what size needles to use

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Permalink Reply by Owen Merrow on October 20, 2010 at 11:08am

Claire,

The pearl (purl) stitch machine (M/MG-2DNR-1) is generally sewn with a Size 2 (80mm), SDT needle. The 'S' refers to a spot or scarf on the needle, the D refers to the curve (D is a standard Merrow curve), and the T refers to a tapered blade. The Merrow code for the needle is 2SDT.

The easiest way to think of Merrow needles is by size, and the sizes range from size 000 (55 mm) to 8 (150 mm). The progression of sizes is as follows: 000, 00, 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 , 7, 8. The MG-2DNR-1 machine is often used with needles ranging from size 00 to 3.

Once you determine the size, it is then important to select the proper version of the needle. All needles for your machine will include the letter D in the code, showing that they have the standard Merrow curve. The following options are also available for your machine:
S- spot or scarf (eg. 2SD)
T- tapered blade (eg. 2SDT)
F- ball point (eg. 2DF)

I would recommend calling Merrow customer service (800-431-6677) to request sample needles for your machine. Please reference this Merrow community conversation when you talk to a customer service representative. We will send you a few needles of various sizes and styles for trial. Once you determine the best needle(s) for your applications, you can order them directly from Merrow, or from your local Merrow agent. Merrow needles are sold in packages of 25.

Good luck!

Best regards,

Owen Merrow

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Permalink Reply by claire remo on October 20, 2010 at 11:56am

Thank you Owen,

I purchased my machine from a company that refurbishes old machines from factories that went out of business. This machine m-3dw serial # 119574 was changed from a regular stitch to a purl stitch machine, will that make a difference with the needles I use. It uses two threads the same as the purl does. He said he can change the width of the stitch from narrow or wide also, is that done by what cams you put in the machine? I do have cams that I purchased. I would love to experiment with the machines to see what will work best for my product. I have 5 machines, one is a sock...two needle, and the rest are normal 3 thread. What would you suggest I try?

Thank you again for your quick response, I will give merrow a call.

Claire Remo

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