Been following the posts and subject of needles/point types/uses. I do not want to come across as a know-it-all but there seems to be (IMO) some confusion here. Early on I was given the basics that I should use a sharp point for woven fabrics/caps. Ball points for knits. The size of the needle is more related to the type of thread and how much strength you need to get through the fabric so the needle does not deflect. So to say I want to sew metallic the first thought is a bigger needle (80/12) because the thread is bigger, then you say I want to sew a sweatshirt, so a ball point is the preferred choice. If you go back to 40 wt thread then the 80/12 is probably overkill and a 75/11 would be better, but it is still a ball point. Go to a woven shirt and the 75/11 ball becomes a 75/11 sharp. Throw a structured cap into the mix and it gets different. I use an 80/12 sharp. Not because the thread is bigger, because the cap is way tough and I need the strength of the needle to keep deflection to a minimum. I am sure most are aware of all this but thought there may be someone that may benefit. Go to www.stitches.com/images/archive/NTBchart.pdf for some good information. Herb Royal Embroidery =========================================================== The AmayaUsers Mailing List Website: http://www.amayausers.com Discussion Board: http://www.amayausers.com/boards Subscribe/Unsubscribe: http://www.amayausers.com/list ===========================================================