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This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and quilting message board “Sew What’s New,” which was retired in August 2007. It is being provided by “Sew What’s Up,” which serves as the new home for many members of “Sew What’s New.”
From: becca
Date: 11-09-2006, 04:43 AM (1 of 3)
Hi ,I have only been sewing for a couple of months and was just wondering if I can use a twin needle for stretch materials and how do you know what is proper stretch material and what isnt? If it stretches when pulled both verticlly and horizontally -is that full stretch? Do you need a special type of twin needle for sewing stretch fabric?
User: becca
Member since: 11-08-2006
Total posts: 1
From: weezyrider
Date: 11-09-2006, 12:48 PM (2 of 3)
Some people make a mock cover hem using twin needles. If anyone has a stretch twin - it would be Schmetz. You can use a twin needle for almost anything - especially if you machine has a twin needle setting. That keeps the zig-zag stitch below the width of your normal zig-zag. FI - if your zig-zag is set to 6mm, engaging the twin needle setting will cut the stitch back to 4mm (may vary by machine) You can use all your decorative stitches with a twn needle safely.
If you don't have the twin needle setting - just hand turn the wheel and find the setting that will fit in the needle plate.

HTH
Weezy
User: weezyrider
Member since: 08-19-2003
Total posts: 218
From: paroper
Date: 11-09-2006, 04:55 PM (3 of 3)
You would not be looking for a stretch twi, you are probably looking for a ball point twin needle. Stretch needles are not what you might think and they are really a specialty item, not used on most newer machines.

The needles come in differing widths, up to 6 apart. You do not want to exceed the size opening in your machine presser plate. Be sure and check that. You might not want a set any wider than 3-3.5 (cm? metric isn't my thing..see how I avoid it?) 6 (whatevers) would be too wide for many machines. Also, be sure that when you use the twin needles that you are using a zig zag slide plate. If you put them on a machine that is using a plate that is for straight stitch, you'll break those little buggers and they're expensive.

Some of the older machines also have a place to use TWO needles instead of the twin needles. You might take a mirror and look at the place where you put your needles. I really prefer this because it is a much cheaper option.

Also, when you buy twin needles, make sure that you are not buying a wing needle set. Those are usually used for heirloom sewing.
pam

Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch)
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004
Total posts: 3775
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