What Is a Presser Foot Used for?

With so many different parts, attachments, and accessories, it’s easy to become overwhelmed when you’re trying to learn how to use a sewing machine. However, you can better grasp all of the know-how needed to properly work a sewing machine when you take it one step at a time. 

One of the most important sewing machine attachments is the presser foot. Though most sewing machines come with a presser foot already included, you can upgrade or switch out your presser foot at any time, depending on the project you’re trying to complete. 

Let’s take a closer look at what a sewing machine presser foot does and what the different types of presser feet are generally used for.

What Is a Sewing Machine Presser Foot? 

Presser feet are instruments designed to flatten and smooth the fabric that is being fed through your sewing machine, allowing you to get the smoothest and neatest stitch possible. 

Because there are so many different types of fabrics that you can use for sewing projects, there are different types of presser feet that are made to handle different fabrics and keep them from puckering or tearing during the stitching process.

How Do I Choose the Right Presser Foot for My Project?

Not sure what type of presser foot is needed for your next sewing endeavor? We’ve gathered a few of the most commonly used presser feet so that you can determine which one might yield the most success based on the type of materials and stitching you plan to use.

Standard Foot

This presser foot comes with most sewing machines and is also called the zigzag foot. It’s generally used for either zigzag or straight stitching on most sturdy fabrics, but it can also be used for some decorative stitches, depending on your sewing machine.

Zip Foot 

The zip foot has openings on either side, which lets you sew close to a zipper on each side of your stitch. However, you’ll need to change your needle’s position, depending on the side of the foot you plan to use.

Walking Foot 

The walking foot can move fabric all of the way from the top with specialized teeth, making it great for heavy, thick fabric.

Buttonhole Foot 

When used alongside buttonhole stitching, the buttonhole foot allows you to make perfectly sized buttonholes on your material. 

Contact us at GoldStar Tool to learn more about sewing machine accessories, crafting supplies, and more.