Home Sewing Machine Needles

Home Sewing Machine Needles

Choose between universal, jersey and stretch needles

Identify the knit structure and how much the fabric stretches. Then compare needle point and eye features within the system your machine takes.

Check the fabric structure first

For an ordinary knit, compare the point intended for knitted loops. SCHMETZ identifies a medium ball point on its Jersey needle. Its Universal uses a slightly rounded point and covers a broader range of fabrics.

Consider the special stretch geometry

SCHMETZ describes a different eye and scarf on its Stretch needle for elastic materials and highly elastic knitwear. Compare that feature if your usual knit needle gives inconsistent results on a stretchy sample. Use a test piece from the project before sewing the finished seam.

Compare the labeled size and the thread

A finer knit and a heavier knit may need different sizes. Start with the fabric and needle maker's recommendations and check a scrap with your actual thread and layers.

Source documentation

Guide questions

Are Jersey and Stretch interchangeable names?

They can have similar point descriptions, but some manufacturers use different eye and scarf designs. Compare the exact product family.

Is any ballpoint needle suitable for a serger?

Use the exact system the serger manual specifies. A ball point is a separate needle feature.

Should I change several settings at once for a test seam?

Change one choice at a time so you can see what affects the sample. Start with the needle system and size the manuals support.

Which accessory suits the job?

  1. The Jersey 80/12 gives you a ball point for a knit sample. The Stretch 75/11 changes both nominal size and eye and scarf geometry, so compare them with your actual thread before choosing.

    SCHMETZ Jersey Ball Point 80/12, 5 needles ↗SCHMETZ Stretch 75/11, 5 needles ↗

  2. Both packs offer 90/14 for stretch work. The Special Super Stretch pack prints HAx1 SP, while the Stretch card uses H-S. Check the machine’s full code first.

    SCHMETZ Special Super Stretch HAx1 SP 90/14, 5 needles ↗SCHMETZ Stretch 90/14, 5 needles ↗

Accessories in this guide

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