Featherweight
Fanatics
Archives
November 1997
Sunday, November 2 - Saturday, November 8
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Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 10/29/97
Date: Sat, 1 Nov 1997 19:51:00 +0000
Re toys for sale.
Maggie has had some negative feedback from FWF members who pointed out that
they didn't receive notice of the machines for sale on her site. There all
went within two days and I quite understand the frustration of going there
and simply seeing sold signs.
I did post the same announcement to all digests at the same time but as
this was esentially a sales plug I addressed the message to the FWF sales
line.
I have just posted a new set of toys machines for sale for Maggie at
http://www.ismacs2.u-net.com/.
For future reference, a new group of machines will be offered on the first
of every month.
To Bill re ISMACS
All the information you need to join is at http://www.ismacs.net
List of sites
I plan on putting a complete list of sites with sewing-machine connections
in the next issue of ISMACS News which will be out before Christmas. Please
register your site and any others you may recommend by sending me e-mail with "site list" as the subject line. Thanks for this in advance as I will not be able to acknowledge all of this mail.
Graham
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Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 10/26/97
Date: Sat, 1 Nov 1997 19:51:44 +0000
Re the three-quarter White on e-bay
If this is a trademan's sample, I'm the Pope's second wife.
Graham
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Date: Sun, 2 Nov 1997 09:05:33 -0500 (EST)
Subject: My Newly Acquired FW!
I looked on the bottom and found the following:
Simanco USA
45713
AL 737218
Assume this is the "code", but how do I read it?
The little machine is so neat!
Thanks,
Homer
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Date: Sun, 2 Nov 97 15:01:29 UT
Subject:
Hello everyone...I spoke with Frank Smith yesterday and he wanted me to be
sure to let everyone know that he will not be pre-selling any of the sewing
machines he ill have for sale on November 8th and 9th in Arlington, TX
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Subject: Un-motorizing a treadle
Date: Sun, 2 Nov 1997 12:28:22 -0500
Hi all, I have a question. I have my grandmother's old treadle. It is a
Model 66 Red-eye from around 1922. Sometime in the 60's or 70's, my mother
had a motor mounted on it. It sits on a plate in the back of the machine.
Is it possible to 'un-motorize' it without damaging the machine or leaving
a gaping hole in the back? I'm afraid to touch it, for fear of damaging
the machine. But I actually do prefer the machine as a treadle. It just
doesn't work the same with the motor. I am able to remove the belt to the
motor, and run the machine with the treadle belt.
Thanks,
Barbara Logan
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Date: Sun, 2 Nov 1997 13:26:49 -0500 (EST)
Subject: Little Singer Toy Truck
Hope someone can help me. About a month ago (on somebody's web site) I saw a
little green toy truck with the Singer logo on the side. Naturally I can't
find the web site now. If I recall, it appeared to be the size of a
matchbox car. Does anyone have any information about this toy? Who was the
manufacturer (Matchbox, Corgi, Mattel, Singer, etc.). What size was this
toy? Was it sold in stores or given away as a promotion by Singer? What
year were these available? If anyone has any information about the little
Singer truck, a friend and I will be very greatful. Many thanks!
Diane
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Date: Sun, 2 Nov 1997 16:21:21 -0500 (EST)
Subject: re: Thanks to FW Fanatics
Just wanted to thank all the FWF's out there who helped me find a
Featherweight for my quilting projects.
After following up on many listings in the FWF's For Sale pages, I chose a
black FW from Debra Neilson in Florida (sewwhat@ij.net) who not only sent
lots of detail about her machines, but also attached beautiful photographs to
her email. This was a big help to me as I wanted to see what I was buying!
My machine arrived this week, is in great shape and sews very smoothly.
Thanks to Debra for her service, and to everyone else who responded to my
enquries about FW's for Sale.
In reading the FW For Sale listings, and also on individual web sites, I
noticed that sometimes 221 Face Plates were described as "Straited". These
were probably typo errors, but in case they weren't - "Striated" or
"Striation" is the correct word and means "a minute groove, scratch or
channel, especially when one of a parallel series". There are several
meanings of "Strait" but the one I know best is "narrow channel connecting
two bodies of water"! I am from New Zealand where we have Cook Strait
between the North and South Islands!
Sorry to be so picky about spelling, but as Featherweight Fanatics we should
try to use accurate terminology!
I love your regular FWF list, and find the whole Singer and other sewing
machine enthusiasm here fascinating.
Anne
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Date: Sun, 02 Nov 1997 17:15:18 -0500
Subject: December 6th get together
Hi:
Justed wanted to remind everyone of the mini-convention / party on Dec 6
at our home in Arnold, Maryland. The gathering is open to all FWF's,
ISMACS members, Toy Stitchers, and members of the Little Stitchers
Digest. If you wish to come and have not already received the
informational email from me, please drop me a line and I will send you a
copy right away.
So far we have over 30 who are planning on attending and we still have
room for more (although my wife is starting to get nervous) - talk to
you soon.
--
Bob
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Date: Sun, 02 Nov 1997 17:44:50 -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 10/30/97
Hello FWF's
I am looking for the metal collar/ring that goes in the bobbin case of the 201.
Other than that the machine is perfect. If any one knows where I can get one could
they please contact me.
I also need to know about fixing the tension on a really nice 327K I recently
bought. I have adjusted the upper tension till I'm blue in the face, but to no
avail. It still won't give me a good zig zag stitch. I have also tighten/loosened
every which way the bobbin case tension and that hasn't worked either. Could the
timing be off slightly? I get a good straight stitch, but I get wacky zig zag
stitches. It produces good top zig zag stitches, but the bottom stitches are
pulled to one side or looped. I have taken the tension spring apart and replaced
it several times but it still has a problem.
Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks
Steve
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Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 10/30/97
Date: Sun, 2 Nov 1997 22:00:35 +0000
To Connie et al re Wall Street journal
The reporter from the Journal actually contacted me with a view to
verifying some of the claims Carter Bays had made in the interview. Boy are
they, sticklers for getting it right. Certainly Carter's collection of
early American treadles is the best in the world but the collection loses
brownie points for world rating as it is so restricted.
I guess you can just add up all those optimistic prices in the book and get
an idea of what he'd be asking for.
I agreed to give the help as long as ISMACS was mentioned and the paper
came through.
To Bill re Domestic
This company was formed officially in 1869 with a factory in Norwalk Ohio.
Bought out by White in 1924 but continued as an independent company with
its own Domestic brand name. Still in business in the 1960s
To LouAnne
Morse was an American company operating out of New York in the 1950s. They
imported Japanese machines from many companies, added the Morse name and
did big business for a time.
Graham
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Date: Sun, 2 Nov 1997 20:41:34 -0500
Subject: Machines sighted
Hi, Feathers!
I was excited today to find a treasure of sewing machines just 15 minutes
from home! DH and I had brunch at "Heart In Hand" in Clifton, VA and
stopped to browse the antique shop that's in the same building. "Judy's
Junque," it's called, and Judy apparently likes old sewing machines. There
were about a dozen or so...White, Modern, Singer. One FW with a "firm"
price of $340, but somewhat battered (maybe a 5), latch missing on case,
and control pedal in need of rewiring. Also, a "Great Kalamazoo" (?)
treadle in a beautiful and compact cabinet. I think the price was about
$350?
I picked up a box of FW attachements for $15, and couldn't resist another
interesting piece. Box is marked:
"Famous" Buttonhole Worker Model "C"
LIGHT MANUFACTURING
Sold by Singer Sewing Machine Company
It has a patent date of May 23, 1916, and seems to be in good condition.
The question is, does anyone know what SM it belongs to?
Happy stiching!
From Susan
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Subject: Tan FW
Date: Sun, 2 Nov 1997 20:47:48 -0500
I absolutely was not even going to look for sewing machines this
weekend. Until a quilting friend mentioned seeing a tan FW for sale
for $275, at a flea market 2 hours away. It was more than my self-
imposed limit of $250 (but I already broke that for the white FW!) so I
called the guy for further details. When I asked him to verify the price,
he said "$250." So I now am blessed with a FW in each color.
Then, a dealer I know called and said he had a mint condition small
Singer for me to look at. No, not a FW, but a rather nice electric 99.
As the only 99 I have is a handcrank and he only wanted $35, I had
to get that too. I decided it would be the first Singer in my 8 year old's
collection and told her it was hers to keep, sell, or trade. She's an
amazing packrat, so I imagine she'll keep it, but she did crack me up
asking immediately how much I thought it was worth....
Capt. Dick, I did get a part-time job to finance all of this, as you were
considering, but the way it's going, I may have to look for a full-time
job.
I did manage to pass by a c8 1939 model 66 treadle in a sweet,
small 2 drawer cabinet for $140 and so spared the month's food budget
from total disarray.
A question about bobbin cases. Found a Singer buttonholer that had
a bobbin case in it for some reason. It doesn't look as if it would fit
any of my Singers, though it's close to the 15. Singer says they can
fit a machine to a bobbin case but not the other way around. ??
How can I find out which machine this will fit? Simanco 55651.
Thanks for any help. Lin
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Date: Sun, 2 Nov 1997 20:49:25 EST
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 10/28/97
Hi All I have been lurking and finally have some sucess that I wanted to
share. Found a black 301 for $3.00 no manual at a flea market it was not
taken care of but has a good home now. Also a table with insert $2.00 had to
paint was awful but we love her. This week found a cenntenial FW about a 8.
paid $325.00 had the oil can, buttonholer and all other attachments. I was
pleased. Found a FW at my next door neighbors been looking all over and here
was one next door. I gave her $125.00 and she was thrilled. Today DH found
four TSM he was very happy. But my find for today was a 301 that is tan. she
is very dirty but no attachments or manual. I would like a manual or copy if
someone has one to sell. Please e-mail me. It was very cold and dreary for
flea-marketing but it was worth it today. Oh I paid $15.00 for the tan 301 now
my search goes on for a tan FW.
Peggy
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Date: Sun, 2 Nov 1997 22:50:45 -0500 (EST)
Subject: Lube the motor?
Hi everyone!
Today, I was lucky enough to get another Singer 201 at an outdoor flea
market. I got it for only $25. It does not have a cabinet it's the head
only. The question I have is do I still need to lube the motor. It had a
repair tag still on it from 1972 when it was serviced at a Singer dealer. On
the tag it said it was lubed. This was 25 years ago though. I went ahead
and oiled it up and used a hair dryer on the lube posts. It sews very good
(actually runs like a race horse) so I would'nt think it would need it again.
Right????
It was in fair condition but had a lot of chips on the fly wheel. I used
black touch up car paint on it and it covered great. Guess what though? On
the bed someone scratched "Russ + Marge" with a pin. So I guess If this
machine needs a name it should be Marge! Ha-ha.
Does anyone have attachments? I have 2 201's now and NO attachments. I
really want to do free motion quilting with these and need an "old" style
darning foot. Please..can anyone help me? Oh, also the serial number starts
with AM. So am I to assume it is after 1953? I have Capt'n Dicks field
guide and it stops with the AL's for 1953. The Singer badge on this machine
is gold but has a ringed black "broken" line around it.
Thanks for any advice!
Terri
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Subject: Puzzle boxes
Date: Mon, 3 Nov 1997 07:10:14 -0500
Sorry for the cross post, but I think members of BOTH groups are interested
in these cute little boxes! I see them fairly frequently at various sales I
go to, most often priced around $20 (although a woman yesterday thought she
should charge $25 for an almost empty box - mostly because of the 1896
patent date, I think!). It seems I usually find the ones meant for the
model 27 Singers (for those who don't know, that's indicated by the little
accordian like device at the end of the boxes to hold the long shuttle
bobbins).
I have however managed to purchase two made for the model 15s and in
comparing the two noticed that they weren't exactly alike. One has simple
numbers (i.e., 1,2,3,4, etc.) to indicate where each piece belongs
(although not all pieces have the numbers that correspond), but the other
has serial numbers for that purpose (which works much better since all the
attachments DO have serial numbers). Also one has two wires to hold the
round bobbins in place, while the other only has one (although maybe that
one is broken?). And the outside of one is fairly light oak, while the
other is much darker (almost a walnut shade) and the inside of the lighter
one is much redder velvet as opposed to the almost purple velvet in the
dark box.
If any of you have any more info on these boxes, I'd love to hear about it
AND I'd love to know if anyone has ever found a puzzle box that goes with
the model 24 Singers (I've seen a manual for them, but never the box
itself!). Sue
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Date: Mon, 03 Nov 97 11:19:21 -0500
Subject: Postings
Oh, Captain Dick, please don't limit your posts. You are teaching us
so much. I know I speak for many FWFs.
:) Nancy
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Date: Mon, 03 Nov 1997 14:41:30
Subject: Re: Puzzle box
Hi everyone:
Just got a puzzle box via a friend of my daughter's! It's in really nice
shape, so we were quite excited to get it. There are no attachments in it,
but there were some really cute screwdrivers in it. I don't think they
belong to it, because there is no Simanco or Singer stamped on them. One
of them is a small screwdriver and the end screws off and it has two more
tiny little screwdrivers in it. They'll definitely be handy for something.
Does anyone know an address on the web which would have a diagram, or even
a list of what's supposed to be in the puzzle box? There are numbers on
the metal "thingies" in the box, but I have no idea what is supposed to be
in it. There are also some numbers missing.
Any info would be greatly appreciated.
Jacqui
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Date: 03 Nov 97 12:50:02 -0500
Subject: FW Care Workshops
"Hi all, we are arranging some FW Care workshops for the Tampa and
Orlando Florida areas for last of Feb. first of March and am hoping that
some of you FWF will want to attend."
Nancy , is there any chance something like this would ever occur
in the midwest? Say, Des Moines, Omaha, Minneapolis or Kansas City?
Linda
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Date: Mon, 3 Nov 1997 13:23:23 -0500 (EST)
Subject: Re: Miniature Victorian Sewing Center.
F Y I:
The Smithsonian Holiday 1997 catalogue features, (at pg. 21) a miniature
sewing machine (looks like a Singer New Family) treadle on a wooden table
with "an ornamental wrought iron trellis, a lilliputian dress form and
accessories, including scissors, dress form folders, measuring tape and a
floral fabric. Scale 1"=1'."
Note: The catalogue picture looks very detailed and really great !
Cat. no. 6903 @ $30.00, members $27.00 ->>Usual disclaimers>>>-
Smithsonian Inst. USPS add: 7955 Angus Ct., Springfield, VA 22153-2855
email: SICUSTSVC@AOL.COM
800/521-5330 (8:30-5PM, EST) - To call for a catalogue.
outside USA use 703/455-1700
hearing impaired: 703/274-0222 (9-9 M-F)
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Date: Mon, 3 Nov 1997 11:23:55 -0700
Subject: Re: Thank you All!
I'm glad to read that you got out of the Penny's fiasco. I'm sure that
you made the right choice.
But honestly--if you really want to get a good machine for your
granddaughter--you should stop putting yourself through all this torment
and purchase a reliable used machine from a reliable local dealer. Go
into one your local machine shops--thely almost always have dozens of
used machines which they will warranty and service for 60 days to a year.
If you can afford this routeI think that you will save yourself and your
daughter/granddaughter some headache.
Should you decide to give her the machine you just bought--if you bought
it at a salvation arny store--it is likely only returnable in the next
30 days WITH your receipt.
You will not find out what problems it may have until you use it.
If you decide to stick it out with this machine clean it up and judge for
yourself. Just as has been discussed in the group earlier--each machine
is different. I may buy a Pfaff that is wonderful===while the next person
may purchase one that has intrinsic problems--its not the name (the name
may make some difference) -but its the individual machine.
If this is a christmas gift that gives you plenty of time to clean it up
and run it through lots of fabric--to see how it holds up.
good luck to you
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Date: Mon, 3 Nov 1997 11:36:59 -0800 (PST)
Subject: What did I find?
I hope that someone can help me find out more about the first
machine and to help identify a second machine, the third just to keep
things in perspective!
I was digging around in some thrift stores this weekend when I came
across some very old machines. One is a Western Electric (portable) in a
VERY nice "coffin" style case. It looked similiar to the 99? No decals on
the case but the machine and case have no visiable scars or chips. SO
HEAVY!!! Something was missing....there was a short cord, maybe acout 5
inches long, coming from the motor with a odd plug (wouldn't fit any thing
I own) design. This apparently connected to a wall cord and foot pedal
(which was also missing). Would anyone pay $60.00 for it???
The second machine was a BEAUTY, a hand crank with loads of wide
gold and red decals, bright and shiny. The "coffin" case was lovely, the
wood had not a scratch or scar anywhere. The only identifying marks are as
follows:
W.J. Harris & Co. LTD
London S.F.
3653774
My DH thought this one was quite spectacular, until I told him the asking
price was $225.00. So tell me what you think....
Another one was a Wheeler & Wilson 5-drawer treadle without the set
of right side drawers for $160.00, the machine looked great but... what a
dreamer!
I love the "second" machine, but the asking price was kinda high. If
someone out there can e-mail me with some information or tell me where I
can find some information about that machine, maybe I can decide if the
price is too high.
Thanks for all the info. everyone provides on this list. There are
so many "experts" on this list and I thank you for sharing. 8^)
Linda
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Date: Mon, 03 Nov 1997 04:51:45 -0500
Subject: 27 puzzle box diagram
For those who might want to see how the accessories are placed into the
Singer Model 27 Puzzle box, please see the diagram I have put up located
in the Singer section of my site. Located at
http://38.160.199.2/magsrags/
I have copies of the manual for these accessories for using with the
Model 27 if you need them. Just write me!
Thanks,
Maggie
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Subject: my two cents worth
Date: Tue, 4 Nov 1997 19:14:38 -0500
Dear Feathers; i believe all this computer stuff will lead to our undoing,
here i am mikeh trying to send a post for the third time with this new
computer and starting to not like this computer. I certainly have enough
work to not want to spend hours working on this thing.
Well havent been able to send out a forsale page to sell my 206k or my 411g
so there still on my shelf, the book orders have been coming in, and my
wife and i are very pleased. Starting soon we will gift wrap the books for
no charge on request. Well have been out in the north of us, selling
treadle sewing machines to the old order amish, its a new machine we
convert to non hydro use, bandsaw, lathe and file, and screwdrivers. oil
can.
Well am pretty tired and still have too unload a truck, so feathers have a
great week, yours from the sewing machine graveyard. mikeh.
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Subject: Mail server crashed
Date: Mon, 3 Nov 1997 18:59:27 -0800
Hi again to all:
Anyone who was good enough to write me or post to the digest about
repairing a F/W case or where to get a new one could you plese do so again.
My server went out about 2:30 sunday morning and I've gotten no mail or
anything until 6:00 pm tonight (Monday. Sorry to have you repeat
yoruselves, but I need some help!!
TIA,
Cyndy
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Date: Mon, 03 Nov 1997 21:46:52 -0600
Subject: Singer 99-13 - NOT a FW
You all seem to know lots more than just FWs, so perhaps you can help. My
Mom "garage saled" a Singer Portable Electric Sewing Machine No. 99-13 with
knee control and brought it home to me. It has the wooden case and has seen
some pretty good use. The gold decals are rubbed off in places. For a
"portable" it is heavy!
Is it rare? or is it scrap metal? eeeeeeh! I probably shouldn't have asked
that on this list....Thanks for any info anyone can provide. Enjoy the
list...I recently became the owner of a FW as well as a 15-91 and am
supposed to pick up a 301A tomorrow. I don't think of myself as a
collector....how many does it take to be a "collector"?
Also, was surprised to see the free arm FWs priced so high in
Houston...Missouri Sewing Machine Co. on Truman Rd. in Kansas City, Mo. has
one in their display counter...I think it is for sale if anyone is interested.
thanks
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Date: Mon, 03 Nov 1997 04:05:11 -0500
Subject: Decal wanted + pink cased buttonholer
Hi all,
I was wondering if anyone had a Willcox and Gibbs brass decal for sale.
I bought a very nice W+G but it is missing it! I can't imagine it having
come off by itself as it appears to be held on by a screw from the
underside. must have been pried off. Anyway if you are parting out a
wreck I can give the decal a home. this is such an otherwise nice
treadle head and I'd like to make it complete.
On another note.
I don't remember seeing mention of a Singer Buttonholer comming in a
dark PINK Jetson style long plastic case. I have bought one and it is
part #489500and 489510. My material here says that they would be used
for either a slant or straight needle machine. Anyone else have one of
these in this style case? Manual is 1968 I believe. Like new and unused
with wrapping yet on it and sale invoice from 1970 priced for $7.00,
including a discount for the Singer employee who bought it. Neat and
never used. Not like I will be making any buttonholes very soon though!
Maggie
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Date: Tue, 4 Nov 1997 13:34:46 +0000
Subject: machine tables in english pubsH
HI all
In my part of England - the north east there are tons of pubs using
redundant treadle tables as lunch tables. Not sure about the location
of hte London Pub I am afraid.
Yes there seem to be ltos of treadles available here. I have a 99 (I
thnk) in a table which runs beautifully and it was a gift - I also have
a 1937 hand cranked Singer in wonderful condtion for a tenner and whcih
came iwht a box lined with purple velvet complete with all sorts of
gizmos. And an instruction booklet.
So the answer seems to be yes, there are lots of old machines available
in England,
hugs
jenny
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Subject: FInally, a 201!
Date: Mon, 3 Nov 1997 19:31:16 -0500
After months of haunting local garage sales, thrift shops, Sal's Boutiques
finally stumbled into a beautiful 201 in Queen Anne cabinet in a used
furniture store in Westerly, RI. Missing a spool pin and the needle had
rusted into place but all else is well. They had bought it as part of a lot
and didn't quite know what to do with it so I willingly took it off their
hands for a dirt cheap price. Now it's polished and gleaming and ensconced
in the dining room, for the momemt.Is there is way of finding the model
number on the cabinet. I think I've looked in every crevice but maybe I've
missed it. The front of the cabinet has a small fold out drawer with
interesting wood grain. Is this what you were talking about in a
description of your own cabinet, Capt. Dick?
Anyway, its nice to finally feel that it is worth looking here in New
England. I was convinced the Swamp Yankees never got rid of anything!
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Date: Tue, 4 Nov 1997 11:23:27 -0500 (EST)
Subject: Serial # on Singer Treadle
I finally received my Grandmother's treadle and I called Singer to find out
when the machine was made. The only number I could find on the machine was
on the throat plate. The person I talked to thought that was a parts number.
I looked everywhere else on the machine, top and bottom, and cannot find a
serial number. The name on the front of the machine is 'The Companion'. Do
you have any idea where the serial number is located??
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Date: 4 Nov 1997 15:31:55 -0800
Subject: Lost opportunity
My DW and I went to Tempe to visit OSAAC (only son away at college) for
parents weekend. Stopped by a store in Scottdale and found several FW's two
8-9s with button holers, like new boxes, and original attachments in boxes and
original manuals for 450-475. One white one with buttonholer in a bullet
shaped container, in green box with manuals and attachment in original box for
275. What I thing is an Eygption large portable with egyption type decals
srial statered with 11 and had 8 digits (I think for 95) , etc. While we were
looking someone brought a near perfect black FW to front of store to hold.
Sold for 125.00 I Felt bad rest of weekend. Was telling an office mate at
lunch about my loss and he said he had just put a FW in his trash bin this AM.
Said it was jammed and he didn't think it was worth getting fixed. They pick
up trash here at 8:00AM so there was no chance of recovery. I'm really
depressed now.
During our looking we saw a nicelooking Bellaire Bantam SN5012169A with a
case and attachments for 89 - Is this a good deal? Machine looks similar in
size and fuction to FW, but is not a knockoff. Is this a good recovery item
for my lost FW opportunites. its well hidden and I can send my OSAAC to back
to get it.
Also know of a place between of Phenox and Flagsstaff that has 30+ singer and
other protables in wood covers in 75-125 price range. I wasn't looking but I
suspect this place has loads of treadle machines too. I'll send addresses to
anyone who cares to look. DWG
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Subject: Motor for Bernina
Date: Tue, 4 Nov 1997 14:09:21 -0800
Some of you may recall awhile back I got a great "bargain"... a
Bernina 707 for $7.57 at a thrift. I had a broken motor mount,
which I figured was no big deal. However, Bernina thought it was
and wanted $250 for a whole new motor... no way to replace just the
mount. (Modern engeering strikes again). Anyway, someone gave the
the address of a shop in Ephrata PA that specializes in treadle
converting Bernina's. (Sorry I can't say who sent this to me... I
printed it out and saved it, but the "From" line printed blank and I
can no longer remember who it was. Many thanks anyway.) THis post
laid around for awhile but I finally sent a letter off and Ervin
Zimmerman of Hinkletown Sewing Shop called me an offered me a motor
for a very reasonable price. so hopefully, in a few weeks when I
get the motor and get to the work, I will experience sewing on a
Bernina.
Also, while of doubtful interest to you guys, I updated the
Story/Routine Page at the site today, putting up two Christmas
ventriloquist routines. They're cute, if you want to check them
out.
Captain Dick
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Date: Tue, 4 Nov 1997 15:25:24 -0600 (CST)
Subject: Attachment boxex & other stuff
Bill said:
> Yesterday, I found a little black box 3" x 6 1/2" and about 1 5/8" tall.
> It has, in gold,"ATTACHMENTS", stenciled on the top lid and little gold
> loop dee loops around the edges. Inside the box, the lid and bottom are
> lined in purple velvet. There is a chrome bar attached in the lid to
> hold sewing machine attachments. There is another chrome bar attached on
> the bottom for holding attachments. It is full of Griest sewing machine
> attachments. There is a pair of small sewing snips. I thought that it
> might be Singer, but the bobbins are a little larger than Singer
> bobbins.
> Does anyone know what I have? What machine are the larger bobbins for?
Look at the place where the attachment would fasten to the presser bar --
it probably has a flat extension (which would be parallel to the bed of
the machine) with a slot in it. These kinds of attachments are generally
called "top-clamping" and they don't fit Singer machines. There are three
different varieties of top-clamping attachments, and they fit machines
like the New Home, White, Eldredge, etc. My guess is (from your
description of the box) that they belong to a New Home.
Millie said:
> Greetings, a friend has a Singer GENIE and tells me that the fabric
> feeds at an angle now, which is aggravating to her. Her Singer dealer
> told her that this is 'normal'. It seems to me that this type of problem
> was reported recently as a feeddog problem.
When this happens to me, it's usually either because there's lint packed
between the teeth of the feed dog (perhaps worse on one side than the
other) or lint packed under the throat plate around the feed dog, keeping
it from catching the fabric evenly. Take the throat plate off and clean
first -- that might solve the problem.
It's also possible for those teeth to wear down, but I don't know how easy
it would be to find a new feed dog for a Genie...
Pam said:
> I also got lucky today and bought a bentwood Singer. Tee end plate and
> the round back plate has grapes and grape leaves. I am not sure what
> model it is, maybe a model 28 according to Capt. Dicks book. IT is very
> ornate with lots of decals and they are in good shape. Only thing is I
> need the key to be able to open and shut the lid. Does anyone have one
> :-)
Glenn (here on FWF) has new keys for featherweights and treadles
-- I've used the treadle keys on a bentwood case. I've also found old
keys in masses of keys in antique shops for $.50 or so. (I always look
now...) But until you get a key, you can lock and unlock it easily enough
using a small screwdriver -- the key for these cases is just a flat piece
of metal! (One reason to always carry a small screwdriver with you -- I
picked up a machine cheap at auction because I was the only one who could
open it and see what was inside! I've even used the closed blades of a
pair of folding scissors to open a case or two...)
Terri
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Date: Tue, 4 Nov 1997 18:49:30 -0500 (EST)
Subject: thread makers
Does anyone know where I can find a history of thread? Specifically I
want to know about the names Clark, Coats and Clark, O.N.T. and Merrill. Was
Mr. Clark's first name George? I have 2 Encyclopedias on the computer but
neither one has this information.
TIA
Marilyn
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Date: Mon, 3 Nov 1997 15:59:22 -1000
Subject: Costco "featherweights"
I have a friend who has been looking at getting a featherweight for some
time. She said she was at COSTCO in her area and they had a NEW Singer featherweight. It LOOKED like a Featherweight - but was brand new. She was excited to think that these would be the quality of the older machines - or better - with modern technology. I know a LOT of machines these days seems to have plastic parts and actually be of lower quality. Does anyone know anything about this "new" Featherweight? I don't see it at our COSTCO in Hawaii - they only have a couple of Brother models.
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Subject: quilt & cold
Date: Mon, 3 Nov 1997 19:06:32 -0800
HI, all;
finished my Mystery Quilt top yesterday. Came out nice. some
impressions on using a Featherweight machine for the first time on a
quilt... very nice... I really am impressed with what a nice, sweet
sewing little machine it is. My only previous use was to take a
white 221K to a teddy bear class, which really didn't allow for
getting a feel of the machine. I also used the folding table, and
was not as impressed. Two problems... mine has been refinished and
the finish is not slick enough to allow free movement of the fabric
once you get larger sections of the quilt involved. That could be
fixed. However, I was also most distressed at the lack of space to
the right of the machine. That I can't live with. Will have to
make my own folding table, probably with a universal top fitting to
take any brand or size of machine. Will probably formica it for
smooth sliding of the fabric.
No progress on the book, and I am coming down with a cold... Ah,
well... hopefully it won't interfere with the layering, pinning and
quilting of the mystery. Whole class is to exhibit their quilts at
church on the 23rd, so I have to keep moving.
Still doing my 3 miles a day, in spite of the back and the cold.
Captain Dick
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Subject: Misc - long post
Date: Tue, 4 Nov 1997 08:46:20 -0800
If you search out SM's, always have a small screwdriver on your key
chain. A small screwdriver will open a bentwood case as well as the
keys will. I discovered my Nissan key, which has a narrow pointed
end, will also open them and was quite smug about it until I hit one
that was frozen and bent the key. Had a terrible time getting it
straightend enough to start the car and get home!
Very interesting question re looking at a machine in a van, or in any
similar isolated circumstance. Strange times we live in, but that's
reality. Obviously, having the "van" meet you at the busiest and
most populated place is a good idea... but it should be a smallish
populated place where the other people around are close... maybe a
MacDonald's lot, as opposed to a huge shopping center or mall lot
where folks pretty much ignore what's going on. Another idea would
be to know the location of a nearby police station and meet there.
In a circumstance like this have the stranger bring the machine out,
certainly do not get into a vehicle. Also, as was done in this
case, take company. Pretty unlikely a weirdo is going to use a SM as
part of his modus operandi, but it pays to be careful. I have noted
in recent months that some of the ladies are using "wanted" ads...
some of these same cautions would apply to going to a strange house
to see machines. Having a companion would be a good idea.
New subject...Once again, having and using a business card pays
off... got a call yesterday from a lady I gave one to 2 years ago.
I found my first ever 301 in a garage sale her daughter was running.
Talked with them and she said she had two bentwood case Singers at
her home over on the Olympic Peninsula and that she would get them
over to this side and call me. Never heard another word. Phone
rings and she starts talking about two bentwood cases in Port Orchard
and I did remember the incident. Anyway, she found my card and
called after all that time, and we are going to get together on the
machines.
You can print up cards easily on your computer, and it's worth it.
Helps if you put something catchy or memorable on it. Here is the
copy I use on the front of my card:
Dick W.... Basically Retired
but still providing, as the Spirit moves me:
* Ventriloquist & Storytelling Performances
* Carved Ventriloquist and Carousel Figures
* Turned Bowls in Select Woods
* Handmade Teddy Bears
* Power Lifting Kites & Skydiving Teddy Bears
* Pieced Quilts & Vintage Sewing Machines
2631 NW 95th St., Seattle, WA 98117
(206) 784-0883
Web: http://www.acmenet.com/Users/captaindick
and here is the back of my card:
Regarding Deadlines:
I work in my shop to relax. I have only two
deadlines: "Within a Year" and "A Long Time". Small
jobs are generally completed with a year, unless I
just can't see to get to them, in which case they
may take a long time. Large jobs always take a long
time, unless they intrigue me, in which case I may
complete them within a year. If it is necessary that
you know when your job will be completed, count on
a long time.
Captain Dick
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Subject: How do you handle this?
Date: Tue, 4 Nov 1997 11:50:03 -0600
Have been actively shopping for SM's the last month -- ran one little ad in
the paper, and advertise every so often on a "swap shop" type radio show,
and going to garage sales. Lots of response -- twice my heart has started
to pound when I thought I might be on the trail of a FW -- not yet tho. My
old Miss Kitty needs a deskmate.
Anyway, most people hereabouts don't want to set a price -- just say make
me an offer. I do not wish to do this -- if its a machine I really want, I
may insult them by being too low, and if I offer too much, then it is my
loss. How can you make people understand that they should set a price and
start the negotiation from there?
Barbara
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Date: Tue, 04 Nov 1997 10:51:03 -0800
Subject: singer model 14 105761
I have had an old machine from my grandmother for many years. I checked
the serial number on the machine and it was 14 105761, handcrank, and I
understand it was from Clydebank, Scotland, around the 1890's. Can
anyone tell me for certain any more about this information, and if so
please e-mail me. It has a covered handle case, attachements and it
also has printed on the plate that holds these attachments the name
Simanco 124404.
Thank you,
Sandy
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Subject: Pre-holiday get together
Date: Tue, 4 Nov 1997 11:14:02 -0800
Hi Feathers!
I would like to have a gathering of F/W and toy machine collectors here in
Centralia on November 15th. I live between Seattle and Portland off I-5
and would love to meet, visit, sell, trade, talk sewing machines!! I have
also posted to Little Stitchers group so sorry if you've already read this
post.
Please let me know privately if there is interst as I am planning as we
speak!! Sort of a pre-holiday blast!! email me at: lacey@localaccess.com
or call 360-736-2383.
Talk to you soon!!
Cyndy
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Date: Wed, 5 Nov 1997 04:34:31 -0500 (EST)
Subject: What have we here?
I finally got that machine that was stored at my daughter's and gave it a
good looking over. It's a 185K made in Great Britain. It's in a brown and
beige cloth covered case w/snaps at the bottom and lift off top. The machine
is mint green and it needs a good cleaning, not having been used for awhile.
Bobbin case is intact and it sews straight stitch only with reverse. This
machine was given to me in 1960 when I graduated High School. I was visiting
my great aunt in Ontario and she gave it to me for use at college. I put
plenty of "miles" on it until the early 70's when my DH bought me a new
"fancy" Kenmore. So, my mother took it home with her when she was visiting
one time and there we found it when she passed away.
I don't think I've seen any postings related to a 185K since I've been
reading the FW digest. Perhaps I've just not been paying enough attention.
The FW's (221's) and 99's have been the models I've seen most postings about.
Hope someone can tell me a little about the machine.I do remember my great
aunt telling me that she was giving me the machine because she had gotten a
new one and I also remember her calling it a "featherweight". I remember a
few days ago someone posted the weight that a FW should be and then a heavier
weight that was another model. Help me please!
In the daylight tomorrow I'm going to try to find the serial number and
call Singer, if I can find their number. Oh yes, I remember, I tucked it into
my original FW manual along with the original (1947) purchase contract!
Thanks in advance for your kind help.
LouAnne
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Date: Tue, 4 Nov 1997 15:23:33 -0500 (EST)
Subject: FW sightings, etc.
Hi all,
Was at a flea market this week-end and saw 3 FWs, only. 2 black ones, and a
"celery green" one. Asking price was $300 for each.....one of the black ones
didn't have the original case, though. Then the guy marked down his price on
the green one to $275 sometime before we left....but I already had one, so I
passed, but it was tempting as it was in good shape.
What did follow me home was a nice 15-91 in a cabinet with the matching
sewing stool with the storage seat full of all the accessories, manual,
Student's Manual of Machine Sewing and misc stuff.....and I was most excited
about getting a New Family treadle machine with the mother-of-pearl inlay
still in good shape, but with most of the gold decals gone...but she was born
Aug. 21, 1879, according to Singer information, so I guess it isn't any
surprise.
Spotted quite a few tsms also, but prices were too high for me....
Met one of our group there, looking at FWs..(.Hi, to Dick H.!! ) Shoulda had
a clue he was a fellow FWF, when I saw a little sign stuck to the front of
his cap that said "I Buy Featherweights", huh?
That's all for now.....still looking for a snow white FW and a tan one, Oh
sure, huh?
Laura
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Date: Tue, 4 Nov 1997 15:33:20 -0500 (EST)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 10/31/97
In a message dated 97-11-04 04:46:40 EST, Captain Dick writes:
>> Just to bring you all up to date... I am now in process of putting
together:
"Captain Dick's Comprehensive Compendium on Restoration of Old Tired
Sewing Machines". >>
Hello Capt. Dick and Feathers!
This book sounds just wonderful! Including so many areas that collectors of
"old tired sewing machines" will find as an invaluable resource. Thank you
for putting forth this ambitious endeavor....I know I'll be one of the first
in line as they come off the presses. Please keep us informed about your
progress, and may your back problems resolve quickly. I also suffer with a
horrid back, but keep plugging along trying whatever the doctors want until
we run out of options. An optimistic frame of mind, is the best thing you
can carry with you each day.
Janice
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Date: Tue, 04 Nov 1997 18:44:26 -0800
Subject: Manual Wanted
Anyone have a mauual or copy for a Minnesota model H ? This is not the
same as a model A but is similar to a model C.
Bob
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Subject: Tension and the 66
Date: Wed, 5 Nov 1997 08:55:58 -0500
I have a Singer 201, it's in great shape a +9 or better. However, I
can't seem to get the tension to stay set. I'll set it....sew a
little....and then it's off again. Has anyone else had this problem?
If so please Email me with the solution.
Also, I've totally taken apart a Singer 66 Red Eye, and I mean totally.
The turning fork was broken and I wanted to replace it. (I sacrificed
an older, much worn machine....a kind of part transplant). The machine
is all back together, after many, many hours of work. Now, the tension
needs to be totally reset, from the turning fork, bobbin case, under the
bobbin case and at the bottom to the turning fork. Has anyone ever gone
to this extreme before? If you have please let me know. I know that
it's a trial and error kind of adjustment, but I need to know if it can
be done. The machine is a treadle head, (I did put a motor on it, for
ease of repair, but it will come off when it's running smoothly). No,
I'm not in the SM repair business and my DH won't touch it. So, I'm on
my own. Any suggestions or advice would be wonderful. A word to those
of you who are afraid to tackle taking it apart........."GO FOR
IT"....the rewards are great and a SM life has been saved. (Just
remember to label all the pieces you take out)!!!!
Deborah
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Subject: 99 Case
Date: Wed, 5 Nov 1997 09:44:00 -0500
Dear FWFs:
I picked up a poorly cared for 99 last week. It was so pitiful I
couldn't leave it in the antique shop even though it looked like it was
a pile of junk. The bottom of the case is almost completely destroyed.
Is there anyone who builds boxes to hold these machines or anyone who
has a set of plans for building something to hold this machine? There
were no attachments with it and no instruction manual. I am in need of
an instruction manual as well as a book that shows how to take one of
these machines apart. There is quite a lot of rust inside and some
outside. I'm a new collector who has never taken apart a sewing
machine, so I really need your help. It's hard to believe people can be
so careless with these wonderful machines. It was manufactured in 1956
but looks as though it's 100+ years old. I have a 1950 FW that is
gorgeous in comparison. I would also appreciate suggestions on how to
get rid of the rust. Thank you for any information you may be able to
provide.
Carol
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Date: Wed, 5 Nov 1997 11:35:57, -0500
Subject: Little Singer Toy Truck
To Diane: I don't know if this will help, but this summer
I purchased a Little Singer Truck at a small model shop in Maine. It
looks like an old panel truck and on the side it says "Singer" and
below that nahmaschinen (there are two dots over the first a). The
model is made in England by Lledo PLC. It is in their Days Gone
series and the information on the bottom of the box is in English,
German, French, Spanish and Italian.
Bonnie
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Date: Wed, 5 Nov 1997 13:51:12 -0500 (EST)
Subject: Questions
Hi,
I've been lurking on the board for a few weeks. Haven't had much to say since
I was a bit overwhelmed by all the machine talk--have no idea what all the
numbers mean (99, 201, etc.) I assume they're model numbers, but are they all
Featherweights?
I have a FW which I found in our basement that was my mother-in-law's. She
said I could have it as she certainly wasn't using it. I think it's a 221?
And I'm too tired to go upstairs & look at it at the moment. Had it
overhauled by my Singer dealer about 2 years ago, & it runs like a dream!
I have heard that you can't or shouldn't do machine quilting on a FW because
the motor can't take the stress so I've never tried it. But, I think I saw on
this group or somewhere else on-line someone talking about using their FW to
machine quilt. Anybody know whether I should try or not?
Also, the lightbulb flickers off & on. It seems loose, but it's not the
scew-in type so I'm not sure if I can tighten it myself. It would be nice if
I could see what I'm doing!
I thank you in advance for any assistance you can give.
Mary
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Date: Wed, 5 Nov 1997 12:10:29 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Seamstress Grand
I have inherited an old treadle with the name Seamstress Grand on it. It
was made by the T. Eaton Co. Ltd. (Canadian company) but it also says
"Made in USA". I am unable to find a date or serial number on it. It is
in an oak cabinet.
Can anyone give me information on this machine?
Judy
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Subject: Christmas Tree
Date: Wed, 5 Nov 1997 12:41:22 -0800
Yikes... when will I learn?! So, alright already... I will move the
Christmas tree up on the project list and do it next. I was going
to start my "traded off the FW list" quilt next after the mystery is
done this week, but will do the tree next so I can get it up ASAP.
There seems to be a lot of interest... 27 Feathers can't be wrong!
Captain Dick
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Subject: Machine shoppping
Date: Tue, 4 Nov 1997 07:12:37 -0500
I had to write in response to Millie's recent note - think she and are BOTH
answer a lot of ads for machines, so often have to deal with the sort of
situation she spoke of. For example, not long ago, I went to a man's house
to see his sewing machine which turned out to be down in a dark basement.
He and I were alone in the house, and while I'm usually fairly trusting,
couldn't help but think that maybe that sort of activity WASN'T really
wise! But I did end up with a nice sewing machine - so maybe it was worth
it??
Also had to comment on her observations that people are often VERY poor at
describing the machines they're selling over the phone - so I usually end
up going to check them out in person "just in case"! Of course that often
makes for a lot of driving just to see yet another Touch and Sew! Does
anyone have thoughts on the right sort of questions to ask to avoid
something like that?
And I had to comment on the note from Maggie about finding room for yet
ANOTHER sewing machine - afraid many of us can understand just what she's
talking about, but it really is amazing just how much one can cram into a
pretty small house (just ask those who've seen MINE!).
I also wanted to say that I always enjoy reading the answers from people
like Captain Dick and Graham - don't think there's EVER too much of that!
Sue
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Subject: Fran's books.....
Date: Tue, 4 Nov 1997 11:45:35 -0600
Fran offered some new books for sale on Featherweight for sale list
about 10 days ago and I just received the two I ordered. I appreciate
Fran's service very much and can recommend her to any one else who might be
thinking of ordering from her -- if she has any left.
Barbara
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Subject: Terrible Message... Do Not Read It.... You Have Been Warned!
Date: Tue, 4 Nov 1997 23:29:29 -0800
A long time ago, in the period just before the 1920's, there was an
English enterpreneur named Mr. Prince, who decided he could get rich
importing White sewing machines to England. So confidant was he of
the soundness of this venture, he bought a whole section of docks on
the Thames River, and a fleet of ships to carry sewing machines from
the U.S. to England. All of the ships went to America and were
filled with machines. Unfortunately, they were all lost in a
terrible storm in the North Atlantic, dooming his venture and leading
to financial ruin. Ever after, in English business circles, this
man was known as "The Prince with no Whites and the seven wharves."
You were warned...
Captain Dick
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Date: 4 Nov 1997 09:36:42 PST
Subject: Costco's Repro Singer
To Louanne,
I have seen the Singer reproduction in a Costco store. If you
order this, you will be even more disappointed than you were with the
toy sewing machine. This machine is made overseas and is not anywhere
near the standards of manufacturing of the old Singers. From a distance
it looks interesting, but up close you can see that it is not the real
thing--overly gaudy decals, poorly made parts, and a fake bentwood case.
I was surprised to see them in the Colsto catalog again, because they
were removed from the stores last year because of so many
complaints/returns.
For $99, I would wait for a real Singer from a thrift store/garage
sale or even buy one from the FWF For Sale list.
Rose
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Date: Tue, 4 Nov 1997 22:00:00 -0500 (EST)
Subject: Adamstown and the sewing machine table
Well, I just got back from a visit to my 35 high school reunion. As I live
in upstate NY and the reunion was in Phila, I just happened to pass through
Adamstown (haha). Well it was a bit different that I expected and I
initially was quite disappointed but in the end was quite successful. The
biggest time to be there is on a Sunday. I was there on a Friday and there
are wall to wall antique malls for about a three mile stretch on Rt. 272 (not
20 as Graham had mentioned -- confused me for awhile). Anyway, the prices
caused a great deal of sticker shock!! I must be really spoiled!! Singer
green and pink oil cans (early 60's?) were $18, $18 and $12 in the three
places I saw them! Come on! Several of the malls were Showcase malls --
everything was behind glass cabinets and you had to get the proprieter to
come open if you wanted to see anything or even see the prices in many cases.
Didn't like them. The funniest was one dealer who had quite a number of
sewing machines but penny toys for $375 ea? The prices ranged from $500 to
$2400 in that exhibit. Most of the malls close at 5 pm so I had to get
through a lot in not much time. After dinner I found one shop open that had
several toys that were at least in the ballpark but still twice what I
usually pay up here. Did find one KayanEEE for $30 which came home with me
and some vintage fabric that was reasonably priced.
The next morning I made the magnificent visit to Sauders (for all you
quilters it is THE place to find cheap fabric) and spent a small fortune
(including two bolts of Kona cloth PFD which I paid after getting discount
less than some wholesalers offer it for!!) Last time I was there was for
Lancaster Quilt show and was packed. There was no one in the store and it
was great. Left alot of my money there!!
Did find a couple of more malls to visit on the way to reunion. Found
another KayanEEE for $40 and that came home. My real find (for me as I
really, really wanted one) was a Singer pinking attachment with manual (but
no box). I was thrilled and the price was reasonable (I thought - $30). I
also found a really neat pair of scissors used for cutting buttonholes -
cool. So I left the area happy.
Funny I just read in FWF about the woman who found the sewing table with the
cutout. Last week in the local thrift store I found one almost identical!
Nice plywood top and study legs and metal box underneath. Used obviously
for generic portables in those big cases so that the machine would lay down a
little lower. Needless to say, it came home with me also! Anything with
folding legs is okay with me!! Said Sew-Rite I believe on the label.
Well bye for now
Beth
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Date: Wed, 05 Nov 1997 11:04:47 -0500
Subject: Need Manual
I am looking for a service manual to a singer 241-11 industrial
machine. Can you direct me?
Thanks
Doug
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Date: Wed, 5 Nov 1997 04:01:27 -0500 (EST)
Subject: Left-handed machines ???
I am posting this question in hopes someone out here might be able to help.
A local dealer contacted me to see if I could get him some help. He is
working with a family whose child is interested in sewing...the problem is,
she is left-handed. What he is trying to find out is:
Is (or was) there a sewing machine made for left-handed people?
If anyone knows of such a machine (we assume it would be like the reverse
of a standard machine with the knobs on the left and the head to the right)
and could identify it, it would be appreciated. Thanks in advance. -Jodi
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Date: Tue, 04 Nov 1997 09:52:59 -0500
Subject: Unmoveable gib screw
To Becky,
I'm a few days behind on digests, but just had a similar problem with a very
tight gib screw, and the slot in it was starting to wear from many attempts
at loosening. I was able to get much more pressure (into the slot) and
torque on the screw by placing my small Singer screwdriver in a 6mm
hexagonal socket and adding the straight extender from the socket set to it.
I did NOT use the socket wrench, but only lengthened my Singer screwdriver
with pieces from the socket set, then used it as a regular screwdriver. I
placed my fw on its wheel side with the bobbin case face up, for the best
positioning/leverage. And voila! The screw turned on the first try. Hope
this helps!
To Anyone who deals in parts,
Now that I got this puppy out, I don't want to take chances on that slot
being good for many more turns. Please let me know if you carry these and
price. Thanks.
Joy
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Date: Wed, 05 Nov 1997 11:29:28 -0600
Subject: RE: Help
1. Where to find "Capt. Dick's Fieldguide"
2. Will Blindstitch Attachment Serial No. 160742 fit a featherweight?
Thanks,
Jimmie
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Date: Tue, 04 Nov 1997 22:27:55 -0700
Subject: White FW
I bought a black FW some time ago for about $300 (6 condition), plus it
servicing and am still not happy with how it works. It's an AL born
Jan.52. Also the case is so smelly, I can hardly stand to be in the same
room with it. I've tried wiping with bleach solution, sitting in hot
sun, coffee grounds, dryer sheets, etc. without success. I may need to
just refinish the case. The wood is in good condition.
I went in an antique store the other day and saw a lovely white FW in 8
condition. Tested it and it worked great. The tag read $350, but I
asked her if she would take less and she did - $300, with case, all
attachments, screwdriver, oil bottle, and a Jetson green style case and
buttonholer. It's really hardly been used - born 5/13/64. It was odd,
though. When I called Singer to get the date, they said it was a model
328, not a 221. Well, it is a 221K and says so right on the machine, so
Singer is not always right. I figure the date is probably accurate,
though.
Help: I have one problem with the white FW - I can't loosen the
flywheel to disengage the needle for winding the bobbin. When I try to
loosen it, it just moves the needle up and down and doesn't loosen. Any
suggestions?
Any help would be appreciated.
Deanna
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Date: Tue, 04 Nov 1997 07:37:22 -0600
Subject: calender
Hi all. Had a wonderful idea and wondered if anyone else had ever
suggested it. Why not a nice size calendar with vintage sewing machines
on it with a brief history on it? I would think every sewing machine
lover would live to hang one. Could be a standard size so pictures
could be framed later. How bout it Capt. Dick or another very
knowledgeable person doing one for us?
Just a thought.....JoAnn
PS Would have to have all the different types of featherweights on it of
course and their tables/cabinets. Think about it!!!
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Subject: 99 or FW
Date: Wed, 05 Nov 1997 12:00:28 EST
Hi, Feathers!
I've seen three recent posts about portable sewing machine purchases that
turned out to be 99s. I've had my FW for 7 or 8 years and just loved
it---until I bought a 99K last year. I don't know what it is---the
stitch --or the hum of the motor, but I wouldn't trade my 99K for
anything!
Linda
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Date: Fri, 07 Nov 1997 20:04:19 +1100
Subject: Singer 319k
Hi all,
I'm new to the list and new to collecting old machines, and I think I
might be addicted to both! ;-)
I am looking at a 319k, with all the disks, the manual and different
feet attachments. I was wondering if anyone could please tell me
anything about this machine, as I know very little, but this machine has
really appealed to me. Any information would be just wonderful thank
you.
Michelle
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Date: Fri, 7 Nov 1997 12:07:30 -0500 (EST)
Subject: help with mystery machine
Hi everyone, I've found a really interesting very early Fiddlebed handcrank
which I need help in identifying. When I first spotted this beauty my heart
almost skipped a beat, I thought I've finally found a Singer Model 12
Fiddlebed. Up here in Canada especially Toronto pre 1900 machines are
extremly difficult to find. This machine I don't think is a Singer but I'am
really anxious to find out all I can.
I've uploaded some images onto my mystery page at:
http://webhome.idirect.com/~bbannen/mystery.htm
or you can access this site through my homepage by scrolling down the index
and selecting "Mystery Machines"
http://webhome.idirect.com/~bbannen/homepage.htm
For all you Singer collectors, I came across a business card the other day
for New Willaims Singer, this card appears to be 19th century so I'm just
wondering about the New Williams and Singer. Was New Williams and Singer
one company or did the New Williams company handle and sell Singer sewing
machines? You can have a look at this card by heading over to my homepage
and selecting "Sewing Collectibles" from the index.
Thanks in advance for any info you can add.
Bob
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Date: Fri, 7 Nov 1997 15:13:35 -0500 (EST)
Subject: The Sincere Book Problem
I was in receipt of an irate e-mail from BK today taking umbrage at
what I had reported to the Attorney General of Arizona's office about our
transactions. Has any one else heard from her?
Selma
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Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 11/3/97
Date: Fri, 7 Nov 1997 22:08:03 +0000
To all re ISMACS Convention
As promised an up-date on the ISMACS convention London, May 8-10
At the moment the program looks like this:
Friday afternoon. Specially arranged private visit to the security
storerooms of the London Science Museum for a guided tour (yours truely) of
the British national collection of early sewing machines -- Howe's first
model is there. Alternative (or even as well as) visit to the Qulit rooms
of the Victoria and Albert Museum (hoping to lay on a special guide for
this)
Friday evening. Welcome dinner
Saturday afternoon. Preview of the London sewing-machine museum including
the most expensive sewing machine in the world. Demonstrations of Welsh
quilting, Machine Embroidery, FW workshop, www sewing-machine surfing
(would welcome other ideas here.
Saturday evening. Special dinner Country and Western evening. Judging the
competition for the Ultimate Featherweight prize.
Sunday. The largest-ever auction of collectable toy and domestic machines
with prices ranging from $20 to many thousands.
The numbers already booked makes it look as though I might have to keep
good my promise to stop smoking if we get 50 from the USA.
Graham
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Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 11/4/97
Date: Fri, 7 Nov 1997 22:08:32 +0000
To Maggie re Willcox and Gibbs badge
These are held on with a lead plug and take some getting off. If you don't
find one more locally, I'll get the blow torch out.
To Quiltz4fun
Sorry about this but the machine you have isn't a Singer.
It was made by the National Sewing Machine Co and, if it's any consolation,
is a lot rerer than the average Singer.
To Marilyn re History of Thread
I have a history written about thread but it's from the English
perspective, also a slide lecture somewhere with pix and notes. An ISMACS
member who died some years back was a director of the English Sewing Cotton
Co ( a conglomerate of all the old factories -- many founded in the 1700s)
. He specialised in researching the history of the business. When he died I
got three tea chests of material some of which I haven't looked thru yet.
Most of the pioneer work on thread was done in Europe long before the
invention of the sewing machine and I doubt there is much American material
here. You want me to go look?
Graham
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Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 11/1/97
Date: Fri, 7 Nov 1997 22:06:54 +0000
To Bill re pubs in London
Therre are three types of pub in London.
1) The Old Rose and Crown -- lots of old sewing machine tables, old cobwebs
and old beer
2) The New Rose and Crown -- lots of reproduction sewing machine table.
reproduction cobwebs and reproduction beer.
3) Ye Olde Rose and Crowne Manhattan Nite Spot -- lots of plastic tables,
antiseptic atmosphere and expensive pseudo- American cocktails.
There is a fourth kind but the locals keep them a secret .
To Bill re woods
Many early treadle tops were made from American walnut which was cheap and
plentiful -- Singer bought vast forests just for this purpose. Oak
generally finds favour in the USA amongst most collectors but in Europe it
is considered an inferior wood to decent mahogony. I say decent mahogny
fror the stuff produced now is like blotting paper when you try to stain or
french p[olish it.
To all re 222 electrics
Sad to hear that 222s are being retro-fitted with modern electric motors.
There is absolutely no need for this -- the original motor will work
perfectly well with a convertor. Those machines with non-standard Twianese
or Chinese motors have had their value cut in half.
To M Annie
What you have is a Singer 24 -- hand book from me if you can't find one
more locally.
Talking of chain stitch Singers, have just heard that Maggie has located a
rare Model 30 Singer chain-stitch machine -- my guess it will be up in her
sales site on December 1. In fairness to all I plan to activate the site at
noon EST on that day.
To Millie re strange meetings with vans
Maggie often has to meet up wiyth the strangest people in the strangest
places and we cover this by asking for a phone number to ring back in case
we have to change the appointment and for the registration number of the
van in case there are two in the car park. It's worked so far.
To Cyndy
To repair a case you need a furtiture restorer. Yellow pages or ask around
at the local antique mall.
To Kathleen re lubrication
What you read here was a warning not to use oil on the motor bearings. If
your motor has lube tube use the proper Singer grease or automotive
high-melting-point grease (difficult to apply without the proper tube).
To Penny
No way to drop the feed dogs on the 221 but the 222 freearm version had
this feature,
Graham
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Subject: FW bobbin winder
Date: Fri, 7 Nov 1997 07:22:58 -0500
I actually SOLD one of my FW "babies" (hi, Nancy!) the other day, but
there's a problem with the bobbin winder (I have so many machines, I seldom
have to wind bobbins, so didn't realize it ahead of time!). The bobbin
won't wind properly unless you kind of push down on the winder - as though
it wasn't up against the belt enough. I discovered another FW of mine has
the same problem and I even tried putting on a new belt to see if that
helped - it didn't. I finally discovered info on it in my 221 service
manual that says to tighten the adjusting screw on the arm, but mine seems
to be as tight as it can get. Any OTHER ideas?? Sue
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Date: Fri, 07 Nov 1997 16:49:12 -0800
Subject: WHITE PORTABLE
To All:
I just found a WHITE Rotary Portable today. The case is about a 6 with
potential of becoming an 8. the Machine is about an 7+ with potential to
become an 8+ or 9. It is the crinkley dark olive green color. The finish
that someone described as alligator finish. The serial number is 77MG
105017. It is in a carrying case that looks '50ish, wood base below the
head. Has a good working motor and a foot peddle. Another one to
clean up and help it find a new home with a loving little girl (or boy)
or lady. It looks like it had been used right up to the end. It still
has the white spool of thread in it and appears recently used. The lady
is going to look for the booklet and the attachments and call me later.
She said that her mother bought it about in the early 1950s. I put it
back in the carrying case, shut the lid and snapped the latches down.
Then, I paid for it and came home.
Oh, Oh. The case latch was locked and no key. I franticly picked and
picked....... and it finally came open. What a scare that was for
awhile.
Is there a way to find out the age and model number from the serial #
like the Singer call nubmer? I think White must be out of business now.
Are these machines in demand and what do they generally sell for?
Much to my surprise, I believe that the Griest Attachments and bobbins
in the Little Black Box that I had inquired about a few days ago, go to
this machine.
--
Bill
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Subject: Wonderful find.
Date: Fri, 7 Nov 1997 09:59:43 -0500
Hi Fellow feathers,
Many thanks to everyone who responded to my request for
a FW buttonholer. I found one for $5. (Cdn) at our local auction. It
is in perfect condition, complete and with the instruction booklet. Looks
as if it has never been used. Needless to say I am delighted. Many
thanks to everyone who came forward to tell me that they had a b/h
that I could buy. What a nice group of feathers.
Greta
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Date: Sat, 8 Nov 1997 08:02:09 -0600 (CST)
Subject: Using caution!!!
"For example, not long ago, I went to a man's house
to see his sewing machine which turned out to be down in a dark basement.
He and I were alone in the house, and while I'm usually fairly trusting,
couldn't help but think that maybe that sort of activity WASN'T really
wise! But I did end up with a nice sewing machine - so maybe it was worth
it??"
I am going to de-lurk and add my 2 cents' worth here. About 6 years ago, a
local realtor, a woman in her late 50s, made an appointment to show a house
in a remote, rural area (we are on the northern edge of the Ozarks in
mid-Missouri). The man and woman who asked to see the house seemed very
considerate and polite, although somewhat overdressed for the mild early
fall weather.
Her colleagues cautioned her against going alone, but the couple seemed so
nice and because they were a couple, she insisted that she would be fine.
When the three of them got to the house, the couple pulled a gun, threatened
her, stole her purse, tied her up, shoved her into a closet, and stole her
car. (Fortunately, they didn't harm her physically). They used her car as
a getaway car when they robbed a little country bank a few miles away.
It turned out they were BOTH women (overdressed as disguises). One of them
needed the money because of custody proceedings in her divorce, I think --
My point is what I always tell my teenage DDs. DON'T try to reassure
yourself in a questionable situation. TRUST those little alarm bells that
go off in your head-- they are going off for a reason!!!! Police officers
say that in many crimes, the victim says, "I felt uncomfortable right away,
but I told myself I was being silly and that everything would be okay. I
didn't want to hurt the feelings of the person who attacked me."
You can never be too cautious, and you never know what is motivating people.
In order to get a car or a little cash, some people will do anything. And
they don't know how much or how little cash you might be carrying, but they
might knock you out and steal your wallet or purse to find out.
Okay, I will stop preaching.
Hope
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Date: Sat, 8 Nov 1997 08:48:48 -0500 (EST)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 10/28/97
I have been on travel for a month so just now reading my older copies of FWF.
This may have been answered but here goes anyway.
Re: New FW Book by Nancy SJ
I purchased mine and 70% of all my quilting needs through PineTree
Quiltworks, Ltd., in Maine. I also order by email. They are great--their
catalog is very complete, and they are an honest, service oriented, and
quick-reponse company. Their retail shop is at 585 Broadway in So. Portland,
ME. Their catalog is free, just contact them and ask them to send you one.
Phone Orders: (207) 799-7357
FAX: (207) 799-9541
Shop Phone: (207) 799-9535
Website: http://www.quiltworks.com/
Email:
Internet: Pinetree@quiltworks.com
CompuServe: 74534,1713
America Online: PinetreeQW
The book, if I remember correctly, cost less than $16 ordered through them.
Evie
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Subject: Left-handed machines (Warning - Rant ahead!)
Date: Sat, 8 Nov 1997 09:40:33 -0500
Jodi had asked about the existence of left-handed sewing machines, and I
thought I could reply with some authority, not as a sm expert, but as a
left-handed person.
Never seen a "left-handed" machine, but that doesn't bother me in the least,
as I like them the way they are. Generally, all I need my right hand for is
setting stitch length and turning the handwheel to bring the needle up. My
left hand is comfortably free for guiding the fabric into the machine,
pulling pins as they come up, setting a buttonholer attachment, etc. I think
if the head were reversed, I'd be uncomfortable with my left hand cramped
under the head all the time. Seems to me that this is one of those
situations where the norm in the right-handed world actually benefits us
"lefties", like with a typewriter keyboard, where the most commonly used
letters are under the left hand, or the English language, as written, left
to right. Ever notice how "righties" tend to do things from right to left?
I think the orientation of sewing machines goes back to hand-cranks (pretty
obvious) and treadles, where you constantly have to have a hand on the
balance wheel for starting, stopping, and just keeping things going in the
right direction.
So, Jodi, tell that dealer not to worry too much about the left-handed
child. We are not handicapped -- statistically, left-handed people are more
intelligent and better coordinated than the right-handed majority, so we can
cope just fine. When I was in Kindergarten, I learned to use right-handed
scissors, since there were only one or two left-handed ones to go around the
class, and I didn't want to have to wait for them. Turns out I was at an
advantage, since the right-handed kids had a more difficult time holding and
controlling the paper in their left hands. (Right-handers tend to be more
"helpless" with their left hands than lefties are with their right. I read
someplace that left-handedness is actually a variation on ambidexterity.)
Please, I'm not out to start a "handedness war", just felt the need to
educate (and vent a little.) True, according to safety studies, some
industrial equipment is more dangerous to left-handed people, due to the
placement of controls, but personally, I'd rather have a piece of machinery
with a rapidly moving needle (like a sewing machine) place the "business
end" by my dominant hand. Shelly, my right-handed wife, has gotten "bitten"
on the fingers a couple of times.
Southpaw Clay
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Subject: Re: Singer 66
Date: Sat, 8 Nov 1997 07:51:19 -0800
Hi Everyone!
I recently purchased a Singer 66 red-eye, treadle....however, the faceplate
thumbscrew is broken. Does anyone have a faceplate thumbscrew they could
part with?
Ann
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Date: Sat, 8 Nov 1997 09:51:18 -0500 (EST)
Subject: Resend of message because first one was returned to me
In a message dated 11/5/97 9:50:28 PM, FWFanatics@ttsw.com wrote:
>>I have a friend who has been looking at getting a featherweight for some
time. She said she was at COSTCO in her area and they had a NEW Singer featherweight. It LOOKED like a Featherweight - but was brand new. She was excited to think that these would be the quality of the older machines - or better - with modern technology. I know a LOT of machines these days seems to have plastic parts and actually be of lower quality. Does anyone know anything about this "new" Featherweight? I don't see it at our COSTCO in Hawaii - they only have a couple of Brother models.>>
About a year ago, I saw a Singer reproduction at Costco. I believe it was a
reproduction of a Singer 99 and it had the bent wood case, etc. I have not
seen a reproduction FW at Costco in our area. My advice would be to stay
away from these. I am sure they are not well made and just trying to capture
the desparate FW seeker. If a person just wanted one as a decorative item,
they might do.
Evie
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Date: Sat, 08 Nov 1997 08:47:37 -0600
Subject: Featherweights
Mary said:
> I've been lurking on the board for a few weeks. Haven't had much to say since
> I was a bit overwhelmed by all the machine talk--have no idea what all the
> numbers mean (99, 201, etc.) I assume they're model numbers, but are they all
> Featherweights?
The Featherweight is a 221, or (if you're lucky enough to run across the
free-arm version) a 222. The other models are still Singer machines,
but NOT featherweights by any means! (Try lifting one, and you'll see
what I mean!)
> I have heard that you can't or shouldn't do machine quilting on a FW because
> the motor can't take the stress so I've never tried it. But, I think I saw on
> this group or somewhere else on-line someone talking about using their FW to
> machine quilt. Anybody know whether I should try or not?
There's no technical reason you can't, except perhaps that the area
under the arm of the Featheweight is a little cramped, and you can burn
the *** out of yourself on the light! The reason people caution you
about using the Feathweight for machine quilting is that the stress of
running the motor for long stretches of time might be too much for the
motor, and they aren't easy to replace.
For machine quilting, see if you can find yourself one of the other
models mentioned, one that has a full-size motor and is larger under the
arm. I'd recommend the 201 as the nicest-sewing, but a 66 or 99 (the 99
is the 3/4-size version of the 66, but it's still bigger than the FW) or
a model 15 would do as well. The FW is a wonderful little machine, but
while it makes a beautiful stitch, I'm not sure it was meant for
heavy-duty work. If you like the way your FW stitches, you'll really
like one of the bigger models...
Linda said:
> I've seen three recent posts about portable sewing machine purchases that
> turned out to be 99s. I've had my FW for 7 or 8 years and just loved
> it---until I bought a 99K last year. I don't know what it is---the
> stitch --or the hum of the motor, but I wouldn't trade my 99K for
> anything!
I agree -- while the FW gets the "cute" vote, I'm very attached to my
99. It's hard to decide whether I like the 201 or the 99 better -- but
I love the 99!
Terri
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Subject: Need some help!
Date: Sat, 8 Nov 1997 13:12:18 -0500
I just purchased my very first FW. The lady who owned it had masking
tape to use as a guide on the machine. I got the tape off but now I have a
sticky residue. What can I use to clean it off without damaging the
finish? I read the FWFpage all the time but can't remember if this was
ever addressed. I am so thrilled to own my very own FW. I was always
jealous of all of you other FWer's. Thanks, Karen
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Date: Sat, 08 Nov 1997 13:30:28 -0500
Subject: sewing problem
Hi gang!
This post is a tad off topic, but is about sewing machines, so I hope
y'all don't mind giving a bit of advice.
I own a two year old Viking 250, a nice machine that is a real worker.
It's my machine quilting and embroidery specialist.
I've noticed a rather strange "quirk" with it and was wondering if any
of you sewing machine specialists have any ideas as to what is causing
this particular problem.
I can be sewing along, and it doesn't seem to matter what type of foot
(walking, 1/4", specialty, etc.) I've used. But, when I pick up speed
sometimes the thread uptake "loses" the thread. I know the machine has
been threaded properly and my tension would be correct, as I'll be
getting a good quality stitch. This can be very annoying, as I'll be
going along at a good clip on a long seam or embroidery type project and
will have to stop everything and rethread the machine. Usually this
will ALWAYS happen when I'm in a hurry! : ) I've had this machine quite
awhile, and it works fine otherwise. Any ideas?
I can always take it back to the dealer and have it serviced, but I
could be doing something wrong as well. Just thought I'd ask!
Linda
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Date: Sat, 08 Nov 1997 12:41:39 -0800
Subject: Confused about which model Singer I have
I recently acquired a Singer that I thought was a 66 Red eye, since on
either side of the name Singer is an eye-shaped motif with a red center.
But when I called Singer to find out its birth date, the woman said it
was a model 15, made in 1910. She sent a copy of the model 15 manual
and I'm sure this machine is not a 15. It looks quite different from
the pictures in the manual.In fact, it looks like pictures of a Red Eye
I have seen except that the presser foot thumbscrew is beside the foot
rather than behind it. So now I'm confused. Can anyone help me figure
out what I do have?
Also, does anyone know where I can find a copy of the manual for a
White machine -- the model is 77MG-73453.
Thanks in advance for helping this newbie get started on her SM
collection.
Florence
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Date: Sat, 8 Nov 1997 14:33:43 -0500 (EST)
Subject: New owner needs help!
Hi,
Am a new owner of FW purchased last Sat. and am an even newer member of this
list. The machine is in great shape (where do I find how you rate them-- 8,
9 10???)
but the bad part is the case came with one broken latch. The good part is
the dealer gave me a new one to replace it but didn't have a clue as to how!
Hubby took old one off. Now where do I find the nails (or rivets or
whatever they are called) to attach the new one? Really need some help here
because I don't want to mess it up, or use screws with nuts on inside, as
hubby suggested.
Thanks to the FWFanatics page I found out my machine's birthdate is March 31,
1950. I would say it is in excellent condition and sews like a dream. The
dealer is getting me the attachments, included in the price. MORE HELP
NEEDED: what attachments should I expect to get? It came with the book,
tube of lub. in box and a couple bobbins. I will buy some more bobbins from
him so no problem there. There is no oil can and he said they are hard to
find. Anyone know where I can get one? How much should I expect to pay?
My late mom had a FW Dad bought for her over 50 years ago and I used it to
make all my clothes, even took it to college. Dad isn't ready to part with
it yet and who knows if I'll ever will get it. I've been looking for years
and got what I feel is a good deal on this one when I went to purchase a new
machine. So came home last week with two machines!!
Any help will be appreciated.
Kathleen
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Subject: Re: machine quilting on a FW
Date: Sat, 8 Nov 1997 11:55:12 -0900
To Capt. Dick or anyone else who has advice:
I don't usually quilt with my FW but occasionally at classes I want to free
motion quilt. I have found that works great on any of my regular FW, but
recently I tried free motion quilting with my 222 which should have been
great because the feed dogs drop. However, no matter what darning foot I
used or how much I loosened the pressure on the foot, my quilt would not
move freely under the darning foot. So my question is, has anyone else
tried a 222 for machine quilting and what darning foot or technique did you
use?
Mary Ann
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Subject: PRE-HOLIDAY TSM F/W GATHERING IN CENTRALIA, WA
Date: Sat, 8 Nov 1997 16:10:42 -0800
Hi to all:
This is a duplicatae posting to F/W and Toys stitchers, so sorry if you
have to read it twice.
As most of you know I am planning an imprompt-to gathering of machine
collectors to come to my home in Centralia, WA on the 15th of November. I
know this is a quick date for a get together, but my dh works that way! He
is going hunting that week and I thought it a great fun thing to do!!
Anyway, even our great Captain Dick has said he will attend and even bring
us some "entertainment"! I just need to know for sure how many will be
attending and if you're bringing family/friends what ever because I will
have a lunch and dessert party for us also.
The plan is 11:00 to 4:00 on Saturday Nov.15th, just off I-5 by the Factory
outlet stores!! ANyway email me if there is interst and I will give your
directions. FUn and games for all who attend and Maggie tells me we can
send pictures for the ISMACS digest!! Hope to see you there.
TTYS,
Cyndy
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Date: Sat, 08 Nov 1997 16:29:58 -0800
Subject: what a mess!
HI,
I went to an antique show this weekend. Price for FW ranged from $275
to $350. What continually surprises me that no matter what the
condition an FW is priced in that range. I saw one prewar, with almost
all the decals worn off, paint worn off on the front and the bobbin
rewinder broken off and them someone tried to put it back together with
screws through the winder and the machine and the dealer still wanted
$325 for the machine. I'm truly amazed.
The $275 machine was by far the nicest if a person could see through the
dirt. Cleaned up, it would be a very nice machine.
It's all in what a buyer will pay....Kay
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Date: Sun, 09 Nov 1997 01:37:37 +0100
Subject: Birth dates.
Hello all of you !!
The other day i was in a shop and did find 5 old Singer sewingmachines.
I did buy all of them for about 80 £.
3 of them is hand crank.
Serial number Y 3154433.
------II----- Y 4299370.
------II----- V 600151.
2 of them are industrial machines i guess.
Serial number EA 802577.
------II----- EB 456209.
One week ago i did find 3 other Singer machines.
The serial number on these machines are.
Serial number F 2885177 (on a plate it stands 15 K 28)
Hand crank
------II----- 11536856
------II----- 16157740
If someone can help me with the birth dates and model il be happy.
With theese 8 machines my colection has rised to 38 machines.
6 of them is just for parts.
If someone needs help to get some birth dates on Husqvarna machines
mail to me maybe i can help some of you?.
Thanks
Atle
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Subject: left-handed sewing machines
Date: Sun, 9 Nov 1997 00:17:21
Is (or was) there a sewing machine made for left-handed people?
If anyone knows of such a machine (we assume it would be like the reverse
of a standard machine with the knobs on the left and the head to the right)
and could identify it, it would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
-Jodi
I'm left-handed and so is my mom and my brother. I have 9 sm, and mom has 4. My brother sometimes uses mom's machines. None of us has ever had the least problem with ANY sewing machine, and now that I think of it, sm's sort of favor the left handed anyway, because the cloth is on the LEFT! Especially when I use my handcrank 99, I can just crank away with my right hand, and guide the cloth with my left. I wouldn't give her a handcrank to start with, but I don't think the little girl will have a problem with any machine which is simple to use. I routinely use a Singer 503a,(the model I learned on), a Kenmore with a lot of fancy embroidery stuff, and a serger.
The great thing about the 503a and a lot of other old Singers, is that you can put it in reverse and sew for hours with both hands free, as compared with the new machines where you have to hold a button in to go backwards. When I was 7, my mom decided I could learn to sew. For some reason which I never could explain, for about 1 1/2 years I only sewed in reverse. I made a twin size log cabin quilt top, entirely in reverse gear.
Marie
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Date: Sat, 08 Nov 1997 09:34:40 -0500
Subject: parts-is- parts
Hi everyone!
I am looking for a few good Singer and other SMS parts suppliers and
mechanics.
I would like to link, or make mention of your name with address on my
home page, as I am getting many requests for parts, repairs etc. I'd
like to have those of you agreeable, listed on my page for their
reference. This way those folks looking, can have access to a few
different outlets. If you'd like, drop me a note please.I will then
include you in the listing. This would sure save me a lot of e-mailing!
I also just added a classifieds section to my site. Soon a wish list
page.
Thanks,
Maggie
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