Understanding needle gauges can often be quite complicated ‘Is there a technical meaning?’ people ask, but often recommending needles will depend not only on their technical details and your fibre choice, but also on the project you have in mind. So let’s start with the technical… traditionally the bigger the number, the finer the needle. So for example from the needles I stock in the supply shop, gauge 19 is the thickest, followed by 32, 36, 38, 40 and then finally 42 being the finest. There is also a very fine ‘flexi’ needle to consider, if you are a doll maker. ‘What needle do I use for what fibre?’… Technically I would recommend;
The triangular blade is the most commonly used in needle felting and is good for all projects. This needle blade type is the one you are most likely to have as a standard in your collection. Why not check the needles you have? If you look at the end point on, you will be able to see if it is triangular or star shape. Star blades are generally good for a faster finish (an extra blade edge with barbs makes it quicker). In my collection you will find I stock my;
However, having said all of this you must consider your project. For example;
Do please bear in mind though, that all of this is my opinion, you may find in practise that you prefer to use a different mixture of needles for different projects… this is not unusal, feltmakers always attack new projects in different ways. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable with your choices. I hope this helps?
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AuthorI'm glad you stopped by! As an artist I'm happy to share my creative ideas with you. Feel free to comment and discuss as I very much value and appreciate your attention, opinion and your thoughts! My name is tina tang and i am a chinese mum with 2 kids. I moved to United kingdom 6 years ago. Here is my blog to share all my happiness in making arts and crafts and my life in UK . Archives
July 2013
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