If you've ready my "I'm so upset I could cry" post, you'll see that I got my new walking foot AND a free motion quilting foot. I had a darning plate that came with my machine but I lost it and I don't plan to buy a new one. I've heard I can use a index card to cover my feed dogs (they don't go down). Are there other suggestions besides an index card? I'm just curious. Thanks!!

Some quilters say it is fine to leave the feed dogs up and set the stich length to zero- Leah Day for one recommends this...OTOH, I have never tried it myself.

Friend just told me that her sewing machine doesn't allow the feed dogs to go down. She asked at the sewing shop and they said to tape a credit card to the machine. I'd think it would allow the fabric to slide easier. She said it works great.

I didn't think of a credit card, that's a great idea, although the raised numbers might be a problem. Maybe a club card or price chopper card would work.

Or, use the other side?

I bet a piece of the template plastic would work well.

try a scrap block with them up. i took a class and we never lowered them.

Supreme Slider.

What is that?

If you don't want to use a credit card, or don't have template material, any thin plastic will work.
Try cutting the lid of a marjarine container - cut the rim off and tape it over the feed dogs.

Hallelujah I just found the darning plate!!!!

Yaaaaaaaaa. Now you'll have to come back and show us your project your working on. Have fun.
:thumbup:

[quote=bjnicholson]Best laugh I've had today.

Just brilliant!

Yeah!!! problem solved!! :)

That would be a good way to cut down on spending! LOL :D

You people always have the best ideas.

thanks for all the suggestions -- I am using a borrowed machine while I am here and teaching the owner how to quilt. The feed dogs don't drop and I'm going to try the plastic top to cover the dogs. Does it clog or wear down the dogs at all??
Mim

I have a machine that the feed dogs do not go down, so I use the advertising CDs that come in the mail or a CD that is old. Just tape over the feed dogs and you have a ready made hole for your needle to do thru. Works great for me.

I have a machine that the feed dogs do not go down, so I use the advertising CDs that come in the mail or a CD that is old. Just tape over the feed dogs and you have a ready made hole for your needle to do thru. Works great for me.