“How do I thread the tiny eyes of size 10 or 12 needles without a needle threader?”
1. Why it is so secret I have no idea, but one side of the needle will always accept the thread easier than the other. And, the difference is not visible to the naked eye. I believe the difference is in the way the eye is made. Usually punched out, one side will have a natural funneling entry from the direction the stamp hit. The other side, though smooth actually has a tiny difference in size and no funneling.
So after trying to thread the needle a few times and failing, try the other side.
2. The jewelers technique for threading is to hold the thread in the dominant hand, between thumb and forefinger and the needle in the other hand, also between thumb and forefinger. Then rest thumb of hand with thread on top of thumb of hand with needle. Finally, rock the hand with thread gently forward.
3. Have a white or light colored object behind the needle in order to emphasize the eye.
4. Flatten the thread with your teeth after trimming it with a crisp cut.
5. If none of above works, or if the thread is just too big for the needle, try a large eye needle. They are available at craft stores and beading supply sites.
