Needle Size
Needle Size refers to the thickness and type of sewing machine needles used in garment production. It's a crucial specification in apparel manufacturing because using the correct needle size ensures quality stitching and prevents damage to fabrics. Needle sizes are usually shown as numbers (like 60/8 or 90/14), where larger numbers mean thicker needles. Choosing the right needle size is essential because it affects how well different materials can be sewn - from delicate silks to heavy denims. When reading resumes, recruiters might see this term when candidates describe their expertise in various sewing operations or quality control.
Examples in Resumes
Trained production staff on proper Needle Size selection for different fabric types
Developed quality control guidelines including Needle Size specifications for various garment categories
Reduced fabric damage by 30% through implementing proper Needle Size standards
Typical job title: "Sewing Machine Operators"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Sewing Machine Operators
Professional Organizations
Online Resources
Industry Events
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you determine the appropriate needle size for different fabric types in a production setting?
Expected Answer: A senior candidate should explain how they consider fabric weight, composition, and end-use when selecting needle sizes. They should mention experience in creating standardized guidelines for production teams and troubleshooting needle-related quality issues.
Q: How would you implement a needle management system in a large production facility?
Expected Answer: Should discuss organizing needle inventory, training staff on proper selection, establishing quality control checkpoints, and creating documentation systems for needle changes and maintenance.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What problems can occur from using the wrong needle size?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain common issues like skipped stitches, fabric damage, thread breakage, and how these problems affect production quality and efficiency.
Q: How do you train new operators on proper needle selection?
Expected Answer: Should describe practical training methods, use of fabric samples, demonstration of proper vs improper needle usage, and monitoring procedures.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Can you explain the basic needle size numbering system?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that needle sizes typically have two numbers (European/American), and that larger numbers mean thicker needles.
Q: What are the signs that indicate a needle needs to be changed?
Expected Answer: Should identify basic signs like broken or bent needles, skipped stitches, unusual sounds, or fabric damage as indicators for needle replacement.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of needle sizes and their uses
- Ability to change needles correctly
- Knowledge of common fabric types
- Basic machine operation skills
Mid (2-5 years)
- Troubleshooting needle-related issues
- Training others on proper needle selection
- Quality control procedures
- Multiple machine type experience
Senior (5+ years)
- Development of needle selection guidelines
- Production process optimization
- Staff training program development
- Quality management systems
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic needle size numbering system
- Unable to match needle sizes to fabric types
- Lack of understanding about quality control
- No experience with industrial sewing machines
Related Terms
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