Thimbles Guide to the Walking Foot

If you’re new to quilting and sewing, you know that our little hobby requires a significant number of specialty tools. At Thimbles, we love quilting and sewing tools. We talk about them all the time in our weekly Thimbles Thursday live streams. Each one serves a specific purpose that makes quilting easier, more enjoyable, and most importantly, more successful.

The walking foot is more than just a tool of convenience—it’s a quilting and sewing necessity. For this edition of What Tool is That?, we’re shining the spotlight on the walking foot, a favorite among quilters and garment makers alike. 

If you’ve ever wondered how quilters keep all their fabric layers neat and smooth, chances are they’re using this tool. 

Let’s explore what it is, why it matters, and how you can make the most of it.



What is a walking foot?


A walking foot is sometimes called an “even feed foot” or “dual feed foot.” The walking foot attaches to your machine and helps evenly feed multiple layers of fabric through your machine. 


Unlike a standard presser foot, which only presses down while the feed dogs below grab and move the fabric, a walking foot has its own set of feed dogs that work in sync with the machine. 


This allows the top (walking foot-assisted) and bottom (feed dogs-assisted) layers of fabric to move together, instead of shifting out of place.


What does a walking foot do?


A walking foot keeps all of your fabric layers together as you sew and quilt. A walking foot feeds fabric into the machine from the presser side, assisting the feed dogs below. Using a walking foot will prevent fabric layers from slipping or stretching while you work. It’s especially useful for quilting, where you have to sew through the quilt top, batting, and backing at the same time. 


The walking foot:


  • aligns layers 

  • reduces puckering

  • creates smooth, professional-looking stitches


But it’s not just for quilts! Walking feet are also great when working with tricky fabrics like knits, vinyl, or slippery silks. Even tasks like sewing hems on stretchy garments can benefit from the even feed action of a walking foot.


Check out Melly Sews video below to see what the different parts of the walking foot look like and how it interacts with your machine: 

Do all quilting machines come with a walking foot?


Not always. 


Some quilting or higher-end sewing machines include a walking foot in the accessories kit, but many standard machines do not. 


If you don’t see one in your box, don’t worry; you can purchase a walking foot separately that fits your brand and model.


BERNINA 790 Plus with Walking Foot #50

Do I need a walking foot for my machine?


If you plan to quilt or sew garments with layers or specialty fabrics, then yes, a walking foot is a worthwhile investment. 


It’s not a must-have for every single project, but once you try it, you’ll quickly see how much smoother your sewing becomes.


Why are there so many kinds of walking feet?


Different sewing machine brands design walking feet to match their machines. Some models come with extra features like stitch-in-the-ditch guides or open-toe options for better visibility. 


While the basic function is the same, which is feeding fabric evenly, it’s important to buy the right walking foot made for your machine’s make and model.


What are the best uses for a walking foot? When should I use a walking foot?


A walking foot shines when:


  • Quilting through multiple layers (top, batting, and backing)

  • Sewing long seams on knit fabrics to avoid stretching

  • Matching plaids, stripes, or directional prints

  • Working with slippery fabrics like satin or leather

  • Topstitching for a professional, even finish

  • Sewing hems on garments that tend to ‘wave’ or ripple


#50 Walking Foot attached to Bernina 480


When shouldn’t I use a walking foot?


While a walking foot is versatile, it’s not meant for everything. Avoid using it when:


  • Sewing curves that need very tight maneuvering (it’s bulkier than a standard foot)

  • Doing delicate applique that requires precision around small shapes

  • Free-motion quilting (you’ll want a darning or free-motion foot instead)


The walking foot may not be the flashiest sewing tool, but it’s one of the most practical. Whether you’re quilting a bed-sized project or simply sewing a knit dress that needs smooth seams, a walking foot helps you achieve neat, professional results with less frustration.


Are you wondering which walking foot you might need? Give us a call (815) 836 - 8735), send us a message, and join us on Facebook and in the Thimbleful of Sewists & Crafters group to talk to our community!