Are Non-Stick Presser Feet Worth the Cost? Sewing Tool Spotlight

In the past when working with specialty fabrics like cork or imitation suede that have a tendency to stick to traditional presser feet, I’ve used sewing aids like tissue paper or spray on lubricants. It wasn’t easy, but I made it thru my projects vowing to find an easier way before the ‘next project.’ Since I plan to incorporate cork fabric into several upcoming projects, I knew I had to find a solution to my ‘sticking’ problem. I just wasn’t sure what I needed to buy. Would I ever find a universal solution to my problem? Well, I did. On a recent visit to my favorite sewing machine shop and upon the advice of the shop owner, I bought a non-stick presser foot. I’ve never used one, but I was curious to try it out. They are offered in assorted styles—a zig zag foot, straight stitch, open toe and zipper foot. I decided to try the zig zag foot since it was a universal size that could handle most of the stitches I use.

My first test for the presser foot was making purse straps with cork fabric. If you’ve never worked with cork fabric, it is one that typically ‘sticks’ to traditional presser feet making it impossible to smoothly feed the fabric thru the sewing machine. I was pleasantly surprised! The non-stick presser foot effortlessly fed the cork thru the machine. I had my purse straps made in less than 10 minutes. I was so happy!  My days of struggling were finished.

In case you have never heard of this presser foot, here are some basic facts:

What is a non-stick presser foot?

A: This is a presser foot that has a special non-stick coating applied to the soles of the presser feet and is often made of a special resin material. (Different brands use different materials) This durable finish enables the presser foot to slide over fabrics like vinyl, plastic, leather, or cork that normally ‘stick’ to traditional, non-coated presser feet.

Note: Some sewing machine manufacturers also refer to this as a ‘glide foot.’

Does the non-stick presser foot special finish wear off?

A: According to a post on Bernina’s blog, We All Sew, the finish on Bernina’s non-stick presser feet is durable and will not wear off. However, if the presser foot is repeatedly exposed to the feed dogs, it can be marred and will not glide as smoothly as an unmarked foot.

What do non-stick presser feet cost?

A: Prices vary depending on the make and model selected. Before making a purchase, you will need the brand and model number of your sewing machine. Most sewing machines have brand specific feet. The feet I priced ranged between $7.50 for non-branded feet to $65 for brand manufactured presser feet.

Do you need anything else when using non-stick presser feet?

A: Technically, no. But, to get the best results, most sewing machine manufacturers recommend that you use the correct fabric needles in combination with the presser feet. For example, if you are sewing vinyl, then it is recommended that you use a Vinyl Needle and set your stitch length to a medium length. This extra step helps to achieve the best results.

If you are looking for a solution to your sticky fabrics, then consider using non-stick presser feet. They make sewing easier and broaden your fabric options. If you are looking for a fun and easy sewing project to try the non-stick presser foot, Bernina has a simple leather bracelet project. These bracelets would make great gift items!

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