How to Make a Sewing Machine Needle Organizer Case

Sometimes a needle needs to be changed even if it's not worn out, for example, when changing material or technique. Often, these needles end up at the bottom of your sewing machine accessories box, mixed with needles that were changed because they are bent or blunt.

A better way to organize all your machine needles is in this needle book with a holder. Everything in the right place makes your sewing experience so much better!

Materials and Project Information

This project, created by Mikael Svensson, is ideal for beginners and only requires your sewing machine.

For the list of materials, you will need:

• Cotton fabric for the needle case: 1 piece measuring 28 x 12 cm (the holder has space for 12 needle cases).

• Cotton fabric for the holder: 1 piece measuring 46 x 65 cm.

• Sewing threads in matching colours.

The needle cases can be made in any colour, of course, but in this case, I used the same colours as the needle codes for Singer machines:

Universal = Red, Jeans = Blue, Embroidery = White, Leather = Brown, Quilt = Purple, Microtex = Black, Stretch = Yellow, and Ball Point = Orange.

Making the Needle Cases

Step 1: Take the fabric piece for the needle case and fold it in half, right sides together.Step 2: Sew on the three open sides, but leave an opening for turning. 1 cm (3/8") seam allowance.

Step 3: Turn right side out.

Step 4: Fold the fabric up 3 cm (1 ¼") on the folded side and iron.

Step 5: Make a mark 5 cm (2") from the edge on the right side (pocket for the needle pack).

Step 6: Draw lines 1 cm apart on the rest of the pocket.

Step 7: Topstitch over the lines and around the case, closing the opening you used for turning earlier.

Step 8: Mark a line 3.5 cm (1 ½") from the top, fold down, and iron.

Step 9: Topstitch along the folded edge.

Step 10 (Optional): Add text using your machine's built-in fonts, if available. You can also use a permanent marker for this.

Your needle case is now finished. Make one for each of your needle types to keep your needle stock organized.

Making the Holder

This needle case holder has space for twelve cases. It's easy to make and will help you organize all your sewing needles in one place. Great for taking to classes, you'll always be prepared for any project!

Step 12: Take the fabric piece for the holder and mark lines as follows: First line 5 cm (2") from the edge, the next 12 cm (4 ¾") from the first, and the third line 12 cm (4 ¾") from the second. Make a final line 11 cm (4 ½") above the third line.Step 13: Fold the fabric back at the five-centimetre line. Topstitch along the edge and 3 cm (1 ¼") down.

Step 14: Repeat with the next two lines. You now have three sewn folds.

Step 15: Iron the lines with the folds facing up towards the fourth line.Step 16: Fold the remaining fabric piece over, covering the folds. There is some extra fabric on the bottom edge, trim the excess fabric and pin it.
Step 17: Sew on three sides, but leave an opening on one side to turn it right side out. Then, turn it right side out.

Step 18: Mark lines 10.5 cm (4 ¼") from each end and one line in the center.

Step 19: Topstitch on the lines and around the holder, closing the opening we used to turn it earlier.

Now your needle case is ready, fill it with your needles and you are ready to go! Tip: if you divide one of the compartments, you will get six pockets for extra needle cases.

Technical Assistance and Tradition in Porto

The quality of your projects depends on the systematic use of finely tuned sewing machines and correct tools. Since 1928, FORTES has been dedicated to trade and providing technical assistance in Portugal.

With great pride in the Porto de Tradição distinction, we value our physical store and proximity to customers. If you are looking for sewing machine parts or need advice on the ideal needle, visit us in the city of Porto or explore our online store.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the right needle for sewing denim?

For thick fabrics like denim (jeans), you should use a specific "Jeans" needle, which has a sharper point and a reinforced shank, preventing the needle from breaking or skipping stitches. The corresponding color in this organization project is blue.

Can I use the same needles in any sewing machine?

Most modern domestic sewing machines use the universal 130/705 H system. However, you should always check your machine's manual to ensure compatibility and invest in needles from reputable brands, such as SCHMETZ or Singer, to avoid damage to internal parts.

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