and poly types There is a needle sharpener, its like two flat brass plates with a pocket of what feels like sand inside. Put your needle tip in there, in and out a few times. It will smooth off the needle, sharpen the tip, take of any tiny burrs and the result is amazing. I got mine from Home Sew in PA. They have a catalogue also

[@SewSewLounge]

That’s a really good tip! Thanks for sharing 😉

[@terriholm1878]

I love that Sandra Betzina, Fabric Savy book! Been using it for needle and fabric care guidance for years! Still struggling adjusting tensions with all those needles, but that could be because I’m super picky. I didn’t know about the costume packs, very good information! There’s also a Schmitz app. Many thanks Toni!

[@SewSewLounge]

You’re welcome! I just found the book at Half Price books and had to buy it. There’s so much great info inside.

[@suzannechampion6330]

Love the Fabric Savvy book . Wish I had it when I started sewing decades ago

[@terriholm1878]

It’s easier and more reliable than Google! 😊

[@djstaley3015]

Thank you for info. All the years of sewing and 😮

[@SewSewLounge]

Me too, my friend. Me too.

[@KnitzyKitzy]

I have had a screenshot of the Schmetz needle colour codes diagram saved on my iPad since I realised they did that during the pandemic. So handy for identifying them when you have only used a needle for a couple of hours and then shoved it in your to be used again stash 😄I have different multi sizes packs of the universal and a few other types. Even a winged one I will try one day, hopefully. I tried the organ needles once given as a present and never again. Schmetz only for me!

[@SewSewLounge]

I have to say once your go Schmetz, you never go back 🤣

[@deepattison9329]

I also tried to sew one of those sticky fabrics and it was a complete headache. I thought I would go insane before I finished so I wish that I had known about those needles.

[@SewSewLounge]

Omg you know the struggle. I had to make 4 costumes using that fabric and the problems started with the first one. The nonstick needles were the only way I got them finished. Then add insult to injury, the director scrapped them the week before the show. Each one took about 4 hours to sew 😡

[@mskatm1814]

I have beem sewing fpr 50 years and recently discovered the Schmetz TEFLON needle. It is amazing.

[@trinitywright7122]

I have some pretty some kind of flouncy thin fabric in my fabric cover that I just found again yesterday (I hope there's other people that have fabric they forgot about) And I thought this is pretty. I could make a beautiful shirt out of this. This is pretty. I could make a beautiful shirt out of this.. and now I know about the needles😮😂❤

[@Arffff03]

I remember when I was having a hard time with a four way stretch ( I was looking on Reddit, which is sooooo great for sew-ers at any level for any issue really) but I heard that jersey needles are best for stretchy fabric regardless. The needles they recommended me were ballpoint/jersey needles and a walking foot. Which worked amazingly!! I’m curious to hear how the stretch needles will work because people seemed to trash talk them a little when it came to them being useful to their purpose, but if you make a video on them, I’m going to watch it. This was a good video!!

[@SewSewLounge]

I’ve also used jersey needles for all knit fabrics and I’m wondering if it makes a difference. I have a knit video coming up next month and I’ll try them out on each type of fabric. I’m wondering the same thing you are 😉

[@annecastner7558]

This video so very helpful. learned a lot and great remlimnders about needles

[@SewSewLounge]

Thank you for your support and encouragement!

[@begonial6151]

You can still find the pink needle tomato in some stores but you can also make your own needle book.

[@SewSewLounge]

I haven’t seen them in stores in years!

[@JackieRussel]

Needle book?? How?