What is a Twin Needle?

If you’ve ever wanted your sewing projects to look more polished, structured, or even store-bought, it’s time to explore the twin needle! Also known as a double needle, this accessory is a simple way to elevate your sewing, especially for hems, topstitching, and decorative details.

Designed to work with compatible sewing machines like the JUKI HZL-HT710 and HZL-HT740, a twin needle opens up new creative possibilities while offering practical solutions for garment finishing and embellishment. Whether you’re sewing with knits or experimenting with quilting lines, this tool is a must-have for any growing sewing toolkit.

What Is It?

A twin needle is exactly what it sounds like: two needles mounted onto a single shaft, designed to sew two rows of parallel stitches at the same time. This clever design lets your machine create clean, even rows of stitching that mimic the look of professional hems.

Originally developed to help home sewists replicate the durable finishes seen in commercial garments, especially those made from stretch or knit fabrics, the twin needle made this polished look accessible without expensive, specialized machines.

The genius of the twin needle lies in its ability to combine form and function. While the two top threads sew neat, parallel lines on the fabric surface, the bobbin thread creates a zigzag underneath. This adds flexibility, making the seam ideal for stretchy garments like T-shirts or activewear. At the same time, it delivers a polished, professional appearance that enhances any project.

Over time, twin needles have become popular for much more than hemming. Sewists now use them for decorative topstitching, pintucks, quilting, and more. Their versatility makes them a favorite for JUKI users looking to expand their sewing possibilities, without investing in another machine.

Benefits and Uses

Twin needles offer a unique combination of durability and decorative appeal, making them a valuable tool for a variety of sewing projects. By stitching two parallel lines at once, they create hems and seams that are both strong and flexible, especially important when working with stretchy or delicate fabrics. Beyond functionality, twin needles can also add eye-catching details, giving your projects a professional, polished finish.

Ideal projects for a twin needle:

• Hemming knit garments (like T-shirts or leggings)
• Decorative topstitching on home décor
• Echo quilting or parallel lines in quilting projects
• Creating faux pintucks on lightweight fabrics

Tips for Using a Twin Needle

Using a twin needle is easy once you’ve practiced a bit. Here are a few tips to help you get started with confidence:

• Use two spools of thread. Position them side by side and thread them through your machine together, separating only at the needle.
• Adjust tension and stitch length. Slight tweaks may be needed depending on your fabric and thread.
• Stabilize stretchy fabrics. Add a strip of fusible hem tape to avoid tunneling or stretching.
• Always test first. Run a test on scrap fabric to ensure settings are correct before sewing your final piece.

Project Ideas Using the Twin Needle

Once you’re comfortable with your setup, the possibilities are endless. Here are a few fun and practical ways to explore twin needle sewing:

• Sew hems on T-shirts or knit dresses
• Add double-lined details to tote bags or zipper pouches
• Create pintucks on linen napkins or blouses
• Topstitch quilt bindings for a clean, modern look

Try the Twin Needle on Your HZL-HT Series Machine

If you’re ready to elevate your sewing, there’s no better time to try the twin needle! Whether you’re working on wardrobe updates, creative embellishments, or finishing projects with professional polish, this accessory adds dimension and refinement to your work.

Watch our full video tutorial here:
How to Use a Twin Needle on the HT Series

And don’t forget, our August Summer Sale is live now! When you purchase a JUKI HZL-HT710 or HZL-HT740, you’ll receive a free extension table to support all your summer projects. Visit JUKIHome.com to find your local JUKI dealer and explore this limited-time promotion.