The Schmetz Super Stretch medium ball point needle is a great alternative to the Stretch needle. It has a special flat shank which allows the needle to be closer to the hook and the special design of the scarf area produces a larger needle thread loop which can easily be picked up by the hook. These features prevent skip stitches even on highly elastic fabrics. The reinforced blade and chrome coating causes less needle breakage, creates straighter stitches and is more resistant to wear. As well, it has a wider and shorter eye and a widened groove, allowing it to sew with thicker swewing threads than the Universal or Stretch needle as threads are less stressed and therefore do not break. Can be used in standard home sewing machines using system 130/705 H, as well as some overlock machines (see machine manual).