Best Sewing Machine Foot Pedal

A sewing machine foot pedal is an essential accessory that gives you control over your sewing speed and makes sewing easier and more efficient. This comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to know about choosing the best foot pedal for your needs.

A foot pedal is attached to a sewing machine to regulate its speed. It allows you to speed up or slow down the pace of stitching simply by varying the pressure applied by your foot. Having a responsive foot pedal makes sewing projects faster and gives you better control over intricate details or tricky fabrics.

For sewing machines without a foot pedal, speed control has to be done manually using dials or buttons. This can disrupt your focus while sewing. A foot pedal also enables hands-free operation, allowing you to guide the fabric more fluidly.

In this detailed guide, we will cover how a foot pedal works, its benefits, the different types available, factors to consider when choosing one, and maintenance tips. Read on to learn how to select the best sewing machine foot pedal to boost your sewing experience.

Best Sewing Machine Foot Pedals

Model	Key Features	Rating
Singer Foot Pedal	Flat prong cord, consistent performance, wide compatibility	4.6/5
Universal FC-143	Motor block included, LED light, fits many brands	4.7/5
Brother Pedal	Durable copper wiring, smooth pedal motion	4.6/5
Janome Pedal	Cord storage, original Janome part, Made in Japan	4.8/5
BrightlyLit Pedal	Long lasting copper wiring, wide compatibility, foot mat included	4.6/5

Singer Foot Pedal

Compatible with Kenmore, Babylock, Bernina, Brother, Riccar, Simplicity and Viking models. Has a flat prong power cord for secure fit. Provides smooth, consistent speed control. Long 76 inch power cord.

BRIGHTLYLIT Foot Pedal

Recommended for Brother sewing machines. Provides variable speed control and 2A current for quick operation. Long 51 inch dual cords.

Compatible with Brother models:

• 1034d, jx2517, lx3817, ls2125, xm2701, xl2600, lx3125, lx2500, xl5130, gx37, ls2400, xr3774, ls1520, ls1217, xl2610, ls1717, ls2350, lr43670, xc7359-021, lx2763, xl3100, ls2300prw, vx1435, lx2375, xl3200, xl3022, ce1125prw, xl3750, xl5340, ls2000, st531hd, xl3500, ls590, xr40, xr37, ls2020, vx1010, xr65, 1634d, xm3700, 3027, xm1010, xl5232, vx560, vx780, ls2250prw, vx710

HONEYSEW Foot Pedal

Compatible with Baby Lock and Brother models like the CE1100PRW and BL40A. Durable metal construction with adjustable speed control.

Compatible with:

• Babylock models: BL40, BL40A (Grace), BL137A, BL137A2 (Sofia 2), BLN (Esante), BLR, BLR2, BLSR, BLSY
• Brother models: CE1100PRW, CE1125PRW, CE4000, CE4400, CE5000, CE5000PRW, CE5500, CE5500PRW, CE7070PRW, CE8080, CE8080PRW, Comfort 40E, Comfort 60E, CP6500, CP7500, CS100, CS100T, CS4000, CS5000H, CS5055PRW, CS6000, CS6000B, CS6000I, CS6000T, CS7000H, CS7205, CS770, CS8800PRW, CS9100

VANELY Foot Pedal

Works with Brother, Baby Lock, Simplicity, Juki machines. Smooth variable speed operation. 8 foot power cord.

Compatible with:

• Brother models: BC1000, BC2100, BC2100WT, BC2300, BC2500, BQ2450, BQ3050, BQ950, BX2925PRW, CE1100PRW, CE1125PRW, CE4000, CE4400, CE5000, CE5000PRW, CE5500, CE5500PRW, CE7070PRW, CE8080, CE8080PRW, Comfort 40E, Comfort 60E, CP6500, CP7500, CS100, CS100T, CS4000, CS5000H, CS5055PRW, CS6000, CS6000B, CS6000I, CS6000T, CS7000H, CS7205, CS770, CS8800PRW, CS9100, DS120, DS140, DZ1500F, DZ2400, DZ2750, DZ3000, DZ3400, DZ820E, ES2000, ES2000T, ES2010, ES2020
• Brother models: EX660, FS100WT, FS130QC, FS20, FS40, FS40WT, HC1850, HE240,HS1000, HS2000, HS2500, HS3000, HS9500, Innov-is 990D, Innov-is XP1 Luminaire, JS50E, LB6770, LB6770PRW, LB6800, LB6800PRW, LB6800THRD, LB6810, NQ3600D, NQ575PRW, NS2750D, NS40, NS80, NS80PRW, NV1000 Innov-ís, NV1200, NV1250D, NV1500, NV1500D, NV2500, NV2500D, NV900, NV900D Innov-ís, NV950, NV950D, NV955
• Brother models: NX2000 Innov-is, PQ1500SL, PQ1500SLPRW, QC1000, RS240, RS250, RS260, SB1000T Simplicity, SB700T Simplicity, SB7500, SC3000, SC6600, SC707, SC9500, SE1800, SE1900, SE350, SE400, SE425, SM6500PRW, SQ9000, SQ9050, SQ9185, SQ9285, SQ9310, ST150HDH, Stellaire Innov-is XJ1, VE2200, VM5100, VM5200, VM6200D, VQ2, VQ2400, VQ3000 Innov-is, XR1300, XR1355, XR3140, XR3240, XR3340, XR4040, XR6060, XR-6600, XR7700, XR9000, XR9500PRW, XS2070, XS2080, XS2100
• Babylock models: Aerial BLAE, Accomplish BL520B, Aventura BLMAV, BLMAV2 Aventura II, BLAR, BL137A, BL137A2 (Sofia 2), BL220B Brilliant, BL40, BL40A (Grace), BL50A, BL80B, BLJY Journey, BLMCC Accord, BLMPR Presto, BLMPR2 Presto II, BLMVR, BLN Esante, BLR, BLR2, BLR3, BLSA Solaris, BLSA2 Solaris 2, BLSR, BLSR-EB, BLSY, BLTA Altair, BLTY Unity ES2200, ES2210, ES2220, ES2400, ES2410, ES2420

YICBOR Pneumatic Pedal

Designed for Singer air electric sewing machines. Compatible with Singer 4600, 7000, 9000 series models.

Compatible with Singer models:

• 4600, 4610, 4613, 4617, 4623, 4624, 4663, 5910, 6230, 6233, 6234, 6235, 6250, 6251, 6267, 6268, 7000, 7004, 7005, 7028, 7029, 7033, 7034, 7035, 7037, 7043, 7050, 7060, 9000, 9020, 9110, 9113, 9117, 9124, 9130, 9133, 9134, 9137, 9143, 9210, 9217, 9224, 9240, 9323, 9334, 9410, 9416, 9417, 9420, 9430, 9444

Janome Original Pedal

Made in Japan, fits Janome computerized and mechanical sewing machines. Retractable cord for easy storage.

Compatible with:

• All Janome computerized sewing machines
• All Janome mechanical sewing machines

HONEYSEW Universal Pedal

Generic foot pedal fitting most home sewing machines. LED light and non-slip mat available. Budget-friendly option.

Compatible with:

• Most home sewing machine brands and models

Benefits of Using a Sewing Machine Foot Pedal

A foot pedal makes sewing on a machine much easier in multiple ways. Here are some of the key benefits of using a foot pedal:

Allows Control Over Sewing Speed

The main purpose of a foot pedal is to give you control over your sewing speed. Pressing down lightly produces slower stitches, while more pressure gives faster stitching. This variable speed control results in neat, even stitches and prevents mistakes.

You can sew tricky areas slowly and speed up on straight lines. No more having to stop and adjust manual dials or buttons to change pace. Keeping speed intuitive enhances sewing efficiency.

Enables Hands-Free Operation

A foot pedal lets you operate the sewing machine without using your hands. With practice, you can guide the fabric under the needle using only your feet to control speed.

This leaves both hands free to hold and position the fabric. Hands-free sewing gives you better maneuverability for sewing smooth curves or corners.

Allows Relaxation While Sewing

Working the foot pedal produces a soothing, rhythmic motion that many sewers find relaxing. The ability to zone out and stitch while pedaling along can make sewing an immersive, therapeutic experience.

This foot pedal rhythm also helps you focus and enter a state of flow. The pedaling motion enables your body to intuitively adjust speed as needed.

Can Operate Without Electricity

Some vintage sewing machines with mechanical foot pedals can run without electricity. The foot pedal powers the machine through foot motion alone. This makes them useful even in case of power outages.

Modern electric foot pedals usually have a capacitor that stores energy to keep the machine running briefly during electricity loss.

How a Sewing Machine Foot Pedal Works

Foot pedals operate on a simple mechanism that translates foot pressure into sewing speed. Here’s an overview of how foot pedals work:

Treadle Mechanism

Most sewing machine foot pedals work on a treadle mechanism. A treadle connects the pedal to a rod under the machine. When pressed down, the pedal moves the rod downwards which engages the wheel and makes it spin faster.

More pressure makes the wheel rotate quicker, driving the motor to sew faster. Releasing pressure disengages the mechanism and slows the machine. This simple leverage system enables variable speed control.

Pressure Controls Speed

The more forcefully you press the foot pedal, the faster the sewing machine operates. Gentle pressure produces a slow pace while maximum force gives the highest speed.

You control the speed by modulating pressure on the pedal through your foot and leg muscles. This tactile feedback allows intuitive speed adjustments.

Pedal Motion Engages Clutch

In modern electric sewing machines, pedal movement activates an electromagnet switch that engages the motor’s clutch. The clutch connects the motor to the drive mechanism.

When disengaged, the motor runs freely without driving the machine. Pressing the pedal engages the clutch so the motor powers the mechanism to sew.

Key Components

Some key components that enable a foot pedal to work are:

• Footrest – Provides stable footing and minimizes strain.
• Rheostat – Varies resistance to control electricity flow.
• Capacitor – Stores power for operation during electricity loss.
• Connectors – Join pedal to motor for energy transmission.
• Pedal Assembly – Pivots to engage/disengage sewing mechanism.

Types of Sewing Machine Foot Pedals

There are a few different varieties of sewing machine foot pedals available:

Universal Foot Pedals

Generic or “universal” foot pedals are designed to work with many different sewing machine models and brands. They usually have adjustable connectors.

For example, the HONEYSEW Universal Foot Pedal fits multiple brands like Kenmore, Singer, Brother etc.

Brand-Specific Pedals

Major sewing machine brands like Singer, Brother, Janome etc. have foot pedals designed specifically for their models. These are customized to seamlessly work with the brand’s machines.

For instance, the Janome Foot Pedal is made for Janome sewing machines. Always check model compatibility before buying.

Vintage Machine Pedals

Old mechanical sewing machines use foot pedals with simpler lever mechanisms. These all-metal vintage pedals are often repairable and work for decades.

Reproduction vintage style pedals are also available for those who want an old-fashioned look.

Knee Pedals

Some industrial sewing machines use knee pedals instead of foot pedals. They are levers pressed by the knee to control speed. Knee pedals allow keeping both feet on the ground.

However, knee pedals are more complex to master than regular foot pedals. They are not commonly found on domestic sewing machines.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Foot Pedal

Keep the following factors in mind when picking out a sewing machine foot pedal:

Compatibility With Your Model

The most vital factor is getting a foot pedal that’s compatible with your sewing machine make and model. Check that the plug type and size match your machine’s socket.

Universal pedals are adjustable for multiple models. Brand-specific pedals only work with certain models. Always verify compatibility before purchase.

Build Quality and Durability

Look for a foot pedal made of metal with sturdy pivots, quality wiring and a robust treadle arm. It should feel solidly built and withstand hours of usage without overheating or failing.

High quality materials like copper wiring ensure better longevity and performance. Avoid cheap plastic pedals that wear out fast.

Adjustable Speed Settings

The pedal must offer variable speed control from low to high. Check if there is a rheostat or dial to fine-tune the speed range if needed.

Smooth, steady acceleration is essential for precision stitching and preventing skipped stitches at higher speeds.

Size and Portability

If you’ll use your machine in different locations, get a compact, lightweight foot pedal that’s easy to transport. Smaller pedals are also great for limited spaces.

But verify it has enough foot room and a non-slip grip for comfortable use. Portability shouldn’t compromise on stability.

Extra Features

Added features to look for include adjustable height, a sturdy footrest for ergonomics, toe stop to prevent slippage, and an LED light that illuminates the pedal surface.

A removable pedal cover allows smooth motion and protects the pedal when not in use. A longer cord offers more positioning flexibility.

Foot Pedal Maintenance and Repair Tips

With regular maintenance, a quality foot pedal should deliver years of trouble-free performance. Here are some upkeep best practices:

Inspect Wiring and Connections

Check for damaged or frayed wires and loose connectors which can cause short circuits. Tighten any loose screws or nuts. Replace damaged cords to prevent electric shocks.

Clean and Lubricate Mechanisms

Wipe the pedal with a dry cloth to remove dust and debris. Put a small drop of sewing machine oil on pivot joints every 3-4 months to keep the movement smooth.

Adjust and Tighten Parts

Examine all moving components like rods, hinges, springs etc. Tighten any loose parts and adjust alignment if needed. This prevents excessive wear and tear.

Test and Replace Faulty Parts

If the pedal is not functioning properly, test components like the rheostat and capacitors. Replace any damaged parts with new high quality ones.

Troubleshoot Specific Problems

From no power to jerky speed control, there are fixes for most foot pedal problems. Our troubleshooting guide covers common foot pedal issues and solutions.

With proper care and maintenance, your foot pedal will deliver optimal sewing performance. Avoid cheaply made flimsy pedals and invest in a robust, durable one like the BrightlyLit Pedal for best results.

Conclusion

We hope this detailed guide gives you a comprehensive understanding of sewing machine foot pedals. The key takeaways are:

• A foot pedal enables intuitive variable speed control for easier sewing.
• It allows hands-free operation and rhythmic pedaling motion that enhances focus.
• Pedals work on a simple treadle mechanism that uses foot pressure to drive the motor.
• Consider factors like compatibility, build quality, speed control, size and extra features when choosing one.
• Perform regular maintenance like cleaning, oiling and part replacement to extend the pedal’s life.

Investing in a high quality foot pedal suitable for your machine model will give you the best sewing experience. With the pedal’s speed control capabilities, you can achieve professional-looking results on all your projects.

So get ready to enjoy smoother, faster and more focused sewing with the right foot pedal!