Originally Posted by
deemail
i know this sounds this way, but the majority of the machine embroidery in the world is done in 3rd world countries with NO FEET at all.... having the presser foot down is the key... the tension you put on the quilt sandwich is plenty... just try... what have you got to lose?
I agree. Having pulled my quilt out from the machine when the FMQ foot was still in the down position I can attest that the amount of pressure on the fabric is very minimal. I think (and I could be wrong) that the 'foot' part of the foot is there for A) safety, and B) a visual aid.
As long as the upper part of the shank is intact (ie the spring and the arm that sits over the needle screw to make the foot "hop"), then as long as you are CAREFUL and don't put your fingers in there ... in a pinch I'd try it until I could replace the foot.
I think safety is the biggest issue ... so BE CAREFUL. We don't want to hear any 'needle through the finger' stories!!