I came across this article a few years ago while researching interchangeable knitting needle sets. Aside from the overt attempt to masculine sewing, I thought it was appropriately archived on the internet for a generation increasingly moving away from the “fix it your damn self” mentality.
Other names for this type of needle pack are
- Home repair needles
- Household repair needles
- Repair needles
- Hand sewing needles
- Handstitching/hand stitching needles
The number and types of needles vary from packet to packet, but the minimum number of needles is usually five and seven at the most. The basic needles you’ll find are: Curved mattress needle Carpet needle Sail needle (or canvas needle) Upholstery needle Packing needle Glove needle Tapestry needle
Curved needles are good for sewing from the outside and when you can’t sew from the inside (think pillow repair) or when you have a tough fabric. Because of its shape, you have accurate needle placement on both layers of fabric without exerting too much effort. Curved needles are also used in surgery for closing sutures for the same reason (minimal tissue distortion is a good thing). They also would be good for repairing backpacks.
Glove needles have a three-sided tip for piercing leather.
Tapestry needles are not often included because of their comparatively limited use. The blunt head allows it to pass through loosely woven fabrics without damaging surrounding threads.
Prices for these needle packs have changed since the 70’s, but they are still relatively inexpensive. The one I bought was from Hancock Fabrics was two dollars for seven needles.
Link to “Survival Sewing” article
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