Watch how to use the foot pedal on your sewing machine
If you've just bought your first sewing machine, you'll need to learn the basic sewing techniques. Look no further than our video guide taking you through how to use the foot pedal on your sewing machine step-by-step.
Long gone are the days when you had to manually pedal your sewing machine, nowadays all machines come with a foot pedal and usually a stop/start button, too.
If like us you prefer the feel and control of a foot pedal to a button, but you’re feeling a little nervous, then try our tried and tested tips to help you gain more control and build your confidence.
Happy sewing!
Don't miss our video tutorial on how to thread your sewing machine – it's a must-watch before you start sewing your first project on your new machine.
Before you start
Grab a piece of scrap fabric to use as a tester if you’re just beginning, or you have a new machine.
Make sure you are comfortably seated, and the pedal is within easy reach. If it’s slipping around, try popping a textured piece of fabric or a piece of anti-slip rug gripper underneath to hold in place.
Before turning on the sewing machine, have a practise on the pedal to get used to the feel of the pedal and the pressure you need to exert to depress it.
Some machines have a stitch speed dial so you can start on a slow setting and work up to a faster speed when doing easy seams. We recommend using the slower option for tricky corners.
One of the great things about using a foot pedal is you can use your hands for guiding the fabric through the machine, so you can really accurately stitch your fabric. Below you will find your step-by-step guide to using your sewing machine's foot pedal.
How to use your sewing machine foot pedal
Step 1
Plug in your sewing machine and switch on. Place your tester fabric under the needle and pop the pressure foot down.
Step 2
Gently press down on your foot pedal in a repetitive tap. If you go full force the machine will whizz through the fabric at super speed! Gentle tapping will give you the confidence to press a little more each time giving you a good idea of the pressure needed and the speed the machine works.
Step 3
Test your foot in different positions to try a pressure you’re happy with and keep practising.
Pressing down more makes the machine go faster and pressing down less makes it go slower.
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