Round hold sewing machine needle plate question -
 

Have any of you found it worth while to buy the round hole sewing machine needle plate for when you do straight stitching?

Yes I think its worth it. It really helps to keep the fabric from going down into the larger opening of the regular plate. Some fabrics just go into that plate opening more than others. I found starching helps when using a regular plate. My only issue is remembering I have that special plate on .. and not moving the needle from the center or trying to zig zag.

I have one for my Bernina 1230 but never use it, as I need to move the needle over one position to get a scant 1/4" seam allowance. Also, I broke my needle too many times using it (by selecting a stitch other than centered straight stitch).

I saw someone take a business card with a hole punched in it and tape it over the opening. It worked!

Yes, I do have one and use it all the time. I'm able to set my machine to recognize that I have that plate on so I don't have issues with needle breakage. I really like that plate for straight stitching.

My straight stitch throat plate is on my machine about 90% of the time. I love it for piecing and free motion quilting. I feel like I get a better stitch with it. Just my humble opinion.

I quit having problems when I quit using Universal needles.

I think it depends on the machine. I have used one and my zig zag and have not seen much of a difference piecing wise, but I think it can be helpful for FMQ.

Need more information. What type needles do you use?

Abso-bloomin-lutely! Came with my Pfaff and couldn't be without it! Get a straight stitch foot to go with it.

When I use my single hole needle plate, I use a post-it note right on the machine to remind me not to change needle position. (My husband calls this a "memory aid". Which I seem to need. All the time!)

When I bought my new machine it only came with the multi-purpose plate. I immediately bought the single hole plate. It is well worth it. I have broken a few needles over the years, but it really helps to keep your stitches straight.

Thank you for the responses - I will buy the plate - and use it!

I have a Bernina, and I bought one and use it all the time. I think I read on the Superior Thread site, that you should never use universal needles.

I have one, but forget to use it a lot. When I do use it, I put a bright colored post it note on my machine as a "warning" that the single hole plate is on...MOST of the time that saves me from breaking needles. I do think that stitch quality is better when I use the plate for any straight stitching, and quilting.

That is such a great idea!