Needle and Shank Information
Comparative Table of Old & New Sizes of Needles
... Singer Needle Sizes ...
ISMACS Needle List
Exhaustive reference compiling nearly 6,000 sewing machines and their compatible needles from historical
catalogs of Beka, Free, Singer, Boye, Schmetz, and many other manufacturers, essential for finding the
correct needle for vintage machines.
How to Orient a Sewing Machine Needle
Practical guide by Kevin Pinkerton explaining needle orientation essentials for all sewing machines, with
clear instructions on how to insert needles correctly and troubleshoot common issues like skipped
stitches. Read in conjunction with the
Needle Cross-reference Charts
. Answers the question, "which way does my needle fit into my sewing machine?"
Interchangeable Needle List
Historical reference chart originally from the Smithsonian showing comparative needle shapes and sizes,
providing a visual guide to interchangeable needle systems for later-model sewing machines.
Making Needles
Fascinating historical account from 1923 detailing how the Torrington Company of Connecticut
revolutionized needle manufacturing with innovative machinery and Yankee ingenuity, transforming a small
local business into a global industry leader.
Needles
Historical reference from 1889 offering needle substitution guidance for early sewing machines, providing
invaluable compatibility information for collectors and restorers of antique machines.
Needle Cross-Reference Charts
Definitive resource containing detailed cross-reference charts for flat-shank, round-shank, and curved
sewing machine needles, with critical measurements for finding modern replacements for vintage needles.
Shank Identification
Visual reference guide showing different shank types with detailed measurements, helping identify whether
your vintage sewing machine has low, high, or slant shank configuration.
Various High Shanks
Illustrated reference showing various high shank presser feet designs from the Sincere Sewing Machine
Service Book, helping owners identify and find compatible attachments for their vintage machines.
Various Low Shanks
Illustrated reference showing various low shank presser feet designs from the Sincere Sewing Machine
Service Book, helping owners identify and find compatible attachments for their vintage machines.