The format of the needle varies according to its purpose. Sewing needles have a hole in the shaft to carry thread, either at the pointed tip for machine sewing needles, or at the non-pointed end, for hand sewing. Hand sewing needles have different names depending on their purpose, such as sharps, betweens, ballpoint, embroidery, leather, beading, chenille, upholstery, and tapestry.
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