Prism99

I did some Googling to see if there is a darning foot for the White Family Rotary treadle, but it looks like the top clamping mechanism is not compatible with a darning foot. I think you would be okay using a spring needle with a treadle machine, as you have much greater control over speed than I had with my electric machine. I would probably purchase 2 or 3 spring needles to start with. They really should not break with use, even on a queen-size quilt; however, it may take some practice for you to learn to time moving with the quilt so that you do not add bending stress to the needle.

Someone on the Vintage Machines portion of this forum may have additional advice for you. Might want to check out that section.

I looked for Youtube videos of someone using a spring needle, but couldn't find one.

Weezy Rider

Here's a video - she is doing thread painting but using a spring needle. Same would apply for FMQ.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjmygjM7PUY

yobrosew

You still sew on that White treadle?

yobrosew

Here is a demonstration of the needle being used; different language but no words necessary. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lCQoF5Wt0tc

yobrosew

Lookie what I found! Scroll down to the darning and free motion quilting stuff. There is a spring to use with any needle instead of purchasing the spring/needle disposable combo. There is an attachment that moves the fabric side to side for zig zig. Unfortunately, it is sold out. Quite a bit of info in the product descriptions. http://sewingmachine221sale.bizland....re/page45.html