Replies

1. 
   mimi | Jul 20, 2005 06:56am | #1

   princess:  The smaller the first number the finer (smaller point, ie 9) the needle.  You would use the smaller numbers on delicate fabrics, like silk.  You would use the largest number (ie 18) on denim and other sturdy fabrics.

   mimi

1. 
   princess | Jul 20, 2005 07:35am | #2

   hi mimi, yes, thanks for replying so quickly, but what do the numbers themselves actually relate to?  and why are there 2 numbers?  best, diane

1. 
   mimi | Jul 20, 2005 10:00pm | #3

   Princess:  I erred when I said the first number was the smallest.  Actually the numbers are posted 65/9, with the smallest number last.  My needles are all manufactured by Shmetz, in Germany.  I assume the first (larger) number "65" refers to a european (metric) measurement of some kind.  There is a definite difference in the size of the point of the needles, so perhaps it has something to do with that?

   Now I am curious.  It is really amazing how much we take for granted such everday objects, isn't it?  What do the experts out there say?

   mimi