What is a Walking Foot on a Sewing Machine?
A walking foot on a sewing machine is an attachment which helps in stitching thicker fabrics together, particularly when constructing quilts, or working with multiple layers. It is also known as an even-feed foot or a pacing foot, as it allows the fabric to feed as a whole under the sewing needle. It ensures a uniform seaming at an even rate and evenly distributes the layers of fabric, preventing excess pooling or bunching.
A walking foot is essentially a clamp with trackers on the bottom which moves the fabric along in coordination with the sewing machine needle. It is attached to the sewing machine and all layers of fabric pass through both the sewing machine’s feed dogs and the walking foot. The result is a rigid, flat, and even stitch which does not drag or skip. This makes it suitable for large, heavy fabrics and for stitching highly precise and intricate patterns. Additionally, when used with a zigzag pattern, it can create an elastic seam.
Finding the right walking foot for your sewing machine is essential, as they come in different shapes and sizes. Many modern sewing machines come with a walking foot attachment included, or you can purchase one which is compatible with your particular model. Walk foots also come with many specialized features, including quilting bars, single- or double-toe set up, and jagged teeth.
When using a walking foot, first pre-pin the pattern and fabric together. Then, adjust the presser foot pressure, length, and the speed according to the fabric needs and your sewing preferences. Also, reduce the stitch length for more precise stitching. Experts suggest to use a thread with a weight suited to the fabric, as it helps in achieving smooth, even stitches and allows greater flexibility when it comes to maneuvering the fabric. After each pass, check the stitches.
A walking foot is able to move through multiple layers of fabric easily and smoothly with less fuss and chances of creasing. It can ease the pain of pushing multiple layers of fabric through an ordinary presser foot. Furthermore, this tool lets you join two pieces of fabric in a manner that would otherwise be nearly impossible; it can help in tasks like topstitching bulky fabrics, inserting welts, attaching binding to a thicker material, and quilting.
Tips for Working with a Walking Foot
In order to make the most out of a walking foot, here are some tips recommended by experts. Start on a scrap piece of fabric to be sure the tension is properly set and that the stitch looks as it should. Also, ensure that the fabric pieces are cut accurately and pressed before stitching as that helps to create a more precise stitch. In addition, practice stitching longer lengths with a walking foot, as that helps in finding the balance between the pressing foot and the walking foot.
Thus, a walking foot on the sewing machine is a great tool for creating smooth, even seams on thicker materials, and adding intricate patterns to fabrics. It is a necessary attachment for quilters, dressmakers, and upholsterers. Knowing how to correctly use this attachment and which setting works best on the fabrics is key to achieving satisfactory results.
Limitations of a Walking Foot
As beneficial as a walking foot is, there are still some limitations to consider when purchasing and using one. Firstly, not all sewing machines have a presser foot specifically designed for working with a walking foot, and some older machines may not be compatible. Additionally, when used on light fabrics, the walking foot’s pressure may distort or pull the delicate fabrics. As well, due to the lack of maneuverability, the seam may not be as accurate when compared to an ordinary presser foot.
The feet of many machines have the same speed throughout, which is not ideal when sewing delicate fabrics, or when making very precise quilts. For example, it may be difficult to sew a tiny curve or pocket with a walking foot. Also, the walking foot is restricted to straight lines as it’s unable to work in circles or curves. Furthermore, when working with a walking foot, it is impossible to pivot or turn a seam sharply, as the foot needs to continue the same forward motion, creating an unfavorable angle.
Advantages of a Walking Foot
A walking foot is a great tool for quilters, and it can make densely layered fabrics easier to maneuver. It also helps in creating even seams, due to its ability to feed the fabric slower and more evenly than a regular presser foot. In addition, quilting is one area where a walking foot excels, particularly when stitching tiny intricate lines on multiple layers of fabric. It also helps in tasks such as joining piping and making narrow, even seams between two layers of heavy fabric.
With a walking foot, fabrics can be stitched more quickly and efficiently; the foot helps to press the fabric evenly up and down, allowing for a more efficient means of stitching, reducing potential fraying or misaligned stitches. It also keeps bulky fabrics in line and eliminates the need of hand basting or pinning as many layers of fabric can now be moved altogether.
Choosing the Right Walking Foot
It is important to choose the right walking foot for your sewing machine. It is advisable to look into features such as compatibility with your sewing machine, type of projects and the fabrics to be used. For example, a double toe foot is larger than a single toe foot, and fits wider fabrics and thicker layers comfortably. Similarly, some extra heavy presser foots result in tighter stitching, with less fabric shifting and bunching. It’s important to consider the cost of these attachments, as some of the more advanced models can be quite expensive.
Certain feet also have specialized features, such as a quilting bar which helps to evenly sew through both the top and bottom fabric layers, and a strip piecing foot which helps quilters sew perfect piece strips quickly. In addition, specialty presser feet such as an edge-stitching foot and an open-toe foot are designed for more specialized tasks. As with any purchase, researching the product beforehand and ensuring it is compatible with your particular sewing machine is key.
Using a Walking Foot Safely
Equally important as choosing the right walking foot is using it safely. Always check the tension of the foot, as well as the stitch length, so that the fabric does not pucker. Additionally, it is important to use a walking foot in the right direction and make sure the needle is aligned to the slot between the two tracking bars. This ensures that the needle won’t hit the tracks, thus minimizing the risk of injury or damage. It is also important to use a presser foot lift before changing out the presser foot.
Also, pay attention to the needle of your sewing machine. Needles bend and can break if too much pressure exerted on them. Therefore, use a needle that is suitable for the fabric you are dealing with; if the needle is too small for the fabric and thread, it could break easily. As well, due to the foot’s clamping action, it is important to use a medium-weight thread which can be easily pulled through the foot and the fabric.
How to Clean and Maintain a Walking Foot
A walking foot should be removed from the sewing machine after use, and it is important to always store it safely and securely. Before re-installing the foot, check for any dirt, dust or debris and remove any if present. When cleaning with a cloth, make sure to go in only one direction, never back and forth.
It is important to periodically check the parts of the walking foot, as debris can build up over time and cause the foot to malfunction. Regularly check for any parts that may be cracked or broken and ensure they are replaced or repaired. It is also a good idea to regularly lubricate the moving parts of the foot, using a light-weight machine oil; this will help keep the parts running smoothly and prolong the life of the walking foot.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a walking foot is a beneficial tool for sewing thicker fabrics together and creating accurate, even stitches on multiple layers of fabric. Purchasing the right walking foot and correctly using it is paramount to using this attachment safely and effectively. Adhering to the tips and guidelines provided above will help in preserving the walking foot and getting the most out of its usage.
