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-   -   Does anyone use the button for sewing? (https://www.quiltingboard.com/main-f1/does-anyone-use-button-sewing-t102894.html)

janetter 02-26-2011 04:07 PM

Just got a Janome with that button and LOVE IT

yellowsnow55 02-26-2011 04:19 PM

I use mine all the time, except when there are a lot of curved seams, or for F.M.Q.when I need a little more control over the speed.

MissQuilter 02-26-2011 04:22 PM

I am longing for a new machine just to have that button. I can not move my legs, so I sew with one hand on the fabric and the other hand on the foot pedal. Now that I want to do some free motion quilting, I really need both hands available to guide the fabric. I tried one out, and now I need to save up for another machine! It seems like it would be wonderful!!!

cmilton 02-26-2011 04:37 PM

I use for FMQ.

xstitchcchris 02-26-2011 04:37 PM

YES....it is definitely a "back saver". I purchased a Janome Jem with this feature. I never used the foot control that came with it. You can adjust the speed with a slider button, so..start in slow mode and increase the speed as you become more comfortable with it.

fivepaws 02-26-2011 04:39 PM

I feel a total lack of control when I use my button. Tried it with FMQ once but couln't react fast enough to turn it off. ♥

keolika 02-26-2011 05:10 PM


Originally Posted by mosquitosewgirl

Originally Posted by McQuilter
I have two Brother machines and they both have a start/stop button. I had always used a foot pedal and had back pain after an hour or so of quilting/sewing. My friend at the sewing machine store suggested using the start /stop button about two years ago and it has made all the difference in the world. I can sit for hours without any back pain at all.

I do. My Janome MC4900QC has it. It took awhile to get used to, but I do use it on long runs, FMQ, etc.

For those of you who don't have a start/stop button and have back pain from using the foot pedal too long, get one of the sloped foot rests that will hold your foot pedal. It really helps to lift it slightly and change the angle.

Another suggestion would be to get the same angle of slope for the left foot, like the subaru has , it makes your hips level and reduces stress on the back. Rita

fireworkslover 02-26-2011 05:16 PM

I also learned on a machine with a knee lever. Then switched to a foot pedal with the last three machines. I also do have the start/stop button on my newest machine, but haven't used it yet. I've only had it for 5 months. I haven't done any fmq yet. Soon I'll be ready to do some and will try it out then, I think.

Quiltgranny 02-26-2011 05:20 PM


Originally Posted by keolika

Originally Posted by mosquitosewgirl

Originally Posted by McQuilter
I have two Brother machines and they both have a start/stop button. I had always used a foot pedal and had back pain after an hour or so of quilting/sewing. My friend at the sewing machine store suggested using the start /stop button about two years ago and it has made all the difference in the world. I can sit for hours without any back pain at all.

I do. My Janome MC4900QC has it. It took awhile to get used to, but I do use it on long runs, FMQ, etc.

For those of you who don't have a start/stop button and have back pain from using the foot pedal too long, get one of the sloped foot rests that will hold your foot pedal. It really helps to lift it slightly and change the angle.

Another suggestion would be to get the same angle of slope for the left foot, like the subaru has , it makes your hips level and reduces stress on the back. Rita

I've been doing this for the last few months and it makes a huge difference in my hip pain. Makes sense to me. :thumbup:

Nettie Phillips 02-26-2011 05:23 PM

;I don't have a stop and start button.

PghPat 02-26-2011 05:36 PM


Originally Posted by Scraps
It isn't the ON/OFF button -----it is the button that regulates the stitching - you use it INSTEAD of a foot peddle or knee pad.

Actually it is the "ON/OFF" button. I push that button to start sewing - Not to be confused with the Power on/off button that totally shuts down the power of your machine. There is a speed regulator slider also to adjust your sewing speed. There is ALSO a stitch regulator to adjust the width and length of the stitches.

I have never used my presser foot - absolutely love the ON/OFF button and wouldn't own a machine again without that option.

Pat

sharonkquilter 02-26-2011 05:37 PM

I love my start/stop button! I am a paraplegic and before the new machine, I would guide fabric with one hand and press the foot pedal with the other. Took a little getting used to, but I think it's the best part of my new machine!

OHSue 02-26-2011 05:38 PM

I used it on a machine supplied during a workshop and when I got a new (used) machine with it I was sure I would love it, but somehow have never really used it much. I was told in the workshop it would be good for fmq, but I just seem unable to break my old habits.

Daisygirl 02-26-2011 05:50 PM

I have a bernina 440, does it come with a start/stop button? I think I would love it

gramma8 02-26-2011 05:54 PM

All the time!!! I just discovered the other day, (I was a bit distracted by something) if you hold the button continually, it will stitch s-l-o-w-l-y. That little feature has helped me many times.

peaceandjoy 02-26-2011 05:55 PM

My Bernina has a knee lift and my Janome has a button, but I don't use either one! Can't teach this old dog a new trick :(

PghPat 02-26-2011 06:02 PM


Originally Posted by SuzanneG
Wow, I have had my Elna 7200 for about four years now and never knew I had this feature! LOL
Anyway, I wanted to ask, can you use the reverse button with the start/stop button for backtacking? In other words, once I press the start/stop and I start moving forward, can I press reverse while it's running? I can't imagine why I couldn't, but my manual doesn't address this and I'm always one to err on the side of caution, so I was just wondering if any of you have done this. Thanks!!

Suzanne - yes, you can most definitely press the backstitch button while the machine is in motion - using the ON/OFF button - the same as if you were using the presser foot.

Pat

jitkaau 02-26-2011 06:26 PM

Don't have any machines with this feature - thinking of getting one,though.

Farm Quilter 02-26-2011 07:40 PM

I love the stop/start button on my Janome! I only use it, though, for doing long seams (like piecing backing or putting on borders) and when I piece batting together. It really helps with those straight seams. I love the way I can also set the speed on my Janome...slow enough so I can snag the pins before the needle gets them and keep the batting going through straight, but I can make it fast enough that don't get bored watching each stitch being made!

quiltwiz 02-26-2011 07:58 PM

I, too, use the foot petal out of habit, but my dil has a brother machine ( her first machine) and was self taught because she could not get to the classes they store offered. She does a wonderful job of controling the machine with the button only.

HummerGardenCrafts 02-26-2011 08:00 PM

I've never saw a machine like that. I have foot pedals on all of mine.

Minister 02-26-2011 08:01 PM

Yes!!!!!!!!! I love it :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup:

Treasureit 02-26-2011 08:06 PM

I have used it a few times, but what I tried and really like is adjusting the speed....I can slow down or speed up depending on the project and it really makes a difference in the quality of the stitch. Like meandering...I am just learning and I have better control if I slow it down instead of trusting my foot to go slower.

GGinMcKinney 02-26-2011 08:07 PM

I use the start/stop button mostly when free motion quilting on my Janome 6600P. Don't have the feel for using it on all sewing just yet, but sure I
will get there as I really enjoy this feature. I have long fingers so it is convenient.

GrammaO 02-26-2011 08:12 PM

I took a class at the LQS and the instructor told me to use the foot pedal. She said that it left too much room for error if I was always taking my hand off the fabric to push the button. Since I was (still am) new to quilting I thought that it was the 'right' way to do it. Thanks for all your comments, I'll have to try it again.

OneMoreQuilt 02-26-2011 08:13 PM

I have a button on my Singer and love it.

Rose Bagwell 02-26-2011 08:15 PM

I have an Elna and I always use the button.

jpthequilter 02-26-2011 08:29 PM


Originally Posted by okiepastor
Wow, I thought I'd been around sewing machines for a long time, but I've never seen a knee lever power control....and I learned on a treadle. Hmmmmmmmmmmm. I actually think I would like that the best.

Wish I had them now--much better than the alternatives![/quote]

You know those first electrified machines after treadle machines? Those ones in a cabinet? They still kinda looked like treadle machines. They often had knee controls, they were funny kind of curved clubby ones.

bluteddi 02-26-2011 08:37 PM

I love my start/stop button.. I dont even miss that foot pedal!!

Momma_K 02-26-2011 09:00 PM

I have 2 Brothers and never used the foot pedal. I have used a knee pedal before, I like anything better than the foot! But get more control with the buttons.

grumpy90650 02-26-2011 10:05 PM

i have a start/stop button on my elna quilting queen, but i only use it when i am machine (free motion) quilting or doing machine applique...havent tried it for anything else.....gina

Lyncat 02-26-2011 10:24 PM


Originally Posted by redeagle

Originally Posted by mosquitosewgirl

Originally Posted by donnajean
I think that would get some getting used to for me. I learned on the knee leaver & adjusted to the foot petal, but I would think you would have less control if you have to let go of the fabric being sewn to push a button.

Wow, I thought I'd been around sewing machines for a long time, but I've never seen a knee lever power control....and I learned on a treadle. Hmmmmmmmmmmm. I actually think I would like that the best.

I sewed on a friend's machine for a period of time and that machine had a knee lever. Took a while to go to the foot pedal as I kept moving my knee. That is the only machine I have ever seen a knee lever on.

The old Singer cabinets have a place inside where the foot pedal fits. When you push the knee lever it pushes on the foot pedal to make the machine run. I have 2 different styles from the 50s. My mom's kenmore had a knee lever in the 60s.

darlin121 02-26-2011 10:33 PM

When I bought my Babylock Ellisimo I got so used to using the button that now whenever I switch to another of my machines I find myself punching the air where the button is supposed to be! LOL

leevenora 02-26-2011 10:35 PM

I only use the button on my brother. I love it.

JeanieG 02-26-2011 11:32 PM


Originally Posted by Candace
I don't don't use the Stop/Start button for regular piecing. I like to start slow and then pedal to the metal. If you use the button you can't control your speed easily. But, it's a handy feature for some people.

My Brother has a speed control right next to the Start/Stop button. I just love this feature. You can move the speed control to real slow, then move it up as you go. I usually sew with the speed control on the middle level. Rarely have I every sewn at the fast speed. I put my foot pedal away. Always use the Start/Stop button.

auntmarie 02-27-2011 02:34 AM

I have a Euro Pro and only use the button.
I can control my speed and do more accurately quilt.
Just love it!!!!!!

gypsylady5 02-27-2011 02:47 AM

Yes, I use mine when quilting when I am not starting at the edge of the fabric. It will tie a neat knot in the thread so you don't have to worry about unraveling. It is great! I have a Viking 500 and just rediscovered this feature after several years.

anicra 02-27-2011 03:03 AM

My Janome 6600 has one but I just don't seem to be able to get the hang of it. Probably something to do with old dogs and new tricks.

terrt 02-27-2011 03:50 AM

I use my foot pedal exclusively on my Babylock Qwest. Am probably the only one in my group that does. love it!!

SuzanneG 02-27-2011 04:24 AM


Originally Posted by PghPat

Originally Posted by SuzanneG
Wow, I have had my Elna 7200 for about four years now and never knew I had this feature! LOL
Anyway, I wanted to ask, can you use the reverse button with the start/stop button for backtacking? In other words, once I press the start/stop and I start moving forward, can I press reverse while it's running? I can't imagine why I couldn't, but my manual doesn't address this and I'm always one to err on the side of caution, so I was just wondering if any of you have done this. Thanks!!

Suzanne - yes, you can most definitely press the backstitch button while the machine is in motion - using the ON/OFF button - the same as if you were using the presser foot.

Pat

Pat, thank you so much for your reply. I didn't want to try it until I knew for sure, so I really appreciate your taking the time to respond! :D


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