Experienced seamstresses know the meaning of walking foot sewing machine. However, if you are new to the craft, this term might sound unfamiliar. Today, we will share with you everything we know about walking foot sewing machines and review the best walking foot sewing machines on the market for you.
What Is A Sewing Machine Walking Foot?
A sewing machine that has a mechanism of feeding the workpiece via a machine while a sewing project is being sewn is known as walking foot sewing machine. These mechanisms can be found in commercial or industrial grade sewing machines because they are designed to handle heavier and thicker materials.
Meaning, you should consider buying a walking foot, only if you deal with heavy duty projects often and need a sturdy, powerful machine that will help you complete them in record time. A walking foot sewing machine is used for heavy projects thanks to the walking foot attachment that regular ones do not have.
You will notice that most household sewing machines for domestic use do not come with a walking foot.
If you buy a high-end sewing machine, it will probably contain a walking foot to meet the needs of home sewers and experts. However, although regular sewing machines do not have a walking foot, the general connector on most machines allows you to add the attachment in order to speed up the sewing process.
Everything You Need To Know About Walking Foot Sewing Machines
If you do not know anything about walking foot sewing machines, you probably have a lot of questions and concerns. We tried to answer all the common questions related to the topic and help you choose a walking foot model. Scroll down to get answers to your questions and gain better insight on the subject.
Do I Need Walking Foot For Sewing?
A walking foot sewing machines is required only if you deal with spongy, tough and stubborn materials and fabrics on a regular basis. If you want to complete simple sewing projects around the home or open a business that does not require working with heavy fabrics, you do not need a walking foot for sewing.
Also, people buy walking foot sewing machines for completing quilting projects. They provide absolute precision. These are the main reasons why people buy walking foot. But if you are an experienced user, you probably know that technical aspects play a role in separating them from regular machines as well.
Do You Use a Walking Foot For Binding?
You can use a walking foot for binding. It can help you sew the binding to a quilt. However, you should work with multiple layers of fabrics when you sew binding around the sides of a quilt. A walking foot’s job is to keep those layers of fabric intact and provide steady sewing environment for the seamstress.
Can You Use a Walking Foot For All Sewing?
If you deal with both heavy and lightweight materials and fabrics, yes, you can use a walking foot for all sewing. As we mentioned before, a walking foot’s job is to keep the heavy fabrics in place and provide a steady sewing environment every seamstress needs when working on some large projects such as quilts.
However, different types of projects can change your mind about buying a walking foot sewing machine. There is a time when a walking foot is optional and helpful. But there is also a time when it is necessary.
Optional: When working with 2 layers of woven fabric, you do not need a walking foot. The pressure of your feed does against a regular foot gives you the material the necessary friction for moving smoothly.
Helpful: When working with oilcloth and laminates, a walking foot can be of great use. It will keep these fabrics sliding. Also, if you work with canvas-type, heavier fabrics, a walking foot can be pretty helpful. It can provide the necessary pressure needed to keep the heavy layers from moving. Pinning can also help.
Necessary: Quilting layers of fabrics with batting requires a walking foot. It will keep the layers firm and moving with ease. No matter if you are creating a small tote or a bed-size quilt, you need a walking foot. Also, it is needed for topstitching on knits. A walking foot makes your sewing much easier and enjoyable.
Can You Zig-Zag Stitch with a Walking Foot?
You can zig-zag stitch with a walking foot because you can use it for more than straight stitching. In fact, most decorative stitches on sewing machines can be used with an even feed foot installed.
You can zig-zag with a walking foot without facing any problems because every movement in the pattern is forward.
Do I Need a Walking Foot to Sew Leather?
As we mentioned earlier, a walking foot makes your sewing more comfortable and enjoyable. Meaning, you can use a walking foot to sew leather. However, it is not necessary to get the job done and complete your leather projects. You can use a Teflon foot or roller foot for sewing leather since the material tends to stick to the presser foot and throat place. Also, use a longer stitch length for secure and strong seams.
Can I Free Motion Quilt with a Walking Foot?
The walking foot guarantees evenly spaced stitches since it feeds the quilt evenly through the machine. However, it is more difficult to pivot the quilt to make the smooth curves since the walking foot is large.
How Do You Attach a Walking Foot?
Attaching a walking foot is not rocket science but it can be hard if have never done it before. If you are new in the sewing world, just follow these few simple steps and you will attach your foot very quickly.
- Hold your walking foot and raise the lever
- Keep it raised and haul the walking foot around the presser bar/shank
- Move the foot up and down until you have lined it up with the hole
- Apply the set screw and tighten with the screwdriver
- Ensure that the walking foot is firm and securely attached
- The lever should be resting on top of the needle clamp
What is The Best Walking Foot Sewing Machine?
Choosing the best walking foot sewing machine can be difficult with so many brands on the market that place top-notch products. However, it all depends on your preferences, sewing needs, and budget. Cost is one of the biggest factors that affect your purchase. But pay attention to the next few factors as well.
Portability: Although walking foot sewing machines weight much because they are created out of metal, you should search for a portable sewing machine. Choose a machine with enough plastic parts to reduce the weight and provide portability. The best walking foot machines are portable walking foot machines.
Sewing Speed: Speed is one of the most important features you should pay attention to when buying a walking foot sewing machine. High-end, quality walking foot sewing machines have between 1,000 and 5,000 SPM rate. The higher the SPM rate, the faster you will complete your heavy duty sewing projects.
User-Friendly: If you are a beginner, you should buy a walking foot sewing machine that is easy to use. We recommend computerized sewing machines with digital controls for beginners, intermediate users, and professionals since the old-fashioned sewing machines can be too complicated and difficult to use.
Is a Walking Foot the Same as a Quilting Foot?
No, a quilting foot is something different. It is often referred to as a walking foot because it evenly feeds the layers of quilts through the sewing machine when quilting. However, it is not the same walking foot.
Quilters use presser foot for ditch quilting, straight curving stitching lines, attaching a binding to a quilt, matching plaids, piecing with a knit and unreliable fabrics like Minkee or fleece. You need a quilting foot for quilting because quilting with a regular presser foot will create a puckered mess and make you angry.
Can You Put a Walking Foot on any Sewing Machine?
Absolutely NO because not every machine has an area for accommodating a walking foot. A domestic sewing machine boasts one or two feed mechanisms along with the walking foot in order to ensure that the machine handles materials without causing a mess. Experienced sewers prefer a walking foot. Why?
The walking foot has the power to deal with heavy fabrics and materials and prevent their slippage. And it helps them quilt faster. A walking foot can also help the sewing machine to pull the edges of materials.
Best Walking Foot Sewing Machine 2020 – Comparison Chart
We have noticed the most important features you should pay attention to when purchasing a walking foot sewing machine. Take our comparison chart into consideration before you make your purchase.
Top 14 Best Walking Foot Sewing Machine Reviews 2020
Review the best upholstery sewing machine amazon and walking foot in detail before you pick the right one. Make sure to check the pros and cons before you buy. These are sewline sewing machine reviews.
Consew 206RB-5 Walking Foot Sewing Machine
(Editor’s Choice)
If you are looking for a simple but modern and efficient workhorse, Consew leather sewing machine is one of the best walking sewing machines on the market. It has an extra long stitch. Meaning, it is made for heavy-duty materials. It also has a large bobbin that can be changed without removing the object.
Have we mentioned the thread release finger for heavy thread and the high presser foot lift – 9/16’’?
How about the Reservoir-oiled hook with micrometric control valve for centralized arm lubrication? It has adjustable reverse stitching that can be the same length as a forward stitch, safety clutch with push-button re-engagement, needles, walking feet and many other attachments that will meet your needs!
The standard attachments can be easily installed. The compound feed, walking foot mechanics will make sure that the feeding of material is even, while the locking stitch regulator will prevent changes in stitch length from vibration. Consew 206rb 5 heavy duty is the best deal for intermediate and advanced users.
Pros
- Centralized arm lubrication
- Safety clutch with push-button
- Best Consew portable walking foot sewing machine
Cons
- Unexpected loud sound
- Thread options are hard to understand
SINGER 9960 Sewing Machine
(Professional-Looking Results At Home)
Next in our walking foot sewing machines reviews is the popular Singer 9960 Quantum Stylist! It is very easy to use, however, it is not the best portable sewing machine on the market. Most beginners will find this model overwhelming but mid-range sewers and advanced users will definitely adore this workhorse.
It comes with 600 built-in stitches and various features and accessories that you will find very useful. It is an incredible sewing machine and one of the best sewing machines for home that provides professional-looking results! It sews up to 850 stitches per minute and comes with different feet and free accessories.
Pros
- Simple and easy to use
- Impressive stitch quality
Cons
- No option to save your custom patterns
- Not the best portable sewing machine
Reliable Barracuda 200ZW Walking Foot Sewing Machine
Next on the list of top-notch walking foot sewing machines is the Reliable Barracuda. It can handle over 10 layers of heavy canvas and 8 layers of Sunbrella-Plus. It comes with a built-in speed reducer that will boost your machine to get through the heavy, thick materials smoothly and get the job done in no time.
It has a heavy-duty carrying handle which provides portability, reverse lever mechanism for reinforcing the seams and sews up to 800 stitches per minute. And the stitch width is adjustable. It is just perfect for beginners, hobbyists, home-based businesses and intermediate users who want to boost their abilities.
Pros
- All-metal construction
- Up to 12 mm foot clearance
- Pulleys and toothed belts
Cons
- Cheaply made parts that break easily
Janome HD3000 Sewing Machine
(Best for Sewing Leather)
Next Janome model that you will adore, especially if you have some heavy-duty projects to finish is the HD3000. Yes, it is costly. However, you will be getting a true workhorse that will serve you for years for the price you pay. It is one of the greatest walking foot sewing machines in the market at the moment.
It comes with an automatic needle threader, a jam-proof top-loading bobbin system, and a simple stitch selection. All you have to do is turn the stitch selection dial to the desired stitch and wait for it to appear in red. You will also get 18 built-in stitches, accessories, and adjustable settings if you buy this machine.
Pros
- Seriously heavy-duty machine
- Works with any fabric/material
Cons
- Not the best choice for beginners
- Not the best looking sewing machine
JUKI DDL-8700-Servo Waking Foot Sewing Machine
If you need a single-stitch, straight stitch, industrial sewing machine, Juki walking foot sewing machine is the one! It cannot get better than this! Can you believe that this model has a max sewing speed of 5,500 stitches per minute and the stitch length is 5 mm? A great walking foot sewing machine for heavy tasks.
JUKI DDL-8700 is made to sew both light and medium weight fabrics. However, it is not designed for heavier fabrics or materials. Thanks to the reduced vibration this model provides one of the greatest sewing experiences.
Pros
- It has a max sewing speed of 5,500 stitches per minute
- A maximum stitch length of 5 mm and reduced vibration
- Suitable for light and medium weight fabrics and materials
Cons
- It does not work with every heavy-duty fabric/material
SINGER Heavy Duty 4423 Sewing Machine
(Budget’s Pick)
If you want a mid-range sewing machine with super fast speed, the Singer 4423 Heavy Duty model is the perfect choice for you. It as 12 built-in stitches and has 1,100 SPM rate. It is faster than other models of the same type or even faster than some of the professional models that cost more than this workhorse.
It has an easy turn dial pattern selection, stitch width and length that can be adjusted and drop feed for free motion quilting. However, it is a 110 V walking foot sewing machine Canada and US warranted only.
Pros
- Super fast speed
- Easy turn dial pattern selection
- Adjustable stitch width and length
Cons
- No handy computerized options
- A 110 V model for use in the US only
Brother CS6000i Sewing Machine
(Best for Beginners)
A popular walking foot sewing machine Brother that will blow your mind is the CS6000i – a walking foot sewing machine for people who want to learn the craft. If you are a beginner, it will help you boost your skills. It comes with 60 stitches and lots of other extra features that will come in handy for every newbie.
Some of those features and accessories include an extra table, quick-set, and jam-proof bobbin, stop and start button and reverse stitch, LCD screen, stitch selection buttons, automatic needle threader and so much more! However, just like any other machine, it has flaws. Now: let’s review the pros and cons.
Pros
- Perfect for beginners
- Excellent for quilting
- Adjustable speed control
Cons
- Does not work well with thick fabric
- No automatic tension
Sailrite Ultrafeed LSZ-1 Walking Foot Sewing Machine
If you are looking for a high-end, industrial heavy duty sewing machine, Sailrite Heavy-Duty Ultrafeed LSZ-1 is the best choice for you. Even if it is more expensive than the rest of the products in our reviews, it is definitely worth every penny and cannot be overtopped when it comes to heavy-duty machines.
Do you want something you can use occasionally for small sewing projects? If yes, I would recommend that you check our best sewing machines reviews and find something more suitable for your needs. This is a heavy duty sewing machine for serious, experienced sewers. If you are not one, you do not need it.
It offers even, smooth and string stitching and fast results! It sews through heavy-duty materials such as leather like butter! Can you believe that Sailrite sewing machine can handle + 10 layers of heavy canvas?
Pros
- Straight or zigzag stitch
- Extra wide presser foot and steel balance wheel
- Great customer support
Cons
- Costly
- Pros only!
Tacsew GC6-6 Walking Foot Sewing Machine
(Best Value for Money)
Another model that is definitely worth the time and attention when it comes to walking foot machines is tacsew gc6 6. It features an auto fully automatic lubrication, single straight needle, top, and bottom feed in order to avoid slippage between different fabric and material layers and has a large bobbin M style.
It is one of the best industrial machines that you will never regret buying. It can sew denim, leather and other heavy-duty materials and fabrics with ease. However, if you are searching for household sewing machines for beginners, keep in mind that this is not the best choice for you – it is industrial and strong.
Pros
- Auto oil fully automatic lubrication
- Top and bottom feed to avoid fabric slippage
Cons
- Costly
JUKI DNU-1541 S Walking Foot Sewing Machine
(Best Industrial Walking Foot Sewing Machine)
Next, on our list of walking foot sewing machines is the Juki 1541 bobbin Industrial Walking Foot Sewing Machine with a maximum sewing speed of 2,500 stitches per minute – how incredible does this sound?
It has a maximum stitch length of 9 mm. We are talking about Juki 1541 s with a single-needle, straight stitch, walking foot machine with a safety clutch mechanism that will make ensure that your work goes without a problem and prevents damage. It is amazing for sewing leather and other heavy-duty fabrics.
Pros
- It has a safety clutch mechanism for smooth sewing experience and damage prevention
- Ideal for sewing heavy-duty fabrics such as leather thanks to the walking foot technology
Cons
- Oiling, replacing the needle and bobbin is not easy if you follow the instruction manual
REX 607Z Portable Walking Foot Sewing Machine
(Best Portable Walking Foot Sewing Machine)
If you want a walking foot sewing machine that is portable and lightweight, Rex-607 is the right choice for you. Made of full cast iron metal, Rex walking foot sewing machine is a true workhorse and it makes a great walking foot machine. You will get your sewing machine pre-tested along with a leather sample.
Although you will be getting a non-computerized industrial model, it is a fantastic bargain for the price.
You will also get your model pre-oiled and ready to use. All you have to do is adjust the bobbin tension, upper thread tension, assembly the thread stand and you can begin your journey as a creative sewer.
It can handle up to 3 layers of leather and other heavy-duty materials and fabrics. However, if you are a beginner, we would not recommend this machine for you. It is too complicated. Still, if you are eager to learn, it is worth the attention. Let’s review the pros before we decide if this is the right choice for you.
Pros
- Full cast iron metal design
- Adjustable bobbin tension
- Cheap rex 607 sewing machine parts
Cons
- Not the best choice for beginners
- Non-computerized sewing machine
Brother ST371HD Sewing Machine
Just like Brother cs6000i, Brother ST371HD sewing machine is both strong and tough. It is durable and designed for high volumes of work. It offers top results and higher precision. Dependable, durable and versatile, this Brother sewing machine will provide you will an easy and excellent sewing experience.
It can sew different fabrics, like silk, denim, and leather. It is also said to be the best heavy duty sewing machine for canvas. It comes with a metal needle plate to keep the threading mechanism protected and improve the thread pick up speed. It provides constant stitching but has no automatic needle threader.
Pros
- It can sew different types of fabric
- Durable, versatile and easy to store
Cons
- Some components are plastic
- No automatic needle threader
SINGER Heavy Duty 4432 Sewing Machine
Another model by Singer that is worth mentioning and worth your money is the popular 4432 made for serious and advanced users. Singer 4432 sews through multi-layered fabrics and heavier materials with ease. And you will absolutely adore this product because of the affordability. It is a great deal for the price you pay.
We are talking about a mechanical sewing machine with a great selection of extra accessories, speed of 1,100 stitches per minute, and 32 built-in stitches that will help you realize any creative project in mind.
Pros
- Reliable and affordable
- Great customer support
Cons
- Not the best looking sewing machine
- Not the most portable sewing machine
Singer Heavy Duty 4452 Sewing Machine
If you are looking for a walking foot sewing machine, you are probably not new to the sewing world and you have probably heard of Singer. And their amazing, high-quality products. Their 4452 model is not an exception. If you are looking for an affordable, high-tech workhorse, this is the sewing machine for you.
It sews up to 1,100 stitches per minute and has 32 built-in stitches with an automatic 1-step buttonhole, adjustable stitch width, a top loading bobbin, a free arm for hard-to-reach places and a needle threader.
Pros
- Strongly built and super easy to use
- Powerful motor and fast stitch speed
- Great selection of extra accessories
Cons
- It can jam when working with some thick materials
- Extra sensitive pedal and no manual speed control
Accessories: 4 Best Walking Presser Foot for HeavyDuty Projects
If you have a sewing machine with enough space to accommodate a walking foot, check out the 4 best walking presser feet for heavy-duty tasks. And pick the one that matches your sewing machine model.
SINGER Even Feed Walking Presser Foot for Quilting or Thick Fabric Sewing
Also known as the Even Feed Foot, this presser foot by Singer can be used for quilting and sewing thick and heavy fabrics. It is a must-have if you have heavy-duty projects on hand on a daily basis.
It will come in handy for beginners and professionals who want to upgrade their machine and sewing skills as well.
It is perfect for matching plaids or strips and sewing materials with pile or nap because it keeps them in place and prevents slipping. It works with most low-shank sewing machines by popular sewing machines like cowboy cb105 Juki, Reliable 2000u 33, pfaff upholstery sewing machine, Techsew 0302, and so on.
Pros
- Super easy to install
- Works like a charm
- Fits most machines
Cons
- Possible needle breakage issues
- Not compatible with every sewing machine
Even Feed/Walking Foot Sewing Machine Presser Foot
Another walking foot that deserves your attention is the Even Feed Presser Foot – a moving feed system that will keep your fabric in place. It is perfect for controlling stubborn fabrics or multiple layers of heavy and thick materials. You can use this baby for quilting, sewing when matching plaids or prints, and more.
However, keep in mind that walking feet cannot be used for a side to side or reverse sewing as well as some stitches that include different movements than forwarding motions of the feed dogs. It matches most Brother sewing machines. If you want to know if you can use it on other brands, contact the seller.
Pros
- Super easy to attach
- Ideal for stubborn fabrics
Cons
- Compatible with Brother only
Sewing Machine Presser Feet Set 42 Pcs
If you want to buy a whole set of presser feet in order to upgrade your domestic sewing machine, this one is perfect for you. You will get 42 different presser feet that will work on almost every machine on the market, including the most popular ones such as Econosew walking foot, Singer, Brother, and so on.
If you do not like the set or cannot find what you were looking for (hard to believe), you can contact the seller and get your money back. It comes with 30-days money back guarantee. Great value for the price. But remember that it is NOT suitable for vintage sewing machines, industrial and mini sewing machines.
Pros
- Great value for the price
- 30-days money back guarantee
Cons
- Not suitable for vintage, mini and industrial machines
Professional Domestic Sewing Foot Presser Foot Presser Feet Set
Last walking foot we would like to review and recommend is the Professional Domestic Sewing Foot Set. As you can notice by the name of the product, it is made to accommodate most domestic sewing models and boost your machine. No matter your machine brand, this set has the greatest walking foot for you.
You will get 30 pieces of presser feet, each is highly functional and will match your every sewing need. However, it is NOT suitable for mini sewing machines, industrial sewing machines and vintage machines that were built before 1980 with a low shank system. You get a one-year warranty and lifetime support.
Pros
- 30 pcs of highly functional presser feet
- One-year warranty and lifetime support
Cons
- Not suitable for vintage, mini and industrial machines
FAQ
Final Verdict
We have shared every information we knew on walking foot sewing machines. It is up to you to pick the best one for you. Do not forget to check our product reviews for recommendations and share this guide with someone you love. Also, follow our website for the latest updates and reviews in the sewing world.
I have the Juki 8700 industrial sewing machine; it is not a walking foot machine. It is a great, reliable lockstitch machine though.
Dear Catherine,
Thank you for sharing your opinion on this sewing machine.
You’re right! It’s not a walking foot machine. However, it’s suitable for heavy-duty projects. Feel free to click through the rest of the machines and share your thoughts.
Have a lovely day and stay safe.
Love, Mary.