What Size Sewing Needle Should I Use For Denim?

The needle size for different weight denim is crucial for sewing. Lightweight denim (6-8 oz) should use a size 9 or 10 needle, medium weight denim (8-12 oz) should use a size 12 or 14, and heavyweight denim (12 oz and above) should opt for a size 16 or 18 needle. For stretch denim, it is essential to use a needle specifically designed for stretch fabrics.

A universal 100/16 or 110/18 sewing machine needle is suitable for most denim types, but if you’re sewing thicker denim fabric, the best needle size is a jeans/denim needle-sized 90/14. This size is larger and stronger than regular needles, allowing them to penetrate thick layers of denim without breaking. If you don’t want to buy specialty needles, you can use a size 90/14 universal needle (100/16 for thicker denim).

It’s essential to use an appropriate sewing machine needle, as needles not strong enough for layers of denim will break. Consider using a “Jeans” needle in size 80/12 for lightweight and medium-weight denim, and a 90/14 needle for light- and medium-weight denim and a 100/16 for heavyweight denim. A size 16 needle should work with regular all-purpose thread, 30 weight, but you already have a size 18 if needed.

Jeans needles penetrate thick woven fabrics, denims, and quilts with minimum needle deflection, reduced risk of needle breakage, and fewer skipped stitches. Choose the needle size according to the weight of the fabric you’ll be sewing. Beginners may find a smaller needle easier to use, while more experienced quilters may choose a larger one. Topstitch needles have an enlarged eye but have a universal point, and denim or upholstery needles of 110/18 gauge will also work well.

What size needle is best for denim?

Sewing machine needles are essential for ensuring proper stitch quality and avoiding needle breakage. Sewing machine needles are standardized and compatible with various brands like Janome, Brother, Husqvarna, Elna, and Pfaff. They are suitable for all fabrics and threads, and even seasoned stitchers can benefit from this guide. The needle types and sizes can be overwhelming, but understanding the most popular needles, techniques, and fabrics is crucial.

Jeans needles are suitable for denim, tightly woven fabrics, heavy denim, vinyl, furnishings, and leather. Leather needles are suitable for all leather and suede, but should not be used on synthetic leather.

A quick reference chart of sewing machine needle types and sizes can help users make informed decisions about their needle selection. By following this guide, users can avoid common mistakes and discover life-changing needles they may not have known about.

What is a 14-90 needle used for?

The sewing needle size guide is a free tool for selecting and identifying sewing needles. It provides a true scale size guide for all needles, ensuring they are at actual size when printed to A4. The guide also includes a needle dimension chart, listing the length and diameter of all sewing needles, and a brief summary of common use and purpose for each type. It is ideal for light fabrics, medium to heavy fabrics, and soft furnishings.

Can I sew denim on a regular sewing machine?

Yes, it is possible to sew denim on a regular sewing machine, provided you use regular dress weight denim and avoid sewing multiple layers at once. However, a sturdy and expensive machine is necessary for proper sewing. A heavy-duty machine is essential for sewing thick denim layers, such as the hem of jeans at the seam.

When sewing with denim, it is important to understand your sewing machine and adjust the needle to the one used for thicket fabric. A walking foot or feed foot can also be helpful for home sewing. It is essential to change the needle to the one used for thicket fabric to ensure the best results.

In addition to these tips, consider adding accessories like a walking foot or feed foot to enhance the home sewing experience. By understanding and using the right sewing machine, you can create a successful and comfortable sewing experience with denim fabric.

What tension should I use for denim?

The author shares tips for sewing denim, specifically using a straight-stitch length between 3. 0 mm and 4. 0 mm and increasing machine tension to 4. 6. They have recently started sewing a pair of Cashmerette Ames jeans using Repreve Stretch Denim in White, and are excited to share more tips for sewing with beefy fabrics like denim. The author will be sharing these tips on Facebook Live every Wednesday at 3:00 pm Mountain Time.

Most sewing machines are strong enough to sew through denim with the correct needle, stitch-length, and tension. However, small, entry-level machines may not be able to power through denim, but the tips provided in this blog post will help prepare for the journey.

Do you need a different needle for denim?

In order to sew denim and thicker fabrics, it is recommended to use a needle specifically designed for denim, with a size 90/14 for standard needles and 100/16 for thicker denim. In the case of chambray or Tencel denim, an 80/12 universal needle is recommended.

What is the difference between sewing needle 90 14 and 80 12?

Needle size is a crucial factor in sewing, as heavier fabrics require larger needles. There are two different sizes on packs of needles: European and American. A medium-weight needle is typically 90/14, while lighter fabrics like sheer cotton require smaller needles like 80/12 or 75/11. Heavy fabrics like denim require larger needles like 100/16 or 110/18. To ensure proper needle size, experiment with different needles on swatches and check for crunching noises when sewing.

If the needle struggles to get through the fabric, it might need a sharper point, a bigger eye, or a fresh needle. By understanding the subtle differences between needle types and sizes, you can determine which one is best for the fabric you’re sewing.

When would you use a 75 11 needle?

The 75/11 embroidery needle is a versatile tool suitable for medium-weight fabrics like cotton and linen, as well as lighter-weight fabrics with regular thread. It is ideal for knit fabrics like T-shirts, sweaters, polo shirts, and sweatshirts. However, it is essential to use high-quality thread, as not all threads are created equal. Whether new to embroidery or a top-of-the-line machine, having this versatile tool in your sewing kit will help create beautiful pieces without difficulty. Once properly used, it will become a favorite tool for any project.

What stitch is best for denim?

Chain Link Stitch is a strong stitch used for creating a roping effect on denim jeans and is commonly found on jeans. It is also used for decoration and embroidery, as it is easy to create curved lines and customize designs. Chain Link Stitch has been used for thousands of years to add embroidered designs to fabric.

Bar Tack Stitch is used for areas with high stress zones, such as pockets, belt loops, and buttonholes, and fabric bags. It is strong and can be applied by hand or machine, and can be doubled up with a back stitch for extra support. Both chain link and bar tack stitches have their uses and applications in various industries.

What stitch is best for stretch jeans?

For sewing stretchy fabric on a regular sewing machine, a ballpoint needle is the most efficient option due to its special tip that avoids cutting loops, preventing unraveling and hole formation. Ballpoint needles come in various sizes and can work well on various stretch and woven fabrics.

For construction, use a classic zigzag stitch with a stitch setting of 2 length and 2. 5 width, which stretches with the fabric, creating flexible seams and a neat finish. For a polished hem finish, use a twin needle, which replicates the twin lines of stitching found on shop-bought clothes.

Fit your machine with a twin needle and second thread spool according to your machine’s instruction manual. Twin-needle stitching is more challenging as it requires stitching on the ribbed side of the fabric, which creates a zigzag effect on the underside and covers the raw edges of the hem. If the fabric is unruly, tack or pin it in place, and use an erasable pen to mark the stitching line on the front of the fabric or use the tacking line as a guide.

What setting should I use for denim?

To maintain the quality of denim jeans, follow these steps:

1. Choose a Delicate or Gentle cycle for washing denim jeans. Use cold water and mild detergent, especially for dark colors like blue or black. Wash jeans inside out and by themselves to protect the fibers on the outside from friction and detergent exposure. If washing with other clothes, try with similarly colored jeans or clothing.

2. Hang jeans up to air dry or use a no heat cycle. Direct heat exposure in the dryer can shrink, fade, or yellow denim, and damage stretch denim fabrics containing spandex or Lycra. If using a dryer, select a low or no heat cycle and use dryer balls to keep the jeans tumbling. The best way to dry jeans is by hanging them up to air dry.

What sewing needle is used for stretch jeans?

In the context of sewing patterns, it is of paramount importance to utilise a needle of a slightly larger gauge when working with stretch denim fabric, given its greater thickness in comparison to other fabric options.