Crossword Genius

Use a needle like this, say (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

sew

'use a needle' is the definition.
(you use a needle when sewing)

'like this say' is the wordplay.
'like this' becomes 'so' ('like so').
'say' indicates a 'sounds like' (homophone) clue.
'so' is a homophone of 'SEW'.

(Other definitions for sew that I've seen before include "Make stitches" , "Fasten with stitches" , "Do some needlework" , "Stitch with needle and thread" , "Use a needle and thread" .)

I've seen this clue in The Mirror.
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