This designation refers to a specific type of needle used in sewing machines. The “14” indicates the needle’s diameter, with larger numbers representing thicker needles. The “90” denotes the European metric sizing system, also indicating diameter. This specific size is often used for medium-weight woven fabrics like denim, linen, and twill. Selecting the correct needle ensures proper stitch formation, prevents fabric damage, and reduces needle breakage.
Appropriate needle selection is crucial for successful sewing. Using the right needle size for a given fabric weight prevents skipped stitches, puckering, and needle breakage. Historically, standardized needle sizing has streamlined the process of choosing the right needle, enabling improved consistency and predictability in sewing projects, both domestically and industrially.