All about needles and thread

[Lorien]

Just for my own self personally, I'm interested in learning more about the convoluted world of needles and thread.

Although I've been stitching up sheaths for a fair number of years now, it's all hand work and I use pretty much the same weight leather all the time, so there's not much I really need to know about sizing out thread and needles.

But things are about to change as I plan on entering the world of machine sewing leather goods. I'll be sewing up a lot more than just sheaths, so I've been trying to wrap my head around all the different needle specs, what's compatible with my machine, how to match thread size to the project and the needles...

I can't be alone in feeling a little overwhelmed by all the various standards and compatibility considerations when it comes to machine sewing. There's some real professionals in this forum, and I hope to tap that vast knowledge base in order to push my understanding further. I also hope that this thread helps others who are searching around the web for good info, too.

PS: no need to limit this thread to talking about machines, it'd be great to have info for hand stitchers too.

 

[nick681]

Here is a chart showing the various needle sizes and the compatible thread sizes

 

[sodak]

What timing. I would like to get into this as well, but the machines are $$$. I took my wife's old Kenmore (circa 1984) in for a cleaning and some work it needs, and the lady who repairs machines highly recommended Juki for sewing leather and canvas. She claims they are built like a tank and are very easy to maintain.

I am looking at Sailrite as well, they seem to have high reviews.