The only problem that I can see with a zip tie is that you would have to cut it off and redo it for every quilt..each tupe of fabric and batting will change the height you need to ultimately have your foot ...as far as not cutting the metal part...probably because it would leave a sharp edge...I can just imagine having a quilt all bundled up in your throat, then pulling it and tearing the heck out of it! you could probably sand it, I guess, but bending it works fine for me.