There are some interesting pictures of the range of needle sizes within some of the common types here: http://www.colonialneedle.com/html/about-needles.html > The page is called "all about needles" but it actually leaves off some of the > things I most want to know, like what it means when a packet says the size is > 4/8 or 7/9, or why you might want your needles gold or platinum plated, or > how you can tell what length a needle will be. Perhaps someone on the list > will enlighten me on those points? ;-) > Best, > Lauren
I was told that the gold plating would keep the finishing from wearing off the needle. I didn't find it that helpful. I just find that no matter what I wear off the finish when I'm working on a project, I'm rather obsessive when I'm working which means a lot of hours close together on the project. As to the length, there are some stitches that are easier if you have a smaller needle, while others are better with a larger needle. In general I have found that the needle ought to match the size of the thread/floss/cord/ribbon you are working with. Larger than your thread and you can leave big holes, smaller that your thread and you fight to get it through. Some of the "tougher" fabrics to work on - like velvet or tight weaves, the smaller the diameter the needle the better. alex hope this helps -- I can handle anything that life throws at me. I may not be able to handle it well, or correctly, or gracefully, or with finesse, or expediently -- but I will handle it. _______________________________________________ h-costume mailing list h-costume@mail.indra.com http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume
