Sewing

Needles, Sewing Machine

Types

Universal

Most woven fabrics

Ball Point

Jersey, knit fabrics

Stretch

Super stretchy fabrics: lycra, super mesh, etc.

Sharps

Densely-woven fabrics: silks, microfiber, multiple layers, quilting

Sizes

Thickness of the needle (not the tip).

8 to 10 (60 to 70)

Super fine fabrics: voile, sheers, georgettes, chiffons

12 (80)

MOST common: Cottons, shirting, light wools, quilting cotton, rayon

14 (90)

common: Linen, light denim, drill cotton

16 (100)

Heavy denim, canvas, upholstery

18 (110)

Leather, etc.