I have an older Necchi 544. It will pick up the stitches when I do it manually, but skips when I try to use the foot control. HELP

When sewing from thick to thin layers, it is common for industrial sewing machines to skip stitches or produce uneven stitches. Here are some things you can try to prevent this issue:

1. Use the right needle: A needle that is too small or too large for the fabric can cause skipped stitches. Make sure you are using the correct needle size and type for the fabric you are working with.
2. Adjust the presser foot pressure: The pressure of the presser foot can be adjusted on most industrial sewing machines. Decrease the pressure of the presser foot when sewing over thinner layers to help prevent skipped stitches.
3. Use a walking foot: A walking foot can help prevent skipped stitches when sewing over multiple layers of fabric. The walking foot will help feed the fabric through the machine evenly, preventing skipped stitches.
4. Adjust the tension: If the tension is too loose or too tight, it can cause skipped stitches. Adjust the tension according to the fabric you are working with.
5. Use a stabilizer: When sewing over thin fabrics, use a stabilizer to prevent the fabric from puckering and causing skipped stitches.

If none of these solutions work, you may need to take the machine to a professional for further inspection and adjustment.

Perhaps a manual would be helpful:

http://freenecchisewingmachinefiles.weebly.com/

Necchi 542 and 544 Lydia Sewing Machine Threading Diagram

Necchi Lydia 3 Models 542 544 series Part III Stitches Buttonholes

All sewing machine manuals are available., online.

Most likely it is a foot control problem--probably something you cannot see.

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Necchi 544 manual free

Instruction Manual Necchi 544 Lydia 3

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Hmm, have you installed a brand new needle? Make sure the needle is compatible with the thread and fabric. Sometimes a top stitch or microtex needle will work better for free motion quilting or darning.

https://www.superiorthreads.com/education/what-causes-skipped-stitches

https://moonlightingquilts.wordpress.com/2012/04/19/skipping-the-skipped-stitches-in-your-free-motion-quilting/

https://www.generations-quilt-patterns.com/skipped-stitches-driving-you-nuts1.html

before adjusting the tensions always note where they were. and always put back if it worked there before then they were right. now try the needle is it bent? try cleaning it I use canned air. get the lint out easier than the brush they send with the machine. and maybe the fabric you are using needs a special needle for stretchyfabric. hope this helps good luck

your machine might have a problem with the rotary hook, it might need to get timed by a professional.