How to Set Up a Darning Foot on Your Vintage Singer Model 66 Sewing Machine

Elevate Your Sewing: Setting Up Your Vintage Singer Sewing Machine Model 66 with a Darning Foot

Necessary Components

Before you begin, ensure you have the following components ready:

• Darning Feed Cover: Part # P60402 Darning Feed Cover Plate - Part # P60402

• Darning Foot: Part # 006016008 Embroidery & Darning Foot - Low Shank All Metal

Here are two more options for darning feet that will work with these models.

Darning Foot Low Shank Part # 161876

Embroidery & Darning Foot - Low Shank 

This setup is also compatible with other models such as the Singer Model 99, Model 185, Model 192, Model 201, Model 221, Model 285, and Model 101 along with many other low shank machines. Both the darning foot and feed cover plate are made of metal, promising durability and reliability for your sewing needs.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Machine:

   • Familiarize yourself with the various components, darning plate, darning foot, presser foot adjuster.

2. Install the Darning Feed Cover Plate:

   • Align the needle hole in the needle plate with the slot on the feed cover plate. Precise alignment is critical to avoid issues with the needle striking the cover. Use one of the two hole that are just to the right side of the needle plate to secure the cover plate with the screw that is included. 

3. Install the Needle:

   • Insert the needle into the needle clamp. Completing this step first is advisable, as you may need to remove the darning foot later to replace a broken needle.

4. Attach the Darning Foot:

   • Position the darning foot arm over the needle clamp. Ensure the arm of the foot does not contact the thread guide screw located just above the needle clamp. If the arm touches the screw, slightly bend the arm to center it properly on the shoulder of the needle clamp. This adjustment is crucial for smooth operation and avoiding any disruption during sewing.

5. Adjust the Presser Foot:

   • Locate the presser foot adjuster on your machine. Ensure the pressure setting for the darning foot is appropriate. If you tighten the adjuster all the way down, the foot will not function effectively. Adjust it to a suitable pressure that allows the foot to grip the fabric without hindrance.

6. Position Your Fabric:

   • Prepare your fabric for darning by positioning it under the needle, ensuring it is flat and smooth for optimal results.

7. Test Your Setup:

   • Before starting your main project, run a few test stitches on a scrap piece of fabric. This practice will ensure your foot operates as intended and any adjustments can be made conveniently before you begin your actual work.

Conclusion

Utilizing the darning foot with your Vintage Singer sewing machine Model 66 expands your creative capabilities. By following this detailed setup guide, you ensure that your darning projects are executed with precision and ease. With practice, you'll soon find yourself enamored with the art of darning, creating beautiful patterns and repairs using your reliable machine.