One of our most used cross stitch tools is our cross stitch needle table, telling people which needle to use with which count aida fabric. But one of the most often questioned things on the table is petite cross stitch needles.
Confusion exists around what these needles are, and when the best time to use them is. So we’re here to explain everything to you.
What Is A Petite Cross Stitch Needle?
In the simplest form, petite tapestry needles (sometimes called cross stitch needles) are simply smaller versions of a standard needle, in both width and length. But as always in the cross stitch world, it’s not as simple as that.
Let’s start with the width, which, as we’ll discuss later, is one of the key reasons to use a petite needle.
The width (or gauge) of the petite needle is a size down from its number. So a size 24 petite needle has the width of a size 25 needle.
Interestingly, you would struggle to find a size 25 needle to check, as most tapestry needles are sold going up/down by 2 numbers.
Then comes the length. This is the next standard size down, so in our example, a size 24 petite needle would be the length of a size 26 needle.
This also comes with the impact of the eye of the needle being reduced too.
So, let’s use an example to make that simpler!
A size 24 petite needle:
- Is used with size 24 aida fabric
- Is the width of a size 25 needle
- Is the length of a size 26 needle
What Are The Advantages And Disadvantages Of a Petite Tapestry Needle?
Much like other cross stitch needles, like double eye needles, petite needles are also only useful in some situations.
Whilst the size has many benefits, it also has drawbacks!
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| ✔ Does not enlarge aida holes ✔ Gold/Platinum plating wears slower ✔ Easier to stitch with ✔ Less prone to snapping |
✘ Harder to thread ✘ Can slip through fabric holes ✘ Harder to purchase ✘ More expensive than normal needles |
At first, a petite needle does look like it’s too much effort for the gain, but there are some situations where using a petite needle is undeniably beneficial.
When Should You Use A Petite Cross Stitch Needle?
When it comes to cross stitch, I regularly see new stitchers, in particular on /r/crossstitch, asking about large holes in their Aida.
This can be from a few different causes: too much tension, too large a needle, not stitching ‘straight’, or it is simply a case of the aida moving slightly, which will be rectified when you wash and iron your cross stitch. But sometimes, it doesn’t get fixed, or other times, you just don’t like the fact that you open up the holes in your aida.
This is where petite cross stitch needles really shine. They are a little bit smaller than the suggested needle size, meaning you can happily stitch away without opening up those aida pores!
The secondary, and less thought about, benefit of using a smaller needle is that any coating on the needles, such as gold plated needles or platinum needles, will wear less, as they don’t rub against the aida in the same way, meaning you get longer use out of the needle. What you will find is that most petite needles are actually sold as gold-plated as well.
So, if you want smaller holes when stitching, an easier time stitching, or want to keep your gold-plated needles going longer, petite needles are for you!
Where Can You Get Petite Needles?
Petite needles, sadly, aren’t super easy to find, with only a few brands making them. This means that niche tapestry needles like Pony Black aren’t sold in petite sizes.
Thankfully, most of the companies on our list of best cross stitch needle brands offer petite needles, but you may need to search only the best cross stitch stores to find them.
Have you tried petite needles? I actually know a few stitchers, including Mr X Stitch who uses them all the time!
Happy stitching,
Lord Libidan
Explore all our cross stitch guides to master everything from basics to advanced techniques.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fabric counts work best with petite needles?
Any count fabric will work well with petite needles, but be sure to always use the correct size cross stitch needle with your fabric.
Are petite needles better for preventing enlarged holes in Aida fabric?
Yes. Petite needles are great for reducing the size of holes in aida that come from using standard-size needles.