Threading a needle and the right sewing machine needle are the first things you’ll learn in sewing. But how to store sewing needles comes later. An expert tailor or seamstress will keep them organized and well-kept. Yes, we want it to last longer, but also because it prevents damage and makes your projects go quicker since you have easy access to the ones you need.
Kinds of needles
Before you know about how to store sewing needles, here are the different types:
For hand sewing
- Sharp—good with most fabrics like cotton or polyester
- Embroidery—better when working with floss needles since they have longer eyes. They’re also good for attaching beads and thread.
- Quilting—they give strength to your stitch
For machine sewing
It’s more dependent on fabric rather than design needs. Universal ones are standard for most materials. Others include:
- Leather (good for vinyl too)
- Denim (durable)
- Metallic (for anything with sparkle)
- Heavyweight that comes in handy when using heavy-duty threads.
What if not stored?
If properly stored, a good needle can be used quite a few times, before retiring it. As mentioned before, being organized means less time rummaging through boxes, looking for what you need, and keeping them safe from damage so they don’t age quickly.
There are many out there, from pin cushions that hold them upright to magnetic containers that grip onto them until their next use.
Storing Hand Sewing Needles
These hurt!
As sharp-shaped objects as they are though, they work miracles on fabric by keeping everything in place.
Luckily, unlike their machine-made counterparts, there isn’t much variety in sizes when storing hand-sewn needles, so finding a solution might be simpler.
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Option 1: Lined boxes
– Prevent sliding and damage
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Option 2: Magnetic pin cushions
– Keep sewing space clean
– Secure pins until next project begins
How To Store Sewing Needles For Your Machine
Since machine needles are generally more precise than regular needles, we should be more careful when storing them. The easiest way is to keep them in their original packaging, but since not everyone can do that, here are some other options:
1. Binder with plastic needle sleeves
This way you can sort your needles by type and size. It’s also really compact so the size won’t take up too much space.
2. Custom holder
It’s like a bar of holes cut out where the needle can go through. Although it may look strange, this storage method helps you find what you need in seconds.
3. Make use of a pincushion
Stitching needle storage can be done simply and conveniently using a pincushion. Select a pincushion with a needle-specific area, such as a tiny pocket or a strip of cloth, so you can put the needles in there. To avoid rusting, ensure the pincushion is kept out of the sun and dampness.
4. Magnetic needle holders
These are a fantastic way to arrange and store your sewing needles. The magnets in these holders keep your needles firmly in place. They are small and portable, enabling you to retrieve the necessary needle swiftly.
5. Labeling Needle Storage Containers
What are these? I know it’s tempting, but don’t throw them all into a single jar! You won’t remember the specifics of each piece of one, and your projects will be chaotic as they change and they lose shape. Either get clear plastic containers with compartments or label them depending on what you have.
Find whatever works best for you
Dullness isn’t your friend! So check your sewing machine needles more regularly for any bends, dullness, or anything else that could be wrong with them. Doing so will protect yourself, your needles, and your work when using them.
- Organization is crucial, no matter what job you’re doing! Even if it’s just sewing, try keeping track of numbers and how many times each needle has been used before replacing it. Even if they’re unused duplicates, put them into action sooner rather than later.
- Choose a suitable place to store them. A damp environment would ruin your sewing machine needles faster than anything else would.
- Make sure they’re far away from moisture by storing them somewhere cold and dry. They become useless once rusted, so don’t let that happen to the right needle of yours.
- Keep children and animals away from them: Nobody wants another horror story of stepping on a needle :)
Wrapping Up
A minor but important part of sewing that increases productivity and protects your equipment quality is to know how to store sewing needles. Your needles will stay functional and prepared for whatever textile task you throw at them if you take the time to organize and care for them. A well-stored needle prevents hours of seeking and conflict, just as a timely stitch can save nine.
