These specialized needles, featuring a rounded tip similar to a ballpoint pen, are essential components in industrial sewing machines designed for knit fabrics. The rounded point prevents the needle from piercing or cutting the fabric’s loops, instead pushing them aside to create the stitch. This characteristic is crucial for maintaining the integrity and elasticity of knitted materials, preventing runs and damage during the sewing process. A typical application is the construction of t-shirts.
The non-destructive nature of these needles allows for the creation of seams that stretch with the fabric, ensuring garment durability and comfort. This contrasts with standard sharp-point needles which can sever knit fibers, leading to weakened seams and potential unraveling. Their development was a significant advancement in the garment industry, enabling efficient and high-quality production of knitwear. This innovation greatly influenced the widespread adoption of knit fabrics in various applications.