freestyle embroidery on a sewing machine

Does anybody do this?
I’m looking to buy a sewing machine and would like some recommendations.
I understand that i need can A sewing machine with a drop-feed control or a plate that covers the feed dogs - in other words, you have to be able to lower or cover the feed dogs so they don't feed the fabric.
Many thanks
Dani xx


Ps: Im having a clear out of my craft cabinet and plan to sick some things up on E-bay tonight was going to post about it on the swop shop board but when i try it says..
Oops...
Something went wrong

We've been notified of the problem, and should fix it shortly! Please contact us if you're still having problems

Shamex

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8 replies since 23rd January 2011 • Last reply 23rd January 2011

Reply #1:

Yes you need to be able to drop the feed dogs, you'll also need a darning or embroidery foot.
You still need to hoop your fabric so you'll need a wooden embroidery hoop too.

The swap board's been like that for a few days now.

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Reply #2:

Thanks for the respone :]
Ive been looking online at sewing machines i like the sound of but they dont tend to specify if you can drop the feed dogs.
I'm hoping to find someone who has a machine that is able to do this so i can buy the same one.....if its in my price range xx

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Reply #3:

Hey! The machine I use is actually a quilting machine, but it has the freehand embroidery function and comes with the embroidery foot and you are able to drop the feed dogs down. It's called the Janome 6019QC. Here's a link to it - http://www.sewingmachines.co.uk/Janome6019WT_info.htm

I'm not sure what sort of price range you're able to afford, but on this site it's £299 with a load of freebies and I'd say it's well worth the money. I use mine regularly and I've had absolutely no problems with it and I've had it for just over five years. It's pretty durable too b/c I used to cart mine to and from college three days a week. You get an extension table with it too, which is a huge help for long lengths of fabric.

Hope this is of some help to you.

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Reply #4:

I have a Juki HZL E71.It has a manual lever to drop the feed dogs.I also couch beads this way.
I don't use a frame as I find it gets in the way.
Try starting with 7 X 11 inch pieces and just play.

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Reply #5:

I think with most machines you can drop the feed dogs, there's usually a little slider nearby.
You could always ask in a sewing machine store, you don't have to buy from them if online is cheaper. Usually they are happy to help.

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Reply #6:

I did freehand embroidery on my cheap kenmore with no foot at all on it without too much difficulty. the hoop is a must, though.

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Reply #7:

Thank for all your advice you have all been a great help I am saving up my pennys and i should be able to afford a good one by march :] xx

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Reply #8:

I did my first free hand embroidery on my kenmore.With a reg food and didnt drop the feed dogs, I used a tear away backing which made it easier.

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