Sewing Machine Needle Size Chart

Learn which sewing machine needle should be used with which fabric.

Download our free Sewing Machine size chart below

Sewing machine needles are sized in both European and American sizes. The first # is European and the second American.

For lightweight fabrics such as chiffon, georgette, or silk, it is best to use a fine needle with smaller numbers (e.g. size 8 or 9).

Medium-weight fabrics like cotton, linen, or rayon may require a slightly larger needle (e.g. size 10 or 12)

For heavyweight fabrics like denim, canvas, or upholstery fabrics, a larger needle size (e.g. size 16 or 18)

Download the free chart