A quick-release clamping holder for a sewing needle, embroidery needle or the like has a needle receptacle (2) on which a needle clamping part (8) is preferably pivotally supported. A fixing element (14) is provided in order to clamp and fix the needle clamping part (8) in place, whereby said fixing element is pivotally or rotatably supported relative to a longitudinal central axis (13) of the needle and thus can be slid onto and off the needle clamping part (8). Actuation is simple and safe.