With a heritage of needle-making spanning over 300 years, the expertise at John James Needles has been handed down from generation to generation and is highly regarded within the stitching industry - and within the CrossStitcher team.

Now they've launched The Crafters Collection, a set of easy-to-identify wallets containing every needle you'd ever need to own! Cleverly labelled in sweet illustrated packages (average £1.49 for 10+ needles), we think they're superb value for money.

Over the next 6 months we will be exploring and sharing all 24 designs with you, alongside handy needle tips and techniques for you to enjoy.

Click read more to see their Crewel, Beading, Cross Stitch and Easy Thread sets...

Welcome to our fourth 'Needle Knowhow' feature.

Last month we covered everything you need to know about delicate beading needles, but this month we're filling you in on a slightly larger range called chenille needles.

We've got two  features to share with you yet, as industry leaders John James Needles present all the technical advice and information you'll ever need.

* Plus, each month we're giving away the ENTIRE SET of Pebbles to one lucky reader!

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This month, we're focusing on chenille needles. As a perfect starter kit, this misty grey Pebble (ref: JJP18882) contains 6 chenille needles in sizes 18 - 22, but don't take our word for it. Scroll down to find out more about the chenille family.

What is a chenille needle?

Chenille needles are part of the embroidery needle range and are typically used for embroidery using yarn, twisted yarn and crewel wool, hence the name crewel embroidery.

How can I tell if my needle is a chenille needle?

The chenille needle is identical in size to the tapestry needle (the length and diameter are the same) but instead of a blunt round point, the chenille needle has a sharp point. You'll notice is has a large eye which is particularly useful for allowing the yarn to be threaded easily.

When should I be using a chenille needle?

These needles are designed to be used when embroidering on coarse and heavy fabrics, especially when creating Jacobean work. They're ideal for embroidery or appliqué work on chunky sweaters, for example.

You might find some people use them for sewing knitted and crochet pieces together, however it's worth taking note that care must be taken when doing so because the sharp point could split the fibres.​

What size chenille needle do I need?

Usage really depends on the openness of the fabric to be used. Size 13 and 14 are the lergest in the chenille family and are designed to be used with heavy fabrics, but the most popular are 16, 18, 20 and 22.