No, the foot doesn't turn like the old patchers. The arm just makes it easier to get snug fitting things to the needle. Oddly enough though the gentleman I bought it off twelve years ago did use it to repair shoes and boots.  [ You are not allowed to view attachments ]  

Thanks for the add. I've done quite a bit of sewing using my industrial machine, an Durkopp Adler 069 cylinder arm - if that means anything I repaired rucksacks and heavy tents and so on for a few years when I worked for an outdoor activities provider. I also have a Pfaff select 4 which I've hardly used. I'd like to start making a few things. Just for the satisfaction and pleasure of doing something I like. I'd like to learn to put together seams and so on to a reasonable standard and to work toward making a shirt or something from a pattern. I'm scanning the forum for good ideas to steal and for inspiration.