Candace, Thanks! Now I understand. I'm the person that is just happy with the what my vintage machines produce, and I love to tinker with the adjustment settings for the decorative stitches. My needle down is treadling the machine slowly until the needle is in the down position, either by foot or using the handwheel.
I understand fully what you are stating and how to replicate the stitch can be difficult with the vintage machines to those seeking an exact.
Oh, your latest project sounds so lovely! Please post a photo of this finished project. I would love to see it!!!