A Beginner’s Guide to Sewing – Part 6

Changing Presser Feet on Your Sewing Machine

One of the most useful features of a sewing machine is the ability to change presser feet. Whether you are working with a heavy denim fabric or a delicate silk, choosing the right presser foot for your project can make all the difference. In this tutorial, we will show you how to change presser feet on your sewing machine and give you some tips for selecting the right one for your fabric.

Step 1: Turn off the Machine

Before changing your presser foot, make sure that your sewing machine is turned off and unplugged. This will prevent any accidents from happening while you are working on it.

Step 2: Remove the Current Presser Foot

To remove the current presser foot, first, lift the presser foot lever to release the foot. Then, slide the foot towards you and it will pop off.

Step 3: Choose the Right Presser Foot

Now that you have removed the current presser foot, it’s time to choose the right one for your project. There are many different types of presser feet available, each designed for a specific purpose. Some of the most common presser feet include:

• Zigzag Foot: This foot is used for zigzag and decorative stitching.
• Straight Stitch Foot: This foot is used for straight stitching and piecing.
• Buttonhole Foot: This foot is used for making buttonholes.
• Zipper Foot: This foot is used for sewing zippers.

There are also specialized presser feet available, such as walking feet for quilting and Teflon feet for working with sticky or delicate fabrics. When selecting your presser foot, make sure to choose one that is appropriate for your fabric and your desired stitch.

Step 4: Attach the New Presser Foot

To attach the new presser foot, align the bar on the foot with the presser foot holder on your machine. Then, lower the presser foot lever to secure the foot in place. Give it a gentle tug to make sure it is securely attached.

Step 5: Test Your Stitch

Once you have attached the new presser foot, test your stitch on a scrap piece of fabric to make sure it is working properly. If the stitch is not coming out as you want it to, double-check that you have chosen the correct presser foot and that it is attached correctly.

Changing presser feet on your sewing machine is a simple process that can greatly expand your sewing capabilities. With a little practice, you will be able to quickly and confidently change your presser foot to suit your project needs.