Embroidery sewing needles are sometimes referred to as Crewel Needles.  Embroidery needles are similar in length and diameter as a Sharp needle and they have a sharp point.  However, they have a long, extra large eye, which makes threading the needle so much easier when using multiple strands of stranded cotton embroidery thread.  

Having difficulty threading the needle! Then use an Embroidery needle for general sewing the long eye makes threading so much easier and quicker!