Needles for Structured Caps

[debndukes]

Just getting an opinion from y'all about what type, brand, size, etc... needle you use on the Amayas (XT) for hats to minimize needle breaks. I currently use Organ or Schmetz #80/12. Is there a more industrial needle. Is a titanium needle more effective??? Let's talk sharps...

[levelbest]

We use Organ 75/11 or 80/12 titanium sharps with the convential cap frame and I havn't broken a needle that I can remember in years doing them. We also use otto caps and have given up doing the cheapie caps except on rare occasion. Good caps just make your work look better, last longer, and sew easier in our experience.

[Rod or Sharon]

We use 75/11 almost exclusively. I have yet to need to use 80/12 for anything. Hooping technique is an important key to not having needle breaks especially with caps. 80/12 does terrible small lettering....pokes too big of a hole....

Hoop caps as tight as you can ( watch Herb and Sharons Video on this site ) and use the presser foot to hold the cap down...

Rod Springer
Amaya Tech & Trainer