Types of Sewing Machine Feet and Their Functions: A Complete Guide for Perfect Stitching

If you love sewing, you probably know that perfect stitches aren’t just about the right needle or thread. One important part that often gets overlooked is the sewing machine presser foot.

Each presser foot is designed for a specific purpose, from attaching zippers and sewing buttons to hemming fabric or quilting thick materials.

To help you get familiar with them, here’s a guide to the different types of sewing machine feet and what each one does!

1. Standard Presser Foot

This is the most common type and usually comes pre-installed on your sewing machine.
It’s used for straight and zigzag stitches on most fabric types — perfect for general sewing projects like clothing, bags, and home décor.

2. Zipper Foot

This narrow foot allows you to sew very close to the edge of a zipper without the needle hitting the teeth.
It’s essential for clean, professional-looking zipper applications.

3. Button Sewing Foot

Want to attach buttons using your sewing machine? This foot is made just for that!
It securely holds the button in place while the needle moves side to side to stitch the holes perfectly.

4. Buttonhole Foot

Unlike the button sewing foot, this one is used to create buttonholes.
Just set your button size, and the machine automatically stitches a buttonhole that fits perfectly.

5. Invisible Zipper Foot

Perfect for dresses and skirts, this foot helps you install invisible zippers neatly.
The grooves underneath guide the zipper teeth so you can sew closely without damaging the fabric.

6. Overedge Foot (Overlock Foot)

If you don’t have a serger, this foot is a great alternative!
It helps prevent fabric fraying by creating an overedge stitch similar to an overlock finish — ideal for fast, clean edges.

7. Walking Foot (Quilting Foot)

A must-have for quilting or sewing thick fabrics like denim and canvas.
The walking foot has feed dogs that move both the top and bottom layers of fabric evenly, preventing shifting and puckering.

8. Teflon Foot

Sewing sticky or slippery fabrics like vinyl, leather, or satin? The Teflon foot is your best friend.
Its smooth surface allows the fabric to glide effortlessly without sticking or dragging.

9. Piping Foot

This foot is designed for inserting piping cords between seams, commonly used in cushions or garments.
The curved groove keeps the piping perfectly aligned while you sew.

10. Rolled Hem Foot

If you need a fine, narrow hem for lightweight fabrics like chiffon or silk, this foot makes it easy.
It rolls the fabric edge neatly as you sew, creating a clean finish without folding by hand.

Tips for Choosing the Right Sewing Foot

Match your presser foot to your fabric type and project needs.

Make sure it’s compatible with your sewing machine model (low shank, high shank, or snap-on).

Use quality or original presser feet for better stability and longer machine life.

Final Thoughts

Each type of sewing machine foot serves a specific purpose that helps you achieve neater, more professional-looking results.
By using the right presser foot for your project, you’ll make sewing easier, faster, and far more enjoyable!

Find a wide selection of high-quality sewing machine feet, from zipper and overlock feet to walking and Teflon feet, only at Istana Kancing, your one-stop shop for all sewing essentials.