Needles & Threads

Card 04 · Getting Started

Which needle and thread for which fabric.

Sewing machines need different size needles and threads, depending on the fabric you are sewing.

  • Most sewing projects can be done with a size 80/12 needle.
  • Heavy fabrics such as denim use sizes 90/14 or 100/16.
  • Stretchy fabrics use a ball point needle.
  • Buy quality threads that won’t snap easily.
  • Use denim or upholstery thread when sewing heavy fabrics.
Hand-drawn illustration of machine needles and a reel of thread
From my book, Sewing Made Easy

Top tip: Sewing threads made by brands such as Coats and Gütermann are good quality and can be used for most sewing projects.


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