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Why Sewing Machine Needle Bend? 10 Causes and Fixes You Need to Know (2025)

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why sewing machine needle bendA sewing machine needle bends when it’s under too much pressure or hits something it shouldn’t.

Using the wrong needle size for thick fabrics or sewing over pins is like trying to hammer a nail into concrete—it just doesn’t end well.

Misaligned machine parts, like the needle plate or bobbin case, can also knock it off track.

Sometimes, dull or worn needles cause trouble too, especially with heavy or layered fabrics.

Slow down, pick the right needle, and keep your machine parts aligned.

Think of it like driving—speeding or ignoring signs leads to problems.

Careful adjustments can save both time and stress!

Table Of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Don’t force your sewing—always match the needle size and type with your fabric thickness to avoid bending.
  • Pull out pins as you sew and slow down on thick seams to prevent needle damage or breakage.
  • Keep your machine in top shape with regular maintenance, ensuring parts like the needle plate and bobbin case are aligned correctly.
  • Never try straightening a bent needle—replace it immediately to save your fabric, stitches, and machine.

Common Causes of Sewing Machine Needle Bending

Common Causes of Sewing Machine Needle Bending
Needles bend when they’re pushed too far—think using the wrong size, hitting pins, or tackling thick fabric unprepared.

It’s like forcing a square peg into a round hole; the poor needle just can’t handle it.

Incorrect Needle Size for Fabric

Ever wonder why your needle bends mid-project? It’s usually because it’s the wrong size for your fabric.

Think of it like wearing shoes—too small, and it’s a disaster. For more details, see this sewing machine needle guide.

  • Needle too small: Thin needles can’t handle thick fabrics; they flex and snap.
  • Incorrect needle type: Unsuitable for your fabric’s density or structure.

Match the needle with fabric thickness, density, sewing speed, and thread weight. The right needle size guarantees smooth stitching, less frustration, and a happier sewing day!

Hitting Pins or Hard Objects

Sewing over pins or hitting zippers feels like driving into a speed bump—it bends or breaks needles fast.

Avoid pin damage by pulling pins out as you sew.

For zippers, hand-crank over teeth to dodge needle breakage.

Never let your needle hit buttons, metal pieces, or the bobbin case—it leads to fabric tears and costly fixes!

Misaligned Machine Parts

Pins aren’t the only troublemakers.

Misaligned parts—like the needle plate, bobbin case, or feed dogs—can throw everything off, leading to bent needles faster than you’d expect.

If your needle keeps hitting the bobbin case or skips stitches, check for part alignment issues.

Regular sewing machine maintenance and feed dog adjustments keep these pesky culprits in line and your stitches smooth.

Excessive Fabric Thickness

Got dense materials slowing you down? Thick fabric, heavy textiles, or bulky seams can twist your needle like it’s tackling a brick wall.

Here’s what to do:

  • Use a stronger needle made for heavy fabrics.
  • Adjust stitch length for thick seams.
  • Slow down your sewing speed.
  • Avoid forcing multilayer sewing—let the machine handle it.

Worn or Damaged Needles

Worn needles are like a bad joke—they’ll ruin everything.

A dull or bent needle can mess with your project quicker than you think.

Here’s what to check:

  1. Fabric snags: The needle isn’t sharp enough.
  2. Skipped stitches: A damaged tip disrupts sewing flow.
  3. Loud clicking noises: Signals a bent needle—time for replacement!

Inspect regularly and store needles properly.

Improper Threading Technique

Threading errors mightn’t sound like a big deal, but they can lead to needle breakage faster than you’d think.

Incorrect threading creates uneven thread tension, adding stress to the needle.

If your machine groans or stitches skip, rethread carefully.

Think of threading like lacing shoes—get it wrong, and everything feels off!

Signs of a Bent Sewing Machine Needle

A bent needle can throw your sewing game off completely.

Here’s how to spot the red flags.

First, listen—if your machine clicks or pops, it’s like an SOS from the needle.

Seeing random fabric snags or tiny holes? That’s a major clue.

Watch closely: if the needle wobbles like a toddler learning to walk, it’s likely bent.

Sometimes, it may smack the needle plate mid-stitch—never a good sign.

Feel the needle shaft gently; bumps or curves mean it’s time for a replacement.

Check for misalignment in the needle-hook interaction, as it can lead to sewing issues.

Troubleshooting bent needles often involves checking for threading and tension issues.

Ignoring these bent needle symptoms mightn’t just ruin your project but also strain your machine.

Swap it out early to save headaches!

Impact of Bent Needles on Stitch Quality

Impact of Bent Needles on Stitch Quality
A bent needle can wreck your stitches, leaving them uneven, skipped, or messy. It’s like trying to write with a bent pencil—it just won’t work right!

Skipped Stitches

Skipped stitches can feel like a hiccup in your sewing groove.

Common reasons?

  1. Needle bending disrupts stitch consistency and timing.
  2. Incorrect thread tension causes thread snagging.
  3. Needle vibration from a bad fit or speed messes with fabric slippage.
  4. The needle hitting the bobbin case throws off everything.

For more detailed troubleshooting, consult this helpful guide on sewing machine skipping stitches.

Check these, and your stitching will purr again!

Uneven Stitch Patterns

Your stitches look more “abstract art” than straight lines?

A bent needle causes stitch irregularity by pulling thread at odd angles, leading to sewing inconsistency and fabric distortion.

You’ll notice uneven stitches, maybe even feel needle vibration.

Don’t ignore it—bending also impacts sewing machine timing issues, leaving your thread uneven and mashed like leftover spaghetti.

Swap your needle ASAP!

Fabric Puckering

When your needle bends, fabric puckering shows up like a bad wrinkle on laundry day.

This happens because thread pull increases unevenly, distorting the fabric grain.

Puckering causes range from poor seam allowance to mismatched fabric thickness and type, and a bent needle struggles to pierce cleanly, pulling fabric instead.

Avoid pulling fabric yourself—it only worsens the mess, and remember that a bent needle is often at the root of the fabric issues.

Thread Breakage

When your sewing machine needle isn’t straight, thread breakage can drive you nuts.

A bent needle disrupts thread tension, frays the yarn, and weakens fiber strength—like pulling too hard on a fragile shoelace.

Combine that with sewing speed or tough material resistance, and snap!

Check for needle bending and always match your needle to fabric for smoother stitching.

Needle-Hook Timing Issues

Timing issues? They’re like a two-left-feet dance partner ruining the groove.

Needle-hook timing problems lead to bendy needles, missed stitches, and snapped threads.

For a closer examination of this, explore hook timing troubleshooting.

Here’s how to spot it:

  1. Listen for “clunk” sounds—needle’s hitting metal.
  2. Check hook alignment—it must match needle timing perfectly.
  3. Inspect feed control—poor stitch regulation screams machine calibration’s off.

Preventing Sewing Machine Needle Bending

Preventing Sewing Machine Needle Bending
You can keep your sewing machine needle from bending by choosing the right needle for your fabric and taking care of your machine.

Think of it like using the right tools for the job—no one hammers a nail with a screwdriver, right?

Selecting Appropriate Needle Types

Always match needle size to fabric density—it’s like wearing sandals in snow, just doesn’t work.

Sharp needles suit lightweight fabrics, while stronger ones handle thick layers or jeans.

Consider needle material for durability and thread compatibility; for example, ballpoint types prevent snags in knits.

A helpful resource for choosing the right needle is this needle size fabric guide.

Proper needle selection saves stress, keeps stitches clean, and avoids bending disasters.

Regular Machine Maintenance

Keeping your machine happy means regular TLC.

Dust off lint monsters, oil moving parts for smooth stitching, and make sure tension settings don’t mess with your groove.

Don’t let loose screws throw off timing adjustment, check the needle plate for misalignment or dirt buildup.

Remember, sewing machine maintenance prevents chaos—and stops needle bending before it strikes.

Proper Fabric Handling Techniques

Gliding fabric smoothly under your machine is key—don’t rush it, especially with heavy fabrics.

Keep a light hand to avoid fabric pulling; it’s not arm wrestling.

Remove pins as you go.

Struggling with fabric too thick?

Slow down your sewing speed and focus on material selection.

Here’s a quick guide:

Issue Cause Fix
Fabric tearing Wrong needle size Match needle to fabric type
Uneven stitching Fabric pulling Let feed dogs do the work
Puckered seams Fabric stretch Use stabilizer or interfacing
Breaking needles Heavy fabrics Adjust sewing speed

Adjusting Machine Settings

To avoid sewing machine needle bending, fine-tune key settings like an expert.

Adjust machine calibration using these tips:

  1. Thread tension: Tighten or loosen based on fabric thickness to prevent sewing machine tension headaches.
  2. Stitch optimization: Use shorter stitches for dense fabrics.
  3. Feed adjustment & presser foot pressure: Prevent needles hitting the bobbin case or jamming.

Smooth settings equal smooth stitching!

Using Needle Insertion Tools

Lining up a sewing machine needle perfectly can feel like threading a needle… literally.

That’s where needle insertion tools shine, guaranteeing proper needle alignment and preventing bending or breakage.

Convenient sewing needle inserter products are readily available online, with their clever handle design and needle grip making slipping up nearly impossible.

With the right tool selection, you’ll keep needles from hitting metal and breaking mid-project, which is a simple solution to a common problem, and it’s indeed simple, right?

Diagnosing Bent Needle Issues in Sewing Machines

Diagnosing Bent Needle Issues in Sewing Machines
You can spot a bent sewing machine needle by checking for wobbling stitches, strange noises, or uneven thread tension.

Think of it like a car tire—if it’s off, everything else feels bumpy too, so a quick inspection keeps your sewing smooth.

Visual Inspection Techniques

Place your needle on a flat surface—if it wobbles, it’s bent.

For a closer look, inspect the tip for chips or the eye for warping.

Check the shank, too—it should be arrow-straight.

Don’t stop there! Look over the needle plate and thread guides for wear.

A quick Needle Examination prevents bigger sewing machine needle troubleshooting headaches later!

Sound and Vibration Analysis

Your machine’s sound is like its heartbeat—listen carefully.

Strange noises scream trouble! A bent sewing machine needle cause could be loud clicking or whining, while rough vibrations signal misalignment.

  1. Thumping: A sure hint of needle hitting the bobbin case.
  2. Clicking: Possible needle striking the plate.
  3. Whining: Maybe wrong alignment.
  4. Shaking: Consistent vibration patterns.

Catch it early? You’ll avoid bigger fixes!

Stitch Quality Assessment

When your stitches act up, it’s usually not them—it’s the needle.

A bent sewing machine needle causes chaos: skipped stitches, uneven stitch consistency, and puckered fabric.

Keep an eye on thread visibility, seam integrity, and stitch density as warning signs.

Problem What to Check Likely Cause
Skipped Stitches Seam Integrity Bent Needle
Uneven Density Stitch Consistency Needle Breaking/Wearing Out
Puckering Fabric Grain Needle Hitting Bobbin Case

Needle-Plate Interaction Check

Listen up—your needle-plate interaction can tell you plenty!

  1. Strange Sounds: Hear clicks or grinding? That’s a needle hitting the bobbin case or scratching the plate.
  2. Vibrations: Feel shakes like a car on a bumpy road? It’s needle deflection.
  3. Visible Scratches: Find marks on the plate? There’s likely needle plate damage or bending.

Keep things smooth!

Consequences of Using Bent Sewing Machine Needles

Consequences of Using Bent Sewing Machine Needles
Using a bent needle can mess up your machine and ruin your fabric faster than you’d think.

It’s like driving on a flat tire—nothing works right, and it’s just asking for trouble.

Machine Damage Risks

Don’t let a bent needle turn your sewing machine into a repair nightmare.

It can scratch the needle plate, throw off hook timing, and jam the feed dogs, leading to expensive equipment failure.

Ignoring this issue causes machine wear and worsens sewing errors.

Regular checks and proper maintenance can save your machine from unnecessary damage and costly needle fractures.

Fabric Damage Potential

Think a bent needle’s harmless? Think again! It’s a fabric nightmare waiting to happen.

Here’s how it causes chaos:

  1. Fabric Tears: Those jagged edges? A bent needle loves to snag and shred.
  2. Needle Puncture Marks: Enlarged holes weaken the material, ruining its durability.
  3. Fabric Distortion: Puckered seams make your masterpiece look like it shrank in the wash.

Decreased Sewing Efficiency

When your sewing machine needle’s bent, it’s like driving with a flat tire—it slows everything down.

Sewing delays from skipped stitches, fabric waste due to puckering, and constant thread breaks add up fast.

Operator errors creep in, and machine downtime becomes a headache.

Avoid production losses by replacing bent needles, checking tension, and fixing feed dog problems.

A smooth needle means smooth sewing, which helps prevent Sewing delays and operator errors, ultimately reducing machine downtime and production losses due to issues like fabric waste.

Safety Hazards for Operators

Needles snapping like popcorn? It’s more than an annoyance—it’s dangerous.

Flying shards can cause operator injury without proper eye protection. A bent needle hitting metal may jam the machine or strain your hands during fabric pulls.

Skip the risk: check needle handling, use machine guarding, and always know your emergency procedures. Safety isn’t optional—it’s your stitch-saving lifeline!

Proper Needle Installation to Prevent Bending

Installing a needle the right way is like making sure your shoes are tied—small details matter.

Push it all the way up, keep the flat side facing the back, and tighten the screw snugly to avoid problems later.

Correct Insertion Depth

Correct Insertion Depth
Getting the needle depth right is like parking perfectly in a tight spot.

Fully insert it until it’s snug in the clamp—no wiggle room! This guarantees smooth needle alignment and helps dodge needle bending or break mishaps.

If it’s shallow, your stitching’s bound to skip or jam.

Follow these insertion tips to keep things running smoothly.

Aligning Needle Flat Side

Aligning Needle Flat Side
Getting the needle’s flat side right isn’t just nitpicky – it’s smart sewing.

Misalignment can mess up your stitches or even bend your needle.

Here’s how it helps:

  1. Guarantees proper hook timing.
  2. Stops annoying needle wobble.
  3. Reduces fabric tearing risk.
  4. Keeps your machine calibrated.

Think of it as giving your needle a blueprint – follow it!

Tightening Needle Screw Securely

Tightening Needle Screw Securely
Got the needle in place? Double-check that needle clamp screw!

Tighten it snugly—not like you’re arm-wrestling it, though.

A loose screw risks wobbles and needle bending, while over-tightening strains parts.

Think of it as closing a jar lid: firm but not forced.

Here’s a quick guide:

Issue What Happens
Screw too loose Needle wobbles or bends
Screw too tight Machine damage possible
Correct tightness Needle stability, smooth sewing
Forget to tighten Major sewing machine problems
Double-check effort Prevent needle trouble

Addressing Specific Fabric Challenges Causing Needle Bending

Addressing Specific Fabric Challenges Causing Needle Bending
Some fabrics can be sneaky troublemakers, bending your needle when you least expect it.

To handle thick, stretchy, or slippery materials, pick the right needle and adjust your machine settings like you’re fine-tuning a recipe.

Sewing Heavy Fabrics

Tackling thick fabric like denim? It’s like wrestling a stubborn quilt!

Here’s how to win:

  1. Use heavy-duty needles like denim needles to handle the pressure.
  2. Layer strategically to avoid thick thread issues.
  3. Adjust machine pressure settings for smooth stitching.
  4. Fine-tune the feed dog height to keep the fabric gliding—not fighting!

Keep bending needles out of the game!

Working With Stretchy Materials

Stretchy fabrics can feel like trying to sew a rubber band.

Use a ballpoint or stretch needle for better needle compatibility and to avoid needle break or snapping.

Adjust tension and stitch length to master Elastic Seam Construction.

Prepping is key—pin strategically and support your fabric.

Check out this cheat sheet:

Tip Why It Helps Quick Action
Ballpoint Needle Prevents skipped stitches Swap your needle type
Adjust Stitch Length Aids stretchability Use longer stitches
Adjust Tension Avoids puckering Turn tension dial gently
Pin Strategically Stops fabric twisting Use stretch-appropriate pins
Test on Scrap Fabric Fine-tunes adjustments Always test first!

Handling Delicate or Slippery Fabrics

Handling delicate fabrics is like coaxing a shy kitten—patience pays off.

Use a fine needle designed for the fabric type (think silk or satin).

Adjust thread tension to avoid puckers, and lighten presser foot pressure for smooth sewing methods.

For fabrics like silk or satin, consider exploring these tips for handling slippery fabrics.

A smaller stitch length prevents snags, while gentle handling techniques fight fabric slippage.

No wrestling here—just delicate stitching perfection!

Multi-Layer Sewing Techniques

Tackling layered fabric? It’s like stacking pancakes—too fast, and things get messy!

Multi-layer sewing can lead to needle bending if you’re not careful.

  • Pick a heavy-duty needle for sewing thickness.
  • Adjust machine pressure for smooth layered seams.
  • Secure fabric stacking tightly.
  • Ease up on speed—slow wins.
  • Avoid shortcuts to prevent needle break or a bent needle.

Machine Settings Affecting Needle Bending Risk

Machine Settings Affecting Needle Bending Risk
Your machine’s settings can make or break your needle, literally.

Things like thread tension, stitch size, and even presser foot pressure need to be just right—kind of like adjusting the volume on a tricky old radio!

Thread Tension Adjustments

Thread tension isn’t just there to mess with you—it’s key to needle calibration.

Too tight? You’ll risk needle bending or snapping.

Too loose? Stitches turn wonky.

For smooth stitch regulation, match tension to fabric resistance.

Rethread carefully, check spool caps, and tweak until thread balance feels right.

A little adjustment keeps your sewing machine humming, not hiccupping.

Stitch Length and Width Settings

Pay attention to stitch optimization! Your needle faces stress based on stitch length and width.

For a deeper understanding of stitch length, explore this informative guide on sewing machine stitch length.

  1. Short stitches raise fabric density, intensifying pressure on the needle.
  2. Wide stitches? They shake needle stability. Think of a seesaw!

Match stitch length and width to fabric density and speed for smooth sewing precision. Adjust wisely to avoid dreaded needle bending.

Feed Dog Height Regulation

If your fabric isn’t moving smoothly, the feed dog height might need attention.

Lower heights suit light fabrics, while heavier ones need higher settings for proper guidance.

Picture feed dogs like tiny hands helping—too low, they struggle; too high, they grab too hard.

A quick height calibration prevents sewing machine needle bending and guarantees smooth stitching.

Check regularly for perfect alignment!

Presser Foot Pressure Control

Tweaking the presser foot pressure is like choosing the right shoe fit—too tight, and things snap; too loose, and nothing moves right.

Proper pressure adjustment guarantees smooth fabric guidance while protecting the needle.

If the fabric bunches or skips, recalibrate the foot calibration.

Pair this with tension regulation for fewer needle bends and break risks.

When to Replace Vs. Attempt Straightening Bent Needles

When to Replace Vs. Attempt Straightening Bent Needles
If your needle’s bent, you’ve got two choices: toss it or try straightening it.

Knowing when to replace it’s like deciding between fixing a wobbly bike wheel or getting a new one—it’s all about safety and results.

Assessing Degree of Needle Bend

Spotting a bent sewing machine needle isn’t hard if you know what to check.

Watch for uneven stitches or a needle struggling to move straight.

For quick help, here’s how to assess:

Sign of Bend Severity Level Action Needed
Slight curvature Low Replace soon
Obvious warp High Immediate replace
Misaligned stitches Moderate Adjust settings
Needle skips fabric High Inspect and replace
Vibrating needle Moderate Stop, swap needle

Busy sewing means damaged needles can cause trouble, so don’t gamble with a bent or broken needle, as this can lead to further issues, emphasizing the importance of regular checks for uneven stitches.

Risks of Using Straightened Needles

Straightening a bent needle might seem clever, but it’s trouble waiting to happen.

Weak needles snap easily, harming stitches, fabric, and your machine. You risk needle snapping mid-project or worse—getting jabbed yourself!

Here’s the damage rundown:

Risk Level Cause
Needle Fatigue High Weak needle structure
Sewing Safety Extreme Flying needle shards
Fabric Damage Moderate Unintended snags/tears
Bent Needle Consequences High Uneven stitches/fiber impact
Machine Wear Extreme Misalignment stress

The risks associated with a bent needle include Needle Fatigue, Sewing Safety hazards, and potential Fabric Damage, all of which can lead to significant problems with your sewing project.

Using a bent needle can result in Bent Needle Consequences and Machine Wear, emphasizing the importance of avoiding such practices to ensure both your safety and the quality of your work.

Proper Needle Disposal Methods

Don’t chuck broken needles in the trash—it’s like leaving a surprise trap for someone’s fingers.

Instead, stash them in a labeled container (think old pill bottle) and drop them off at a local recycling or hazardous waste center.

Here’s a quick rundown:

Problem Solution
Sharp Waste Injury Use a sturdy sharps box
Needle Recycling Check local guidelines
Waste Management Drop at hazardous centers
Sewing Safety Label disposal properly

Save your fingers—and the planet!

Needle Recycling is an important aspect of Waste Management, and by following these steps, you can contribute to a safer environment.

Choosing Replacement Needles

Sometimes, choosing a needle feels like grocery shopping—you need the right size, material, and type for the project.

Match needle materials and coatings with fabric to avoid disasters.

Keep spares handy from top brands.

Don’t gamble on cheap needles—they’ll break your heart (and thread).

For a wide selection, explore these replacement sewing needle products.

Use this guide:

Fabric Type Suggested Needle Types Replacement Frequency
Denim Heavy-duty, Size 16+ After 8-10 hours of use
Silk Fine, Size 9-11 After delicate fabrics sew
Stretchy Ballpoint Needles Avoid dull impacts quickly
Multi-Layer Top-Stitch Needles Swap often; wear shows fast

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does my sewing machine needle keep getting bent?

It’s like trying to slice butter with a spoon—wrong needle size, tight thread tension, or sewing thick seams can cause bending.

Check needle type, fabric, tension, and your machine’s setup to avoid issues.

What to do if the needle is bent?

Swap the bent needle—it’s beyond saving.

Turn off your machine, loosen the needle clamp, and replace it with a new one that matches your fabric.

Take care; a bent needle means trouble ahead!

Why are some sewing needles curved?

Some needles are curved by design for specialized tasks, like upholstery or sewing in tight spots.

That curve helps you maneuver tricky areas or handle heavy fabrics without needing to play Twister with your hands, and is a key feature for specialized tasks.

What problems occur when the needle is bent or dull?

A bent or dull needle messes up stitches, skips threads, or even damages fabric.

It’s like trying to write with a flattened pen—it just doesn’t work right, leaving you frustrated and fixing mistakes.

How to straighten a bent sewing machine needle?

Toss it.

Straightening a bent needle isn’t worth the effort—it’s weakened and can snap mid-project.

Swap it for a new one to avoid frustration, broken stitches, or damage to your sewing machine.

How do you bend a needle straight?

You really shouldn’t try straightening a bent needle—it’s like putting toothpaste back in the tube.

A bent needle weakens and breaks easily, so just swap it out for a fresh one to avoid headaches.

Do needles bend or break?

Needles can bend when under pressure from thick fabrics or improper usage, while they break from extreme force or hitting hard items like pins.

Swapping a bent needle prevents worse problems, so don’t ignore it!

How often should sewing needles be replaced?

Would you trust an old toothbrush?

Same with sewing needles—swap them every 8-10 hours of use or at the start of a new project.

Dull needles cause skipped stitches and fabric damage.

What is the best thread for preventing bends?

Pick a high-quality, medium-weight polyester or cotton thread.

Cheap or old threads snap easily, mess with tension, and strain the needle.

Think of thread as the needle’s dance partner – compatibility keeps the rhythm smooth.

Can a bent needle damage fabric significantly?

Picture a needle shredding fabric like a tiny chainsaw—it’s no joke.

A bent one can snag threads, pull fibers, or even tear holes.

Spot it early and swap it to save your project, it’s a simple step to avoid a bent needle causing damage.

Conclusion

Imagine this scenario: you’re sewing a thick quilt, and suddenly the needle bends mid-stitch.

Annoying, right? That’s exactly why understanding why sewing machine needle bend is key.

From choosing the right needle size to avoiding sewing over pins, small steps make a big difference.

Regular maintenance, proper fabric handling, and careful adjustments keep your machine running smoothly.

Replace bent needles (don’t straighten them—they’re like a bad dented car part).

Treat your machine right, and it’ll treat you better!

Avatar for Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is the founder and editor-in-chief of sewingtrip.com, a site dedicated to those passionate about crafting. With years of experience and research under his belt, he sought to create a platform where he could share his knowledge and skills with others who shared his interests.