Hand sewing needles are used for different types of projects. Hand stitching is used for some sewing projects, quilting, and crafts such as needlepoint.
Make sure that your needle is small enough to go through the fabric without stretching it or tearing it, and large enough for the eye to accommodate your chosen thread.
Use "sharps" for general-purpose hand stitching. Sharps come in a variety of sizes - the larger the number, the smaller the needle.
The large size and sharp point of "glover" needles allow you to sew heavy canvas or leather projects.
Tapestry needles have blunt points and are used for needlepoint and tapestry projects. The blunt points allow the needle to slip between the canvas mesh without splitting the mesh threads.
Use sharp crewel or embroidery needles instead of tapestry needles when you embroider on a tightly woven, non-mesh fabric.
Use short quilting needles for hand stitching quilts. The shorter needle length allows you to work through the heavy fabric layers more easily than you can with the longer sharps.
Select a darning needle for mending holes in woven fabrics. These needles are larger in diameter and longer than general-purpose sewing needles which allows you to draw your thread over large gaps in the fabric.
A multi-needle pack offers a variety of needles to choose from when you are unsure of the appropriate needle size for your project.
A thimble or other hand protection will protect your fingers or hands when you hand stitch a sewing project.
