To check to make sure your 1/4 is really a 1/4 use a piece of lined index card. The lines are exactly 1/4 inch apart. Use an old needle if you are worried about dulling your favorite one!

Thank you all for the good advice and things to keep in mind should I ever be faced with the problem.

Andie

I just got one from a joanome dealer he said that it would work on my viking but when I tried to use it my needle broke (tried another needle broke)the openong sets a fraction forward on the joanome one I will have to order one from viking

Janome makes 2 1/4" feet..one has the hole a little elongated,to the right,, and the other is just a hole.. i have to have the elongated one on my Janome jem platinum.
they sold the wrong one to my friend, or she grabbed the wrong one,(who knows..:roll: ) either way, the needle hit the foot and it bent the shaft..they fixed it for free of course. but there are 2 of them to check out....
i have and use the "little foot" no bar..occasionally

the index card is a good way to check it out too..

Different fabrics and threads have different thicknesses. So it's a good idea
to check your 1/4" seam before each project. Take three 1.5" strips, sew
them side by side, press and measure the middle strip. It should be 1".
If not, adjust the needle position. Hope this helps.

I think he was full of it I'm glad I did not also get the stich-in-the-ditch I'm going to return it tomorrw and order from husqvarna they have a repair shop in the USA

I am getting ready to replace my 1/4 inch foot because I do believe the 'bar' on the side is sprung a little bit. Also, the hole in the middle is now bigger than it should be...due to my trying to make a new one with my needle set in the wrong position too many times. LOL So, yes, especially if it is a plastic foot, I do think they need to be replaced now and then. I have had this foot for about 5 years.