Knee lift versus foot pedal
08-18-2011, 02:56 AM
#31
Super Member
Join Date: Oct 2009
Posts: 5,453
Originally Posted by Linda B
I think I've finally found a way to keep my foot pedal from creeping all over the place (industrial strength velcro!!), but that problem has made me wonder about using the knee lift that came with my machine. I know my Mother always used a knee lift. I'd be really interested to know what you all use and why you prefer your choice.
08-18-2011, 03:48 AM
#35
Super Member
Join Date: Aug 2010
Location: Australia
Posts: 4,116
A knee lift is just that - a lever at the knee to raise the foot.I did use a couple of machines that substituted a knee press for the foot pedal and found it less tiring than pressing down on the pedal.
I don't need a knee lift on my machine as I have it programmed to raise the foot when I tap the pedal.It's the same for lowering the foot as well.
I don't need a knee lift on my machine as I have it programmed to raise the foot when I tap the pedal.It's the same for lowering the foot as well.
08-18-2011, 03:58 AM
#36
Junior Member
Join Date: Jun 2011
Posts: 294
Originally Posted by Linda B
I think I've finally found a way to keep my foot pedal from creeping all over the place (industrial strength velcro!!), but that problem has made me wonder about using the knee lift that came with my machine. I know my Mother always used a knee lift. I'd be really interested to know what you all use and why you prefer your choice.
With my mom's old machine, working the knee lift meant sitting with your thigh against the lever and then sort of rolling your thigh into it or away from it to operate it. Didn't take much movement in either direction to make a difference.
The machine sped up smoothly and slowed down smoothly, it was very responsive. But that may have been due to the design and quality. It was one of those machines that weighed not much under a bajillion pounds because it was all metal and it could sew through anything with the right needle, even multiple layers of leather or canvas. In fact, my mom made a tent with leather reinforced stress points on that machine!
Since you've never used one, just remember it's like anything else, there is a learning curve. Grab some big scraps and just practice sewing with the knee lift until it feels natural. If you're goal oriented, I suggest sewing 200 seams (of 12 inches or more) before deciding whether you like it or not.
OOOPS! I read on and realised you were talking about the thingie to lift the presser foot.
Nevermind.
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