NJ Quilter

I am just beginning to machine quilt. So far I have only done hand quilting. But the need to get things completed in a more timely manner has driven me to machine quilting.

Currently I'm doing echo, straight line quilting on my DSM with a regular foot. Don't own a walking foot at this point. Tension is fine but I'm noticing that my stitch length is not consistent. Is this simply a product of my pulling/pushing the sandwich?? I suppose I should try some gloves to help move the fabric more gently/consistently??

Or do I need to bite the bullet and invest in a walking foot for my machine?

Any/all thoughts/comments welcome. Thanks.

IrishgalfromNJ

When I use my walking foot I don't have to pull or push my quilt, the machine feeds the quilt very nicely. I think you should get a walking foot.

Onebyone

Go online right now and order the walking foot for you brand of machine.

My favorite quilting stitch is the serpentine using the walking foot. I use this stitch on all my donation and utility quilts and many of my gift quilts. The non quilter thinks it's wonderful so why bother with the fancy quilting unless its for myself or a show.

Tartan

Make sure the quilt is “puddled” around the machine with no drag . A machine foot even a walking foot, won’t stitch consistently if there is quilt drag.

Kitsie

Treat yourself to a walking foot! Mine is never turned off!

Jeanne S

The walking foot is my best quilting tool! You won’t regret buying one!

Moira in N.E. England

I agree with other members - I find a walking foot very helpful, love my quilting gloves too!

cashs_mom

I agree with getting a walking foot. I bit the bullet years ago and bought one on a half price sale for my Bernina (Bernina walking feet are pricey.) One of the best investments I've ever made.

And after you get it, be sure to read the instructions about how to put it on. Some of them are a bit tricky.

NJ Quilter

Well, I guess the jury is in, lol! Apparently I'll be headed to the dealer tomorrow for a walking foot.

I don't have much room to quilt but I do think I have it puddled as much as humanly possible. I know there is a bit of drag when I'm doing a longer line of stitching but much of the shorter lines of stitching are equally as inconsistent.

Did try the rubberized (clean) gardening gloves I have on hand. They sort of helped so hopefully the walking foot will be more helpful. I've never really needed it when doing bindings but then again, who sees those stitches?? (I machine sew to the front and hand stitch to the back so none of those stitches show anywhere).

Thanks for everyone's input.

nativetexan

how small of a stitch length were you using? that can make it difficult to move around much. good luck.