Lately, I have been testing different needle threaders. Some, such as the hummingbird threader (reviewed here) I like alot. Some, like this Clover threader, have definite problems. Whenever I review an item, I test it in the same kind of conditions it would normally be used in.
The Threader
This threader is a single self-contained unit. The silver threader, which has a very large hole, fits into an antique gold case. The two are attached at their larger ends. On the threader is a small bump that you use to get the threader out of the case.
The threader as a whole is about 1.5″ long. The eye is 1/4″ wide at its widest point. It does not come to a fine point, so needles #24 and smaller might not work with it.
The case is prettily decorated with clovers and curliques, giving it a lovely Victorian look.
Pros
The case stays securely shut, making it good for travel. Because of the large eye, you can use this threader with the bulkiest threads and yarns. It will even work with very large needles.
I liked that once it’s open, it stays open. The large size and flat case make it easy to stay near your stitching. It’s also easy to find in your project bag, easier to find than most threaders. Because it’s thick, the case is easy to pick up, whether open or closed.
The bump and notch give a convenient place to hold to open the threader
Cons
Although I like the large size of the threader and its neat profile when stored I found two major problems.
First, sometimes it could be hard to open. While that notch in the holder and bump on the threader are nice, I could not completely open it using the bump alone. To open it smoothly, I had to hold the gold case firmly in one hand and put the silver threader between two fingers of the other hand near the bump and pull the threader up. I could not open it completely any other way. Because of this I often left it open and nearby while I stitched.
The other problem has to do with closing the threader. The silver threader fits into a very narrow slot in the case. It fits quite snugly; there is little play in the threader when it is closed. Often the threader, which is thin and flexible would not go into the slot. This happened more often in low light, but I did have it happen often enough even in bright light, that this is a serious flaw.
In addition, this threader won’t be a good solution for you if you mainly use small needles. It is not designed for these. Knitters and weavers though might really like having this tool when they need to assemble items.
I can understand the need to have a large and compact threader. For my money however, I prefer an open threder in my project bag or one with a case that wasn’t so hard to use.
About Janet M Perry
Janet Perry is the Internet's leading authority on needlepoint. She designs, teaches and writes, getting raves from her fans for her innovative techniques, extensive knowledge and generous teaching style. A leading writer of stitch guides, she blogs here and lives on an island in the northeast corner of the SF Bay with her family
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