dasmith2

Such a bummer! I just bought a sewing machine, works great otherwise, but the needle positioner doesnt work correctly, and I cant use my 1/4 seam foot, the needle doesnt clear the presser foot. I returned it, and the new one has the same problem. I really like this machine, and this is the only one in my price range. I guess my question is, if I decide to keep it, is there a good way to get an way to get an accurate seam without the 1/4" foot, or should I just return it-which means I will probably have to go without for a while?

Murphy

If new they should give you a machine that is working. Take it back (smile).

QBeth

Bummer on not being able to use the foot but congrats on getting a new machine! (Hopefully one that works) If you can't use the foot, try several layers of blue painter's tape cut in 3-4" pieces, stacked, placed a 1/4" from your needle. It's a good guide. Best of luck!

dasmith2

They just send me two replacements(they were only supposed to send one. They dont work right either, guess the best thing is to take them back, just hate the hassle, but it should work correctly, especially for being new:-)

renee765

If I can ask, what kind of machine did you buy? My machine, a BrotherSQ9000, has several decorative stitches, and there are a couple of staight stitches that the only difference in the stitch is the placement of the needle. Of course, this would be too easy of an answer so please ignore if it's irrelevant.

dasmith2

Its a Brother LS590. The needle positioner is also the stitch width dial, so if I need to move it over more to the left to clear the foot, it will do a zig zag stitch instead of straight.Dont know who's dumb idea that was LOL

renee765

My first Brother had dials like yours. I had to make labels for each dial because I kept forgetting what each one did. I looked up the manual for your machine, and it shows that you have a Pattern Selection dial. Could this be what you're turning to get the needle to move? Here's the manual URL in case you didn't get one with your machine. And please forgive me if my questions are stupid.

http://www.brother-usa.com/ModelDocu..._ENES_1565.PDF

Editted to add: Never mind the above question. I saw on page 25 of this manual that your stitch width dial does regulate the position of the needle. It also says "When the Straight or Triple Stretch Stitch is selected, the needle position can be changed
from left to right by adjusting the stitch width dial." So it looks like as long as you have selected the straight or triple stretch stitch (neither of which have a 'width') you should be able to adjust the needle position. Sounds like it is definitely not working.

Moonpi

Sounds like a design flaw. If you move your needle, there should be a setting to adjust with to zero.

amandasgramma

I'd say it's the machine, not the foot. If you move the needle to the left, without changing the design of the stitch, then it should REMAIN the straight stitch!!! I'd hate a machine that does what you say.

dasmith2

if its set at zero it is a straight stitch, but the needle will be all the way over to the right and doesnt clear the foot. If its set at 1-5 it is a zig zag stitch and that doesnt clear the foot either. I bought the attachments already(walking,1/4, and quilting) so I will either have to find a machine in my price range that those will work with, or try to sew an accurate seam without the 1/4. I believe I tested all the other attachments, and it does work with those, just not that 1/4 inch, which I really wanted- it figures :roll: :lol: