Featherweight Fanatics Archives

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Date: Sun, 28 Dec 1997 13:02:11 +0400
Subject: Featherweight 221/1952 wanted

My name is Natima . I am looking to purchase a Featherweight 221
if possible the 1952 because that was the year I was born. I live in the
Middle East, but my husband is coming to the State for bussiness and he
is prepare to bring it back for me if I found one. So, if any of you
have one for sell I would be interest to hear from you. Please email me
direct
thank you everyone.
Natima 
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Subject: Re: Bobbin on 128
Date: Sun, 28 Dec 97 07:44:17 -0600

Moonsage said (back on 12/18.... I'm catching up after being out of town) 
that the 28 and 128 are rotary bobbins, and the 27/127 are shuttle.  

I beg to differ (though pleasantly, I hope!)... I have two 128s, both 
came with their original manuals (so I'm certain of the model numbers), 
and both have shuttle bobbins.

Lisa 
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Date: Sun, 28 Dec 1997 12:02:24 -0600
Subject: 201 cords

Regarding the recent thread about using standard 2-pin appliance connectors:
While recently cleaning my "new" 201, I noticed that it takes a 3-pin FW plug.
It is from 1938/39.  I'm confused.
                                        Judy 
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Subject: Featherweights in Hawaii
Date: Sun, 28 Dec 1997 15:09:47 -0500

Well, had a wonderful trip to Hawaii and managed to persuade DH to stop at
a couple of fabric  and SM stores.  The first was called The Stitchery and
was on the Island of Kauai, in the town of Lihue.  Not far from the
airport.  Anyway, it was most interesting, with beautiful quilts hanging
from the ceiling all over the store, and many many  fabrics--so many I knew
I could never select anything in the short time I had.  I asked the sales
lady if they used Featherweights a lot there and she said she had just
bought one. I told her that nice ones cost from $200 - $600 on the mainland
and asked if she minded telling me what she paid--she said she had paid
about $500 for a really nice one.  She offered to teach me Hawaiian
quilting, saying "it's easy," but I explained that DH was in the car.  She
said to take him to the golf course and drop him off and come back!    I
wish he did play golf!

In Maui, we stopped at another store and owner said he was in process of
restoring a FW that had been kept in a garage and had water damage. 
Sounded like a disaster case.  He mentioned $200 but I'm not sure if he
meant before or after restoration.  Well,  learned that FWs are valued in
Hawaii too, and then in catching up with digest, saw a message from a
Feather in Kona where we had just been the day before!  

Betty
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Date: Sun, 28 Dec 1997 18:44:49 -0500 (EST)
Subject: Antique Singer Machine

Can anyone help me.  I have finally identified the machine I
got for Christmas, from one of the many sources available on the net.
I know NOTHING about early machines....this is my first.  I have a
Singer Portable, Model 99 in Bentwood Case, with Knee Pedal (except
I have no knee pedal).  Is there anyone out there who can help direct
me to a store or person that might have an old knee pedal for sale?
It is not in particularly good shape, and will have to be cleaned up and
fixed before I can use it....but I am so excited, about it.  It is soooo pretty!
But, I really hope to get a knee pedal, so I can try it out. 

Thanks, Judee 
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Subject: Strange Model 15 Series
Date: Sun, 28 Dec 1997 23:14:41 -0800

Hi;

encountered something new (to me) tonight.   Someone brought by a machine that was obviously a class 15 machine, but had the strangest bobbin I have ever seen.  The machine had hte Memphis Egyptian decal, was serial numbered "R435466".

It had a really strange bobbin setup.   the bobbin was round, but quite small, and mounted in a mechanism on an arm under the needle.   The basic mechanism was oscillating, but rather than having a hook that oscillated above the bobbin, the whole arm the bobbin was in swung back and forth under the needle.

Sure would like any help I can get on identifying what it is, when it was made (my list doesn't include this R series).   Was a nice and interesting machine. 

Also had a bobbin winding mechanism I had not seen before.   Actually looked like it might have been something someone just fitted onto it.   You had to physically hold the rubber bobbin wheel, which was unusually large, against the handwheel to wind the bobbin, which pressure fit onto the other end of the winding shaft, much like a FW.

Captain Dick
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Date: Sun, 28 Dec 1997 23:52:16 -0800
Subject: Survey

I hope I did this survey  correctly and submitted it properly.
 (Have been lurking on the Internet since buying my FW about ten days ago.)
Enjoyingall the info Ihave picked up.
I consider my machine to be in condition "8." 
It's really in good shape.The last person who owned didn't use it.She
only bought it becaseu her friend has one so she had to have one too!
Cheers
Elizabeth
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Date: Mon, 29 Dec 1997 05:56:46 -0500
Subject: low shank foot question

Hi all!
I'm looking for a special foot that will "stitch in the ditch".  I hear
there are some that have a special guide on them that if you keep the
guide "in the ditch" it will keep your stitches right along the edge,
I've tried just doing this, but I waver all over the place.  Naturally,
I'd like this foot to fit my FW, but also my other low shank machines. 
Does anyone know of such a foot and where I can get it?
Thanks so much,  Happy New Year!
Linda
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Subject: Just inherited 201
Date: Mon, 29 Dec 1997 07:50:55 -0500

Hello everyone,

I just joined the FF list one week ago after inheriting an old Singer. I was
looking for more info on it.

Since that time, I have learned quite a bit from the list and also learned
from Singer that my AF633582 [dob Sept. 1940]is a 201.It is in a Queen Anne
cabinet complete with matching stool and all accesories and manuals. I am
not sure to what extent the accessories are original. There is an awesome
buttonholer that is somewhat scary to behold!

Have not even begun the cleanup process because I am not sure how to proceed
and don't want to mess up. Actually the machine looks very good and sews
like a dream. I only sewed a few test stitches, fearing to do too much
without oiling first. The stitch is PERFECT! And...this machine makes
absolutely no noise...it is unbelievably quiet...unlike my Bernina 1230,
which is a wonderful machine but way noisier than this Singer.

 Although the 201 has not been used for many years [my MIL owned it], I
believe it was serviced and not used since. It has been inside the house all
that time. It has a slightly musty odor [but fortunately no barn smells!].
The piece of fabric under the needle looks like it was left by the last
service person.

After reading the classification chart, I would say, after an albeit brief
inspection, that this machine is an 8 or possibly a 9, altho the cabinet
would definitely rank way lower than that. The seat "cushion" is crackled in
appearance, and I am not sure what, if anything, should be done about that.

Would love to hear from those of you who are experienced at cleaning up the
machine and the cabinet. I plan to do a thorough job, but I want to be sure
I proceed correctly. I am afraid to begin until I hear from you experts as
to how to do this and what products to use. I believe there is an original
oil can, but I am wondering if I shouldn't use new oil that I use for my
Bernina. Or does it matter?

This list is most informative! I look forward to hearing more about the
'restoring' process and will not touch my new acquisition until I feel
totally informed. If you mention specific products, will you also tell me
where I should look to buy these?

I was astounded to read the post from 'frish' speaking of owning 60
machines...wow! And I am having to scratch my head to figure out where to
put this one. BUT I have also started thinking about my mother's old
machine, which at present is with another member of the family, and
wondering if I would be able to get hold of it. So, is this 'fanaticism'
contagious???

Thanks in advance for any and all instructions, hints, suggestions and other
information you may be able to tell me about this machine!

Regards, Carol G
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Subject: my two cents worth.
Date: Mon, 29 Dec 1997 07:38:45 -0500

Dear Feathers; I am as per usual rushed but still wish to put out a line or
two.   Was at a toy show yesterday and picked up two singer panel vans,
lesney dinky toys in light green. Style 59 i believe wishing some more info
, please  e mail if someone has more info on collector singer toys. ie such
as delivery vans.   I believe this one is from 1968. 

The electricial manual is starting to pick up steam, the last load of mail
was full of orders for the new electrical manual, was pleasantly surprised
and expect to see more as more mail arrives today.   

I am going to printer today to have a blown diagram parts listing for
singer sewing machine to be priced and or be printed it is a catolouge of
singer sewing machines, it show the sewing machine and then lists part no
on the back. gotta run. mike
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Subject: 201-cleanup and info wanted
Date: Mon, 29 Dec 1997 08:37:01 -0500

Hello everyone,
I just joined the FF list one week ago after inheriting an old Singer. I was
looking for more info on it.
Since that time, I have learned quite a bit from the list and also learned
from Singer that my AF633582 [dob Sept. 1940]is a 201.It is in a Queen Anne
cabinet complete with matching stool and all accesories and manuals. I am
not sure to what extent the accessories are original. There is an awesome
buttonholer that is somewhat scary to behold!
Have not even begun the cleanup process because I am not sure how to proceed
and don't want to mess up. Actually the machine looks very good and sews
like a dream. I only sewed a few test stitches, fearing to do too much
without oiling first. The stitch is PERFECT! And...this machine makes
absolutely no noise...it is unbelievably quiet...unlike my Bernina 1230,
which is a wonderful machine but way noisier than this Singer.
Although the 201 has not been used for many years [my MIL owned it], I
believe it was serviced and not used since. It has been inside the house all
that time. It has a slightly musty odor [but fortunately no barn smells!].
The piece of fabric under the needle looks like it was left by the last
service person.
After reading the classification chart, I would say, after an albeit brief
inspection, that this machine is an 8 or possibly a 9, altho the cabinet
would definitely rank way lower than that. The seat "cushion" is crackled in
appearance, and I am not sure what, if anything, should be done about that.
Would love to hear from those of you who are experienced at cleaning up the
machine and the cabinet. I plan to do a thorough job, but I want to be sure
I proceed correctly. I am afraid to begin until I hear from you experts as
to how to do this and what products to use. I believe there is an original
oil can, but I am wondering if I shouldn't use new oil that I use for my
Bernina. Or does it matter?
This list is most informative! I look forward to hearing more about the
'restoring' process and will not touch my new acquisition until I feel
totally informed. If you mention specific products, will you also tell me
where I should look to buy these?
I was astounded to read the post from 'frish' speaking of owning 60
machines...wow! And I am having to scratch my head to figure out where to
put this one. BUT I have also started thinking about my mother's old
machine, which at present is with another member of the family, and
wondering if I would be able to get hold of it. So, is this 'fanaticism'
contagious???
Thanks in advance for any and all instructions, hints, suggestions and other
information you may be able to tell me about this machine!
Regards, Carol G.
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Subject: bounced mail
Date: Sun, 28 Dec 1997 18:22:34 -0500

Hi!
Would the gentleman named Larry from Baltimore please write me again. I keep trying to reply to your W+Gs questions but the mail is being returned to me.
Thanks,
Maggie 
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Subject: Singer mini table
Date: Sun, 28 Dec 1997 18:28:25 -0500

I just wanted to mention that I put pictures up on my web site of the mini treadle type Singer table I recently acquired. If you haven't seen one yet it is  adorable!
There is a new chat room installed also,  much easier to use than the first one was so please use it when ever you like.
Happy New Year to everyone!!
Maggie
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Subject: 1200-1
Date: Mon, 29 Dec 1997 08:19:12 -0800

Hi, I have a 1938 1200-1, that I call a souped up 201. I got
it at an estate sale for $100.00, and thought I had gotten a 
bargain. I took it to my local singer dealer to be serviced and
he called me a couple days later with the bad news. He felt
it had made all the uniforms for world war II and the person
sewing on it had not oiled it. Well, I wanted that machine badly. so
$170.00 later I brought it home. I still love it, but when I finish a seam
and pull the fabric out of the machine it is difficult to pull and gathers
the seam. I can take it back to the dealer, but it is very difficult to
take off the table it is attached to. Please, if anyone can help me
I would appreciate it. Thank you in advance. Elizabeth
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Date: Mon, 29 Dec 1997 10:01:58 -0600
Subject: Sewing Problems

Amy wrote:
>Like Suzy, i also find that my work tends to drift to the left as i
sew...>

I truly believe that the main problem with work drifting to the left is
not sitting squarely in front of the needle.  The presser foot should be
pointing directly to the middle of your body.  Too many sewing machine
cabinets don't allow enough room to the left to sit squarely in front of
the presser foot.

You have the best walking foot you can buy, your hand, and it's free!
Try this and see if it doesn't help.

Take 2 strips of material the exact same length and align them together,
don't use any pins.  Put this under the presser foot, but FIRST lower
the needle down into the fabric, THEN  lower the presser foot.  If you
don't that first stitch will automatically hold the bottom layer and
push the top layer and you start that seam with a distortion which is
multiplied all the way down the strip.

Ok, you have your strips with the needle down and the presser foot
down.  Lay your hand, palm down , on top of the strips and slide your
thumb under the bottom strip.  Slide your hand about 12 to 18 inches
down the strip, whatever distance is comfortable for you, keeping the
edges of your strips aligned.  Now, keeping the fabric CLAMPED between
your thumb and forefinger, flip your hand over, palm up, and put a
slight amount of tension on the fabric strips.  With your left hand,
"finger pin" the strips in front of the presser foot, start sewing and
walk your fingers on the left hand down the strip as you sew(this keeps
your edges aligned) and at the same time keeping a slight tension on the
strips with your right hand.  When you sew down to where your right hand
is holding the strips, stop with the needle DOWN, slide your right hand
down another few inches, clamp, turn your hand over with a slight
tension on the fabric, finger pin and sew again.

This procedure duplicates what a walking foot does and with just a
little practice you will quickly learn how much tension to apply on the
strips.  When your strips come out even you know you have the right
amount of tension. This is making the feed dogs work for you instead of
against you.

Pushing material with the flat of your hand puts distortion in your
sewing so practice using your fingertips and you will find that you will
be pinning less and less which in itself causes distortion.  If you are
using short or small strips, clamping them between your forefinger and
middle finger works well also.

Credit for this procedure goes to the "Islander Sewing System".  This
lady has many, many more fabulous tips and I have no affiliation with
her.

Hope this helps.
Wilma 
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Date: Mon, 29 Dec 1997 07:31:12 -1000
Subject: Featerweight Plus #342

A friend of mine found a white Featherweight Plus model #342 at a
Honolulu swap meet. It seems to be able to zig zag as well as strait
stitch. Is this a new machine? Thank you very much for any help.

Aloha,
Ilene
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Subject: Help
Date: Mon, 29 Dec 1997 09:53:26 -0800

Hi;

In all my recent troubles, I lost an address I need.   Does anyone know Teri Carl?  I need to contact her and can't find an email address through the search services.

Captain Dick
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Date: Mon, 29 Dec 1997 12:33:12 -0800
Subject: Wanted Information on Singer 99K

I just received a Singer 99K. I do know the motor is Canadian and the
machine made in Scotland. But would love more information on this
machine. It is 3/4 size in great condition. This machine does not have a
foot pedal but has a slot in front where you place a knee bar to
operate...cute!! I am still in the process of cleaning but most of the
decals are all intact, except for the worn parts on the fron ( where the
material passed over) but not too bad. The bobbin plate is rusted shut
but am using a lucricant to break the rust. This is the only place where
there is rust and I cannot wait until I get it loose so I can see how it
sews. I saw in Captain Dick's book this was a middle of the line
machine. but would like information from those out there in FWland on
how it sews...thanks Maxine.
PS I need a key for this machine, it does not "take" the key from my
other full size Singer coffin style head...but the screwdriver worked.
Also I would like a book. I did get some attachments though....but a
pretty good deal for $0!
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Date: Mon, 29 Dec 1997 15:49:14 -0500
Subject: Re:to end the year

I wish all a healthy new year and thanks for all the info I glean from
the cwebsite.
Elaine
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Date: Mon, 29 Dec 1997 18:25:16 EST
Subject: SM Help

Hi all,

Haven't written in a while.  Got a new machine for Christmas--literally a new
machine--a Bernina.  But I still love my FW!  I 've got questions about 2
machines in my possession; they belonged to my DH grandmothers, & his mother
said they're mine now to do with as I please.

1) Singer SM with knee control, in a wooden base with curved wood lid. Serial
# G0349179

2) Singer SM, manual says it's a Style-O-Matic 328K. Serial # E8947203.
Apparently made in Great Britain. 

3) Hemstitcher & Picot Edger No. 121387 and Buttonhole Attachment No.
121795--both say they are for Singer Lockstitch Family SMs.

Does anyone have info on these items? Do the accessories in #3 belong to the
machine in #2?  Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Mary
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Date: Mon, 29 Dec 1997 16:07:49 -0800
Subject: Vandervoort

To All:

My little local antique store just got an electric sewing machine in.
The machine is very interesting. It is a Vandervoort with serial
#ME17700. The machine is about a 7. It is about the size of a Model 99
Singer. Has a nickle plated wheel and a knee control. The gold trim has
some missing around the base of the machine. It is little red roses with
gold trim around the edges. The nickle plated light is stamped "Bryant"
May 17 10. I believe that Bryant was made by White. It looks like the
light must have been made May 17, 1910. The motor is a Westinghouse 110V
70cycle and Style # 281650 and East Springfield Works, Springfield Mass.
The cabinet is different. It's style looks like around 1910. It is a
plain American oak and looks well put together. No fancy stuff, just
plain corners and flat surfaces. When the cabinet door is open, it
serves as a brace to hold up the lid when it is open and the machine is
swung up into position for use. The cabinet is about a 9. I cannot find
this machine in any book. Can somebody help me know what the machine is?
Is it a rarey? Should I attempt to buy it? The dealer said that she
bought it for the cabinet.
-- 
Bill
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Date: Mon, 29 Dec 1997 12:49:11 -0600
Subject: Can I use attachments?

Hello again!

Thanks everyone for your help getting me started with your group.
Especially thanks to the people who put the time into orgainzing this.  I
am sure it is a lot of work. . .

I would like to know if the attachments for a model 99, dated January 10,
1939, could be used on my featherweight 221.  The  lady I talked to at
Singer thought so but wasn't sure.  I have spotted a model 99 at an antique
store and it had a box full of attachments with it.  If so how much should
I offer the guy, he is asking $80 but it has been there a long time and the
lady at the counter thought he would take less.  I'm not sure the machine
even works.  It looked in ok condition.

Personal note:  Thanks Bill for your input, I have cats and dogs. :-)

Terry
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Subject: gear to grease or not to grease.
Date: Mon, 29 Dec 1997 17:08:35 -0500

Dear feathers; see a lot on grease gear,   301, 403 etc remember these are
gear driven verticial shaft motor machines the non metal gear is fibre gear
hard versus soft, somethings gotta give, now we dont recommend lubricating
these gears why? what happens is these gears spin can; at high speeds and
the grease will liquidfy and the oil will seperate from the grease and run
down the shaft and coat the armature and bingo it starts running really
slow and smoking . thats why you dont grease verticial shaft motor gears.
which machines have these motors. 301, 401,411, 500,503,404,414, 600,620,
all touch sews, yes this is a real problem . the softer fibre grease is why
it doesnt require lubrication these remarks only apply to gear on verticial
shaft motors all other normal steel gears can and should be greased with
small amounts of grease. 

mikeh.
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Date: Mon, 29 Dec 1997 19:57:42 -0500
Subject: mystery machine???

Hi everyone, trust all had a good holiday. I have a bunch of things that I
would like to ask so here goes.  Singer Sewhandy 20 Toy Sewing Machine, I
need the complete bobbin assembly..the hook, eccentric collar and screw,
someone out there must have a poor example they will part out or sell whole.

Anyone have an extra manual for the Elna Grasshopper sewing machine, a
photocopy will do, willing to pay, also is there a site which features
Vintage Elna sewing machines.  I've been through alot of sites in the last
week or so and these machines are mysteriously absent.  I'm just in the
process of repairing this machine and I must say..well made.

I've picked up a few machines in the last little while and have this beauty
which needs some identification.  It's a claw foot handcrank open boat
shuttle, G.H. Dowling stamped in the slide plate. Have a look if you think
you may beable to help.  I will in the near future be putting this machine
up for sale on eBay so I guess interested parties will be able to  preview
it at this address and this will be good chance to ask questions before it
goes up.  The machine is # 7.
http://webhome.idirect.com/~bbannen/mystery.htm

We up here in Canada don't have the Singer 1-800 line for dating our
machines so I'm going to ask if someone will phone for me because I'm
having a difficult time deciding what I have here, I'll explain.  Singer
fiddlebed head that looks similar to a  Model 15 with the tension on the
faceplate but thats where the similarity ends.  The backside of the head
has a removeable access plate like the model 12, the serial number 6421993
is stamped into the bed on the backside of the bed, the medallion states
"Singer N.Y. and the slideplate is stamped 1881.  The bobbin is also very
different than I'm used to seeing, instead of me trying to explain I'll
supply the url for an image or two.

http://webhome.idirect.com/~bbannen/195.jpg
http://webhome.idirect.com/~bbannen/196.jpg

George.
I received the images of the Florence last week but have lost your e-mail
address, please contact me.

Last.. I hope the technology that was used to display the "Howe???" on eBay
doesn't catch on, that switching back and forth between images was to much..

I apologize to everyone that has to read this on the ISMACS digest but I
find not everyone reads both.

Regards
Bob 
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Subject: More on Sewing Calendar
Date: Mon, 29 Dec 97 13:08:50 -0500

More about an online antique sewing calendar I can color copy and laminate.
I will take a guess that I am looking for the year 1891 since the 1890 trade
card calendar matched 1997. I hate guessing but this is a no-brainer anyway.
 I still can't find a calendar online even using Matacrawler's 10 search
engines (www.metacrawler.com).  What I did find was a nice little article on
the Calendar Collector's Society homepage about Re-using Old Calendars the
Perpetual Way (by Judith Abbott of Denton, Texas).

This article does not cover years previous to 1900 but other years matching
1998 are: 1903, 1914, 1925, 1931, 1942, 1953, 1959, 1970, 1981, 1987.

If anyone has a sewing-related trade card calendar to put online OR would
like to sell an affordable one with any year listed above prior to 1953,
please contact me.  Or at the very least, tell us about yours. Did they ever
issue a FW calendar?

Terry
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Date: Mon, 29 Dec 1997 20:49:53 EST
Subject: Attachments and Decals

Can anyone tell me the standard attachments that come with the featherweights?
Part numbers and the corresponding names would be wonderful .

I know there have been discussions on decals for the featherweights.  But I am
confused as to the various decals and where they might be obtained.  As an
example, are the decals for sale nowadays, reproductions of the orginals, or
after all these years could there still be some originals floating around?
Wouldn't  the original decals have disintegrated by now?   Are there different
designs available?

Your information would be appreciated
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Subject: sewing machines
Date: Mon, 29 Dec 1997 09:53:34 -0500

I've been wondering how many people started off their sewing on a Sears
Kenmore machine? Seems like that name keeps popping up over and over -
although maybe I just notice it because that was MY first machine! Actually
was my ONLY machine for over 20 years, and I was very happy with it, but
when it needed to be replaced about five years ago, I bought a NEW Kenmore
and just HATED it - no where near the quality of the old one! I've also
wondered how many people who own FWs also own Berninas? I know at least ONE
who does (since Sue T. is in charge of both the Bernina Fan Club and
FWFanatics!), but can't help but feel there are many more like us! The last
time I went to my Bernina Club meeting, and had to drag my 1230 along, I was
REALLY grateful to own the lightweight portables like the 301 and FW for
most of my travelling. But that brings up another question: how many of you
actually USE your old machines for regular sewing? I know that when I'm at
home most of the time I turn to my wonderful Bernina - but I'm very glad to
have the others for classes! Just curious! Sue 
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Date: Mon, 29 Dec 1997 12:07:42 -0500
Subject: 401A

Hello and Happy New Year to everyone:

I acquired two 401A sewing machines last summer.  I'm thinking about
saving  the best one and just spare parts from the second one.  What
would you save from the second 401A?  Thanks in advance for your advice. 
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Jody 
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Date: Mon, 29 Dec 1997 20:47:41 EST
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 12/27/97

Amy
The drift to the side is not right.  Take off the cover plate over the feed
dogs and with a large round paint brush and the vac clean the area.  Then oil
the poor baby.  I do not use the air can in that area as it forces the lint
into areas you do not want to have to get to in some of the machines.  I use a
shop vac on all of my machines.  Also look all around it for something jamming
the feet.  I found 5 pins under one that was acting like yours.....a 2 year
old like to see them go bye-bye in the hole of the machine.
Your remark reminds me of one of the translation errors for a vaccumm
company.....Our vac sucks good!  In Carolina the state dance is the shag....in
England Graham and Maggie are blushing as they read this as it is an obsene
word there.  But they do have faggots for lunch and smoke fags.  

Docco
You left out one thing....if you want to register you FW go to the home page
and do it as it helps all of us in dating them.  Also,  you have to send the
first FW you get to me for sage keeping...so safe you will never get it
back!!!

Singer Tables
Someone on here will be able to tell you about a table is you include the
Simaco part number.  The FW was not the only portable with a folding table.

Old calenders
The 1891 is the same as 1998.  I was very honored with this in a card from one
of you and I must say it really made my day as I have never even seen one of
the cards before...and it had a bird on it...double pleasure as I am a tree
hugger.

Miken
You site is very nice!!!!  I am in that area sometimes and I will call ahead
if I get that direction again any time soon.  

Bond, James Bond
Has anyone noticed the SM in the movie at the Chinese hidout?  Very old one.
Not enough that I am sure what it is.

Keys
Until you get your keys you can use a small flat blade screwdriver or the key
off canned meat.  (I get a ham that is canned and the key that opens the tin
is perfect.)  I use this as I am the world worse loosing keys.)  I am amazed
that I raised all my children and did not loose them...well one time but I got
him back.  He was in the cart with the food order..too young to tell off on me
and I only got to the end of the shopping center when I missed the food order.

And now a sappy note from me......
Wishing each of you the most joy for the season and my special wish that we
all have the happiness in our heart that we see in children at this time of
year.

Heaven
Well then if all that is in heaven....then imagine all of that and no s/w
needles...that could be hell. 
Blessed Be
Moonsage
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Date: Mon, 29 Dec 1997 12:15:20 -0500
Subject: table?

To Corene
That table sounds like one for a 301.
I have the part that fits underneath a 301 so that it
can be installed in a cabinet if you need one of these
let me know.
faeb
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Date: Tue, 30 Dec 97 12:32:03 EST
Subject: needle hits plate

Hi all and Happy New Year.

I remember that there is a simple fix for this problem...but can't remember
what it is.  On a 221 or 99, when the needle hits the plate, how is this
adjusted?  I have been taking these 2 machines to class for my students to
use and perhaps the machine was bumped in transit.

Thanks in advance for helping.

Jan 
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Subject: updates
Date: Tue, 30 Dec 1997 22:35:36 -0800

Hi;

beginning to feel almost normal... I scanned in two new pictures and posted
them to the web site today.   On page Sewing Machines II you will find a new
Centennial item... an automatic lead pencil.   On page Sewing Machines III
there is a picture of a Singer service truck.

Also, hopefully, this message will be understandable.   Someone finally
pointed out that my messages were coming through with all the html symbols,
and I believe I've cancelled that out.

No new finds, but the poor Model 1200 orphan finally found a home.

Captain Dick
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Date: Wed, 31 Dec 1997 11:08:57 +0000
Subject: Charles Law's Book

I received my copy of Charles Law's book this morning and have just
spent a couple of very enjoyable hours browsing. This is an excellent
effort, packed with information, which must deservedly become an
essential text for the collector of vintage machines.

Congratulations on a fine piece of work Charles!

Alan
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Date: Wed, 31 Dec 1997 12:38:31 +0000
Subject: Jones Sewing Machine Survey

My Jones Sewing Machine Survey has now received details of 100
machines, so I have attached below an interim report on the data so
far with some preliminary conclusions.

The information emerging from the survey has meant that I have had to
radically revise the dating of the Jones CS machines on my web site.

---------------------------------------------------
JONES SEWING MACHINE SURVEY - Interim Report

Many thanks to all who have taken the time and effort to submit
details of their machines so far.

The breakdown of the model types and numbers submitted is as
follows:

MODEL TYPE                                  NUMBER OF MACHINES

Jones B                                                            1

Fiddlebase                                                        4

Family (transverse shuttle)                                  4

Medium (transverse shuttle)                                2

Spool (rotary)                                                     7

CB (oscillating shuttle)                                       4

Family CS (including Federation)                       60

Medium CS                                                       8

Family No.35 CS                                               2

Centenary CS                                                    1

Family D53 and D53a CS                                   4

New Family CS                                                  1

Family CS Model E                                            1

Consort CS					                       1

As can be seen the Jones Family CS model type is by far the
most popular with 60 examples. Details of more machines are
still needed, particularly those with documentation of original
purchase or other dating evidence. The larger the sample the
more reliable the results.

If you have a Jones (or badged by Jones) machine which has not
had its details submitted yet, you can do so online at:

http://www.meiboku.demon.co.uk/sewmach/jones/survey/

RESULTS SO FAR:

Several interesting conclusions have already emerged from the data
(applies to the time period 1893 to 1941):

1. The rate of production of the Jones factory as the leading British
    maker at this time (apart from Singer's factory in Kilbowie) was
    surprisingly low. For example, there were only around 640,000
    Family CS machines made in the c.49 years this model was in
    production. An average production rate of only 13,000 per year
    (250 per week).

    I estimate that Jones produced less than 2,000,000 machines in
    total from 1859 to 1941, and that the number of Singer machines
    made over this period exceeds Jones by more than 30 to 1.

2. Unlike Singer, Jones did not assign a unique serial number for
    each Machine, instead they assigned a simple numerical
    sequence to each Model Type.

    That is, the Medium CS machines were numbered 1, 2, 3...etc,
    as were the Family CS machines and each of the other model
    types. Thus there was a number 1000 Medium CS, a number
    1000 Family CS, a number 1000 Spool, etc, etc..

3. Machines badged by Jones (notably the Federation Family CS)
    were included in the number sequence for the Jones machines
    of the same type, and did not have a separate number sequence.

4. Seemingly, around 1935 when Jones took over Vickers' sewing
    machine production they began the practice of placing a single
    letter before the serial number to identify the model type.

    The numerical sequences were uninterrupted and continued
    unchanged however, so each Family CS serial number from this
    time had a letter "B" added before it to identify this model for
    example.


Alan
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Date: Wed, 31 Dec 1997 07:04:04 -0900
Subject: Sincere books saga

Would someone please post to me where things were left off with the Sincere
books some of us ordered thru BK and never got?  The last I read,
people were contacting the AG's office in Az. and there was a form someone
made up for us to fill out.  Could someone please send me the form and
update me, please?

thanks,
Happy Holidays,
Linda
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Date: Wed, 31 Dec 1997 10:52:37 EST
Subject: singer #27

Hello.  I do not have a featherweight, but I was told you all are the best at
helping people with older machines.  I recently was given a singer model #27,
born 1901.  It is in very good shape, but it still needs some work (paint, new
decals, probably some new parts).  I ordered the manual from singer, but I
would like to have the machine professionally restored so I can use it, but
still not ruin its antiqueness.  Does anyone have any advice or useful tips on
how to best go about this?  I don't want just any machine repairman fiddling
with it and possibly overcharging or not really knowing what he's talking
about.  (I also would like to restore the cabinet)  Thanks!
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Subject: RE: Sewing Machine
Date: Wed, 31 Dec 1997 12:42:54 EST

Sue wrote:
>how many people who own FWs also own Berninas?
>how many of you actually USE your old machines for regular sewing?

I have a Bernina 1130, Singer FW, Singer 99, Singer 66 treadle, Singer
201.
I made a baby quilt on the 66 treadle several years ago and am planning
to piece another quilt on it in 1998. 
I use my FW when I take a class or sew at someone else's house.
I prefer my 99 for piecing quilts--the stitch is better than my Bernina
or FW. 
The 201 has to be re-wired and then I hope it will be my quilting
machine.
I use the Bernina for everything.

Linda
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Date: Wed, 31 Dec 1997 12:48:55 -0800
Subject: Model

I have recently bought a Featherweight and would like some help in
identifiying the model #. The machine was made in St. Johns, P.Q.
The CAT: CA J6-8, S.S. Au61-11-8. It is black  and has a pretty scrolled
end plate,a plain brass medalion and scrolled trim (interlocking). 
Thanks for any help.
Diane 
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Date: Wed, 31 Dec 1997 14:56:14 -0500
Subject: Wanted

Hi
all,                                                                       
I just got my 1938 221 FW. It was definitely a good find at a good
price!  However, I now in search of an oil can to add to it. Please
contact me at drdan@erinet.com        thank
you,                                                               
Renee C.
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Subject: WTB - Boye shuttle/bobbin/needle dispenser
Date: Tue, 30 Dec 1997 22:13:42 -0600

I am looking for a mint condition Boye shuttle/bobbin/needle dispenser with
or without contents.
Paul
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Date: Tue, 30 Dec 1997 22:44:17 EST
Subject: A bonanza

The week before Christmas I went to an auction house that I always have luck
at and happened on a bonanza of sewing machines and attachments.  Evidently
someone had been in the repair business of telephones, radios and sewing
machines.  I walked (DANCED) away with a 404, a 306(or 308. I can't remember
just now it is downstairs and I am upstairs) for $11.00 each and about 40
pounds of attachments and manuals including a table clamping Singer pinker in
its original box.  There are lots of buttonholers, attachments for Whites,
Free Westinghouse and Singer.  The manuals are for Domestic Rotary Electric
151, White Rotary electric 43, Singer 285K, Free-Westinghouse ALC, Singer 99,
and Singer 319K.  The manual for the Singer 319K is the most interesting one
of all.  It is dated 1956 and there is a picture of an electric machine on the
front but when you open the manual you discover that there is no text, only
pictures and the machine is a treadle.  The do not use arabic numbers to
number the pictures either.  They use a system of dots- .  ..  ... to show the
order of the illustrations.  Also in the box of parts was a rather beaten up
advertising brochure of the available cabinets for Free-Westinghouse machines
and three of the heads.  The date is 1952.  Once I get everything sorted out (
I even have some Necchi things in this collection) I will be offering those
things that I do not want to keep for myself on FWforSale and eBay.

Selma 
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