What component of the sewing machine moves the fabric while it is being stitched?

The feed dogs are the component of the sewing machine responsible for moving the fabric through the machine as it is being stitched. They consist of small, metal teeth that rise up through the throat plate of the sewing machine to grip the fabric and push it forward in a controlled manner. This movement is essential for ensuring even stitching and helps to feed the fabric into the needle while maintaining the desired stitch length.

In comparison, a rotary cutter is used for cutting fabric rather than moving it through the machine, while a measuring tape and seam gauge are tools used for measuring fabric and ensuring accuracy in sewing rather than interacting with the fabric during the stitching process. Hence, understanding the role of the feed dogs is crucial for both operating a sewing machine efficiently and achieving high-quality sewing results.