I have the same machine and it was a bit weird not to lower the foot but quickly found when I was holding pieces together it was great not have to lower the foot. Now I have gotten so use to it, when I switch to my other machine, I forget to lower the foot....I've had my machine for almost 2 years. I did take a "get to know your machine" class after I had it for about 4 months and that was great. hang in there.