What is Surface tension

4.2.3 Illustrations of surface tension of liquids
(i) An insect walks on the surface of
water without getting wet. There is a slight
depression on the surface of water. The force
of surface tension does not act horizontally
but along an inclined direction. The vertical
component of the force of surface tension
balances the weight of the insect 

2. If a greased sewing needle is gently
placed on the surface of water, it floats. The
water surface below the needle gets slightly
depressed. The vertical component of the
force of surface tension balances the weight
of the needle

See the pictures of needle floating in water

3. When a painting brush is dipped in
water, its hairs spread out. If the brush is
taken out, its hairs will cling together as the
free surface of water film between the hairs
contract due to surface tension