Metric and Singer-style numbers
Most sewing machine needle charts pair the two number systems because packaging still uses both. The first number is metric. The second is the familiar Singer-style number people remember from old home sewing habits.
Size chart
A sewing machine needle size chart that stays readable at the machine.
This page covers the sizes people reach for most often, from very light fabrics through denim, canvas, and upholstery-weight projects.
| Needle size | Typical use | Fabric examples | What to watch |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60/8 | Very fine sewing | Organza, voile, lingerie mesh | Too much thread can overwhelm this size. |
| 70/10 | Lightweight garment sewing | Lawn, silk blends, lightweight cotton | Swap fast if you hear popping on seams. |
| 80/12 | General-purpose sewing | Shirting, quilting cotton, stable knits | Good default, but not the right answer for heavy denim. |
| 90/14 | Medium and heavier sewing | Denim blends, twill, fleece | Can leave visible holes in soft lightweight fabric. |
| 100/16 and 110/18 | Heavy projects | Canvas, upholstery, layered bags | Use matching thread and slow down on bulky seams. |
When to move up or down one size
- Move up if the thread is thick, the seam crosses bulky layers, or the fabric resists penetration.
- Move down if the fabric shows holes, puckers, or obvious needle scars.
- Change the needle first before blaming machine tension for every skipped stitch.