How to Use the BERNINA #43 Couching Foot

By Colibri Sewing | Sewing & Quilting Supplies | Published: 2026-10-22

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to set up and use the BERNINA #43 couching foot for decorative couching with yarns, cords, and ribbons. Step-by-step instructions included.

Quick answer

To use the BERNINA #43 couching foot, attach it to your machine, thread the yarn or cord through the guide, and stitch slowly while guiding the material. This foot works with cords up to 2 mm wide on both 5.5 mm and 9 mm machines.

What is the BERNINA #43 couching foot for?

The #43 foot is designed for free-motion couching—a technique where you stitch over a decorative yarn, cord, ribbon, or braid to attach it to your fabric. The foot has a guide that holds the material in place as you sew, allowing you to create smooth, controlled lines and curves.

This foot works with materials up to 2 mm wide, making it suitable for most standard embroidery yarns, thin cords, and narrow ribbons. It fits both 5.5 mm and 9 mm BERNINA machines, so you can use it with a wide range of models.

Choosing the right material and thread

The #43 foot handles cords, yarns, ribbons, and braids up to 2 mm thick. For best results, choose a material that is flexible enough to bend around curves without kinking. Thicker or stiffer materials may not feed smoothly through the guide.

Use a thread color that matches or contrasts with your couching material, depending on the look you want. A matching thread hides the stitches, while a contrasting thread makes them stand out.

Step-by-step instructions for using the BERNINA #43 couching foot

1. Attach the #43 couching foot: Remove your current presser foot and attach the #43 couching foot to your BERNINA machine. Make sure it clicks securely into place. Common mistake: Forgetting to lower the presser foot lever before stitching, which can cause skipped stitches or damage.
2. Thread the yarn through the guide: Feed your yarn, cord, or ribbon through the small guide on the front of the foot. Pull about 4–6 inches of material through the back so it trails behind the foot. Checkpoint: If the material is too thick or kinked, it may not slide through the guide smoothly. Try a thinner or more flexible material.
3. Select your stitch and lower the presser foot: Choose a straight stitch or a decorative stitch. Set your stitch length to 2.5–3.0 mm for a balanced look. Lower the presser foot so the yarn is held between the foot and the fabric. Common mistake: Using too short a stitch length can cause the yarn to bunch up or the needle to hit the guide.
4. Start stitching slowly: Begin sewing at a slow, steady speed. Guide the fabric with your hands while keeping the yarn centered under the foot. For curves, pivot the fabric gently. Checkpoint: If the yarn pulls to one side, you may need to adjust the guide or slow down. Practice on scrap fabric first.
5. Finish and secure the ends: When you reach the end of your couching line, stop stitching and clip the yarn tail close to the fabric. Use a few backstitches or a dab of fabric glue to prevent unraveling. Common mistake: Cutting the yarn too short can cause it to pull out. Leave a 1-inch tail and secure it with a knot or glue if needed.

Product details

#43 BERNINA Free-Motion Couching Foot: For cords, yarns, ribbons and braids up to 2 mm wide. All sorts of lines and shapes can be couched precisely. For 5.5 mm and 9 mm machines. You can use this single foot for a variety of decorative materials on most BERNINA machines, making it a versatile addition to your presser foot collection.
#43 BERNINA Free-Motion Couching Foot