These sold out super quick when I listed them a couple of days ago, so I’ve managed to get some more.
Something really special in terms of sashiko needles, one of the first places we've been in Japan on our 2023 trip is to Misuyabari of Kyoto, the famous needle shop tucked down a narrow alleyway off Sanjo Dori, and I've bought some packets of their long sashiko needles for you.
NB - orders placed now will be sent after we return on 12th November.
These are very sharp, strong needles, and are polished along the needle's length, so they go through the fabric really well. Sorry I can't give you an exact length, because I haven't got a ruler here and there's no size marked on the needle, but they are a little over 2in (5cm) long. The eye is fairly short, similar to some of the Tulip needles, but they thread easily with 6-ply medium or finer sashiko threads.In a packet of 10 identical needles, these really are a 'steal' at just £9.99 a packet.These are the ultimate in a traditional sashiko needle, as Misuyabari have been producing needles for centuries and their ancestor was appointed as 'needle master' to the Imperial court in 1651, given the trade name 'Misuya' by the Emperor just a few years later. 
If you want to come to Kyoto and find the shop for yourself, you need to find the narrow alley off Sanjo Dori. It is easily missed, as it is between two quite modern buildings, and walking down it is like stepping back in time. Start at Kawaramachi Dori, and it the alley is tucked away a few shops down Sanjo Dori on the right.(Misuyabari do mail order but only within Japan. So my only chance to get these needles is once a year when we visit).
1 packet of 10 identical nedles.