What is the Tape Attaching Presser Foot
The tape attaching presser foot has a built-in channel or slot that guides reinforcing tape (such as wooly tape or spin tape) directly to the needle alongside the fabric. It is designed for overlock and safety stitch machines to attach tape to knit garments, most commonly at the shoulder seam to prevent stretching.
PHOTO: Tape attaching presser foot for overlock machine, showing the tape guide channel and the needle area.
Which Machine It Fits
Overlock machines and safety stitch machines. Common models: Juki MO-6714, Yamato AZ8000, Pegasus M900. The foot is specific to overlock machines and is not interchangeable with lockstitch feet.
PHOTO: Tape attaching foot mounted on an overlock machine, close-up of the tape channel and needle.
Key Features
Built-in tape guide channel. Feeds tape and fabric together. Prevents knit stretching at shoulder seams. Works with wooly tape and spin tape. Available for overlock and safety stitch machines. Keeps tape aligned with the seam.
PHOTO: Close-up of the tape channel and how the tape feeds toward the needle.
Practical Example 1 — Knit T-Shirt Shoulder
On a knit T-shirt, the shoulder seam stretches easily. Wooly tape is fed through the tape attaching foot while the overlock sews the shoulder seam. The tape reinforces the seam and prevents stretching. The finished shoulder holds its shape.
PHOTO: Shoulder seam of a knit T-shirt being sewn with the tape attaching foot, tape feeding through the channel.
Practical Example 2 — Sweatshirt Shoulder
On a sweatshirt, the shoulder seam needs reinforcement. Spin tape is attached with the tape attaching foot during overlocking. The seam is strong and does not stretch out of shape.
PHOTO: Sweatshirt shoulder seam with the tape attaching foot, showing the tape and overlock stitch.
Practical Example 3 — Knit Dress Neckline
On a knit dress, the neckline can stretch during wear. Tape is attached with the tape attaching foot to stabilize the neckline. The neckline keeps its shape after multiple washes.
PHOTO: Knit dress neckline being stabilized with the tape attaching foot.
Practical Example 4 — Safety Stitch Application
On a safety stitch machine, the tape attaching foot feeds tape while the safety stitch sews the seam. This is used for knit garments where both reinforcement and a clean seam finish are needed.
PHOTO: Safety stitch machine with the tape attaching foot, showing the tape and the safety stitch.
Why Use It Instead of Manual Tape Placement
Manual tape placement is slow and inconsistent. The tape shifts, and the seam becomes uneven. The tape attaching foot guides the tape directly to the needle, ensuring consistent placement and speed.
Common Mistakes
Tape not entering the channel correctly. Wrong tape width for the channel. Tape twisting during sewing. Not adjusting tape tension. Using the wrong foot for the machine type.
When to Use It
Use the tape attaching foot for knit shoulder seams, necklines, and any seam that needs reinforcement against stretching. It is essential for knit garment production on overlock and safety stitch machines.