I am trying to machine quilt for the first time. When using the "stitch in the ditch" foot, do I drop the feed, or leave it up?

Leave them up (I also use a walking foot).

I leave it up.

Leave them up. I also use a lightweight thread.

I use clear thread. Very forgiving.

I bought a walking foot, but could not figure out how to put it on!

Thanks!

there is a lever that goes up and down, it goes over,above or around the needle screw. Look,, you will see it.

I leave the feed dogs up ....... and increase the stitch lenght.

Leave the feed dogs up, use a walking foot, and I usually increase my stitch length a little. Start stitching in the middle.
Stitch horizontally down the center, then stitch vertically across the center of the quilt. Every time you start a row of stitches alternate the end you start with. Stitch at the top, next time start stitching at the bottom, when you stitch horizontally, start at the top, next time start at the bottom.
Sew slowly, and don't rush, keep your fabric taught by rolling the sides up to meet the center where you are stitching. I use
bicycle clips to keep the fabric rolled. :thumbup:

I bought a foot that is made just for stitch in the ditch. It is wonderful, as I am not too good at staying in the ditch without it. Oh, I just reread your question, you were just asking about feed dogs. Well, maybe this info will help someone.

I also have this foot, and I just love it. I also use it when I am making HST, I put the 'guide' right on the line and move the needle to the left for my 1/4" seam. Perfect HST's every time!

I also have the SID foot and it works perfectly....have the 1/4" foot also. Wouldn't do without either of those feet...they are worth their weight in gold to me. You always leave the feed dogs up. If you have a Pfaff use the IDT (walking foot) with it and you won't ever have any puckers/misalignment in your
back fabric. The fabrics feed together at the same time.

Saturday afternoon brought rehrensberger's and two sets from hoffim. pretty pretty, pretty. Sorry, just noticed that I posted this in the wrong section. Supposed to be in blocks of the orient. YIKES>

Thanks for all the advice. I was just getting ready to do this today. :thumbup:

I also use invisible tread on the top when SID. You can not see stitches especially if you miss the ditch. I match thread on the bobbin to the backing. By using invisible thread you spotlight the quilt pattern instead of the stitching.