Darner (darning needle): A needle with a long, narrow eye. Used for basting, tying, or weaving.

 

Double- or triple-needle: Specialty sewing machine needles with two or three needles hooked together at the shank. Can be used for decorative stitching.

 

Metallic needle: A needle designed with a larger eye for use with metallic thread.

 

Milliners needle: A long needle with a small round eye. Used for basting, gathering, and needle-turn appliqué. Also called a straw needle.

 

Straw needle: See "Milliners needle."

 

Tapestry needle: A needle with an oval eye that accommodates thick thread and creates a hole in the fabric big enough for thick or coarse fibres to pass through.

 

Universal needle: A sewing machine needle type with a point and eye suited for multiple sewing and quilting applications.