Message: 12
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2007 15:36:37 -0600
From: "Alexandria Doyle" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: Re: [h-cost] sharp sewing needles
To: "Historical Costume" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Message-ID:
<[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1
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.
It also probably makes the needle smoother (you sometimes see them
with just gold around the eye) which helps to stop the thread from
snagging or fraying. This is probably more important if you're using silk
thread than anything else.
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.
Also you can sew more quickly with a small needle (presumably the in
and out action is quicker). When I first started sewing I read that
tailors preferred to use sharps (ie small needles) and I always assumed
that this was why.
Claire
_______________________________________________
h-costume mailing list
[email protected]
http://mail.indra.com/mailman/listinfo/h-costume
