Having the correct needle to thread configuration is essential for running a cost efficient and effective performing application within your sewing system. Though this practice is often overlooked, choosing the correct needle for your sewing application is absolutely critical to flawless performance. With the new thread and sewn fabric materials available today, it may be time to check the needle size for your operation – Are you having skipped stitches and thread breaks? Are you using the same needles you have always used? Here are some tips to help you see if you have an opportunity for improvement.
For quick reference, listed below is a chart that includes the most common bonded polyester and nylon sewing thread sizes and the needle size recommendation for each size.
Thread Size |
Metric Needle Size Range |
US Needle Size Range
|
Thread Diameter |
69 |
100-110 |
16-18 |
.0115" (.292mm) |
92 |
110-120 |
18-19 |
.0133" (.337mm) |
138 |
120-140 |
19-22 |
.0163" (.414mm) |
207 |
140-180 |
22-24 |
.0200" (.508mm) |
277 |
180-230 |
24-26 |
.0231" (.586mm) |
346 |
230-280 |
26-28 |
.0258" (.655mm) |
415 |
250-330 |
27-30 |
.0283" (.718mm) |
462 |
300-350 |
29-31 |
0.0315” (0.8mm) |
554 |
330-380 |
30-32 |
.0326" (.828mm) |
Does the needle slide freely down the thread? If so you know the needle is large enough – if not, your needle may be too small. In general, you want the smallest size that will slide freely down the thread.
While there are many other features to consider when choosing the right needle for your sewing application, size is one that is fairly easy to determine and check. Service Thread manufactures industrial threads and yarns, and has broad knowledge about industrial sewing and textile application best practices. Let us know if you need help determining the right needle or thread size for your industrial sewing application.