What foot should I use?
With so many different types of sewing machines, and a large variety of different fabrics and projects, this isn't an easy question to answer. However, one thing we know for sure is that we wouldn't dare sew without the #37 foot for our BERNINA machines!
While BERNINA calls it their Patchwork foot, we call it a quarter inch presser foot dream! In fact, Annie has been known to specifically look for machines that use this particular foot.
Why do we like it so much? We find that its design is just fantastic for the "precision" stitches needed to construct a quality, handmade bag.
How will it be useful for me?
Even if you don't own a BERNINA, we highly suggest looking for a quarter inch presser foot for your machine.
Many of our patterns give instructions for specific seam allowances such as 1/4", 1/8" or even a 1/16" seam in some areas.
Take a look at the presser foot to the right. See how all the notches tell you the exact measurements of distance from your needle? This allows you to properly line up the edge of your fabric to sew perfectly straight lines as you go!
The 1/4" notch ahead of the needle is really helpful when you reach a corner. This ensures that you pivot at exactly the right moment to get an accurate seam when sewing down the next side of your piece!
Make it easy on yourself
Another reason we love BERNINA feet and machines, is that they're so easy to use!
If we ever did want to use a different foot, it's simple to switch them out. That may not seem like that big of a deal, but when you're sitting at your machine for hours at a time it's nice to use equipment that's fast and functional to avoid anything stopping your progress along the way.
If you're looking to buy a new machine, be sure to consider what types of feet you'll need for the different sewing projects you work on.
Talk to your local quilt shop owner or a trusted person in the sewing community for recommendations. If possible, test out different feet on different machines to see which will be most comfortable and convenient for you.
Quality is key
When looking for a sewing machine, parts, or feet, make sure you pick items that are well made and can stand up to many hours of sewing.
Take a look at this fun video about how BERNINA makes their feet. We love their solid construction and durability!
Any other tips?
When making bags and organizers, the layers of Soft and Stable and fabric can get a bit thick in some places. Often times we're asked if we need to switch out our quarter inch presser foot to something else to accommodate the thickness. For us, we rarely need to switch our feet!
We've found ByAnnie's Stilletto and Pressing Tool to be one of the best ways to get us through our projects. Place the tip of the stiletto right in front of where you're sewing to help compress the Soft and Stable so you can use it like a walking foot. It's a great way to maintain control while sewing!
Share your thoughts!
Do you have a favorite sewing machine foot? Tell us what feet you've used when making ByAnnie patterns, or comment with tips you'd like to share with other makers! If you're looking for additional tips and advice from the ByAnnie team, be sure to check out our Sew Successful series. Learn all about machine care and maintenance, how to get the most out of your thread and needles, Annie's favorite tools and other must have supplies!
For additional ByAnnie information and to keep on top of what's hot, sign up for our email list!
Quarter Inch Presser Foot