Needles- a basic tool.

Today I want to address the issue of sewing machine needles.  My mother didn't teach me a lot of the very basic things about sewing when I was learning to sew as a child/teen.  It wasn't until I was in my early 30s that I discovered stretch needles.  I also didn't know that you needed to change your needle regularly.  Here are some basic tips for sewing machine needles.

Choose the appropriate needle for your fabric.  Below are some pictures of different types of needles.  Pick the one that suits your needs appropriately.  You can go online to find descriptions of each needle to assess which one is best.  They may also tell you on the back of the card what purpose is best suited. (This is the brand that is available at my local store.  I am not compensated for this post.)

Change needles often.  Some say change it with every new project, but if you are making something small it probably isn't necessary.  Maybe every 8-10 hours of sewing time would be good.

Change you needle any time you hit a pin (or anything else).  It is really best to remove pins instead of stitching over them.  I try to remove them as I sew. 
If you are having trouble with your machine, try a new needle.  I think this is often the last thing people think to try.  Even the slightest bend (not noticeable to the naked eye) will mess the thread up.  If the point isn't sharp, it can tear your fabric or create runs.  Sewing machines are very precise instruments.  If you listen to your machine, you will hear it making a different noise when a needle is damaged.  The timing can be thrown of by hitting pins.  The timing is how the needle and bobbin casing move in sync with each other.  If they aren't just right, you will have problems.  Having your machine serviced regularly is important for this reason, as well as cleaning and oiling all the parts in there to keep it running smoothly.

Feel free to comment with any questions I may not have addressed!