Embroidery needles in different sizes
In the shop, you'll find two types of needles: embroidery needles with a round/blunt point and embroidery needles with a sharp point . They also come in different sizes. As a beginner embroiderer, that can be quite confusing. I've been there! Here you can read about the key differences so you can shop for the perfect needle for your next embroidery project.
Embroidery needle with sharp point
Freehand embroidery generally involves using a "regular" fabric, such as 100% cotton. You then embroider with a needle with a sharp point.
Just like sewing by hand! However, embroidery needles are slightly different from sewing needles. They have a larger eye for embroidery thread and an extra sharp point.
Embroidery needle with round point
Embroidery needles with blunt or round points are used for cross-stitch embroidery. Cross-stitch uses a special fabric with holes that allow you to embroider neat crosses.
This fabric is called aida or an evenweave fabric (like linen). The needle has a rounded point so it glides easily through the holes in the fabric.
View all embroidery needles in the shop
What size embroidery needle do I need?
Hopefully, you now know which type of needle you need for your project. Now you just need to choose the size . The sizes are indicated by numbers and indicate the thickness of the needle.
For freeform embroidery, consider the fineness of your embroidery. If you're embroidering with a single strand of yarn, you'll need a finer needle than if you're embroidering with full yarn.
When cross-stitching, you consider the fabric you'll be using. For a very fine fabric (such as 18-count aida), you'll use a finer needle than for a less fine fabric (such as 14-count aida).
Of course, the needle size you prefer for embroidery also depends on your personal preference. If you're not very experienced, use the size charts below as a guide.
Freehand embroidery – needle with sharp point
You'll find needles with sharp points in sizes 1 through 10 in the shop. The higher the number, the thinner the needle .
Because freeform embroidery does not use aida or evenweave fabric, but a regular fabric, you mainly pay attention to the number of threads you embroider with.
| Mate | Number of threads |
|---|---|
| Size 1 | 6 threads of DMC Mouliné |
| Size 3 | 5-6 threads of DMC Mouliné |
| Size 6 | 3-4 threads of DMC Mouliné |
| Size 8 | 3 threads of DMC Mouliné |
| Size 9 | 2 threads of DMC Mouliné |
| Size 10 | 1 thread of DMC Mouliné |
Cross stitch – round point needle
In the shop you will find needles with a round point in sizes 22 to 28. Here too, the higher the number, the thinner the needle .
The size you need depends on the fabric you're embroidering on. For coarse fabrics (such as 8-count aida), you'll use a thicker needle than for fine fabrics (such as 18-count aida).
| Mate | Count |
|---|---|
| Size 20 | Aida 8 count |
| Size 22 | Aida 11 count / Evenweave 22 count |
| Size 24 | Aida 14 count / Evenweave 28 count |
| Size 26 | Aida 16 count / Evenweave 32 count |
| Size 28 | Aida 18 count / Evenweave 36 count |
Order the right embroidery needle from Iris Borduurt
Now you're ready to order the right needle. Still having trouble figuring it out or unsure? Feel free to send us a message . We're happy to help.
