Which size needle?

**jellyfish** · 05-11-2017, 21:18

One of the more-frequent questions that I'm asked about diy sewing all this hammock gear is about which size needle to use. My Grandma taught me this method, so I'm passing her wisdom along.

https://youtu.be/XwynEzDwDoM

Enjoy.

**kitsapcowboy** · 05-11-2017, 21:24

Thanks to you for this simple, handy demonstration video, a testament to the value of your grandmother's tutelage.

**supernettipot** · 05-11-2017, 21:27

Yep, good stuff, something to remember when you're quickly changing a needle. Is it right?

**jellyfish** · 05-11-2017, 21:37

Originally Posted by supernettipot

Yep, good stuff, something to remember when you're quickly changing a needle. Is it right?

Yeah, it can be done fast and on the fly before putting the new needle in.

**jellyfish** · 05-11-2017, 21:38

Originally Posted by kitsapcowboy

Thanks to you for this simple, handy demonstration video, a testament to the value of your grandmother's tutelage.

She lives on!

**buds007** · 05-11-2017, 22:00

So when the manufacturer says they recommend size 14 for mara70 is this a safer needle size to broadly recommend or is there a reason they suggest a bigger needle?

**jellyfish** · 05-11-2017, 22:07

Originally Posted by buds007

So when the manufacturer says they recommend size 14 for mara70 is this a safer needle size to broadly recommend or is there a reason they suggest a bigger needle?

Various needle manufacturers will have different size eyes and that channel in the back for various sized needles. It is hard to have a rule of thumb when there is so much variation by brand.

**buds007** · 05-11-2017, 22:28

Originally Posted by jellyfish

Various needle manufacturers will have different size eyes and that channel in the back for various sized needles. It is hard to have a rule of thumb when there is so much variation by brand.

I see. So specifically relating to mara70 and schmetz universal needles did I just buy 100 of the wrong size ?

. I bought 14. Should I have purchased size 12?

**jellyfish** · 05-11-2017, 22:35

Originally Posted by buds007

I see. So specifically relating to mara70 and schmetz universal needles did I just buy 100 of the wrong size ?

. I bought 14. Should I have purchased size 12?

I will check and see if I have a Schmetz universal and I will test it. Going one size up is okay, I think. Going down in size is where a lot if the mischief happens with problems sewing. I think you are okay.