SharonTX

I started FMQ yesterday and I'm starting to get the hang of it, I think.

The main thing that's getting to me is the "hopping" of the darning foot.

Is there such a foot that is open toe and doesn't hop for my machine? I have a brother pc 420.

Thanks for your help.

Deborahlees

Yes you do want an open toe, I think I use my embroidery foot....Go to the Brother website, loads of information....

Skittl1321

Leah Day has videos that show you how to break the spring on your existing foot to keep it from hopping so much.

You want a teeny bit of lift, but some feet really bounce- I don't like that.

Prism99

Some machines have a darning foot that doesn't hop. Instead, it "floats" higher above the fabric. I would Google feet for your model and see what is available.

garysgal

I use the Big Foot-it's blue and has a round foot that doesn't quite touch the fabric.

misskira

Yes! I did this. I also have a pc420, and the foot it came with hops like crazy. I bought a cheapie generic and modified it like Leah day shows and it works so much better for me.

SharonTX

I watched Leah Day's video on the modification and no matter how little or how much I wrap the rubber band around, the foot does not float at all. I've adjusted the pressure foot, dropped and raised the feed dogs and still doesn't float! I'm so discouraged.

GagaSmith

I also modified my foot using Leah Day's method and it works much better. Sharon TX do you think the rubber band is too tight?

SharonTX

Just had a thought and tried it. I removed the rubber band and tried it without and guess what, still drags the fabric. I think the metal bar the spring is wrapped around is too long and that's why the modification isn't working.

Prism99

You may need to purchase a generic foot in order to make the modification. Seems that some feet that come with some machines are too tall to work well with FMQ. Your Brother most likely takes short shank feet.

These threads might help with more info:
http://www.quiltingboard.com/main-f1...0-t153565.html
http://www.quiltingboard.com/main-f1...0-t153565.html