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Needle Threader – Types and Uncommon Uses
Needle threaders are invaluable tools for anyone who works with needles, thread, yarn, embroidery floss or the like. A needle threader will help you get very fine thread through the tiniest of needle eyes, or help pull the chunkiest of yarns through the eye of a tapestry needle. Needle threaders are especially helpful for threads that tend to fray at the ends. Of course, a needle threader is priceless for those times when either the eyes or the lighting aren't quite good enough to do the job.
Types of Needle Threaders
Needle threaders come in two main types. There are threaders for finer threads and threaders for yarn and thicker items.
Most every needle threader for sewing thread has the same basic design, a diamond shaped wire with a handle.
Tapestry threaders are needle threaders for thicker threads and yarns usually consist of a flat piece of metal with a hole stamped through a tongue in the end.
There are also "desk" threaders. With these devices you insert the thread into a groove, set the needle into a slot, and press the button. A piece of thin metal pushes the thread through the eye of the needle.
There are also needle threaders specifically for threading sewing machines or sergers.
How to Use a Needle Threader
To use a regular sewing or tapestry threader, first insert the wire or tongue through the eye of your needle. Place the thread or yarn through the wire or hole in the tongue. When you pull the threader back out of the needle, the thread or yarn comes along with it. Now you have a threaded needle.
Other Uses
- Pulling back snags in sweaters and other knit garments
- Finishing the ends on the back of knitting or crocheting
- Pulling thread ends to the wrong side of a garment
Popular Manufacturers
More Information
- Visit the Fons & Porter Website for More Tips and Tricks
About the author, Sandy Huntress
With over 30 years of sewing experience and more than 20 years of crafting I've rarely met a craft I didn't like, and have all the gadgetry to prove it. You'll often find me in my sewing and crafting room where I design and make garments, quilts, scrapbooks, cards, paper crafts, dolls, home decor and jewelry; just to name a few. I'm always interested in trying the next new thing and love to share my knowledge with others. For great sewing and crafting inspiration, ideas and tutorials, check out Keepsake Crafts.
