ruffler

A ruffler is a sewing machine attachment designed to automatically create ruffles, pleats, or gathered edges as fabric is fed through the machine. It consists of a specialized presser foot and a ruffling mechanism that inserts tucks or repeats a pleat at controlled intervals, producing evenly spaced gathers without manual pinning.

The operator can adjust several aspects of the ruffler’s output, including the depth of each tuck (ruffle size), the number of stitches between tucks, and the spacing of multiple rows of ruffles if the model supports it. With appropriate settings, a ruffler can produce delicate lace-like ruffles or more pronounced pleats, making it useful for garments, home décor, and crafts.

Typical use and materials: rufflers are commonly used with lightweight to medium-weight woven fabrics such as cotton, lawn, chiffon, and similar textiles. They are favored for projects that require consistent gathering along a seam, such as sleeves, hems, skirts, and decorative trims. Knits are generally less suitable unless the fabric is very stable and the ruffler is specifically designed for it.

History and compatibility: rufflers were popular accessories in the mid-20th century and remain available from several sewing-machine brands as aftermarket or included attachments. Modern machines vary in compatibility, with some requiring specific shank types or adapters. Users should consult their machine manual to confirm fit and supported settings.

Limitations and tips: rufflers introduce extra bulk and require careful tension and fabric handling. They may take practice to obtain even gathers, and not all fabrics respond well. Testing on scraps before working on a project is recommended.