Machine needles wear out and can be damaged more quickly than one thinks. Needles should be replaced about every eight hours of quilting. Even if the needle falls sharp, under magnification. It is evident the point is no longer sharp. Groz-Beckert needles are high quality and made in Germany. Make sure to select a needle that works with your hook, L-hook (small bobbin), or M-hook (large bobbin). Each package contains 10 needles