I have a Viking 500 that I use the "hopping" foot with. It took some practice, yes sewing faster is better. I finally figured out that I use it like the beat of music and it actually helped me make the stitches more even. Try thinking that way. On my Viking D1 you don't use that foot, just darning foot with no movement. I actually have more trouble with that as I haven't practice so much but also miss the "music hopping beat" Just keep practicing. Feed dogs do need to be down.