Exploring the Benefits of Using a Super High Shank Walking Foot for Sewing Projects

Exploring the Super High Shank Walking Foot A Seamstress's Essential Tool

For sewing enthusiasts and professionals alike, the right tools are paramount to achieving precision and perfection in their projects. Among the staple accessories found in many sewing rooms, the super high shank walking foot stands out as an invaluable implement that enhances the sewing experience. This article delves into what a super high shank walking foot is, its benefits, and how to effectively use it.

What is a Super High Shank Walking Foot?

A walking foot, often referred to as an even feed foot, is a specialized presser foot that helps to feed multiple layers of fabric evenly through the sewing machine. Unlike the standard presser foot, which only grips the top layer of fabric, a walking foot features an additional mechanism that moves in sync with the machine’s feed dogs, ensuring that both top and bottom layers of fabric are fed through simultaneously.

The super high shank designation pertains to the height of the shank that attaches the foot to the machine. Super high shank feet are typically found on industrial sewing machines or certain models of domestic machines. The increased height allows for a greater lift, accommodating thicker fabrics and multiple layers, making it an ideal choice for quilting, sewing heavy fabrics, or working with tricky materials like leather and denim.

Benefits of Using a Super High Shank Walking Foot

1. Even Feeding One of the primary advantages of using a walking foot is its ability to evenly feed fabric layers. This feature minimizes the risk of puckering or shifting, particularly important when matching prints or working with delicate materials.

2. Multilayer Capability The super high shank walking foot is designed to handle several layers of fabric, which is particularly beneficial in quilting projects where multiple layers of fabric and batting must be sewn together.

3. Reduced Fabric Fraying The even feeding action helps to prevent the edges of the fabric from fraying or misaligning during sewing, leading to cleaner, more professional-looking seams.

4. Versatility Beyond quilting, this foot can also be used for a variety of projects, including bag-making, drapery, and garment construction, where handling multiple layers or bulky fabrics is a common challenge.

Using a super high shank walking foot is straightforward but requires careful setup to get the best results

1. Installation Begin by removing your regular presser foot and, if necessary, the presser foot shank. Attach the super high shank walking foot according to your machine's specific instructions. It’s crucial to ensure it is securely in place to avoid any mishaps during sewing.

2. Adjusting Tension Since walking feet can change the way fabric is fed, it may be necessary to adjust the stitch tension. Perform a test stitch on scrap fabric to ensure even feeding and a proper seam.

3. Select Appropriate Stitch Depending on your project, select a straight stitch or a zigzag stitch. The walking foot is commonly used with a straight stitch for straight seams in quilting or heavy fabrics.

4. Begin Sewing Start sewing, guiding your fabric gently. The walking foot will do the work of feeding both layers evenly, so there is no need for excessive pulling or pushing of the fabric.

5. Finish Your Project Once your seams are finished, inspect the fabric for evenness and quality. With the precision of the walking foot, you’ll likely find a noticeable improvement in your finished projects.

Conclusion

The super high shank walking foot is a crucial tool for any serious sewist, offering enhanced control and improved results on complex sewing tasks. With its ability to handle multiple layers and ensure even feeding, it empowers creators to tackle a variety of projects with confidence. Embracing this foot can elevate your sewing game, making it easier to achieve the beautiful, professional-quality results that every sewist strives for. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a passionate hobbyist, incorporating a super high shank walking foot into your toolkit is undoubtedly a step in the right direction.