It's Tool and Technique Tuesday!

Let's Talk Machine Needles for Thread Painting
Today I thought it would be beneficial to readers to talk about the needles I use for thread painting by machine and more importantly why I use these needles.

I use Microtex (sharp) Needles and mostly a size 60 for thread painting.  The reason for this is they are very sharp as the name suggests. 

The Microtex (Sharp) style of needle has a thin accurate point that is ideal for sewing batiks. Designed to be used with micro fibers, polyester, silk, foils, artificial leather, and coated materials such as laminates.Very thin acute point creates beautiful topstitching and perfectly straight stitches for quilt piecing when precision is paramount. 

60/8 size is for really fine fabrics.  Hence the reason I use them with quilting cotton and fine embroidery thread.

70/10 size is for fine to medium fabrics and is ideal for piecing. 

80/12 size is for medium fabrics and is ideal for piecing and general sewing.

Sizes available: 60/8, 70/10, 80/12, 90/14, 100/16, 110/18, Assorted- to get more info look here

 Note: If my quilt art that I am thread painting gets very thick, sometimes I change the needle to an 80/12 to avoid needle breakage.

Generally, I find they are fantastic, don't break easily and do not leave large holes in my work.  Also, you should be matching the hole of the needle you are using to your thread, so if you use fine thread like embroidery thread or monofilament, you should be using a finer needle.

 The needle world as I see it with thread painting!

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Actual photo of thread packet