Do I need a walking foot?

[KatyMac]

My friend said it would help with layers

But whatever can I use it for?

Would Teflon foot me better? Or do they do different things?

And do I buy a branded one or a generic?

?

It does help with layers, I would really recommend one for quilting or stretch fabrics. What machine are you using and what project are you doing?

Matching patterns up is tricky but easier with a walking foot. Or if you’re using leather or pvc. Don’t know about the Teflon but, personally I prefer to buy branded - usually the same as the machine brand.

Btw yes, the Teflon foot is, put very simply, the opposite of a walking foot. The walking foot offers more grip, the Teflon foot is for fabrics like vinyl - it's a non-stick foot.

A walking foot is good for quilting, because it moves all the layers at the same speed, you're less likely to get puckers or folds in your fabric.

Otherwise, no. It's much easier to do normal sewing without a walking foot.

I’ve never got on with mine. It looks like it works as it’s meant to so I am not sure why.
The thing that has made the sort of sewing where they tell you to use a walking foot easier for me is using basting tape instead of pins.

The only time I have found mine useful is for quilting (when it is essential, IMO). Otherwise, Teflon all the way.

Use the walking foot, it’s much better with layers

Hmm I am making costumes and gowns so layers at the waists/sleeves with a janome jlx2000 (I think its upstairs)

So maybe one of each - the walking foot is £45!!

What is basting tape?

Sorry - I totally thought I was posting this in Arts & Crafts not chat - oops!

Ohhhh! Sewing! I thought you were asking about prosthetic limbs! Sorry. I'll see myself out....

It’s double sided adhesive tape that washes away so you just sew through it. I used it when I was sewing canvas to make an awning and it made so much difference. The layers just don’t slip. The only down side is it can work out expensive if you have a lot of length to sew.

I'd say try tape when you can get some.

In the meantime you could use normal paper and kids craft glue stick, print stick. They are usually water soluble. You might have to clean your needle every now and then.

You just want to give the door something to catch on to.

Good luck.

Door? Foot!!!

Sorry

I probably won't use tape as I only use second hand haberdashery (apart from thread and poppers) but thanks for explaining