Featherweight Fanatics Archives

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Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 8/7/97
Date: Sat, 9 Aug 1997 22:46:17 +0100

To Kris

Your Singer Centre probably assumed that you had a machine with sealed
motor bearings. If you have provision for lubing the motor bearing you
should do so. Use either the official Singer lubricant or , as most
factories do, High Melting Point auto grease.
I do not believe that FW motors are still available but there's nothing in
there that cannot be rebuilt and made as good as new.

Leggy is a good term for the tables. I've never thought them attractive or
well made but they are Singer accessories and, as such, have a place in a
collection.



Re cabinets

Singer offered cabinets in oak, mahogony, cedar and walnut. Oak and
mahogony are the commonest with mahogony the prefered choice by collectors.


To Jody

ISMACS has quite a selection of Free Westinghouse manuals available for
copy. Mail me


To Pat re Minnisota

These were made by a wide variety of companies for the Sears Roebuck
mail-order house.

Graham 
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Date: Sat, 9 Aug 1997 11:00:22 -0400
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 8/7/97

Hi Patty,
Enjoyed your listing about your four fws.  I only have one so far but
keep looking.
Aren't they wonderful?  I am so happy for your success in finding them!
Linda
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Date: Sun, 10 Aug 1997 01:05:55 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Tan Featherweight?

There's a tan FW being offered on an online auction that I'm a bit interested
in.  It looks almost exactly like my white FW.  Have heard of tan FWs, never
seen one though.  Anyone know if the elusive tan one I've only heard about
looks like the white FWs?   I remember seeing a tan one somewhere on the net
once - can't remember where - but my recollection is that it looked a bit
different than the one FWs.  Anyone know how long tan ones were made and
where and when.  Sorry if this has been asked a million times already.

Thank you so much.  Marilyn
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Date: Sat, 9 Aug 97 15:04:53 +0100
Subject: Sincere's book-Attny Gen

I would like to ditto Chris's request to write to the AZ Attorny General's
Office if you have paid for and not received the Sincere's books advertised
on FWF by BK.

While I am sympathetic to any personal problems that Ms. K has, nothing
excuses fraud and theft.

I wrote to the Asst Attny Gen of AZ last night and in order to make it
easier for you, have posted a form letter which you may use to send in a
letter.  See separate post titled 'Sincere's Book Orders. The more requests
for assistance the more likely that an inquiry will occur.


When you use the form letter:

REMOVE my name and e-mail address from the top.

ADD your book order and amount and check date if you have it.

ADD the date

ADD your NAME and ADDRESS.


I really bear BK no ill will: just want my books or my money returned.

Jan 
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Date: Sat, 09 Aug 1997 19:57:54
Subject: My Two Cents worth.

Dear Feathers; my two cents worth, First I must apologize for being a real
procrazinator and a tortise. I do really try but have too many irons in too
many fires my real dream is too have a speciality business dealing in fws
and antique sewing machines and let my mechanic deal in the modern or every
day stuff. I would much rather work on treadles and old sewing machines
myself than work on new or everyday sewing machines. However when you build
up a repair business for nearly twenty years you just dont walk away from
it. I thank Capt Dick for his kind words, I find a lot of pleasure in
putting together a nice unit, a lot of times we consider it restoring a
machine not fixing it. Well the drawing room cabinet style 31 I believe
finally went out the door yesterday and its going to a very good home, it
has a 27 decorated with pheasants and peacocks. Built in 1902 with oak and
burled walnut and brass pulls, original instructions and oak puzzle box
attachments and the machine in cond 6 or 7. It was a find, the new owner is
going to do a complete restoration of the cabinet over the winter. I am
very happy with what I got and it was worth waiting and holding out for.
The latest find is a very good 1887 fiddle base head in cond 6 with a
complete black walnut stand that is in very good cond almost 98 percent no
veneer damage and will restore beatifully. The flowers on the head are
still very bright. I have been very blessed with finding fws for the last
couple of months and consider it lucky. Though we now pay more than we used
to sell them for, anyway signing off and if one has some suggestions on my
website please e mail me, this website business is very new and we are
learining the address is below yours mike.
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Date: Sun, 10 Aug 1997 10:02:19 -0500
Subject: Parts for 221 & 99

Have seen several requests for parts for the fw and 99.
I just got the handcrank from "A Stitch Back in Time" to
convert my 99 portable for 7-year-old daughter.  You
might want to give them a call (1-800-352-1174).  They
sent me their parts diagrams for the 221 and 99, and the
diagrams include things like the slide plates,  bobbin
hook, tiny screws, etc.  I don't have the price list, and
also don't know if all the parts are original or if some
are after-market.  They were very nice on the phone, and
sent my handcrank priority mail so it arrived quickly!
(Haven't installed it yet.)  I think they also have a
website.  Try using http://www.metacrawler.com to search
for it.

Mary
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Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 8/7/97
Date: Sun, 10 Aug 1997 09:30:24 -0600

   Sometimes I read the posts and think, what a lucky person to find a real
bargain.  I have paid top dollar for most of my machines including my FW. 
   Now I have found a really good deal and I just have to tell.  I was
driving by a thrift store the other day on my way to an antique show and I
thought, I just have to do a quick walk through. So I stopped and went in. 
There were several sms there including a couple of stripped 404s, a wartime
godzilla kenmore, and a godzilla domestic. All electric and nothing I was
interested in, then I saw it.  A wood and black card table with a rectangle
hole in it.  Could it be?  I grabbed it and made for the checkstand before
anyone could change their mind. It was only $10.00!  No insert, but who's
complaining.  It's going to have a FW in it anyway. The FW does look so
tiny and cute in it.  I am so happy.
    I also went to the antique show and came home with a 1925 Singer 99
handcrank in a great bentwood case with attachments and key.  The paint and
decals are in great shape but the exposed metal has been rusted somewhat. 
Someone cleaned the rust off and left the wheel and faceplate dull.  But It
was only $89. and I wanted it for my motorhome so I bought it.  Now does
anyone have any tips on derusting the inside parts?  It runs great but I
don't have a manual.  Also I'm looking for a manual for a 201 for a friend.
Copies are great.  Thanks for listening (reading), Patty  
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Subject: New Purchase--Minnesota Model C Treadle
Date: Sun, 10 Aug 1997 08:35:33 -0700

I haven't posted for quite awhile and have just printed off two weeks worth
of digests.  PAT  posted about her find of a Minnesota-Model A treadle
which prompted me to post of my find because I too need some information.  

The cabinet you described is like the one my treadle is in and the antique
dealer told me that these are called "parlor treadles". I don't have any
drawers with mine, but there is an "enclosed shelf" for lack of better
description which was holding the box of attachments (many), wooden needle
holder and the original manual.  The manual is titled Minnesota Model C
Sewing machine--Sears, Roebuck & Co. Chicago.  The manual is oil soaked
which probably preserved the pages which are still very readable.  
I have quite a bit of clean-up do not and I am a little nervous about doing
it--don't want to ruin any of the decals.  Any suggestions would be
helpful.  

Also the fellow running the estate sale said that this machine was late
1800 early 1900.  I too would like any information you might know about
this treadle. 

Will post later about my other finds.  

Joanne
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Date: Sun, 10 Aug 1997 11:07:23 -0700
Subject: cabinet for 1880s Eldredge machine

I have an 1880's Eldredge Vibrating Shuttle Machine that belonged to my 
Grandmother. Cabinet is missing original drawers. Where can I get a 
pattern for the cabinet or at least a picture with adequate detail that 
so I can get the cabinet restored similar to the original?
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Date: Sun, 10 Aug 1997 13:50:28 EST5EDT4,M4.1.0,M10.5.0
Subject: RE: FW Fanatics 8/5/97

PEOPLE!!! Please identify your location with your name at theend of your 
message; there are many of us FWFs and noone can remember EVERYONE'S
location!! It really is helpful to those of us (many) for whom proximity
matters!!! thanks. Susan
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Date: Sun, 10 Aug 1997 14:12:44 EST5EDT4,M4.1.0,M10.5.0
Subject: RE: FW Fanatics 8/6/97

Let me second the request for good overall cleaning information. People say
they go over the machine with WD40 and then good sewing machine oil. WHERE
exactly doyou put the WD40? I know where to put the oil; where THE MANUAL says!!Also, when the machine jams, anyone have a clue what are good steps to take?

Again about cleaning...MANY people have written to express regret at using 
one product or another...someone PLEASE give us a blow-by-blow set of instruc-
tions on cleaning the surface, the moving parts, etc. And of course what parts
ofthe machine NOT to touch!! Thanks so much to all. SusanK
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Subject: seen in Adamstown
Date: Sun, 10 Aug 1997 18:41:32 +0000

I've just returned from a long long day checking out the various flea
markets, antique stores etc in Adamstown.  Two items worth mentioning: I saw
a FW, complete with case, in an FW table:cost 695.  The machine was probably
a 7 or 8, but the gold work looked intact.  The table may have been
refinished.  If so, it was very well done.

The other FW was seen in the same location I found it in last time.  But
now, the price is 365 instead of 495.  Dare we hope that prices are leveling
off?  Anyhow, I am not in the market to buy either FW, having all my house
and husband will tolerate already.  Should anyone be interested in more
details about either one, contact me privately.  The usual disclaimer
applies: I have no interest in either one, but it would be nice to see them
find a happy home.

Flo
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Date: Sun, 10 Aug 1997 15:49:54 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Mother Lode!

Hi Fwf's,

I think I must have hit the "Mother Lode"!.  I bought out a collector
yesterday.  They just wanted to get 'rid' of their machines.  The catch was
we had to move them out of the basement ourselves.  Guess what I got?

3 Wheeler & Wilson treadles last patent dates from 1851 to 1854. I don't know
what type of stitch these do.  I have a partial manual and it says something
about winding a bobbin. These are all similar.  One of the machines has a
round brass embossed "W&W logo on the bed of the machine.  It says Wheeler &
Wilson MFG Co. New York, 625 Broadway.  The tops on these 3 machines look
like a big square box.  You lift up the front half of the box to expose the
machine inside.  Closed up, they look like boxes on iron legs.
Inside there is a little drawer on each side of the machine.  Reminds me of a
desk sorta when you open it up and see the little drawers. 

1 Willcox and Gibbs last patent date 1864.   I know that this one is a chain
stitch machine.  I was playing around w/it last night but could'nt get it to
sew.  The thread gets all tangled up on the hook (the part where the bobbin
would be).  I don't have a manual.

1 Florence  (boat shuttle).   I could'nt find any patent dates on this
machine.  I got an original manual w/this one. The cover says 1871.
This machine is pictured in the book "The Sewing Machine: It's Invention and
Development" by Grace Rogers Cooper.  Page 135  Figure 158. It says that it
was sold as a side feed machine but termed as a "back feed machine" when
mounted on the table (I'm not sure yet what this means).  I am missing the
wooden cover for it.

1 Weed   last patent date 1867 From T.I. Weed

1 Weed   last patent date: 1867 From Fairfield's

All of these treadles have the neat looking pair of feet for the pedal part.

1 Singer hand crank  Last patent date: 1888.  I don't know the model of this
one yet, but decals are so pretty and the lid has one handle on each side of
the top instead of just one handle on the top of the case and a metal latch
instead of where the key hole would be.

I am not by any means a rich person and was lucky enough to get these for an
extremly good price.  I paid what they wanted and did NOT dicker.  We were
both very happy.  

Which one I wonder is the most collectable?  I really don't know anything
about these older machines.  All but the Singer are little tiny things.

Does anyone have any information?  I need to check each one out a lot better
but have not had the time.  Believe me, I can hardly wait.  It took us 4
trips to get them all.  We don't have a truck.  Luckily, our camero is a
hatch back and can hold more then it looks.  I know my mom will definately
think I have lost a few marbles.
They also had a Featherweight and table.  I finally got to see the table.  It
looks just like what everyone has been describing.  She did'nt know the value
of the FW and was'nt ready to sell.  I told her that I had sold one for $375.
 I'm not sure what the tables go for.

This house that they live in  is  the most beautiful antique house I have
ever seen.  It has been completely restored and just full of beautiful
antiques.  It was so much fun admiring everything.

I'm sorry this is so long.  

Terri 
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Date: Sun, 10 Aug 97 20:18:16 UT
Subject: Flower Power

Bought an unusual little machine at a flea market last week for $10.  It is 
called a Flower, is a free arm, 14" long in total, and about 9" high.  It is 
mauve (purplish colored), and has flower stickers on it.  It is quite heavy, 
but looks like a large toy machine, but has all the necessities, including a 
vertical mounted, round bobbin.  Does anyone have any info about this machine, 
such as who made it, and when?
Jeannie 
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Date: Sun, 10 Aug 1997 19:53:57 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Sitings - Bunker Hill, VA

Dear Feathers:

I just got back from the Belle Grove Quilt Show and had a ball.  We spent one
day antiquing and, at the Bunker Hill Antique Shop in Bunker Hill, VA, I saw
a black longbed 301a in a table with a case and attachments for $475.00.  I'm
not interested but thought maybe someone else would be.  Also saw a
great-looking Singer electric 99 in a case for $32.00.  I know this was a
great deal but I can't buy any more sewing machines.  Nowhere to put them.
 This one was so shiny and clean looking, no rust at all, all decals in great
shape.  The case seemed to be beat up or I would think the machine was never
used!

Let me know if you need more info.

Connie 
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Date: Sun, 10 Aug 1997 20:44:33 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: New to list

Hi, I just managed to gain possession of my Mother's FW.  I don't know a lot
about the machine except that I have always loved it.  It's the machine I
learned to sew on (I didn't realize how small it was until I grew up).  This
particular model has a metal label that says "A CENTURY OF SEWING SERVICE
     1851 * 1951" so I am assuming that my Mother purchased in 1951 and this
was a centenial model.

My family lives in the Seattle, Washington area.  I enjoy all needlecrafts,
including sewing, quilting, knitting, needlepoint and other crafts too.  My
family enjoys auto racing, baseball (Mariners), camping and reading.

I am looking forward to learning about the FW and sharing information.

Alice
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Subject: I am looking for a featherweight & need information.
Date: Sun, 10 Aug 1997 18:38:48 -0700

Dear Fanatics,
	I live in WA state and am in a local quilting group.  Many of the women in
my group have the featherweight machines and love them.  I would like to
find out where I could find a machine locally.  I live in Sequim WA, which
is near the Seattle area.  Any help you could give me would me much
appreciated.

			Sincerely, Cathy
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Date: Sun, 10 Aug 1997 20:33:22 -0700
Subject: puzzle box and help with blind stich foot

Hey again,
	A few things I forgot to ask about in the previous post.  Could someone
explain to me how the blind stitch foot works?  It is an aftermarket
one, right now I can't even rememrb why I picked it up but I know I
needed it for something.  :)  I know how to put it on the machine, thats
simple enough but beyond that I aint sure.
	Also does anyone have a diagram of how all the attachments go into the
box that came with our 99 portable?  The box itself is black wiht a
purple lining.  The top has 2 tall clips on the right hand side it has
one long and short flat clips on the top near the fron one clip in the
back of the front and 3 uprights making 2 clips? on the right hand side
of the back.  The bottom has 2 tall clips in the right front, one just
right of center in the front, one large one in the back left corner and
one smaller one just left of center near the back.  I can't find any
part number on it.  It has a crinkle finish when we got it it had:
1 ruffler
1 quilt guide
1 tuckmarker
1 adjustable hemmer
1 binder
1 fabric guide
1 small screwdriver
and what appears to be a feed dawg cover that is best describes as an
oval wiht an arm and a triangle at the end of the arm.  Part number
121547 simanco

any and all help is greatly appreciated.  
Shawn
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Subject: Manual Copies
Date: Mon, 11 Aug 1997 00:07:41 -0700

Hi, all.

Many thanks to those who have been posting with me about charging for
manual copies.  The volume of requests I get has become quite large. 
I know ISMACS charges, and appropriately so, as they are an
organization.  I need to do something, but am less than completely
comfortable looking like I'm trying to "make money" at manual copies.
 I have been trying to come up with a realistic and comfortable
approach on this.  Thanks to an idea from one of you, I think I have
it. 

If I have the manual copy you ask for I'll say so and offer to copy
it, in exchange for 1/2 yard or two fat quarters of fabric on the
themes of sewing machines/notions, teddy bears, kites, wild animals
or trains.  Alternatively, if you want, I'll send 'em for $5, but I'd
prefer the fabric.  What fun to think of a quilt down the line, made
entirely from fabrics from this source.

I'll go ahead and the send the copies on your request and rely on you
to find and send the fabric when you can.  Unless it just gets to be
too much, this ought to solve my problem.  (Those who need manuals
recurrently might want to keep their eyes open for fabric bargains to
keep on the shelf for use as needed!)

Captain Dick
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Subject: Singer Fashion Mate Model 237 Instruction Manual
Date: Sun, 10 Aug 1997 15:58:52 -0600

Hi everyone, 

I have a Singer Fashion Mate Model 237 instruction manual if anyone needs
one for the price of postage.  If you are interested, please email me
personally.  Thanks to everyone for all their wisdom, caring and sharing. 
This is a wonderful digest...

Joyce
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Date: Mon, 11 Aug 1997 06:09:57 -0400
Subject: featherweights in NH antiques stores

Hi Feathers,
Linda   again,  These new bi-focals are doing great.  I spotted 2
featherweights in antique shops yesterday.  One I bought.  It is a
Centennial (which is just what I have) but it is only about a 6.  It had
not been taken care of very nicely.  But I have oiled it, taken out the
bobin and there were so many threads caught in there it never would have
sewn, put it all back together, cleaned all the cobwebs out of it.  It
has the case but latches are broken.  Also It has an old foot pedal but
she is working beautifully.  I pd $170 for it.  I will use this one and
have listed my other which is an 8 and has attachments, manual and good
case in the Ebay Auction, because I can't justify having two machines
that are the same  (centennial)
This one did not have attachments but I don't use them anyway.  I just
want one that sews.
The other I saw was in another shop and it was a beauty.  It was marked
$325 with a $35 discount.  A lady from NH had written to me when I first
posted and I wish I had kept her email address but perhaps she will read
this and contact me and I can tell her where this fw
is.
Happily sewing.
Linda 
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Date: Sun, 10 Aug 1997 20:34:18 -0500
Subject: musty case

My husband gave me a Featherweight as my "summer gift", but the case 
smells very musty.  I have scrubbed with Murphy's Oil soap, sprayed 
with Lysol and left it in the sun with no luck.  Any suggestions?

S
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Date: Mon, 11 Aug 1997 07:18:40 -0700
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 8/9/97/Sincere Books

On 10 Aug 97 at 12:20, Featherweight Fanatics wrote:

> Date: Sat, 9 Aug 97 15:06:57 +0100
> Subject: Sincere's book orders
> 
> Arizona Office of Consumer Affairs
> Assistant Attorney General's Office
> Consumer Protection Division
> 400 W. Congress, South Bldg. #315
> Tucson, AZ 85701
> 

Bob ... Thank you so much! I will get this filled in and sent ASAP. I 
hope those who have been taken will do like wise.

--
 Rosemary
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Date: Sun, 10 Aug 1997 22:36:25 -0400
Subject: 201 cabinet

Hi Everyone,
    I've been looking for a cabinet for my 201 for about a year and this is one case where it paid to wait!  Saw an ad in the paper for a 201 so yesterday morning we went to see it and it was love at first sight. I've never seen this style of cabinet - Queen Anne - and it looks like mahogany. On the inside of one door there are about 8 spool pins above 3 swing out drawers, and to the rear of the cabinet are three more storage bins (with doors).  The 201 appears to be in good condition and just purrs.  Last evening I went through all the goodies in the drawers and found a manual and a box of attachments that look like they've never been used. Now I'm not sure which machine I'm going to keep - my Centennial or this AE. I really dont' want nor do I have room for both. Such hard decisions! 
    DH passed up a 401 yesterday for $25 because he thought I wouldn't want it because it was too new.  Said it had a manual and was in good condition.

JP 
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Date: Sun, 10 Aug 1997 20:02:13 -0700
Subject: Looking for a zig zag attachment

Hey all,
	I am looking for a zig zag attachment for our Pfaff 31.  The Singer
buttonholler (pt# 121795) works with this machine as well as with our 66
and 99.  If anyone has an extra that they wouldn't mind parting with
please let me know.  The pfaff is the machine I learned to sew on and I
have a few projects that advise zig zig stitches.  No we haven't had the
machine forever, sewing just wasn't something tought to us boys when we
were growing up.  
thanks 
Shawn
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Subject: I found one!
Date: Mon, 11 Aug 1997 08:49:17 -0600

Out of lurkdom:

   Sometimes I read the posts and think, what a lucky person to find a real
bargain.  I have paid top dollar for most of my machines including my FW. 
   Now I have found a really good deal and I just have to tell.  I was
driving by a thrift store the other day on my way to an antique show and I
thought, I just have to do a quick walk through. So I stopped and went in. 
There were several sms there including a couple of stripped 404s, a wartime
godzilla kenmore, and a godzilla domestic. All electric and nothing I was
interested in, then I saw it.  A wood and black card table with a rectangle
hole in it.  Could it be?  I grabbed it and made for the checkstand before
anyone could change their mind. It was only $10.00!  No insert, but who's
complaining.  It's going to have a FW in it anyway. The FW does look so
tiny and cute in it.  I am so happy.
    I also went to the antique show and came home with a 1925 Singer 99
handcrank in a great bentwood case with attachments and key.  The paint and
decals are in great shape but the exposed metal has been rusted somewhat. 
Someone cleaned the rust off and left the wheel and faceplate dull.  But It
was only $89. and I wanted it for my motorhome so I bought it.  Now does
anyone have any tips on derusting the inside parts?  It runs great but I
don't have a manual.  Also I'm looking for a manual for a 201 for a friend.
Copies are great.  Thanks for listening (reading), Patty  
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Date: Mon, 11 Aug 1997 11:23:42 -0400
Subject: Middle drawer for Singer cabinet

Looking over the FW digest for 8-8, I noticed a reply to Viv? about the
center drawer for a sewing cabinet, along with a note of how hard they
are to find... I actually have a spare!  Whoever was looking for the
center drawer, please email me privately!  Sue
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Date: Mon, 11 Aug 1997 11:53:48 -0500 (CDT)
Subject: Difference between a 501 & 401?

Hello All!
I just got a 401 Singer, which my mother says is
not that much different in what it can do, than
a 501.  Has anyone had much experience in the 401?
I only have the manual for the 501, and would be
interested in talking to someone--to get the 401
manual.

Well, there have been lots of orders for the 
updated Featherweight book.  We send them out
priority mail (which, by the way, is not priority
if any of ya all have dealth with the post office
lately....), but we receive our shipment of books
by UPS....  In other words, due to the demand
for the books, we have run out, and won't get
any until this UPS thing comes through.  

Ah, the mailing saga continues..

P.S.  Parents also found another oval cabinet
and found an original crinkle matte finished
featherweight.  It has the grovved line also
on the face plate.  This is the MOST rare
featherweight to be found.  Makes the freearms
seem like that they are in abundance..

Gail 
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Date: Mon, 11 Aug 1997 12:59:33 -0400
Subject: 221 Restoration Project

Hi everyone:
I've been very busy lately with all the Antique shows and such.  I have been
promising some folks with them c6 or worse Featherweights that I was going
to attempt a total restoration on a 221 beater c5 that I picked up. I've
uploaded the progress on to my web page for all those interested, scroll
down the index and select "221 Featherweight restoration"  While this
project is still not complete (waiting on decals) it's far enough along that
you can see that these typically used parts machines can have their finishes
restored to like new condition.  The cost is very reasonable, coupled with a
little determination and labor these parts machines will again sit proud on
display or in quilting classes.

I've had a good month, managed to find and purchase 4 Featherweights,
3-221's all in c8^ and a 222K c9.  I haven't got any of these machines
posted as of yet but as soon as there checked out and serviced I will be
adding to my site.

Thanks
Bob 
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Date: Mon, 11 Aug 1997 14:08:55 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re:Greetings fellow FWF's

Hello all -- I' m new to this listing and am I overjoyed to discover this
site!!!

Graham -- I've enjoyed reading your true stories -- read about your recovery 
-- thank you for all your help and hints -- please continue to take good care
of yourself!

I'm a quilter and have drooled (enviously) at ohter quilter's who had
fw's..... dropped hints at my sweetie and (this was about two years ago) was
given a centiniel fw, birth date 1-29-51 in #7 condition.  I absolutely love
her!!!!!   She sews great -- have all the regular attachments and a couple of
extras.  I do have one extra hemming foot with a different part nbr than
listed -- but i'm at work and didn't bring the nbrs with me.  I was wondering
if the felling/hemmer was a lil wider or just an older part nbr????

Shanon.... sorry I missed your msg about meeting at the SD quilt show --- I
was there on Sat but didn't know.... would of liked to have met some other fw
fanatics!

Take care everyone ... thank you for this listing!!!
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Date: Mon, 11 Aug 1997 13:29:05 +0000
Subject: Sewing Machines made in Portland, Oregon?

I am new to the collecting of old sewing machines. My neighbor found 
out I collected and he told me his mother had an old treadle machine 
that was made in Portland, Oregon.  I am a native Oregonian, so I 
would love to add native Oregonian machine to the colletion. Does 
anyone out there know whow the manufacture maybe?

Becki 
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Date: Mon, 11 Aug 1997 17:24:01 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re:  Throat plate

What is the best way to remove the throat plate on my 221.  It seems to be
stuck fast---I almost thought it could not be removed to clean the feed dogs.
 Susan
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Date: Mon, 11 Aug 1997 15:36:16
Subject: Re:  White Model 128

Hi everyone:

I've been back from holidays for a couple of weeks now and have been trying
to catch up with my email...reading all the back digests!  I think I'm
caught up.  I skipped a few of them...didn't get anything else done.  I
have made a quilt this summer on my Featherweight Free Arm that I bought at
that yard sale last May.  We finally got a manual for it and oiled it and
threaded it and it sews like a dream!  I made a quilt for my BIL and SIL's
couch (this is a wedding present for them).  They chose Debbie Mumm's
snowman pattern and I made 20 snowmen, plus a heart in the middle.  I
backed it with plaid flannel and am now machine quilting it on my regular
sewing machine.  But, I sewed the whole top with the Free Arm Featherweight!

Anyways...before we went on vacation I picked up another little old sewing
machine and posted it on FWF's, but didn't get any replies.  Does anyone
know anything about this machine?  It's a Black "White" brand sewing
machine.  The metal plate at the front says "Precision Built DeLuxe".
Inside at the edge it says:  C.W.P. Co Model 128 and a number punched in
(serial #? ) is 29173.  It has a blue metal box with it with a gold line
around and "Accerssories for Sewing Machine" stencilled on it in gold
letters.  There are no attachments.  The box only contained some thread and
a few extra bobbins.  It is electric, has the shuttle bobbins and has an
original manual with it.  My husband oiled it all and it sew quite nicely.
I want to try to sew a little quilt or something on it to really try it
out.  The machine sits into a a box and the cover clamps onto the box.
(Does this make sense?)  The case seems to be a textured vinyl or sorts
glued onto the wood box (I assume it's wood underneath).  It is quite heavy.  

Does anyone have any information about this machine...age, worth, etc?  The
black is in great shape and the gold trim on the "bed?" of the machine is
in excellent shape.  It was really neat watching the bobbin wind...my Mom
had a Singer treadle and we used to love watching that bobbin wind back and
forth when we were kids.

Thanks for any information anyone can send me.

Jacqui 
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Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 8/9/97
Date: Mon, 11 Aug 1997 23:40:27 +0100

To Susan

Vickers was an armaments company specialising in machine guns. After the
first world war they started sewing machine production with a clone of the
German Frister and Rossman machine.
Stayed in the sewing machine business until the outbreak of the second
world war when they sarted up  armament production again. Their sewing
machine production line went to the Jones company in Guide Bridge (now
Brother).

Graham 
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Date: Mon, 11 Aug 1997 09:25:23 -0700
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 8/9/97

Hi Feathers!  I have a friend coming to visit from England in 
October/November.  She is bringing with her 2 FW's.  A great story about 
1 of them.  Maggie & Pat went to stay at a friend's Bed 'n Breakfast.  As 
they were making the bed in the morning, Pat stubbed his toe on something 
under the bed.  The familiar black box was holding up the bed!  They 
recognized it because I had chattered on about them at length and had 
purchased an extra Srebo book, and give it to them.  They opened the box 
and found the gold scrollwork on the side plate, and Egyptian scrolling 
designs on the machine.  It was in perfect  condition.  They offered to 
purchase it front their friend, who looked at them like they were crazy 
for wanting "that old thing".  She said "sure" she would sell it, but 
what could she do about holding up the bed!  Patrick made her a new leg 
for the bed!  Maggie & Pat may be interested in selling their machines 
when they arrive.  The only problem is that they will be 220 voltage.  
Anyone have any ideas about what to do about that?  -Danna 
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Date: Mon, 11 Aug 1997 21:11:20 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Treadles

Hi again!

I have been busy tinkering and cleaning on the new treadles.  I did get the
Willcox & Gibbs chain stitch machine to sew finally.  I was threading it
wrong.  I sews very nicely and suprisingly quite. 

I found a patent date on the throat plate of the Florence.  It says 1850.
 The throad plate to this one is very diry.  I have used 0000 fine steel wool
on it.  I need to replace the strap for the pully.  I have the old one but it
is rotton.  Can I just go to a leather shop and get one the same size?  How
would I attach the two ends together once i get it on?  I looks like the old
one was attached together by a string just tied in a knot.  How about
needles?  Are they still available?  I have a couple of broken ones and 1
good one that looks shorter than the other 2.  They are strange curved
needles.  They say Florence on them.  I am going to have to study the manual
on this one in order to figure it out.  First I will have to photo copy it as
the original is so frail.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks!

Terri 
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Subject: Featherweights
Date: Mon, 11 Aug 1997 20:51:06 -0500
	
	Hi, all:

	I will be going to Martha's Vineyard Labor Day weekend
	and wonder if there are any featherweight treasures in the
	area?   Also, any FWF's there?

	Will be going to Canada in the fall and have seen some
	posts from people there who have purchased 222's.  Anyone
	know of a good area for flea markets or antique stores that
	might have a 222 available?

	Thanks,

	Eyleen 
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Date: Mon, 11 Aug 1997 19:04:46
Subject: SD Quilt Show FWF gathering

Hi Feathered Friends: We had a BALL - we had it all !!  How nice to
meetcha. There were about a dozen of us - one from Las Vegas, Carol from
the Redwoods(?), and from places I've never been to in the desert... Taria
- what a kick she is. She even brought her sister who lives in San Diego
and is not a quilter, or a SM collector. She is in the psychiatric field,
however, so that qualifies as a FWF (doesn't it). Anyway, everyone was so
nice, and excited. Oh, boy. I had fun. We saw photos of some of the SM
collections, we saw some attachments, and oil cans/bottles. I found a
SingerCraft "Fagoter" (Singer's words, not mine) from 1934 in an antique
store, so I brought it along... and a SingerCraft do-hickie for making
fringe for your rugs - a necessity for sure ;>  Apparently, it is a
different configuration than some other FWF own. I brought along a copy of
Capt Dick's field guide for those who haven't seen one... and wore a
ProOutfitters sweat shirt with the little FW logo on it. Passed out info
from ProOutfitters, and someone had a flyer about a nice FW for sale. I
think a 201 sale/swap and maybe a 401 sale may have come out of our
gathering. So we shared, and we talked, and we laughed, and we were so glad
to "meetcha". There were pictures taken that would be fun on a Web page -
when they are developed maybe someone would volunteer to post them. Of
course, I created a full-blown Indian Headdress with 28 long black & white
duck feathers, marabou, gold trim to emulate Singer decals, and cut-out
felt shapes of a FW in black, white and tan...trimmed with ceramic
sewing-item buttons. I was up until 3 a.m. the night before the show making
that darn thing, but that is not why my buddy Sharon (Spool Hearted Woman)
and I were late to the gathering. We rode the trolley downtown thinking it
would save time. Wrong. Don't ever ride the trolley unless you are doing
research for a sociology paper - and have plenty of time. Shannon
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Date: Mon, 11 Aug 1997 23:27:58 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Singer cabinet

Hi,
I have been lurking for a while.  I have a Singer parlor cabinet #23.  It
came with a model 66 red eye in good condition.  It was $30.00,  not bad.  It
was in a dark corner of the junk shop and seemed to be all there.  Well the
top is not for this cabinet.  So my question is does anyone have a cabinet
they are piecing out, or the top of one they would like to sell?   TIA

Linda 
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Date: Tue, 12 Aug 1997 08:16:32 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Miscellaneous catching up

HI all--

   I've just returned from a 12 day trip to the east coast and am still
catching up on the digests. I have a Word macro for printing them out that
reduces the type size, double columns, and strips out some header and other
uneccessary stuff.  Even with all that, it was 39 pages for August's digests
so it will take me a while to catch up.

   While on vacation in the Outer Banks of North Carolina I found a Wheeler
and Wilson SM, serial number 751073 at an antique mall.  It had a manual, a
glass Singer oil bottle, an attachment of some sort in a W&W cardboard box,
and some loose attachements in the drawers.  The machine was at least moving
and you could still see portions of the decals -- maybe a 5 or 6, hard to say
because I didn't examine it all that closely.  The cabinet appeared to be in
very good shape.  The price on it was $295 and since it was in a tourist
area, I don't know what the flexibility on that might be.  If anyone is
interested, email me and I will give you more information about the location.
 

   Since I found out right before I left on vacation that both children need
to start braces right away, my sole sewing realted purchase on my trip was a
spool of silk thread for 25 cents.  I think SM money will be going to the
orthodontist for a while now.  

    Hope to catch up with all the news in the next couple days and hope the
hunting is good.  If anyone has a long bed 301 table that they would like to
trade for a FW table or a black FW motor to trade for a white FW motor,
please let me know--I'm still looking.  Thanks.....

                                    Cyndi
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Date: Tue, 12 Aug 1997 09:48:03 -0500 (CDT)

Angel said:

> Just got back from the flea market.  Found an old Singer
> sewing machine for 20.00 with a cabinet.  It's black with
> oriental type design on it.  It says Singer Manufactoring
> Company on the top of it and Singer on the front.  It has a
> drop in bobbin.  I cannot figure out how to get the bobbin
> thread to work with the needle thread.  Any suggestions?
> This little round thing inside the bobbin area turns in a
> half circle I guess but it doesn't catch the bobbin thread.

It could be several things, but try this:  first, change the needle
and try again!  Schmetz needles (or any other standard size needle)
should work just fine.

Also, check the position of the needle.  If this is the machine I think it
is, the groove on the needle should face left, and the thread should go
through the needle left to right. 

If that doesn't help, make sure that the bobbin thread is going through
the bobbin tension.  There should be a notch in the bobbin case to the
left of the bobbin, and another a little further clockwise.  Run the
thread through the first notch, pull it to the back of the machine until
you feel it pop into place, then pull it back over the second notch.  That
will engage the bobbin tension.

> The serial number on the machine is:  G9084032.  I looked at
> the Singer site and think it is from 1921-1924.  Anyone have
> a clue as to what type machine this is?  Thanks in advance
> for your replies!

The drop-in bobbin means that it could be a model 66 machine -- that's
probably the commonest one that fits your description, anyway!


To all:

The Singer UK guide is done!  I also added a supplement to it with 
pictures of a few machines not included in the Singer guide, including 
VS#2, VS#3, Improved Family, 66-1, 201-2, 301, and 401 models.  The
price will be $10.50 including postage if you're in the US.

If you're interested, and haven't received an e-mail from me already,
e-mail me and I'll send you the particulars.  If you aren't in the US,
please let me know in your e-mail, and I'll let you know what the postage
will be.  Or you can visit the ISMACS web page and indicate your interest
there...

Terri
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Date: Tue, 12 Aug 1997 16:53:53 -0400
Subject: GREAT FIND

Hi All, just have to tell ya about my find today a Shaw & Clark sewing
machine and she's mine (for now I think I'm gonna sell it) anyway it was
hidden away in a little antique shop I almost missed it. If anyone has
the Carter Bays book its figure 2-175 the "fat pillar" there is no rust
one down fall the tension disc is missing but other than that she's
complete. I just got done cleaning her all up and she looks great!! The
last patent date is 1864 but on the bottom its stamped Feb. 16, 1863 and
July 1863. Well I hope Graham can help. This really looks like it should
be in the Smithsonian or something. But I finally found a goodie and I
just had to share this!!! Thanks frish
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Date: Tue, 12 Aug 97 13:04 EDT
Subject:

To Linda:
My quilt is still in my head!  I've been thinking about it, and collecting
some information about patterns during the late '30s.  I also have an old
"cutter" quilt, that I think has fabrics from the '30s. I'm thinking about
cutting it up and reusing the fabric.  But now it's time for school to
start, so it'll be really hectic for a while.  And November is not that far
away .... 

Will there be a "gathering of feathers" at the Houston Quilt Show on Friday
or Saturday?  I'm really hoping to make it there for my first big quilt
show.  I'd really like to meet some of the helpful FWs I've been learning from!

Sharon
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Date: Tue, 12 Aug 1997 19:14:42 -0400
Subject: Need Info

I hope you can supply some info on the following sewing machine that I
own:

The Singer Manfacturing Co. 
Seriel # G1466628
This is a foot pedal model, non-electric model.

Thank you, Paula
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Date: Tue, 12 Aug 1997 21:37:39 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Hochschild, Kohn & Co.

Hello everyone,
     I stopped in a new antique shop on Sunday.  I was a really nice place
and the prices were very reasonable.  I talked to the owners, first to the
wife, she said her husband loved to sew.  She said he had made a few quilts
and had machined quilted them.  She also said he had mad her a few materinity
dresses.  How nice it must be to have a partner who had the same interest as
you.  Only she said she didn't like to sew at all.  Any way I saw a very
unusual sewing machine in the shop the name was Hochschild, Kohn and Company.
 Said it was made in Japan.  They wanted $15.00 dollars for it.  I plugged it
up and it ran very smooth.  Has anyone ever heard of this brand of machine
and is this a good price. She also had a  treadle machine, it was a Domestic,
that was made by Montgomery Wards I think.  Please let me know if I am wrong.
 Any info would be welcome.
                                     Susie 
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Subject: 15-30, 99K, 328K
Date: Tue, 12 Aug 1997 22:21:10 -0400

I've had a busy week! Sunday a local FWF moving out of our area was kind
enough to leave two of her treasures with me: a 99K in a lovely bentwood
case and a motorized 15 (made in 1920 and probably a 15-30 - anyone have
any hints on how to recognize the various "flavors" of 15's?). Then yesterday,
DH found a 328K at a local thriftshop. Today, the local paper has an ad
for a treadle that, from what I could get from the seller by detailed
questioning, could also be a 15-30 or perhaps a 115. It ias a SN
starting with 1, so it is pre-1900, with a sphynx design. I'm to see it
Thursday night unless someone beats me to it or I decide I can do
without it. Still looking for a 201 and a 301 to round out my collection.

Saturday, I went to an antique/junk shop and found but did not buy:

A 28 or 128, sn AC... with red & green decals, c7, but missing front slide
plate, bentwood case in c5, and missing knee-lever. They were asking
$85.

A later-model 66 with nothing much to recommend it.

An AF featherweight with FW table. The FW was dirty, but looked like it
would clean up ok. Its bobbin case had some surface rust, and the case
had losts its handle. It had a lot of its original paperwork and some of
its attachments. The table had some loose and cracking veneer. They were
asking $850 for the set, and claimed to have an offer of $450 in hand.
Well, at least now I can say I've *seen* one of the cardtables!

There was also a terribly beat-up old Elna (or possibly Eldridge - all
but the El was wron off, and the thing was nearly frozen), in a
stripped and polyurethaned cabinet. They had the nerve to price this at
$525, and had a label on it indicating it was being held for someone.

-- 
Lois 
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Date: Wed, 13 Aug 97 02:59:02 UT
Subject: Featherweight

I have just acquired a featherweight, but need the bobbin case
Does anyone have one for sale, and what is the going price?
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Date: Wed, 13 Aug 1997 06:44:18 +0100
Subject: M.R.

Hello everyone:

I saw something last week regarding initials on a FW of M.R. on a
centennial 128.  Has anyone else noticed this and if so what does it mean.
A friend has a FW with these initials below the Singer emblem of a
centennial.  But it looks like someone put the emblem there and we thought
someone also put the initials on.  (not the factory)  the machine also had
a scrolled faceplate and was missing part of the gold.  Serial number if I
remember started with AH.  Fortunately they did not pay much for the
machine.

Does anyone know what the M.R. means if anything?

TIA,
Viv 
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Date: Wed, 13 Aug 1997 07:36:54 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Cleaning between tension discs

Hi Feathers:
  I'm relatively new at collecting, though I've found nine older singers,
including 2 FW since March.  I was afraid to take apart the tension discs
initially, but found that if I sprayed wd-40 on a pipe cleaner, the kind kids
use for crafts, and then pulled it gently through and around the tension
discs or other hard to reach places, it took out a good bit of the gunk and
old oil and dust very easily.  Maybe someone else has tried this?? It worked
for me.

Donna 
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Date: Wed, 13 Aug 1997 08:32:09 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Nashville

Hi everyone,

  Sue, I hope you are feeling better.  I am one of the people who hasn't
gotten Carter Bays' book, Encyclopedia of Early American Sewing Machines, and
he e-mailed me that he would have the books with him in Nashville, for the
price offered on the internet ($35.00), if anyone is interested.

 Now, for a problem I have.  I just got a glass Singer oil bottle at an
antique store.  It was filthy (looked like it had been buried in the ground
or something).  When I was cleaning it I found a large crack (but it doesn't
go all the way through), but I can't get the thing clean and clear!  I've
tried dishwashing liquid, Bon Ami, vinegar, denture cleaner (that gets most
anything clean if it soaks in it overnight) and the dishwasher.  Can anyone
recommend a good cleaner for years of gunk?  Thanks.

  Linda
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Subject: "New" attachments
Date: Wed, 13 Aug 1997 08:39:46 -0400

I do enjoy reading the daily digests, but seldom seem to find time to
write, only my latest purchase inspired me! I bought a box of
attachments that Linda Heminway had found in the drawer of another
machine and they're unlike any I've seen before. It's the regular
green Singer box, but many of the attachments inside (which look
almost NEW by the way) are BLACK rather than the usual shiny metal,
including the BOBBINS and the SCREWDRIVER! The one clue I have is
that also included in the box are some receipts for payments
(obviously on a Singer machine!) dated 1942 - so I assume the
attachments also date from that time. We were thinking that perhaps
they went with the godzilla finish machines, since on my 128, many of
the parts are also black (the slide plates, etc.). Any thoughts on
this topic would be most welcome. By the way, the box also included
several packages of strange needles: it says they're No.3 For Singer
TWIST point - anyone know anything about THEM?? Talk with you again
soon. 
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Date: Wed, 13 Aug 1997 12:30:25 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: WTP: Singer 128 case.

Greetings, I wish to purchase a mod. 128 case (or merely the cover, if one
might be avail - approx: 17.25" X 8.25" ) for my new best friend 
3/4 length arm - Ser. no. AF 687045 - born 11/12/40. 

Also, Cond. not impt. as servicability. 

Thank you, David 
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Subject: New Machines
Date: Wed, 13 Aug 1997 13:41:00 -0700

Just returned from Southern California where I attended the FWF gathering
at the San Diego Quilt Show.  What a great group, thanks Sylvia and
Shannon!
Yesterday on my way home, stopped at a Salvation Army store looking for a
201, no luck, but found a machine I have not seen before.  It is black
crinkle finish, with the Centennial badge, SN# AK051037 a full size head
that is belt driven by a motor mounted in the rear.  The tension has no
numbers (old style) and the plate is striated.  Has a decal in the center
of the bed and on the head.  The wheel is japan black.  Just called Singer
and was told it is a Model 66, b.d. 11-10-50.  Guess I never knew that
Singer was still making 66's in the 1950's.  I compared it to my Red-eye
and it is possible because they are similar shape, tho look different
because of the paint and decals.  It came in a walnut cabinet and even tho
I have no more room for cabinets, it came home with me.

I also asked about the Model 99K?? SN# EF645618 that I bought from Capt.
Dick and according to Singer it is a Model 206K, bd 1-5-50.  It also has a
Centennial badge, no numbers on the tension mechanism and a scrolled plate.
 Can this be possible that this is a 206K??  It is a cute 3/4 size machine.

I saw several 15-91's and Stylists in the various thrift shops I stopped in
looking for a 201.  So far, the 201 has eluded me, maybe next time.

Graham, you wrote:
"Lydia et al re smoking
Just realised -- no one's said anything about my drinking......"

Now really!!  You are much too valuable to us to let that pass!!!!!!
Have a cup of tea, attend smoking cessation classes, try the patch, and
please please use moderation in drinking.  
BTW what are you drinking???  Enquiring minds want to know??
Hope your health is improving.

Carol 
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Date: Wed, 13 Aug 1997 15:27:18 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Antique Sewing Machine

Hello!

My wife and I are not "antiquers" so to speak.  However, she loves to sew and
we found and bought an old Minnesota sewing machine for $25.  It is in
excellent condition (even works too!) and we have it in the main foyer on
display.  This is a great conversation piece and I would really enjoy knowing
more about its history and if it is of any value.  Can you help me out?
 Thanks and look forward to hearing from you.  Take care.
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Date: Thu, 14 Aug 1997 07:56:12 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Marked Throat Plate for FW, Mystery treadle machine

Someone recently inquired about anybody's experience with the marked throat
plate for a FW as advertised in QNM.  Instead of spending $40, another
solution is to use a 301 throat plate on your FW.  Of course this only works
if you have a 301 available to borrow the throat plate from, but they are
completely interchangeable between the two machines.  I have a 301 that is
not in great shape, missing the bobbin case, but it only cost me $15 at an
estate sale.  I took the throat plate off of it and put it on the FW that I
sew with most and that my children use.  I put the unmarked throat plate from
the FW on the 301, so it is still useable if I ever need it.  

At yesterday's rummage sales I ran across a Singer treadle machine that was
made in Germany.  It had a serial number beginning with C and the owner had
tried through Singer to date it and get a model number.  With the machine was
a letter from Singer saying that they could date the machine and knew it had
been made in Germany but they were unable to identify the model number.  It
is quite different than any machine that I've seen and may be an industrial
machine, especially because all of the oil holes were labeled with gold
letters but other than that and the Singer name, there was no decoration.
 The slide plate and throat plate were one piece so to reach the bobbin, the
entire machine had to be tilted back out of the cabinet.  The bobbin case
looked like a model 15 type but I'm not completely sure that the size was
exactly the same.  Singer had sent the owenr a photocopy of a 66-1 manual
which obviously didn't match the machine at all, but the women selling it
told me that as far as she knew that was the manual for the machine.  She
wanted $75 for it--although it was in great shape and appeared to have been
used recently, I passed because I really don't have the space---does anybody
have any idea what this machine might be?


 From cool and dry Wisconsin---

                                                  Cyndi
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Date: Thu, 14 Aug 1997 08:00:29 -0400
Subject: Ugly Quilts for the Homeless

Dear Fellow Feathers:

Please check out the Ugly Quilt web site at 
 http://www.reese.org/sharon/uglyqult.htm
Sharon Reese, absent on vacation, has lovingly provided space on her web
page, to provide information on making quilted sleeping bags for the
homeless.  We have discussed making these sleeping bags at various times
on this digest.
My reason for bringing this up now, is that I was just informed that my
church would be a "host" church for the Midnight Run which is a group of
people who go into New York city with food, clothing,blankets,
toiletries and other much needed supplies for the homeless.  We are
hosting this meaningful program Novemeber 15, 1997.  It is a
non-denominational program and people of many faiths get involved,
donating what they can.  In fact, if there are any Feathers out there
who would like to be more involved, and physically go "on the run", it
is possible.
I am making an appeal for your help,  if any of you are working on Ugly
Quilts, and would like to assure that they are brought to the right
individuals, you may ship them to a wonderful and giving lady who is
dedicated to the midnight run.  Her own brother died homeless on the
streets of NYC, and this program is near and dear to her heart.  I know
many of you who e-mailed me for patterns to make these quilts, which is
why they were finally put on "the web".  At any rate, should you like to
have your UQ delivered to The Homeless, at a time when the weather is
getting really cold, and these people will be looking for warmth on cold
and lonely nights, you may send them to:

Ms. Elizabeth Metcalf
48R Wells Road
Newburgh,  NY  12550

Feel free to e-mail me privately, if you have any special questions or
concerns.  Sorry, all, to go off topic, but in a way this is related to
our beloved machines - why not put them to work for a good cause!  I've
said this before, but it bears repeating!  We are all so lucky, as a
group, to be able to afford the things that we have, our wonderful
machines, fabric, and computers to communicate.  When we give thought to
all of this, and then contemplate those who's only home may be a
cardboard box - I know people like us can make a difference.  I am
thankful for what I have and that people like you are out there for me,
and I know there are many of you with tons of scrap fabric and certainly
enough machine power to show what us Feathers can do!
Thank you for reading this!
Linda 
Who's first Ugly Quilt was made on a Featherweight!  The second one, in
progress, has been made using both a FW and a 1908 handcrank.  I will
soon experience the joy of making my first Ugly Quilt stitches on a
newly restored Wheeler and Wilson, 1864!
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Subject: The heir and the spare
Date: Wed, 13 Aug 1997 21:07:53 -0400

Finally found my second FW at a price I was willing to pay, at an
antique store no less.  It's an AK version and the case is excellent,
probably a 9.  Entirely intact except for a couple of scuff marks on two
top corners.  The machine's scrollwork is not at all faded, but has pin
scratches on some of it, and on the bed. A couple of small gouges are on 
the outer edge of the bed, past the scrollwork.  I went over these with a 
Sharpie (fine line permanent marker) which certainly made them less 
noticeable.  Was this ill-advised?  It was also covered in heavy dust,
had adhesive tape residue nearly all the way across the bed, and the wheel
wouldn't move, but it was easy to see thread caught under the bobbin case.
Only the zipper foot and a box of buttonhole templates for extras.

This treasure was marked $235, but it must be a really slow month for
tourists in Florida, because when I asked if there was room for
negotiation,
she said, "$180."   From postings here, I knew the tape residue should
come off with a blow dryer and some WD-40, which it did.  Thank you!
Couldn't get that bobbin thread all out with the tweezers though.
I'm tempted to follow Nancy Srebo's directions and try taking the bobbin
case base off myself, but will probably take it to the local retired Singer
man instead.  Hope this encourages some of you who despair of finding
a FW at a reasonable price.  Happy hunting....     Lin 
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Date: Wed, 13 Aug 1997 22:51:14 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: FWF Get together-- Southern WI, Northern IL

If anybody on the list from the southern WI or northern IL area would be
interested in attending a get together this fall, please email me.  I'm not
sure that I'm in the best location to host something but if there are enough
interested people, maybe we can come up with a suitable location and date.
 It would be nice to get a final fix of SM stuff before winter sets in.   

                                           Cyndi
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Subject: Now cleaner
Date: Wed, 13 Aug 1997 19:21:54 -0400

Hello everyone, my DH and I were in SAMS this past weekend and saw a
demonstration of a cleaner called NOW.  The lady sprayed it full strength
on a grease blob, and the grease just disintegrated.  she claimed it has no
caustic chemicals!

Well, you may recall that I have this old Elna Supermatic covered in about
20 years of yellow grease.  It's not running properly and so I thought what
have I got to lose to spray it with this cleaner.  The cleaner worked
wonderfully and as far as I can tell, did not damage the surface.  Of
course, the Elna doesn't have any pretty gold decals.  And I agree with
Captain Dick, so many variables about individual machines could make a
product which didn't harm one do harm to another.  Plus, the time
factor--will the product cause some long term damage to the finish over
time?  These are questions we can't answer, so I wouldn't recommend this
for the exterior of the FWs.  However, it might be a good cleaner for the
insides.

Sue--hope you are soon well.   Take care of yourself.

Betty
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Date: Wed, 13 Aug 1997 20:56:15 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Thread tension control knob

  We are looking for the knob that covers the thread tension control.  I
believe it has numbers around it representing the tension?  Can you help? 


   Roberta 
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Date: Thu, 14 Aug 1997 10:02:04 -0700
Subject: Seidel & Naumann

While I am not a member of your list, yet, a member did suggest 
that I contact you for possible information.  I recently purchased an 
antique Seidel & Naumann German sewing machine.  It has a bullet type of 
bobbin casing, a hand crank, and is portable. The dealer thinks it was 
made around 1880's.  Any information about this type of machine, or the 
company would be greatly appreciated.
	I do need to replace the needle on the machine.  It is rather 
long, 1 3/4", and round.  It does not have a flat side like today's 
needles.  Could anyone direct me to where I may purchase one?

J.
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Date: Thu, 14 Aug 1997 11:42:07 -0400
Subject: Mini-Convention in December

Hi:

My wife and I are planning a December mini-convention / party to be held
for Featherweight Fanatics, Little Stitchers, Toy Stitchers and ISMACS
members. We live about 4 miles North of Annapolis, Maryland and would
like some feedback from you before we set the date in stone.  

Our intent is to have the party on Saturday December 6 with a snowdate
of December 7. We felt the December date would give you a break from
your holiday shopping and the location was also closer for our more
Northern members.

We'd like as large a turnout as possible, so we need  to know 
whether this date fits into your calendar and whether you could attend. 
It would run from about 11:00 a.m. to early evening and would only 
involve your bringing your machines for swap, sale, show 'n tell, or 
simply show up empty-handed and enjoy - we'll provide lunch and snacks 
throughout the day.

Please let me know (yes or no) about December 6 - if this date works for
a large enough number of us, we'll go with it or we'll come up with an
alternative date.

Thanks, talk to you soon.
-- 
Bob 
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Date: Thu, 14 Aug 1997 16:50:36 -0500
Subject: W&W No. 9

Terri,
Glad to know I'm not the only one who had to pass up machines on vacation
just so the kids would have a place to sit on the way home :)  (FWF 8/4).
Visited just a few shops on our trip, but came upon a Wheeler and Wilson No.
9 that took my breath away (well, the only other W&W I've ever seen was a
genuine c1 on the GF scale).  Most all of the gold intact and very clean,
probably a 7-8, but the cabinet was absolutely exquisite.  Across the top of
the kneehole was a row of post and bead spindles, with  a little copper
etched plate at either end.  The drawer pulls were also copper, and there
were more turned spindles on the sides of the drawers.  The wood and finish
was so nice, I thought at first it must be redone, but don't think so.  Even
though a box cover, it had a small leaf that, when folded over the table,
revealed a leatherette panel.  Weeelll, I drooled a little, and my DH said
he would *enjoy* the challenge of fitting it into our already packed van.
However, the thought of driving 900 miles with the four of us packed tighter
than the lint in a neglected sewing machine got the better of me, and I
opted for family sanity and comfort.  I'm curious whether this type of
workmanship is standard on W&W treadles, or how many of you have seen one
like this?  Will I ever see another one like it, or did I lose out on a
once-in-a-lifetime buy at $200?

Joy
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Date: Thu, 14 Aug 1997 08:09:30 -0500
Subject: Singer 115 Questions

 Hi all,
Glad to be catching up on digests after being away on vacation!

After months of buying no machines, a sweet older lady  (who, btw, I became
friends with after we bid against each other on a 301 at an estate sale)
called to offer me a sm she'd bought at a yard sale for $7.  It turned out
to be a 115, born December 14, 1915.  It has lovely, unusual decals and
though the add on motor is ugly, runs like a dream.

I was excited when Singer offered me a copy of the manual, gratis.  However,
this copy puzzles me.  The cover of the manual is the style of 50s-60s
Singer manuals, but clearly states Sewing Machine 115.  The picture of the
machine is an older machine, spoked wheel and sphinx or phoenix decals, I
think, but the machine does not look like my 115---the pictures have a
numbered tension on the FRONT of the machine (mine unnumbered in back), take
up on the front rather than the side, and a stitch length/reverse lever to
name a few.  About the only similarity I find is the way the bobbin goes in
and part of the bobbin winder mechanism.  What gives here?  The few 115s
I've heard of were all dated in the mid-late teens.  Were these machines
really made for a long time and changed that much?  This copy is nearly
useless to me, as the main thing I want to know is correct threading
throught the side-back take-up and tension assembly.  Anyone have an
age-appropriate manual they would copy for me?  As always, happy to pay your
costs and trouble.

Also, since this machine has been transplanted into a genuinely ugly 1950s
case, should I assume it was a treadle rather than a handcrank originally?
It is so pretty, I think it would make a neat handcrank.

Sorry for the length...I'll save my other questions and finds for another
post.
Joy 
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Date: Thu, 14 Aug 1997 19:09:26 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Ask & maybe you'll receive& latches

Hi everyone,
We found another featherweight as a result of our ad.  The interesting thing
is that the people were preparing for a big rummage/ moving sale and this
machine was stuck down in the basement forgotten.  The mother spotted the ad
and asked the daughter "what about that old machine you have in the
basement?"  So they called us.  DH went to look & got it for $50.  The
machine is in very good condition, but it needed cleaning & was very musty
smelling. 

 The case is somewhat battered; corners are worn down to the wood, the tray
is missing, it was moldy; the latches are broken because the key was lost;
there was a manual, but no attachments.  

I think I saw on this list in the past that someone had new latches for them.
 I can't find the info in my puter files, so if anyone knows about them I'd
really appreciate hearing from them.

When we're checking out garage sales we've started asking if they have any
old sewing machines, etc. if we don't see anything.  Surprisingly, sometimes
they've been forgotten.  Half the time the people don't even know what brand
they have.  You never know what you might end up with.

Gail 
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Date: Thu, 14 Aug 1997 19:10:48 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: 185K sighted

Hi again,
DH was in Wausau a couple days ago & saw a 185K at the Salvation Army.  I
asked him why he didn't get it & he said because we already a 185J  :-\  So
maybe it's still there if anyone is interested.

He did buy another 15-91as a result of our ad tho, because it said made in
Canada!  Go figure!  I guess he's just partial to the black ones.

Gail 
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Date: 14 Aug 97 23:25:41 EDT
Subject: New FW Book

Dear Feathers- 

I have lost the info for ordering  the new FW book by Nancy Johnson-Srebro
directly from her.  Would someone be able to post that info again?  I am
anxiously waiting to get my copy of this book!

Thank you  .

Carol
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Subject: 301a & dreams
Date: Thu, 14 Aug 1997 23:11:38 -0400

DH surprised me tonight with a tan, longbed 301a from the Salvation Army
for the outrageoud sum of $17.99! It came with its case & attachments.
No manual, though, so I'm looking for one. The machine is a solid c8,
and the case isn't too bad, but the leather edging is missing some of
its stiching and there are some smudges on the body of the case. Any
suggestions? Should I just glue the leather back on?

It gave me a bit of a scare. I plugged it in and it worked great. Then I
took off the bottom to oil it and when I put it back on, the balance
wheel wouldn't make a full turn! I had seen a small, loose piece of
oil-wicking in the bottom, which I set aside, and, after opening up the
top of the machine, found another piece of wicking, which seemed to have
been broken off from the first piece, blocking a gear. Once I removed
it, all was well. Question: is that wicking supposed to be somewhere in
the machine? If so, where? Another 301 question: I've heard you can
lower the feed dogs; how do I do this?

On another note, just a few days ago, I dreamed that I was visiting a
new Goodwill shop, with very high ceilings. DH was looking at the tools
in one corner, when I looked up at the other corner and saw several
antique sewing machines on a high shelf! Just a few days later, a 301a
appears at the Salvation Army. Hmm.....

Lois 

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