This super simple product is basically just two strong magnets stuck together on either side of your project, creating the perfect spot to hold your needle. Since I am constantly finding my needles on the floor, on the couch, and in even in my clothing(!), using a needle minder is a must. I have labels on my storage tubes so I know what size needles are in each one. Simply flip the tube upside down and the needles slide out in a fan shape while staying attached to the magnet. Each plastic tube has a magnet at the bottom that holds the needles in place. These tubes are great for long term needle storage. I like this option for storing all the needles I am using for my current project.Īnother small and simple storage solution. These boxes are made of metal or plastic and contain a magnet inside to hold the needles. Since no one wants loose needles floating around, using some type of needle storage is key. Embroidery needles often come in packages containing multiple sizes which makes it easy to try out different needles. I tend to choose a size 3 or 4 when using all 6 strands of DMC floss (or pearl cotton) and a size 8 or 9 needle for almost everything else. The idea is to choose a needle large enough for your thread choice to fit through the eye, but not so large that it leaves an unsightly hole in the fabric. They come in sizes 1-12 with 12 being the smallest. This type of needle has a medium-sized eye slightly larger than the shaft of the needle. Wool embroidery thread is commonly used in Crewelwork while silk thread can be found in Japanese Embroidery. In theory, you can use any kind of thread for embroidery. The most common brands of pearl cotton are DMC and Anchor. Consisting of two threads twisted together, this floss is intended to be used as one piece and produces a result that is thicker and shinier than stranded cotton. DMC floss is sold at most sewing and craft stores.Īnother popular option is two-stranded pearl cotton floss. All of the hand embroidery patterns here on Wandering Threads Embroidery include a list of recommended DMC cotton floss colors. DMC floss comes in a multitude of colors - each with their own unique assigned number. It comes in skeins with 6 strands that you can use either all together as a thicker floss or split into a smaller number of strands for varying embroidery effects. By far the most common embroidery thread is stranded cotton floss made by DMC.