When working with
100% polyester printed fabric, selecting the appropriate needle is important to ensure smooth sewing and to prevent damage to the fabric. Here are the needle selection requirements to consider when sewing with polyester printed fabric:
Needle Type: Use a universal or polyester-specific sewing machine needle. Both of these types of needles have a slightly rounded point, which helps prevent snags and damage to the fabric. A universal needle is a good starting point for most sewing projects, while a polyester needle is designed specifically for sewing synthetic fabrics like polyester.
Needle Size: Choose the appropriate needle size based on the weight of the fabric. Needle sizes are indicated by numbers; the higher the number, the larger the needle. For lightweight to medium-weight polyester printed fabrics, a needle size of 70/10 or 80/12 is usually suitable. For heavier fabrics, like upholstery-weight polyester, you might need a larger needle size.
Needle Condition: Ensure that the needle is new or in good condition. A dull or damaged needle can cause snags, skipped stitches, and other sewing issues. Replace the needle if you notice any signs of wear or if you're experiencing stitching problems.
Needle Quality: Opt for high-quality sewing machine needles from reputable brands. Quality needles are less likely to cause issues like thread breakage or uneven stitches.
Needle Change: Change the needle before starting a new project or when switching to a different type of fabric. Using the same needle for various projects can lead to poor stitch quality and fabric damage.
Test on Scrap Fabric: Before sewing on your main fabric, test the chosen needle on a scrap piece of the same fabric. This allows you to ensure that the needle works well with the fabric and produces the desired results.
Consider Thread Type: Polyester fabric is best sewn with polyester thread. If you're using a different type of thread, make sure the needle is suitable for that thread as well.
Remember that the specific requirements for needle selection may vary depending on the weight and type of polyester printed fabric you're using, as well as the sewing machine you're working with.