Germany-based needle manufacturer Ferd. Schmetz GmbH has developed new needles specifically for the processing of fine knitwear. Schmetz KN and Schmetz SF needle types are said to help to ensure  a trouble-free manufacturing process and quality end products.

As it has a slim and continuous cylindrical blade without reinforcement, the Schmetz KN needle type produces smaller stitch holes than standard needles and the construction of the needle ensures that the needle penetration force is reduced: the cross-section in the eye area was reduced and the shape from the eye area to the point is very slim. This slim shape minimises damage to the sewing material in the form of burst loops.

For extremely fine knitwear, such as 40 and 42 gauge for lingerie, the company has developed the Schmetz SF. It has an even slimmer shape from the eye area to the point than the Schmetz KN.