Do I really need a walking foot? Why/why not?

I like the idea of the double needle -- but I'm confused about logistics. Do I need two spools of thread and two bobbins? How does that work?? I've seen examples of quilting with double needles and it's gorgeous.

I spent a ton of time marking my 2" wide lines for diamond quilting. Is there an easier way? It's killer on my back.

I know the best way to get over the fear is to just do it, but making my own binding really intimidates me!!

TIA!

You don't need a walking foot but they are really nice. I use mine for straight line quilting to keep the quilt from bunching and wrinkling on the back. I also like to use it for attaching my bindings - you are less likely to have the quilt edges wrinkle or make a little pleat when using the walking foot. Double needle: 2 spools, 1 bobbin. The back of your stitch looks sort of like a zig zag. For something like diamond quilting, I use a quilting bar that attaches to my presser foot (I think that's what it's called). Mark the first line and sew it, then set the bar at the correct width and let it follow your previous stitching line each time you make a pass. The quilt bars are pretty inexpensive. Can't remember, but I'm sure it was under $10. Got mine from the shop where I bought my machine.

It's called a "quilting guide" and works like a charm. :D

I don't have a walking foot, and don't feel I'm missing out on anything (the better the basting the less the quilt can shift). FYI, you can't use a quilting guide and a walking foot together.

I'd love to know about the double needle also. I think you just need two spools and one bobbin?

My quilting guide snaps onto and works with my walking foot -- I have a Janome, so maybe other machines use a different arrangement.

I know how you feel! I did my first binding a few weeks ago and I spent hours getting up the courage to start. It turned out ok, and I did mess up the corners the first time but they were easy to fix. Once you figure out how it's done it's pretty easy. And if I can do it you can too!
Zoo

Both of my sewing machines except the quilting bar into the side of the walking foot itself. The bernina one came with the bar when I bought the foot. It is a great foot to have and use. While sewing clothing and matching plaids or stripes it is a dream foot. It's really helpful when you have the heavy quilt layers that would tend to drag from the top. I think it is worth every penny.
I understand your fear at trying something new. I had my serger for a year before I had the nerve to use it. But, now, years later, I wonder why I waited. Be bold! You will love making your own bias trim. I make my own for almost every project that calls for some now. I made a fifties apron that had yards and yards of bias sewn into the seams. It made it special to use the companion fabric as the bias instead of the boring packaged solid that is available to buy.
Don't be afraid , you will love it! BTW ... Clover makes all sizes of the metal bias makers to help you press them perfectly.

I also have a Janome, and the quilting guide fits on the back of my walking foot. I could never go without my WF, it is invaluable when quilting. Marge

I have used double needles but mostly just for making pintucks. When you are doing creative designs with your double needles you need to be sure your pattern isn't outside your foot. It is very easy to break a needle. And yes, 2 spools of thread and 1 bobbin.

My Bernina walking foot came with the guide and it fits into a hole right behind the foot part. Actually alot of your feet will accept the guide..you know that screw on the back that always is falling off?? Well, that is to tighten down when you put the guide into a hole on the back of the foot.

If you don't have a guide...you can always mark with 2" wide masking tape...just don't leave it on the quilt. Put it on...sew, then move it. You don't want the sticky residue on the quilt.

I bought several double needles. You use 2 spools of thread on the top..thread them both the same way and put one thread through the threads guides on both sides of the needle thingie. 1 bobbin thread. They make beautiful deisigns..I love using them!

Good luck with your binding...just jump in!

From what I'm hearing I'm assuming a walking foot and quilting guide are used for quilting stright lines? Am I correct?
Zoo