Type of Cross Stitch Needles

Before we make our own design, we need first know the different cross stitch needles and its purpose. Like the Crewel  needles, Chenille needles, and Tapestry needles.

The specific needle to choose depends on the embroidery technique, the floss or yarn used and the fabric being stitched. A number represents the size of the needle: the higher the number, the smaller the needle. All of these types have larger eyes than regular sewing needles, a must for using with floss.

• Crewel (embroidery) needles are sharp pointed and range in size from 1 to 10. These are used for standard embroidery stitched on common fabric such as stamped designs on pillow cases, and towels.

• Chenille needles are also sharp pointed and range in size from 13 to 26. Longer, thicker and with larger eyes, these make a good choice for embroidery with heavier yarn.

• Tapestry needles also range in size from 13 to 26. Blunt rather than sharp, these make an ideal choice for counted cross stitch. 
  
  

  Purpose of Cross Stitch Needles

 

The purpose of a cross stitch needle is to open the weave of the fabric so the floss can easily pass through. If the needle is too small, the floss will fray a little more each time it is pulled through the cloth. On the other hand, too large a needle can can distort the small holes in any even weave material with a thread count higher than 18.