As always, the original is the VERY best. However, when it is not available, a reproduction piece can be second best – if the manufacturer has it correct!
So far, I have found three different types of openings on the original Greist feet. You will probably have a set that matches one of these types. I guess I would call them (L to R) the long keyhole, square slot, and short keyhole.
In order for the Attachment Foot to work correctly on the machine, four things have to happen (these are my four quality checks).
First, it has to go on (attaching to your foot). Second, it has to slide enough to the left and right so it matches your original needle hole. Third, it has to have the right angle for your slant shank. Lastly, there has to be enough clearance to put your fabric under.
Tests and photos from the last “batch” I purchased:
The photo above, an Attachment Foot with the hemmer fits all of my four specifications. It goes on, slides to cover the entire needle hole (and farther!), it has the correct slant, and I have at least ¼” to insert my fabric before lowering the foot. So – it would be a keeper! This is an Attachment Foot on the “long keyhole”.
The photo above, an Attachment Foot with the Edge Stitcher fits only three of the specifications. It goes on, and has the correct slant, enough clearance, BUT it will not slide far enough to allow full use of your needle hole. Not workable at all. This is the square keyhole.
I didn’t take a photo of the “short keyhole”, but it went on, and had the correct slant, enough clearance, BUT did not slide enough to use your needle hole.
To be a true “keeper”, the Attachment foot has to fit all three types of slots, and meet all four of my specifications.
How can you tell you are getting a good one? Before buying ASK the seller for more information!
-Know the type of slot you have so you can ask if it fits
-Have they tested them? Ask about all four specifications.
-Will they refund your money if it doesn’t fit?
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For the most part, the reproduction pieces have worked beautifully on the two round keyhole slots, and most I received were just as perfect on the square one. I always make it known if they don’t. Occasionally I would find one I had to toss out for some reason or another, and it was tossed. You don’t have that luxury as you are only buying one, and you want it to work.
As a buyer from the supplier, I was pleased with the quality I was receiving.
The last batch of slant Attachment Feet I received was a “mixed bag”, so to speak. Most met all three of my specifications, but some didn’t. They slipped by me this time! (I am totally human and make those mistakes). I found several that were fine except they did not have the correct slant. Others were too tall. Feedback from others is what I rely on, and always appreciate it. There may be others from previous batches that truly didn’t fit your specific slot type.
So, I will contact the supplier about the fit - this was probably just an unsuitable batch. The next should be fine.
This is totally unscientific and I would love to hear if you have another type of Greist feet!
As an added note, I have been asked if another style of foot has an attachment to fit the slant (or low shank). These were also made by Greist, however they are called top-clamping feet. They look like a "u" facing backward. Will post a pic later. However, there isn't any attachment made to convert these to your slant or low shank machine. I believe you would need to remove the entire needle bar.
