Betweens needles were designed specifically for hand quilting. More specifically, they were made for the traditional hand quilting done at a quilting frame or hoop. When using the traditional "rocker" method of hand quilting, the needle's short shank provides easy control. The Betweens needle is thicker than other needles, giving it added strength for moving through a quilt's multiple layers. Equally small quilting stitches are possible with any size of Betweens needles. Make your needle choice based on its comfort in your hand and your ability to thread it.