Featherweight
Fanatics
Archives
October 1997
Sunday, September 28 - Saturday, October 4
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Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 13:58:03 -0600
Subject: Singer cardtable
Well, you learn something new everyday. I asked last week about my
latest acquisition, a Singer cardtable. I was hoping it fit my 301
machine but alas, it did not. The hole was too big. It is model #678.
Mikeh. got me on the right track leading me to check out the 401 or 404.
Well for those wanting to make note for reference, the Singer 503 fits
perfectly. What a deal! Anyway, I'm still looking for the elusive FW
table or a 301 table. Anyone have a extra to spare at a reasonable
price? Thanks for those who helped me. Jacque
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Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 06:20:35 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: "new" FW
Hi Feathers,
This weekend my DH brought home a FW. It has AL serial number. The Singer emblem has a ring of black around it. The model plate below the emblem reads 221-. Am I missing something here?
This is the first I've seen with the dash behind the
221. Also at first glance thought it was Centenial
because of the colored ring on emblem.
What heve I got???
The paint seems to have a graininess when rubbed with
the hand. I somehow feel this may have been refinished
and "new" emblem and model plate put on.
Any way to tell or is this yet another variation??
Any ideas or thought from you in the know would be
very helpful.
TIA
Harmony
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Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 17:24:53 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Vickers
Hello, I'm pretty new at this but have a Singer 1928 treadle up and work
in addition to a 1950s child's Singer chain stitch machine. Just bought a
Vickers Delux model 78571 portable and need information on it. Can you help?
Thanks Kay
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Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 19:25:36 -0400
Subject: Singer 99 Table
DW and I went to 3 auctions over the weekend - has been a long time
since we have seen any FW in the area. Did come across a table with a
cutout just like on the FW and 301 tables we have, but not the same size
as either. Has stationary legs. Was similar, however, with SIMANCO
etched on some of the metal parts, and the under side of the table and
the cut-out stamped with the same number. Is is about half the size of
a FW or 301 folding table, and has a single drawer. Kind of cute.
Hadn't heard from others on these tables.
Anyway, got the table for $30 - holds a 99 in the bentwood case - with
the slide plate at table level. Did I mention that I also got a 99
along with the table? No books or attachments, but a bent and a
straight knee lever and a bentwood case in excellent shape. 99 appears
to have been made in 1924 (AA serial number) and needs lots of work!
Renewed our belief that some items were out there - still awaiting
another of the elusive FWs!!
Chuck
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Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 09:51:23 +0000
Subject: Sewing Machine Survey
Hi,
Just a note to thank all those Jones owners who have sent details
of their machines for my Jones Survey, 48 machines so far.
Still need details of more machines though, particularly Jones
Spools and Mediums. Are there any out there?
Details can be entered online at:
http://www.meiboku.demon.co.uk/sewmach/
I have also put up some new stuff on my site; several machines
including a pre-war British 201K with integral motor and
front-mounted lamp, and several manual extracts including the
1892 Singer VS, Jones CS and Jones Spool.
Alan
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Subject: Quiltlist subscriptions
Date: Sun, 28 Sep 97 14:48:05 -0500
A clarification....
I've received several requests for Quiltlist subscription information,
and have replied, I think, to all who asked. I'm happy to provide the
info to anyone else who wants it. If you sent me a request and haven't
yet heard from me, please let me know!
However, it seems I need to clarify something. Based on a few of the
requests I received, some folks still seem to think that somehow AOL and
Quiltlist are related. That is *not* the case. The list is independent
of any commercial online service.
Quiltlist is "a free service provided by Zippy Designs Publishing, home
of The Foundation Piecer: The Pattern Journal for Quilters Who Love
Foundation Piecing! [snip]
Discussions should be related to foundation piecing, quilts, quilt
making, and related topics. [snip] NO commercial messages are
allowed." (quote taken from welcome message received when subscription
begins)
So no one who's interested should give the least thought to how they
access the internet or email. Doesn't matter to Quiltlist, doesn't
matter to me. :))
Lisa
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Subject: Machine Sighting
Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 23:02:28 -0400
Funny how I will see something totally new to me on this digest, then
happen to see one right after reading about it. Had never heard of the
Climax machine until just a week or two ago when someone wrote about it.
Then I saw one in an antique store--a very attractive machine with a pretty
design on it.
Betty
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Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 19:09:53 -0500
Subject: Identify sw
My husband went to a swap meet today and saw a small sm, about the size
of a fw. The label said is was Riverside or River...something. He said
it was sort of brown or bronze in color, had lots of attachments and a
manual and had a case like the fw's. Does anyone know anything about
this machine? He didn't want to carry it around and of course when he
went back it was gone.
Janet
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Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 13:36:32 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: general electric
HI All
My son just returned from a flea market with a small green General Electric
machine for $75.00. We told him we thought it was a good deal, especially
since he talked the fellow down from $100. We will need help with some
restoration questions and hope you people could help.
The green paint on the base is crazed and has begun to chip off. The gold
is still good. We don't want it to deterioate any further. What can we put
on to clean it, and hopefully what can we put on to seal it and stop any
further chipping. There is a definiate musty smell and we will be trying the
suggestions here to correct that problem.
Just a few more questions....I hope you don't mind?
Are we correct in assuming that this is the SewHandy???
In the case it says made in Bridgeport Conn, We know that the Bridgeport
Clock Company owned by P.T. Barnum also made sewing machines. Is this one of
them?
It really pays to educate your children about sewing machines. This is the
4th one my son has found for me. .
Thanks for all the help and advice. This digest is "SEW" GREAT>
Love and Joy.....Madge
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Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 22:16:01, -0500
Subject: Zig-Zag instructions
Hello fellow Feathers:
I picked up a FW the other day and it had a ziz zag attachment (part
# 121706) but no instructions. Does anyone out there want to share
their instructions with me? I would be glad to pay for same.
Rita
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Subject: Machine sighted
Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 21:46:51 -0700
Hi Feathers,
Shannon Grant called me today to tell me about a Singer 66 Redeye that is
for sale at Rebecca's Rose Garden in Cottage Grove, OR She said the
machine is in nice condition with some pin scratches and the treadle
cabinet OK but might need some reconditioning. Price quoted was $79. If
anyone is interested the telephone number of Rebecca's is 942-5064. I'm
not sure of the area code either 541 or 503.
Happy Hunting,
Carol
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Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 23:43:16 +0100
Subject: True stories
To all re True stories
It's been far too long since the last of these. I've cross posted to FWF
and ISMACS. This one dedicated to Sandy Wilcox Levine in Pacific Palisades.
Not sure where we got to with the numbers and none of the archives seem to
agree so we'll call this
True story number thirty
Joe what what you would call an eccentric. His wife, Esther had quite a few
other names which were far less complimentary.
Visiting the pair was always a little traumatic -- rather like being a
referee in a grudge fight -- and it got to the point where most friends
stayed away and we only braved the battle once a year at Christmas time.
Joe had been an antique dealer before a heart attack laid him low . After
that he pottered around the house whilst Esther held down a job at the
supermarket checkout. Then she reached retirement age and the house just
wasn't big enough for both of them -- Hurst Castle would have been too
small.
There was no violence, no thrown pots -- just a tense air and continual
bickering.
Each year we would be welcomed in by Esther to find Joe slumped in an
armchair in front of the television set.. A ritual had developed. Esther
would repair to the kitchen to make cheese and onion sandwiches -- I don't
know why but we always had cheese and onion. -- and Joe would launch into a
ten-year-old story which he firmly believed had happened only yesterday.
The sandwiches finished, Joe and I would go up to his "collection room" for
shop talk and more stories that I had heard a dozen times before -- yes,
including the one we had with tea -- whilst Maggie and Esther huddled
around the coal fire for woman talk.
Now, I had the best end of this deal. All I had to do was listen with as
much interest as I could muster, to the same old yarns.
Maggie had the short straw.
As soon as the door closed behind us Esther launched on a littany of
complaints about Joe. He was lazy, un-caring, noisy, under her feet etc etc.
Maggie would have to sit there and listen to how Joe had gone shopping and
lost the change, how he'd spilt coffee on the rug and how he caused more
work than a house full of children.
As soon as decently possible I would lead Joe back and the conversation
would quickly turn to the best route from Birmingham to Preston. Joe would
painstakingly draw a map based on the road system 20 years before the
coming of the freeways..
Out of the house and breathing a lot easier, Maggie and I would continue
our journey with her relating to me the latest list of Joes's failings
according to Esther. As Maggie said, every third sentance was " Did ever a
woman have such torment. What have a done to deserve such a problem?"
Then Joe died and we traveled up from London for the funeral and to help
with the estate.Esther met us at the door. She looked much older , frailer
and very, very lonely.
The cheese and onion sandwiches came along of course but there was no Joe
and no escape to the collection room.
We finished the snack and Esther huddled down in the chair to tell us about
Joe. It was a very different story, punctuated every third sentance with
"Did ever a woman have a man who helped her so much? What did I do to
deserve a love like his?"
Maggie looked across at me and raised her eyebrows, I shook my head gently
and we sat nodding at the story of the husband who was now gone.
Esther wasted away and followed Joe a couple of years later. Christmas
visits to the North of England are a little empty now.
No cheese and onion sandwiches and only the memory of a love story that
failed to bloom until an old man died.
Graham
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Subject: Singer Genie
Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 18:40:13 PDT
Hi all, I am looking for a hand wheel for a Singer Genie, can anyone
help me out? Nancy
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Subject: Incredible 221 Find
Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 09:17:50 -0700
Sorry, I promised you more information on the incredible Model 221
that zigzags, but yesterday got away from me... I got to quilting on
the challenge quilt. I'm doing the real close cross square machine
quilting like they show in the sewing machine manuals... again trying
to keep everything traditional 1930's. Let me tell you, feeding an
oversize queen quilt through a treadle to quilt on 1 1/2" lines is
tough!
Anyway, further information on my incredible Model 221... not only
does it have zig zag built in... it doesn't use the normal Model 221
bobbin with the case we can never find! It uses a shuttle bobbin!
Again, Sharon Reese has seen this machine and can vouch for it's
reality.
Now that I really have your attention. Tomorrow I will post
pictures, and by the time you read this, you will be able to go check
it out.
Captain Dick
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Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 20:53:05 +0100
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/24/97
To Jean
Your Morris was made by the AG Mason company which specialised in
producing machines to which the name of a large retailer or a special brand
name could be added.
Threading will be standard but check which side of the needle the shuttle
passes. The cotton will enter the needle from this side. Adjust lower
tension by using the various holes in the shuttle to pass the cotton
through.
To Jacqui
The initial G in the serial number is part of the number itself. This
series was made in the USA. Use WD40 to clean the mechanism (lube
afterwards), STP Tuff on the paint work with care and a good furniture
restorative on the wood.
To JoAnn
Don't like that 1860 date on the Davis -- the company wasn't formed until
nearly a decade after that and hung drawers is a much later design feature.
To Liz
There is a history of the Elna coming up in the next issue of ISMACS News
at the end of the month. It will get onto the web site
http://www.ismacs.net next year.
Manual available. Mail me.
Graham
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Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 20:35:09 +0100
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/23/97
To Ann re missing dates
You wrote
>Thank you Graham for a more precise date. However, can you explain why the
>"P" Series is not listed with all the other series? Like I mentioned
>earlier, The Blue Book or Capt. Dick's Book did not make mention of the "P"
>year.
Well, I can only guess. Any table will probably be taken from another which
was taken from another etc. Presumably one early list missed the P series
out in error and this has been perpetuated ever since. ISMACS takes it
information from original Singer records and not sunsequently published
lists.
To Kay re kerosene
Usng this to thin down sticky oil is a quite acceptable practise. Works
much the same as WD40 except that it would be slower but is a lubricant in
itself
Graham
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Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 21:44:38 +0100
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/25/97
To Johnnie re Bays book
Carter Bays is a prominent collector who produced a coffee-table type book
some eight years ago. The pictures are great, the historical data is flawed
and the price guide is a joke.
Well worth having for the pictures although they mostly deal with exotic
pre 1890 machines.
Your library should be able to trace it from Library of Congress number
93-90700. ISBN number is 0-963916-0-5
It's available somewhere on the net at $30 post free.
To Delores
The Liberty machine was produced by Davis, National and AG Mason companies.
Your model could be any one of these three.
Graham
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Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 20:20:19 -0400
Subject: How to put thread in bobbin on Singer Golden Touch and Sew Deluxe model 750
Help, please! My wife is trying to get the thread into the bobbin on the
subject machine. She got the machine from an estate in Florida and as
luck would have it, there were no books with it. If you or anyone else
could help out we would appreciate it very much.
Thanks in advance,
Ron
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Date: Sun, 28 Sep 1997 18:47:57 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Seam Guide
I sew a lot of my clothes (mainly use my FWs for quilting) and frequently use
a 6" metal seam guide to measure hems, seam allowances, etc. However, the 6"
metal seam guages available in the fabric stores have metric measures on the
side that I use most often, which can be a little confusing since I'm still
stuck in the "oldie" measuring system. If anyone is willing to part with the
old 6" metal seam guides that DO NOT HAVE METRIC MEASUREMENTS ON ONE SIDE,
please contact me. I would be willing to pay $5 each for any guages that are
in good condition (all measuring marks have to be on it, including the ones
inside the one-inch area). It should be easy to mail the guages to me as you
can pop out the sliding metal piece and mail the guage without the slide in a
regular envelope. TIA.
Paula
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Date: Mon, 29 Sep 1997 07:04:29 -0500
Subject: Singer model 403A
Hi
I am looking for fashion discs14,17 and 22 as well as, the Tucker and
the Darning and Embroidery attachments, for my Singer 403A. I am also
looking for an original Manual.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thank You
Karen
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Date: Mon, 29 Sep 97 09:19:24 -0800
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/25/97
Hello, fellow FW's out there. I'm Cristi from So. Cal. and I've got a
6/4/46 black FW that my grandmother left me. I've got the machine, the
case, the sewing table and most of the attachments. My machine works
great and I love it! The only thing I'm missing is the buttonholer. If
anybody out there can help me locate one please let me know.
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Date: Mon, 29 Sep 1997 12:12:13 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Ill/Wis gathering
I am sorry to post to the whole list, but I have lost the information on the
Northern Illinois/Southern Wisconson gathering in Janesville. Would Cindi
please post information again?
Thanks Linda
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Date: Mon, 29 Sep 1997 18:49:42 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Serial No.
I just found your page thru a referral by a friend in Arkansas. I've had my
Featherweight since 1957 (?) and always thought of it as my "back-up"
machine. Could've knocked me over with a Feather when I found out they're
collectibles. I just need to know where to look to find the serial number so
I can find out it's birth date!!
This is too goo to be true!!
Thanks!!
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Date: Mon, 29 Sep 1997 16:08:24 -0700 (MST)
Subject: Shipping
Dear Feathers
I want to thank all of you who responded to my shipping problem with the
huge toy firetruck. I have not been able to get back to you all
individually so I thought I would let everyone know how things are going.
First of all, the truck was too big to ship UPS and Us Mail. So the options
were getting pretty expensive and complicated. So when I put out the call
for help to this wonderful group, I got many posts from people who were
traveling to and from Calif to Az. So now it looks like the truck will
journey to Calif by a very kind FWF quilter this month. (I will have more
details later on this journey.)
During this time I came across a story in the paper of the Canine
Underground Railrood. It was a story of 12 people who transported an
injured dog from Florida to Arizona. It took 12 days and the routes and
people were set up by an email group who love dogs. It was such a touching
story. These people gave of their time freely and each person took a leg of
the journey.
So, since so many of us have problems with shipping our beloved sewing
machines, I was just wondering if maybe some day we could set up our own
Sewing Machine Underground Railroad, (SMUR) composed of people who are
traveling and can take a leg of the journey for these sms. I missed out on
a Teadle Priscilla Sewing machine because I could not convince a lady back
east to mail it to me. I offered to pay all expenses, but she wanted
nothing to do with shipping the treadle. Maybe some of you have had the
same problem.
Anyway, thanks to everyone who gave me suggestions and offers of help.
Maybe someday we can do our own SMUR.
Priscilla
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Date: Mon, 29 Sep 1997 18:28:15 -0700
Subject: S. Davis & Co
Sorry, but I forgot to add that the machine I got came in a Bentwood
style case, with a lock on the left side. No key, but I am going to
visit a lock smith tomorrow to see if he has one. The case needs to be
reglued but is otherwise good condition.
Kris
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Date: Mon, 29 Sep 1997 19:56:25 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/26/97
Hi, I'm new to the list and wonder if you can help me identify a machine I
just bought. It is a Vickers delux, hand-crank, model 78571. The rear plate
that fits over the feed dogs is missing and a treadle machine plate was just
a hair too wide and long. Is there any place to get parts like this? Any info
would be appreciated. Thanks. Kay
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Subject: Finally, I have one
Date: Mon, 29 Sep 1997 19:58:24 -0400
I am finally the proud owner of a beautiful black FW. My DH and I went
out garage sale hunting last Saturday. We got up at 6:00 a.m. and searched
the paper for local sales in our area. There was one subdivision near us
that was having a multi-family yard sale so we drove over to take a
looksie. We just pulled up along the sidewalk when I saw it. No case but
in a small odd oval table. I was speechless. I asked the lady how much
and she said she wanted $35 for it. I started to shake. My DH asked if
she would take a check (this startled me as he told me that he had $75 in
cash before we left the house). She said "Sure I'll take a check" and my
husband wrote one out for $350. He gave it to the woman and she looked at
him and then at me and said, " but this checks for $350! " My DH told the
woman about the value of the sewing machine and that they are quite highly
collectable and that he would not be able to sleep at night should he have
not given her the going rate. The woman thanked us and as we left her yard
a whole bunch of people were applauding and cheering us as we carried it to
our van. It sure was a strange feeling to get a $35 FW for $350, but it
turned out to be a good feeling.
Gina and Steve
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Date: Mon, 29 Sep 1997 23:29:49 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/26/97
To Linda :
I have one extra new red oiling/felt wick that came with a 99K I just
purchased. If you haven't already found one and still need it, send me your
snail mail address and I'll send it to you.
Regarding removing rust in the bobbin case area, a Singer repairman told
me to use a small piece of used emory cloth. Hope this helps.
To Mike H:
Could you please share with us more details about your new book? Will
it be on the For Sale listings? If you've posted this already and I missed
it, I apologize.
To Everyone:
I have a Singer attachment I hope someone can identify for me. There is
no part number on it, just a big S with the word singer going vertically
through the S. It's a little bit smaller than a ruffler, has gears and a C
clamp that slips over the needle clamp. The bottom looks like an
edgestitcher toward the front. On top of this area is a small, narrow slot
as if to feed 1/4" ribbon through it. On the right side is about a 3/4"
piece of metal folded over. The attachment is for a straight shank SM. Does
anyone have a clue as to what this attachment is? I checked Ismacs
attachment website, plus various others and am stumped! Thanks for any help.
Diane
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Subject: featherweight and hemstitching
Date: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 00:17:40 -0000
I am interested to buy a featherweight and a hemstitching and picoting
attachment # 121387.
If you have one of these email me
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Date: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 02:06:10 -0700
Subject: broken bentwood case
Greetings, All. I have a story to tell of a lesson learned. Was carrying
a machine in a bentwood case down a flight of stairs and had some books
to also go down, so I lifted the case by the handle with my right hand
and carried the books in my left hand. As I started to descend the
stairs, I had this premonition of the latch giving out and the machine
crashing down the stairs. About 2 steps later, this is exactly what did
happen!! The case was locked, but after years of useage the locks are
not that reliable and I, of all people, should have known that!! The
damage was to the case (even tho the machine flipped and rolled with
it). Lucky to report that I have all the pieces and I think it will go
back together ok. How many lashes with a wet noodle do I get for this
faux pas??
Millie
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Date: Mon, 29 Sep 1997 22:33:38 -1000
Subject: Companies
Hello, does anyone have information on these companies:
A.G. Mason
Household
Goodrich
I've searched in old tradepapers, catalogs, magazines, various books, etc
and haven't found anything on the above companies. If anyone has any
information on them (such as when they started, when they went bankrupt,
who bought them out, etc) please email or post here. I think someone did
forward some info on the A.G. Mason company, but I haven't been able to
find the post in the back issues of the digest.
Btw, if anyones has a manual for a White vibrating shuttle, Standard
rotary, New Home rotary, or the A.G. Mason, please email.
Thanks,
Charles
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Date: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 05:16:03 -0400
Subject: Patchwork Foot
Hi!
> No, this patchwork foot (alphasew foot) is not specifically
> made for the featherweight, it works with low straight shank
> machines--but it works on the featherweight so well because
> it covers the all three of the feeddogs. (This foot also
> works on the 201.) (The 301 & 401, 501 takes a slant shank,
> and of course, mom and dad sell that one too!)
I bought this foot from Dale Pickens and LOVE it. I put it on my Model
28 handcrank and pieced my entire challenge quilt with it. Now, if I
can only finish the hand quilting by the deadline.....
Now that that project (piecing) is complete the foot is living on my
White FW and I'm enjoying it still!
Linda
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Date: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 04:40:07 -0700
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/27/97
Must share my recent "finds". Been trying to build a little
library and thank you for the suggestions of books to search for.
In the past three weeks I have found and purchased: "Machine Sewing:
A Treatise on the Care and Use of Family Sewing Machines" by Singer
(1924), a complete set of the trade cards "American Song Birds" (1926),
the book "Bird Notes And Other Sketches" (1900) by Richard Irby (a
signed copy with a note to "Richard Irby Morton". This book contains
the American Singer Series bird cards as illustrated by J.L. Ridgeway.
Also (thanks Capt. Dick for mentioning this book) found a copy
of Rosamond Cook's Sewing Machines which is on it's way.
I have also located a source for two catalogs from the late 1800's.
One is "Davis Vertical Feed Sewing Machines" showing 7 different
models differentiated by the cabinet and table, not by machine. Also
model of "Machine A". Other is Willcox & Gibbs illustrating 3 different
models identified as No.'s 1, 2, & 4.
I would love the above but my $$$ is gone and hopefully someone else
can purchase and enjoy. E-mail me to contact book supplier if
interested.
I am checking on availability now.
I have most importantly discovered new friends along the way!!
To Janet with the problem of improper feeding (from Machine Sewing book)
Improper feeding is often due to the pressure being too light for the
material to be sewn... The feed dog may be worn smooth. This may be
determined by running the finger over the teeth. If they are not sharp,
the feed dog should be replaced... The stitch regulator may have been
turned back so far that the feed is entirely out of action... Needle
may be bent.
Joan
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Date: Mon, 29 Sep 1997 18:48:41 -0700
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/26/97
Hello, FWF's!
I have a request and a short story:
Last Saturday, I attended a class on wearable art, since I had recently
purchased ( please don't throw stones yet!) a Bernina 1080 and wanted to
'put her through her paces' so to speak. Frankly, after sewing almost
exclusively with my FW, and a bit with my 201 and 301, this modern
marvel seems a bit intimidating. To get on with it - as quilters do when
confined to a small space for an entire day, the conversation covered
every subject one could think of, and naturally, since I was there, FW's
came up. One woman said she was ready to toss hers because the motor
was shot. On questioning her, she said several "Singer guys" and a
"Bernina guy" had all looked the machine over, and given the same
verdict, along with the sad news that no way - no how, was she going to
find a replacement motor. As some of you know I'm prone to do, I stuck
my neck out, and said I bet I could find her a replacement motor,
because in the time I've been on this list I've read that many of you
part out machines, and that the motor for another model, perhaps the 201
(?) is the same, or will fit, the FW. Of course, I got that "Are you
stupid, or just plain crazy?" look from this woman, whom I'd never met
before. So now I'm asking you - did I just dream this, or can I
actually find her a motor?
Please, please let me know, so if I do have egg on my face, I can wash
it off before it dries permanently!
Now the rest of the story - it was well into the afternoon before we
reached a point where we were to do some machine work - re-embroidery,
to be exact. Now I bought this new machine less than a month ago, and
soon after bringing it home was trying out all the different stitches,
with manual open beside the machine, following directins ( yes, 'tis
true)when all at once that machine made the most Gawd -awful sound, like
the gears were just grinding themselves toothless. I immediately stopped
what I was doing, unplugged it, covered it up, and didn't touch it
again. Called the shop owner who said I probably should have used a
different foot from the one recommended in the manual (you may guess
what I thought). I was to attend another class the following weekend, on
beginning machine quilting, and was going to take this thing to it, but
a flu bug just wouldn't go away quickly enough to not be contagious, so
I skipped the class. So, here I was Sat. p.m. ready to sew, and actually
got all of Santa's beard done - quite well, actually, changed thread
colors (same type, just different colors), and started on his coat - you
guessed it - same Gawd-awful grinding sound. Thank goodness it did it in
front of a dozen other students, the teacher (a former Bernina rep) and
the shop owner from whom I'd bought the blasted thing. The teacher
fiddled with the machine for a few minutes, and it behaved for a few
minutes, then started bringing the bobbin thread to the top, and finally
broke the spool thread. I left it with the shop owner to take to the
dealer.
I've spent the last two days at home, sewing peacefully, and without
incident, especially without those Gawd-awful grinding noises, on my old
'48 FW. I really don't care if they take their sweet time fixing that
new fangled computerized wing-ding - I can get a whale of a lot more
done without it, and I don't need a pitcherful of margaritas to calm my
nerves when I sew.
Nothing personal against any of you who might also happen to be Bernina
Bigots, but so far, my experience has made me run, not walk, back to my
trusty little Opal. Okay, so I won't be able to do some of those fancy
stitches for awhile - at least I can do a drop-dead gorgeous straight
stitch - sober!
Becky
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Date: Mon, 29 Sep 1997 19:38:18 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Treadle Sewing Machine
I have purchased a New Willard Treadle Sewing Machine with a patent date of
August, 1920. It is in No. 7 condition and has one bobbin with it. I
purchased it for $5.00. Can anyone tell me some history on this paticular
make of sewing machine. My bet is it is a Canadian manufactured machine.
Help!
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Date: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 06:48:36 -0400
Subject: Atlantic City
Hi:
Haven't written to the group in some times but couldn't resist mention
of the antiques show in Atlantic City. My advice: Stay home and enjoy
the family. It is way overpriced as far as admission and what's most
important there are only a few dealers of TSM's and they are a joke. If
you enjoy paying 2 to 4 times the going rate for machines then bring a
very large wallet. I think you'd have more antiquing fun visiting some
of the major antique centers in surrounding PA. Just my humble
opinion 8^))
Talk to you soon.
--
Bob
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Date: Mon, 29 Sep 1997 18:23:35 -0700
Subject: S. Davis & Co.
This weekend my DH went to a rummage sale and found another sewing
machine for me. This one is a fiddle base, hand crank. The instruction
book is in excellent condition, just minor wear on the edges of the back
cover. The machine came with all the attachments still wrapped in the
original tissue paper (I think because it falls apart when I touch it),
needles, 6 bobbins, a very small screw driver, and some thread on the
wooden spools. I would like help from our London friends (or anyone
else) in dating this machine. No where in the book is there a date but
stamped on the front is the advertisement for the seller, it reads:
S. DAVIS & CO.,
125 Tottenham Court Rd
Entire House Furnishers
and
Bassinette & Mail Cart
Manufacturers
Inside the back cover is pictures of the various products they sell
including Davis Period Mangle, Bassinette, Davis's Baker's Patent Box
Mangle, Davis's Knife Machine, Davis's Wringer, Period Washers, India
Rubber Washers, and Period Mail Carts. Also is pictured a suite of
furniture consisting of a tufted fainting couch, 6 straight back chairs
with padded seats, a matching full padded arm chair and another chair
like it but without the arms, all for the price of L6.15.0. Could
someone tell me how much this would be?
On the back is a listing of the S. Davis branch establishments. I am
including them in the hopes it might help someone date the machine for
me.
Period House, Borough, S.E. (near St. George's Church)
328 & 330 Holloway Road, N.
125, Tottenham Court Rd., W. (Near Euston Road)
10, Hackney Road, E. (near Shoreditch Church)
144, The Grove, Stratford, E. (Corner Great Eastern Road)
73 & 75, High St., Peckham, S.E. (Facing Rye Lane)
Wholesale Depot and Chief Office - 241, 243, 245, 247, & 251 High St.,
Borough, London, S.E.
As I said earlier this is a fiddle based, hand crank with some
mother-of-pearl inlay on the bed and red and blue flowers entwined with
the gold on the arm and bed of the machine. The right side of the base
has a sliding lid where the attachments are stored. It is a shuttle
bobbin, it has a stitch length regulator on the front right by the
bobbin winder, it has two spool pins on top of the arm, and it has 3
square rods that are on the top of the arm above the needle. One of
these square rods moves up and down with the needle, I am not sure what
the two outside rods do. The tension is on the face plate which has
gold scroll work on it. The attachments included are the adj. hemmer,
quilting guide, trimmer, adj. binder, corder, tucking guide, straight
guide, coarse needle plate. Also the fly-wheel (or hand wheel) is
slotted. Also on the sliding throat plate are the numbers 64701.
I am very sorry this is such a long post but I wanted to provide as much
information as I could for someone to help me date it. If you have any
questions please e-mail me and I will try to answer it. For those
wanting to know what my DH paid, it was $10.00.
Kris
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Date: Mon, 29 Sep 1997 20:42:09, -0500
Subject: FW Fanatics 9/26/97
Hi FWF's- It's been a long time since I posted to the list, but I
have been lurking in the sidelines. Something I read in the 9/26/97
digest prompted me to write: Captain Dick suggested cleaning treadle
wheel and handwheel grooves with alchohol or GASOLINE! I strongly
caution against bringing gasoline indoors, even a few drops on a rag.
Stick with the alchohol, unless you can drag your machine outdoors to
do the cleaning! (even outdoors, I don't suggest gasoline). I have
great respect for Captain Dick, and I am sure that he will agree.
In reference to the $2 featherweight, my son once found one (which I
still have) set out with somebodies trash on the curb. Hard to beat
that price, unless somebody will pay you to take one off their
hands!
Joe
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Date: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 08:16:50 -0400
Subject: 222K Manual Needed
Hi All. Just returned from my semi annual antiquing trip to eastern
Pennsylvania where I found a 222K model Featherweight with serial number
EK (bd late 1954 to late 1955 per NJS book). This is the first 222K
I've seen in person. Major Snoopy dance happening here. I paid $675
for the machine and case. Both are in the condition range of 6 to 7.
Unfortunately, there were no attachments or manual. Can anyone provide
me with a copy of the manual. Will gladly pay for reproduction and
mailing costs. TIA. Dan
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Subject: Need 101 Motor!!
Date: Mon, 29 Sep 1997 21:36:55 EDT
Hi All--
I need a motor for a 101 (in the pot) and apparently the "pot"
motor doesn't fit from the 15. Is any one parting out a 101 or know
where I can get a motor? I really want to get this machine running, but
I want power to it first! (Chris, you got any original motors for a
101??)
Thanks millions in advance
Just email
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Date: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 07:47:38 -0500
Subject: Fabric Stores in the New England Area
Hi to all you Feathers,
I will be leaving this Saturday for a trip up to the New England
States. We will be driving along the coast trying to see as
many quaint little towns along the way. Does anyone have a
favorite Fabric Store that they go to? I especially like the
Debbie Mum Fabrics as well as Alexander Henry. I am
really into applique designs on jumpers as well as
sweatshirts and T-Shirts.
My DH purchased a 221 Featherweight with the Anniversary
Medalion on it for me a couple of weeks ago. The machine
is definitely an 8+ and well as the case. All the gold decal is
in tact. Very minor scratches on the bed of the machine.
Does anyone have the little oil can and an original manual
that they would be willing to sell?
I also picked up one of those Precision Button Hole
attachments in the maroon case. Manual is there as well as
all the cams. Does anyone know which machine this is for?
I have a White Rotary Treadle machine, a 221 Featherweight
and a Pfaff sewing machine.
Would anyone be willing to trade the Precision Button Hole
attachment for a White Rotary or 221 Featherweight Button
Hole attachment?
I really enjoy this list!!
Regards,
Bonnie
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Date: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 08:57:36
Subject: My 301
Ellen and others
>But you forgot the important part - what did you pay for it? THEN we can<
>judge if you did good! But regardless, it sounds wonderful is it called a<
>301A, by any chance, and how can you get the date?
Well I think I did great. I had a old skein winder used to wind handspun
yarn on. I had gotten it about 10 years ago in a trade. I never paid any
money for it, but I realize there is a value on it. So I traded the yarn
winder for the 301 machine and did not exchange any money. The dealer had
had a price of $90 on the 301. But when I saw the condidion of the machine
I think it is worth far more. I am really pleased with my
"trade"....besides it works too!
I did get the birthdate..sort of. SInger was very vague about this model..
The lady said it was too new for them to have proper records..this
supprised me. Anyway she said it was made between 1953 and 1959 in
Anderson, SC.
Captian Dick; I recieved you book and it really helps a lot. Funny thing
is I was sitting reading it and my DH wanted to see what I was reading. He
took it from me and wouldn't give it back until he read it. When he would
get to a certain model he would say...oh I have sse one of those model # at
such-in-such...and I have see this model # here.....you get the picture. I
think there is yet another SM collector about to be born!
Pam
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Date: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 08:41:47 -0400
Subject: Clen-up and latest
Dear FWF
It has been a little while since I posted. Should do this more regularly
but...life gets in the way. There have been many questions about
restorations. Since I am going through this with my white FW I thought I
might share a few things:
Grit, sand and general grunge can be a pest if wet, either water or oil. A
dry vac first with an attachment that steps down the size (and
consequently the velocity) is available at most vac/sewing shops. Low
pressure compressed air works well too. (mind your eyes)
Kerosene, which smells remarkably like Varsol, is a great solvent for old
oil and grease. Generic cotton swabs seem to leave tufts of themselves all
over the inner workings so I have abandoned those in favour of the brand
name "Q's" and foam make-up applicators. Good old rags and forceps work
well.
Oil darn near everything in sight that has a mechanical coupling. Avoid
oiling belts and belt tensioners. Use the finest light oil you can get.
Remember to put something underneath to catch drips and remember to wipe
off the needle and presser foot before sewing or you will have an oil stain
on the linen slip covers you are making. (ISFE) Don't worry about the oil
and kerosene or even varsol. In the Singer repair manual Supplement to
form 213235 Machine 221 (566) on page 4 ... "Note: Under extreme conditions
(if grease is hard and tacky) remove motor, light and wiring, as instructed
on page 25, and soak machine in a tank of varsol..." Seriously.
Although I dislike recommending brand names, (because there are so many
good products out there) two I found to be useful are:
Mother's non abrasive carnuba car wax will bring real lustre to the paint.
Flitz works very well on polished metal that has faded as well as chrome.
Clean this off very well by buffing.
And last but not least in the over long posting (TFPUWM) we found another
White 221. It seems through a direct comparison of the machines that white
FWs are a little stiffer than Black FWs. Well, it needed a good home and
another to compare the first one with is essential. It has a black motor,
correct vintage, but did they originally come in black? (The motor
only...have one white FW with a white motor and the other white FW with a
black motor but no black FWs with a white motor)
Tom
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Date: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 02:11:33 -0700
Subject: Elna Supermatic
My local Elna dealer said that those Supermatic pulley belts are no
longer available!! We were discussing them because she had one sitting
there - a really funny green coloring. Told me that the machine had been
in a fire and had been repainted - case and all. She is stripping parts
and dumping the machine since the pulley belt is broken and she cannot
get another...Has anyone else heard this???
She also said she has one coming in on trade in great condition and will
all the accessories... Do I want to go and see it??? Millie
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Date: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 09:04:55
Subject: Thrift stores
To Barbara and Clifford and others;
I saw the note on the FWF page about the thrift stores getting smart. I
know what you mean. I started hitting the Goodwill stores several months
ago and I could find machines for under $20...now they are putting
extreemly high prices for something that is not worth it. What a shame. I
guess this is why I hate to say anything about what I am looking for when I
go into a place...folks will tripple the price on you in a heart beat!
Pam
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Subject: Special Badges
Date: Mon, 29 Sep 1997 15:54:58 -0700
This is a really good effort, to pin these down. Here are the ones
I have:
Centennials:
66-16
66-19
201
128
201K
15-91
15-88
99
20
221
Canadian National Exposition, Toronto, 1939 15-88 (There was also
a 15-91)
Golden Gate Exposition, San Francisco 1940 Model 221 (know of two
for sure, Nancy Srebo-Johnson's books says she heard of one... if it
isn't one of these two, then there are three)
And, w;hile I don't have one, we know of the Texas Exposition (or was
it Centennial?) Model 221
Let's hear of any other special badges we know of out there. I've
started a list and will post it when we seem to have all that we know
of.
Captain Dick
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Date: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 09:54:11 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/27/97
To Linda RE: Coats and Clark cotton thread breaking. My Gutterman cotton
thread was doing the same thing as I was monogramming my quilt label - thread
kept breaking everytime after the Di (for Diane) :>( Upon examining the
thread, I realized I was using hand-quilting cotton thread which has more
lustre but breaks easily. Check to make sure you are using machine quilting
thread. Perhaps try cotton Metrosene too. Hope this helps.
To Gail RE; 301A feet. The shank on the straight feet is straight. On the
slant feet, the shank sits at an angle. If you lay of the same feet (1 slant
and 1 straight) side by side you will see what I mean.
Diane
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Date: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 08:52:29 +0000
Subject: Miscellaneous Re: FW Fanatics 9/27/97
To p-olson: Enjoyed your humor; it's always nice to start the work
day with a chuckle.
To Lisa: Are you REALLY glad Mary has serious allergy problems
(VBG)? As an allergy and asthma sufferer, I know what you're both
experiencing and it's no fun. I purchased a FW without a case, and
from all the posts about musty smell, was probably fortunate. A
former FWF, Robert Carr from Florida, sold it to me for only $175,
and it's a dream machine--birthyear, Centennial, and first FW all in
one! (Many of you may remember Robert--he was gathering sewing
machines to send to a mission, and at one time requested that other
FWF write his wife Catherine to help her understand our addiction to
old machines.) Robert passed away during the summer--a massive heart
attack in the middle of the night. He was a wonderful person, and I
miss him.
To all who sent information on how to use my pinker, thanks so much.
It's a fun little thing, and makes a beautiful edge on my fabric.
Sue, thanks again for putting this list together and getting it out
daily. You're amazing!!
Dee
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ate: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 00:38:09 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Back again
While on vacation I was thrilled that we had time to stop by Stepping Stones
Quilt Shop and met Chris. Great looking shop and a lot of machines to look
at and drool. Chris was nice enough not to mop in front of the display case
until I left.
The shop is easy to miss as it is on a small road by a small airport. I have
often mentioned his store when someone asks about manuals or service books.
He has a good supply.
Went to the Quilt show in Orlando and saw only one FW for sale (with a table
if wanted). The displays were nice. I did not do classes but did enjoy
seeing the displays. DH was impressed with the quilts. We have not been
that interested until I started to use my FW in quilt classes. When I was
taught quilting it was a pain in the behind. Large frame in the living room
for weeks. Did one quilt and that was that. Have a collection of old
quilts but that was it.
Now that I am interested in quilting my married daughter (foster) has hinted
for a double wedding ring quilt. Is telling me she wants one the same as
hinting?
We went on to the Virgin Islands for a cruise. The rumor is not true, they
did let me on the islands!! NO antique stores to be found. Puerto Rico was
large but more jewels and stuff like that. We did stop at a local resturant
for a taste of the islands...Kentucky Fried Chicken. The other islands was
cleared off the map by Hugo and Bertha. Nothing but shirts and tourist
things. I asked about used furniture or antiques and they could tell me
where some where BEFORE the hurricanes. One Singer shop that was closed the
day we were on that island. Could not see and machines through the window.
If you saw the movie Weekend with Bernie 2 it was shot in the area where we
visited....except this was before the storms. You can imagine how
disappointed I was when we got there. Since home loans are given after the
house is 80% completed there is not much rebuilt of the locals.
Glad to be back and trying to get caught up on mail. Deposited my check in
the wrong account the day we left and then mailed a lot of payments.....life
can get exciting.
Blessed Be
Moonsage
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Date: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 11:07:36 -0700
Subject: Singer Portable Folding Table
Hi feathers,
I am interested in finding out about the "Portable Folding Table
for Portable Electric Machines" talked about and pictured in my
"Machine Sewing" book by Singer. This table was made for use in
class rooms where the room needed to be used for other purposes
between sewing classes. It was "light in weight but of rigid
construction. It is just the right length, width and height for
convenient sewing and contains a locked drawer in which bobbins,
thread, etc., may be kept." Reminds one of the combination
library table but smaller, no cut out. Does anyone have one
of these, any pictures on the web?
The machine pictured with this table was the Singer No. 101-10 which
used aluminum for the arm and bed and was mounted in the wooden
carrying case.
Hate to admit it, but I took "Sewing Class" in high school but darn
if I can't remember what I learned on. MMMM what does one do to
turn the memory bulb on!!
Joan
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Subject: New Home Treadle
Date: Tue, 30 Sep 97 09:29:00 PDT
Graham and all!
What is your opinion of a New Home treadle? I saw one in an antique
store. The cabinet is oak and is in excellent condition.
I didn't get to see the head as the store was closing and it had a lot of
stuff piled on it. The price tag did say that the machine worked and
there was a note that said "papers are included". I'm not sure what was
meant by that. The price tag says $195.00 and says the machine dates
somewhere from 1870 - 1910.
The machine has been in their window for at least two weeks that I know
of. What should I look for when I go back? I plan to take some fabric
and thread. Would this machine take a standard needle? How hard would it
be to get parts for it?
Are there certain models to stay away from?
Would I be better off holding out for a Singer?
By the way, they also have a post war black FW in the window with case.
It looks to be about a condition 6 and they are asking $395.00 for it.
Since this is a booth type antique shop, I don't know if the same vendor
is selling both machines.
I'm in southern California, L.A. area, where prices are
naturally higher.
My friend found a Singer Model 20 Toy Sewing Machine yesterday! It came in
the original box (taped together) and is in excellent condition, complete
with needle and instruction book. It works fine.
The original receipt was in the box dated 1955 for $12.95 plus tax.
The same antique mall also had a Casige (sp?) machine. It had multi-color
decals on it, was missing the needle and had a lot of rust on it. How hard
are these to find? Could it be cleaned up or is it not worth the effort?
They were asking $95.00 for it and would discount it 10%.
(This same antique mall had an AF serial number FW with no needle, presser
foot, bobbin case, foot pedal, or case and asking $175.00 for it "as is".
Passed this up without a second glance.)
I had lunch with my mom today and was telling her about my friend's find. My
mom told me she still had my Betsy Ross toy sewing machine from the 50's in
her closet and it was mine if I wanted it. I am going to pick it up tonight!
I'm so excited. I thought it had gone to the GoodWill eons ago. I never even
bothered to ask her about it. Yippee!!!!
Thanks for any info you can give me regarding the treadle.
Nancy
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Date: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 13:21:42 EDT
Subject: Houston's International Quilt Festival
A warning for anyone who might be thinking of taking classes at the above quilt
festival in October. My DD and I faxed our registrations to Houston the first
of August - well, I got two classes out of a possible twelve while she only got
one, so we cancelled. We had made the mistake of waiting two weeks after the
registration brochures were released.
Now we are planning on attending the Paducah show in late April of 1998 - we've
reserved a room in a nearby town although there are still rooms available in
Paducah. This time, our registration applications will be faxed the same day
the brochures are received!
Can anyone give me any info on the Paducah show - any dos and don'ts??
Connie
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Date: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 10:27:28 -0700 (MST)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/27/97
>
>Hi Guys,
>
>I bought a boat anchor today :0D Now before you all laugh at me, let me say
>that I was just roaming around garage sales today looking around. I didnt
>intend to buy anything. I wanted a really cheap machine for my 4 yr old to
>learn to sew on. I figured if it runs, hey, why not. Well, for $5 I came home
>with a Singer Futura Model 900. I made the people plug it in and tried sewing
>with it. It does sew, but the stitch length regulator seems to be stuck in one
>position. Again, since this is for a 4 yr old to learn to sew on, Im not all
>that concerned. Somehow or another I'll get it unjammed and if I dont, oh
>well. What I need is a manual! This thing came with all sorts of cams and
>gadgets that I havent the foggiest idea how to use. I'd like to be sure that I
>have it threaded correctly, also.
>
>So how about it? Can anyone help me locate a manual for this puppy? A
>photocopy
>would be fine. Should I try calling Singer to see if they have one for it?
>Thanks in advance for any help I receive.
>
>Grins,
>
>Theresa
Hi, Theresa --
I have a Singer Futura Model 900 with the original manual and I would be
glad to send you a copy. Send me your snail mail address and I'll get it
out right away. I sewed for many years on that thing, thought it was just
fine until I got others. Now I wouldn't trade my FW -- or my old Viking --
for a zillion dollars. But I'll be glad to send you the copy of the manual.
I have a really old toy Singer that my husband bought at an auction in a bin
of nuts and bolts. Came from a factory in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico. My
father-in-law lived in Mexico City in the late 40's, working for the Dept.
of Agriculture (US), and traveled in all those little tiny villages up in
the mountains in Mexico. Vaccinating sheep and cattle, but that's another
story. Anyway, he said that the women in those little tiny villages
actually made clothing for their families on those kinds of machines. Had
to turn the wheel by hand to make the needle go up and down, and just makes
a lock stitch. I should get any numbers off of the one I've got and send to
you guys, maybe some of you know something about it.
But I digress. Theresa, back to the Futura -- just let me know!
Karen
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Date: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 18:42:02 -0700
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/27/97
Dear Feathers, especially Graham,
I am jumping in a bit here. I was a faithful reader until early
June when my beloved husband died very suddenly from a heart attack. I
haven't kept up much since, but think I am ready to jump back in.
I found a Wilcox and Gibbs machine in an antiques store today.
The price was $265. It has a wood case in great shape and a battered
cardboard box with various feet and an instruction book. I couldn't
find a date on the book, but this is one of those machines that lookes
more like a praying mantis than a cocker spanial, if that makes any
sense. It is electified with a bulky roundish motor and a very heavy
foot pedal. I think it must be a chain stitch machine. The mechanism
seems to move well. My questions are: 1. Is $265 reasonable? 2. Will
I be able to get needles for it? 3. Is there anything I should watch
out for?
I also saw an Elias Howe treadle machine on the coast for $230.
It also moved freely and was in apparently good shape, but was missing
the coffin top. The same questions apply.
Any help would be very welcome. You can reply privately
Thanks,
Sharon
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Date: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 22:12:06 -0400
Subject: Manual for 201
Well folks, I am about to complete my list of sewing machine "wants". I
think I am about to buy a Centinnial 201 and I would like a manual for
it. I should get it at the end of the week if you all tell me it's "ok".
The part that holds the light bulb is broken, so someone has attached a
light on the back. It is in one of the white plastic cases and I can buy
it with or without the case. I will buy it without the case, since I
just don't care for the look of the stark white plastic case with the
older black machines and the 201 will sit on a table by itself unlike the
66 that someone mentioned a day or two ago which won't sit up straight
without a case.
What kind of foot pedal originally came with the 201? I don't believe it
has a Singer pedal, but I have an extra one with the button (just like
the FW pedal). Can I switch them out? I am not an electrician by any
stretch of the imagination - so this would have to be an easy task.
Should I attempt it?
It sews good. So considering the above, is $50 a decent price? I hope I
am asking this question correctly - don't mean to offend. I read the
digest everyday, but have forgotten exactly what the rule is on asking
about prices. I do greatly regret passing up the mint condition 201 that
I found in a queen anne cabinet for $75 at an estate sale (right across
the street from my house even!) when I first started being interested in
machines. It was later after I passed up the machine that I begin to
read how great most of you think the 201 is.
Thanks for your input and would like to hear from someone with a copy of
a manual.
Thanks
Renea
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Date: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 15:56:50 -0600
Subject: 222 not stitching correctly
A friend of mine who has sewn everything (kids clothes, drapes, upolstery
etc.) on her FW purchased in the early 70's has recently acquired a second
one: a Centennial 222 with all the attachments, manual and so on, in great
condition, but is having difficulty making it stitch correctly. She writes:
"My fancy little machine does not work; it won't pick up the thread from
the bobbin, it just makes the occasional stitch. Have any idea what is wrong?"
I'm just a beginner and haven't done any tinkering and don't know what to
suggest to her. Can anyone help? Thanks for any suggestions.
Linda
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Subject: 15-91
Date: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 20:31:05 -0400
My wonderful DH made his thrift-shop rounds yesterday and came home with
a $10 15-91 in a painted cabinet and a 185J in its green plastic case.
The 15-91 has the Centennial medallion, but also has an EE... serial
number, which Capt. Dick dates at 1947 - five years early for
Centennial. I also thought EE.. meant it was made in Scottland, but the
machine has printed in gold on the arm, just under the Singer name,
"made in Canada." On the underside, one of the drive-arms says Simanco
Canada and another says Simanco USA. Do I have an international machine?
Anyway, it's a condition 6-7, with pin-scratches where someone had a pin
cushion on the arm. Most of the gold is intact, but the enamel is pretty
scratched & dull. No matter; I plan to *use* this one. I cleaned & oiled
it tonight, but couldn't take it for a spin because it has some stripped
wires. The wheel turns smoothly (especially after the oiling), and DH will
fix the wiring soon so I can start using it.
--
Lois
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ate: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 18:28:18 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Finds??
Dear Feathers,
Have a couple of machines that I have questions about. DH went on the trip
to TX with out me and came home with a bright, shiney black machine called
Peerless. It has a Reg U.S. Pat off written on it. Also called Deluxe
Precision Built , made in Japan. It came with no bobbin or schuttle, no
presser foot and think someone robbed it of the tension knob. Also the
wiring coming off the motor is in very bad shape. However the rest of the
machine is bright and shiney and looks good.
Also bought a Coronado Rotaty machine from a nice lady in Owatanna,MN about
a month or two ago. She was getting ready to move to the twin cities to go
back to school. The Coronado has the godzilla finish and came with four
boxes of attatchments, all made by greist. On part of the machine, it has
the letters NSMCO and Model RBR. Does any one have a clue about the age of
machine, etc. It is in a small wooden cabinet with the swing open door and
the flip open top. The machine and cabinet are probably an 8.
Would appreciate any help with identifying these machines.
Thanks,
Helen (Heirlooms by Helen)
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Date: Wed, 01 Oct 1997 00:54:34 -0700
Subject: Model 744/764 Machine
I am trying to locate a Singer Model 764 WITH THE REMOVABLE
cloth plate.
If I remember they were made in the 70's. They were one
of the Touch & Sew machines, and advertised as the
DeLuxe Zig Zag machine. I know they used the *flexi-stitch*
discs. The only machine that will fill the bill is the 764 and
it must have the removable cloth plate.
Please email if you have one for sale.
Thank you for your tyme
Char
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Date: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 21:48:42 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: New FWF
Well, I've been bitten, or should I say smitten? I purchased my first
featherweight after spending the summer searching flea markets, antique
shows, and garage sales. I was determined to try and find one less than the
$300 plus price tag the dealers seem to keep asking for. Generally speaking,
no one was willing to haggle prices with me. Seems they have no problems
selling these little gems! I did find my little gem for a reasonable
price(still up there). My "baby's" birthdate is February 1946. I've read
Nancy Johnson-Srebro's new book from cover to cover. Cleaned my little gem up
and her motor purrs. It's a well used FW, black finish is scratched and not
as shiny as some, but she has real character. I'm a quilter and I can't wait
to make a quilt with her. My only problem is this: the bobbin case rattles
when I run the machine. The finger of the bobbin case base vibrates under the
throat plate. Is there a way of adjusting this? Otherwise the machine is in
good working order. I got five attachments with the machine in its original
green box and the original manual. One latch is broken on the carry case and
the tray is missing. My box also smells musty but I've learned so much from
reading FWF. I want to buy more FWS and more Singers now. I already have a
Model 66 treadle from 1929, got the manual from Singer in the mail a few days
ago. I've used it as an end table in my living room, but now want to get her
going and make a 1930's repro quilt with her. I bought a 99k at a flea market
in May-in beautiful shape. Only thing is the tension is off, but that can be
corrected. I started collecting toy machines last year and now have four.
Like I said, I have been smitten! Thanks FWFS!.........Does anyone know about
a treadle sewing machine by Macy? ...........Nancy
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Date: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 22:10:17 -0400
Subject: It pays to advertise!
Hi Feathers! (Sorry that this is so long but I think (hope?) it will be
fun reading!)
Last week I advertised in my local newspaper's "Swap Shop" column for
pre-1960s Singer sewing machines and received over 25 calls (and people
are still calling)! I was really looking for FWs (what else? and with a
card table or a cabinet - I can dream, can't I? - too), a handcrank, a
301 and a treadle cabinet that I could put my Mom's 15-30 back into (it
was converted to electric). Not wanting to spend a lot of time checking
out stuff that I did not want, I tried to get as much information as I
could from the callers. I was amazed at how some people have no idea
what kind of machine they have even when they are looking right at it! I
asked one woman whether the machine was electric or not and she said "how
do I tell?"!!! (duh, does it have a plug?!!!) Some of the employees at
the Singer hotline are no better. One caller said he had a Singer Model
206K43 which I could not find any info on on the net. I called the
Singer hotline and when I asked if the 206 was similar to the 201, she
asked me if the 201 was a Featherweight! When I told her that the 221
was the Featherweight she said that she thought the 201 might have been a
Featherweight too! (I have since found out that the 206 was Singer's
first zig-zag machine and not a very successful one so I passed on it).
ANYWAY, I ended up doing REAL good (and it didn't cost anything to post
my request in this column either). What I got was:
A tan 301 in a real nice case (no attachments or manual but she threw in
a Montgomery Ward electric scissors - not something I really wanted or
needed but hey, she threw it in so...) for $22.50. Does anyone know what
the difference is between the 301 and 301A? I was trying (while my 3
year old twin girls were screaming!) to read some stuff on the net about
them (I think it was on Gailee's website) and I thought it said that most
301s were black and the 301As were either black, tan or two-tone (?).
They also talked about long bed and short bed. My machine only says 301
but it is tan and appears to have a long fold-up bed (comparing it to a
picture of a black 301 on the net that seemed to have a much shorter
fold-up bed). Is this unusual? It came with a slant-sided case that
looks like an old valise (what we used to call a suitcase when I was
little!) that my parents used to have - kind of a yellowish material with
brown leather (?) sewn around the edges - and it's in really nice shape
too.
AND.... I got a Centennial FW in a c.10 (looks - and even better,
smells! - like new) case. The machine is probably at least an 8 but I
haven't gotten a chance to look at it real close yet. It is pretty
dirty - even wondered whether it could have had a kind of matte finish
(it's not godzilla) but then I lifted up the spool felt and it was real
shiny under there and when I took a baby wipe and just wiped a small area
all the grime started coming off. Does anyone know if it's okay to clean
the outside with a (no alcohol) baby wipe or should I just use soap and
water or WD-40 or what? It came with all the attachments in their
original green box (doesn't look like any of them were ever used) an
original c.10 manual, a buttonholer with cams, manual, etc., in the green
godzilla box, an extra box of buttonhole templates, a zipper foot, the
original oil can and original tube of lubricant in its green box, an
extra Singer bulb (still unopened in its original packaging - 85 cents),
a Singer seam guide (in its original packaging but opened - 50 cents),
two keys in a manilla envelope, a couple of packages of needles, two
large screwdrivers, two small screwdrivers, at least 15 bobbins... AND
(are you ready for this!) and card table with insert in c.9 (!) all for
....(are you all sitting down? I guess you are if you're at the computer
although I stand a lot too when I'm too lazy to drag a dining room chair
over!) $40.00!!!! (that's right, FORTY). It was the woman's mother's
machine (her mother died in July) and she was cleaning out her house and
said she didn't want to just put it on the sidewalk for the garbage
collector (or some really lucky FWF, right?). When I asked her what she
wanted for it she said that she had called Singer (uh-oh, hope she didn't
call the 1-800 number - one thing they do know is what featherweights go
for!) and they told her it was worth $50.00! (whew!, must have been a
local Singer dealer who was going to give her $50.00 for the machine and
the table and then sell it for at least 10 times that much!). She said
she would take $40.00 for everything and was happy that it was going to
someone who would use it! Now I really have to clean up my sewing space
so I can set up the table with the machine and get some sewing done. And
I can stop looking for FWs for a while (yeah, right!) because now I have
three (one for each of my girls) but then I do have to find one more
(maybe a freearm!) for myself!
So, the moral of this whole long story is that it really does pay to
advertise, BUT be prepared to ask a lot of questions or to go and look at
everything because people have no idea what they have even when they are
looking right at it! The woman who had the FW in the card table told me
on the phone that the machine was in a desk! (I wouldn't call a card
table a desk, would you?!) I was getting so many calls about machines in
desks (most of which turned out to be 1950s 15s or 66s) that I stopped
asking for serial numbers and said "thanks but no thanks" if they said
the machine was in a desk (I guess it could have been a 201 too but I
have one of those already and I have no room to duplicate machines
unless, of course, it's an FW!). This woman was one of the first callers
and thank goodness I did ask for the serial number!
Well, thanks for listening to this long, long post. I still can't
believe what I found (I don't want to be too greedy but I may try the ad
again in a couple of months!) Hope you all have as much luck as I have
had lately.
Happy featherweighting!
Nadine :-) doing the happy FW in card table dance
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Date: Wed, 01 Oct 1997 08:34:19 -0500
Subject: Touch & Sew
Ron said:
> Help, please! My wife is trying to get the thread into the bobbin on the
> subject machine. She got the machine from an estate in Florida and as
> luck would have it, there were no books with it.
It's beginning to come back to me... I used one of these many years
ago, and the bobbin winding was kind of strange -- I *think* you wind
the bobbin in place. There's a small lever you flip (?) and as you run
the machine (with the top thread going through the needle) it winds onto
the bobbin below. Am I remembering right?
Diane said:
> I have a Singer attachment I hope someone can identify for me. There is
> no part number on it, just a big S with the word singer going vertically
> through the S. It's a little bit smaller than a ruffler, has gears and a C
> clamp that slips over the needle clamp. The bottom looks like an
> edgestitcher toward the front. On top of this area is a small, narrow slot
> as if to feed 1/4" ribbon through it. On the right side is about a 3/4"
> piece of metal folded over.
I've got one of these, and I think it's just another version of the
ruffler. These were sold for decades (at least by the 1890's, and into
the 50's) and there were several changes introduced along the way...
Terri
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Subject: Frister Rossmann
Date: Wed, 1 Oct 1997 07:50:50 -0600
Graham,
I looked all over my FR and other than the number (158501) the only
other thing I could find was in the scrollwork on the bed it says, "trade
mark T&R". It came with very strange needles. No flat side, not wider at
the top. One is straight from top to tip and the other is slightly widened
at the eye like a slight wing. Very interesting.
Thanks, Patty
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Subject: The Incredible Model 221 shuttle Bobbin Zig Zag Sewng Machine
Date: Tue, 30 Sep 1997 22:18:38 -0700
Hi,
Well, OK, the pictures of the Model 221 shuttle bobbin zig zag sewing
machine are up on the Special Postings page at the web site (link
below). Oh, yeah... there's a catch... didn't you know there would
be?
Captain Dick
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Date: Wed, 01 Oct 1997 10:55:43 -0400
Subject: $35 FW for $350
To Gina and Steve:
Thanks for that story about your oval table and FW find. Gina, you have
a wonderful husband, one in a million!
To Graham:
I would like to have a date on a W $ G electric that has a number,
A691417. Also, I'm having trouble finding replacement pins for the
brass-plated corner braces on the box that the machine fits into;
decorative brass upholstery tacks are too large and escutcheon pins are
too small. Any ideas? I need at least 8 of them. BTW, enjoyed that
true story.
To everyone:
At the top of my wish list is a case for a white FW. I don't even know
what it looks like. I can't imagine why anyone would have an extra, but
if you do, please let me know your price!
Jenny
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Date: Wed, 1 Oct 1997 10:57:17 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Adamstown, PA
To Judy looking for a treadle, Graham suggested you check out
Adamstown, PA. I live very close to Adamstown (grew up 10 minutes away).
Anyway, my suggestion would be to check with my friend, Ervin Zimmerman, an
Amishman who owns Hinkletown Sewing Machine Shop in Ephrata. Ervin is one of
(if not the highest) top Bernina salesmen in the United States. He converts
a lot of Berninas (mechanical) to treadle for the Amish. He also gets a lot
of sewing machines in for parts and the last time I was there had some
treadles in his back room (I needed a replacement wheel for one of mine),
some needing quite a bit of TLC. If anyone can help you find something, he
probably can.
If you get the chance to visit, do so. It's a great shop. It's housed in an
old chicken coop on his farm and there are usually 5-6 barefoot children
running around. His father ran the shop before him and now he is teaching
his sons the business. When I took my featherweight in for cleaning, oiling,
etc., his 16-year-old son did a great job while I went for dinner, then
returned to pick it up. The shop is located at 232 Wanner Road in Ephrata
(near Hinkletown) and the phone number is (717) 354-0204. Let me know if he
was able to help you.
Connie
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Date: Wed, 01 Oct 1997 02:26:23 EST5EDT4,M4.1.0,M10.5.0
Subject: RE: FW Fanatics 9/19/97
A dealer in the suburban Boston area has a WHITE FW asking $300. I assume it
works well. If interested reply to me. (Best if you are in the local area
so you can purchase directly and get a written warranty.)
Someone told me at a recent quilt show that most people who want FW's have
them so the market is slowing down. (Except for the bargain hunters who
still scour the flea markets...I'm talking about the people who buy the $350+
machines at quilt shows etc. Susan
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Date: Wed, 1 Oct 1997 13:26:12 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: FW prices?
Well after reading about Gina and Steve's wonderful purchase I'll be
embarassed to tell you about mine. A BIG CONGRATULATIONS to Gina and Steve
for doing such a generous thing. The woman must have been flabergasted to
receive such a nice check instead of $35.00. I'm sure you're still staring
at your machine and certainly the wonderful cabinet and enjoying it.
I too have been checking garage sales, antique shops, and an odd estate sale
in our search for the wonderful FW. I've read all about the wonderful
"finds" from people here on the digest and thought---it must be just the area
I live in that doesn't have anything for sale and it must be this area is too
wise in the worldly ways, because the machines I have seen (not FW's-have
been way way overpriced. Where they get the prices they ask I'd really like
to know. I don't like to dicker price and what they ask is what I will
usually pay.) But, Sunday (and we all know that if a sale starts Saturday,
that by Sunday anything GOOD is gone), but after church Sunday we saw a
neighborhood sign for "Garage Sale". Mostly tools and fishing stuff, but we
stopped in. Hubby went to car and I spotted on the driveway THE FAMOUS BLACK
BOX, knew what it was, but opened it to make sure IT was there, IT was,
that's all I needed to know (not condition or what else was there, just that
IT was there) asked price, lady responded Eh? $10.00? Well as I seemed to
run down the driveway with my black case clutched to my chest, I felt like a
thief, and thought any minute someone would call out "STOP". But I paid what
she asked and left. Hubby said all the tools and other things were really
priced high, and obviously they had no idea or CARE about the SM so it was
meant to be mine I guess, and I am still excited about it. Still cleaning it
up, it's 1936 condition about 7, someone did a lot of sewing on it, but not
abused it. Have a feeling it wasn't the lady who sold it, but it now will
have a good home. And I thank the Lord for the gift He gave me, on Sunday,
on my way home from church.
Sewincrazy
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Date: Wed, 01 Oct 1997 10:39:08 -0700
Subject: Re: German machine
Jaqui,
I just talked with the Singer Sewing Co. about your G5135718 sewing
machine. It is a model 115 and was built in the New Jersey Plant on
January 8, 1917. If you want a copy of the instruction manual, you are
to send $10. to Singer Sewing Machine Co., Consumer Affairs, 4500 Singer
Road, Mufreesboro, Tennessee 37129. It takes about three weeks to get
it. For some models, the book comes free. I received one free one for
the Model 66. I had to pay for my Model 99.
Send you address and the request for a manual to the Model 115.
They have Singer Plants in Ontario and Quebec, but the booklets come
from the Tennessee Plant.
If you cannot get through by the 800 number from Canada, then, you must
call on regular call to Ontario at 905-475-2670 or Quebec at
514-359-2000.
Best Regards,
Bill
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Subject: RE: FW Fanatics 9/29/97
Date: Wed, 01 Oct 97 10:45:00 PDT
Hi,
A friend of mine purchased a 1955 Singer Sew Handy toy machine. It is in
perfect condition except it is missing the clamp. Does anyone have one for
sale or know where she can get one?
Thanks,
Nancy
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Date: Wed, 1 Oct 1997 13:57:35 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Red oiling felt/wick needed
Subject: Red oiling felt/wick
I have a couple of machines that need this little "wick". Is there a source
for them, and if so what might it be? Would it be OK to just make one from
regular felt, or something else? Just wondering. Laura,
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Date: Wed, 1 Oct 1997 12:21:10 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/26/97
Thanks, Captain Dick, for the treadle belt instructions. I bought a new belt
for my Grandmother's (now mine) White treadle but haven't installed the new
belt yet. So, your instructions were timely to say the least.
Evie
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Date: Wed, 01 Oct 1997 12:10:16 +0000
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/29/97
In response to Gina and Steve, HOORAY FOR YOU!!! What you did is
called INTEGRITY!!! and we sadly see too little of it today! I'm
still feeling sorry for the clueless little old lady who got only
$2.00 for her FW!
Dee
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Date: Wed, 01 Oct 1997 15:12:24 -0400
Subject: Information of an small German made anquie handcrank portable sewing
machine
I am looking for information of a small anquie German made handcrank
portable sewing. I purchased this sewing machine a few days ago and
after I got it home I found that it did not have any bobbins. I am
interested in finding out more about the history of it. On the front of
the machine it has the word written Vestazinha. On a small metal plate
near the presure foot it has engraved Dietrich Vesta & fabricacao
original. The model # on the inside of the machine is 1994519. It has
a white china handle. On the very small cabinet it has a small measure
painted on it. I think this is German made maybe it is not. If you
could help me to find out where this came from and some of the history
of it I would greatly appreciate it.
Thank-you for your time and interest.
Rebecca
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Date: Wed, 01 Oct 1997 13:40:56 -0700
Subject: ebay advertising
I thought it was interesting to see a Classified Ad for ebay online
auction in the Classifieds section of Sunday's HARTFORD COURANT....
Millie
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Subject: Updates
Date: Wed, 1 Oct 1997 16:16:33 -0700
Hi to all on my four main lists;
I have posted the main October changes to the web site. For the
Feathers and ISMACS, I put up the Model 221 zig zag, shuttle bobbin
machine on the Special Postings page. That's all that's there so it
will download pretty fast. I moved the Golden Gate and other new
models I had found to the Sewing Machine page, which turned it into a
monster that takes 15 minutes at 14 baud. Please be patient... I am
redesigning the page, dividing it into three pages. However, I have
been working around some problem computer signals on the page for
some time, and may have to start from scratch. I will get it done.
Once it is done, I will be putting up some pictures of two absolutely
gorgeous Standard Sew Handy's... a blue and a GE.
For everyone, I put up my traditional Halloween ghost stories on the
Stories and Routines Page... "The Great Harvey" for those who really
don't want to sleep tonight and "The Ghost Who Couldn't Haunt" for
sharing with the kiddies.
For the ventriloquists, the new "Vent of the Month" is Stephen
Knowles. Many of you know Stephen from the conventions. He has
some wonderful things happening in his career. He isn't presently on
line from any site of his own, though he can access from work on
occassion. I'm sure you'll enjoy learning more about Stephen. He
hopes to be on line soon. He will be the featured performer at DAFT
on October 18, for those of you who plan on making it.
For the Northminster Church folks, much of the above is not your
"thing", but it occurred to me that I may not have sent you my new
addresses, so now you have them... and you might enjoy the ghost
stories.
Captain Dick
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Date: Wed, 1 Oct 1997 21:32:11 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Finding a featherweight of my own
I am a fanatical craftsperson (knitting, embroidery, needlepoint,
basketmaking) who has just discovered teddy bear making. A woman in one of
my classes had a feather weight. Since I love old things, especially useful
old things, I would like to try to find a featherweight of my own. Can you
help? Do you have any suggestions?
Thank you in advance.
Sincerely,
Grace
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Date: Thu, 2 Oct 1997 00:32:50 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: removing rust
In a message dated 97-09-30 23:58:43 EDT, you write:
>> Regarding removing rust in the bobbin case area, a Singer repairman
told me to use a small piece of used emory cloth. Hope this helps.
>>
DH has also used #400 wet & dry sandpaper with a little oil on it. He says
it's finer than emory.
Gail
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Date: Thu, 02 Oct 1997 00:58:56 -0400
Subject: Vestazinha small portable antique handcrank sewing machine
Yesterday I wrote to you requesting information on a small portable
handcrank "GERMAN" made sewing machine. Since I e-mailed you the request
I came across some information that you may need to know. The older
couple I purchased this machine from came from Lithuania and Germany.
The man passed away many years ago and the woman is now living in
Chicago with a son. Friends of hers said she came from Germany and so
did this machine. When I tried to find information on the internet
under Vesta or Dietrich Vesta in Germany I found nothing listed. I
tried Vesta and Dietrich Vesta and used Lithuanian as the country and
found some things that were there. Nothing about sewing machines but I
now think it was Lithuanian made. The name Vestazinha and also the word
Vesta are both on the front of the machine. Vestazinha is located across
the top of the machine and Vesta is located behind the bobbin rewind
lever in the front of the machine. Also on a metal plate is the name
Dietrich Vesta and fabricacao original. As I stated before the model #
is 1994519. It appears the design has been handpainted and a measure is
on the small case along the front edge. The model #appears on the
underside of the machine. It also has a china handle. When I purchase
antiques I like to be able to use theme and I had planned on using this
little machine for small mending jobs. I am looking for a bobbin since
it came with none. I am very excited about this machine and would
appreciate any information that you may find. Any history on it would
be appreciated so much.
Rebecca
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Subject: Bad Day at Blackrock
Date: Thu, 2 Oct 1997 01:02:58 -0700
Ugh... it's 1:oo am after a pretty rough day... I took Mrs. Captain
to the airport this morning to go back east to visit family. On the
way home blew the radiator hose and had to nurse the car back to our
neighborhood gallon by gallon and gas station by gas station. Left
it at a place 3 miles from home and walked home... halfway came the
deluge and got soaked. Started to work on the web pages and 11
hours later I'm a mess... but they are in pretty good shape. I
split sewing into three pages and made a separate page for quilting.
to Linda... who hand cranked her quilt and is now hand quilting it...
you're missing the point of this list, my dear. Elias Howe freed
us! We no longer have to hand quilt. :>)
Actually, I should have been machine quilting today, but wasn't.
Tomorrow I shall. I have all the vertical quilting done on my
oversize queen. Now want to do the borders, then will do the
horizontal cross hatching. A lot of treadling.
For now... to bed...
Captain Dick
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Date: Wed, 1 Oct 1997 17:51:28 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Featherweight
Hi, I am usually a lurker but reading about the excitement of people finding
these precious machines reminded me of when I acquired my l934 version about
20+ years ago. My oldest DD had requested sewing lessons for her birthday.
Luckily, we found a good teacher and had a request that the students arrive
with a machine. Upon contacting a person who did repairs to see if he knew
of anyone who had a small used machine for sale he subsequently called and
said he had one that belonged to a woman who had passed away and her husband
wanted to sell it. He had recently refurbished it with a good cleaning, etc.
Well, wasn't I perturbed that it had cost me $75 for same but I did buy it.
Years later, I loaned it to said daughter when she married with the
provision that it be returned if and when she was done with it. It did
return years later in sad condition. The case was mildewed, the book was
missing, the case handle was gone and it didn't work. After finding the book
by Nancy Johnson I sat down and went over it - the needle was in backwards -
cleaned and oiled it and the little jewel has been a true gem ever since. It
has gone to many a quilt session with me and I am now much aware of what a
treasure it is!!!!!Lucky me to have "falled" into this !!!!!! Recently I
ordered a new case from Andy Field and am very happy with it. Someday I
shall take the bull by the horns and try stripping down the old case to see
if it can be refinished. Nancy
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Date: Wed, 1 Oct 1997 23:18:45 -0400
Subject: My First Gift Machine
Someone wrote a few days ago about her son bringing her home a machine
and how important it is to educate your children as to what to look for.
My daughter today visited the home of a client whose wife happened to be
having an estate sale (by appointment only) and who had a Universal
machine (head only - no cabinet). They weren't even going to sell the
machine because they thought it was broken (there is a problem of some
kind with the bobbin winder). She tried to call me to ask if I wanted it
and when she couldn't get me, she decided to get it anyway because it is
shiny black and has pretty tulip-type gold decals that are in wonderul
shape and she figured I could display it on my sewing room shelf and just
look at it if it didn't work.
She was so proud of herself that she had found Mother a machine. It sews
great and makes a wonderful stitch. Can anyone tell me what I have and
possibly how to date it? It is a Universal (S/N S32248) and I believe
it may be a 3/4 head. The pretty brass plate with a scroll design reads
"DeLuxe Family Sewing Machine - Japan". It is a lower oscillating hook
and from looking at some copies from the Sincere Books, I believe it is a
Class 15. It has reverse stitch. Has a pretty scroll face plate, is
belt driven and the tension is on the side toward the back. It is very
clean inside. The bed has normal pin scratches and 2 or 3 spots where
the paint is worn. The thing that should snap down to hold the bobbin
onto the bobbin winder moves, but won't snap down onto the bobbin
correctly.
I do want to ask if all the older machines like this one sew "fast".
Once you press the pedal, it sews very fast - no variable speed like I am
used to on my Bernini 930 where I can sew one stitch at a time with the
foot pedal. I remember my mother's machine used to sew like that and I
had a difficult time learning to sew on her machine because it sewed so
fast. Is there any adjustment that can be made or is this the nature of
these machines?
Anyway, I figured out how to thread it and proved the seller wrong who
said it wouldn't sew and even though it probably is not "collectible", I
will keep it as a momento of how excited my daughter was to find me a
machine. She knows what a FW and her Bernina look like, but outside of
that she is very "green" on old machines.
The lady having the estate sale has a Pinker and some sewing trade cards
(I don't own any yet) and I am going to see them tomorrow!
Sorry for the long post, but I've read how some of you tell of people
bringing you machines when they find out you like old machines and this
was a first for me.
Renea
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Date: Thu, 02 Oct 1997 08:37:32 -0700
Subject: First FW
I am new to the web, new to the FW list, and new to owning a
featherweight. I was given one by a good friend who was notified of a
free, as is FW --what a surprise. It had a GIGANTIC motor attached where
the hand wheel was supposed to be, and a wooden box with a hand rigged
foot pedal inside. They had attached the monster motor to a reel that
looked just like 12 to 14 inch home movie reel (only more sturdy).
At this point I have done preliminary cleaning, assembled all the parts,
attached the original motor (with some help) and I have done a test
sewing and it seems okay.
I need to find and buy a new slide plate. (Any suggestion for sources?)
The original is dented near the needle hole. We think they used this
tiny FW to sew CANVAS SAILS. The FS was found in a boating area and one
of the bobbins was wound with a marine (gut) thread.
I also need the post that screws in and holds the upper thread. The
previous owner had rigged a six inch bolt to hold the thread.
I haven't been able to find an authorized Singer repair dealer in my area
and would greatly appreciate any reliable recommendations. I live in
central Connecticut, but could travel to Massachusetts or Rhode Island.
Thank you for maintaining this site, and for any replies. Hope this long
e-mail isn't too annoying, but I couldn't seem to tell only part of the
FW story. Singer says this FW is a 1961 model--number ES658023.
Audrey
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Subject: Manuals
Date: Thu, 2 Oct 1997 09:23:33 -0400
Wouldn't it be nice if we could start some sort of centralized
location for manuals (since the one Singer provides seems to be so
unreliable!)?? Seems like so often people request various manuals,
most of which I DO own by now, but it gets kind of expensive copying
them after a while - although I usually don't charge since it often
seems to even out over time (they'll usually have something I want in
the future!). Suppose though that the dreaded copyright issue would
once again be involved in something like this? I seldom have time to
spend browsing the web, but I do know that back when he first started
his web page, Charles Law had threading and oiling diagrams for quite
a few machines - which is often what you need to at least get
started. Maybe something like that with just a little more info might
be possible (I don't have my own web page so am not sure just how it
works)? If anyone has any other thoughts on this topic, hope you'll
share them - DO think it's often very hard to know just what to do
with a new machine when you don't have a manual. Sue
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Subject: The latest auction
Date: Thu, 2 Oct 1997 09:40:24 -0400
I apologize for posting to both FWF and ISMACS since so many people
seem to receive both digests, but I thought this might be of interest
to everyone. I went to an auction last weekend that I thought sounded
VERY interesting: they advertised TEN refinished treadle sewing
machines, a toy Singer sewing machine, and a spool cabinet! I got
there for the preview to look them over and wasn't terribly impressed
- most of the treadles, while their cabinets were lovely, the
machines weren't nearly as nice (quite a bit of rust, very faint
decals, missing parts, etc.). The toy Singer wasn't much better: a
post-war model with quite a bit of the paint coming off the base, but
it DID have the cutest little tan draw string bag with the words
Singer written on it. The spool cabinet was a 6 drawer one with a
slanted leather top - very faint decals on the drawers and pretty
good ones on the back. AND they had a FW for sale (didn't even bother
mentioning it in the ad!): not the greatest one I've seen, wrong
manual (had one for a model 99!), only one attachment, lots of gold
missing and the black paint wasn't in the greatest shape. BUT I of
course had to stay and see what happened with all of them!
The spool cabinet was brought up fairly early in the auction and sold
for $300 - which I suppose is a very good price, but I have NO WHERE
to put one! They finally got to the treadles after an hour and a half
and the bidding was for choice. The highest bidder only had to go as
high as $40 and chose the sole Singer (a model 66 in a fairly nice
cabinet, but with lots of gold and even the slide plate missing!).
The next round went as high as $35 and three more machines were
bought for that price. The final bid was for all the others and the
winner bought them for $20 each!! The machines weren't anything
spectacular: a Free, a Wheeler and Wilson #8, a Domestic, several
Whites, and some with gold so faint you couldn't read the name, but
still I was pretty depressed after this experience. Started thinking
my machines are worth NOTHING - but thanks to the kind advice of
friends have come to realize that I didn't start this collection with
the idea of making MONEY but rather because I love owning and
admiring the old dears (good thing!)!!
I didn't have the patience to wait and see what happened with the toy
Singer or the FW after that, but didn't really want them anyways -
only couldn't have resisted if they'd gone for a very low price -
wonder what THEY sold for?? Sorry for the length of this note, but
thought it might be interesting for you to hear! Maybe those machines
selling for hundreds of dollars might be a BIT overpriced?? Or maybe
auctions are a great place to shop! Sue
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Date: Thu, 2 Oct 1997 08:37:05 -0500 (CDT)
Subject: Elna Supermatics
Millie said:
> My local Elna dealer said that those Supermatic pulley belts are no
> longer available!! We were discussing them because she had one sitting
> there - a really funny green coloring. Told me that the machine had been
> in a fire and had been repainted - case and all. She is stripping parts
> and dumping the machine since the pulley belt is broken and she cannot
> get another...Has anyone else heard this???
Hmmm... a belt? The SuperMatic I've got doesn't use a belt -- the pulley
is a round rubber piece -- might resemble a hockey puck if it didn't have
slanted sides -- that fits onto the end of the motor shaft. It drives the
machine by direct contact with the wheel. No belts involved.
And they certainly are available. I bought one a few months ago for about
$40 (from a Houston Elna dealer) and that was high -- I've since heard of
people obtaining this part for half that.
If she's dumping the machine, can you get salvage rights?
> She also said she has one coming in on trade in great condition and will
> all the accessories... Do I want to go and see it???
Only if you don't have to rely on her shop for service... :-D Seriously,
the SuperMatic is a great machine -- a freearm that does zigzag and fancy
stitches with cams. (You can also still find cams, by the way -- I've got
a brochure that lists all the cams available...) If you go look at it, if
it's presented as a machine complete with original attachments, be sure
that the attachment case is also original -- it's a cunning little box
that fits under the freearm when you put the machine away. A few cams are
part of the original equipment, too. (For a picture and a list of the
come-with cams, look at the manual.) The case, which looks like an
industrial suitcase, unfolds and slides in around the freearm, to expand
the working surface. Pretty cool...
Nancy said (about a New Home):
> I didn't get to see the head as the store was closing and it had a lot
> of stuff piled on it. The price tag did say that the machine worked and
> there was a note that said "papers are included". I'm not sure what
> was meant by that. The price tag says $195.00 and says the machine dates
> somewhere from 1870 - 1910.
I think the 1870 date might be a little early... There's a history of the
New Home company in the latest ISMACS, and I don't have that info with me
right now. But there is an 800-number in the US that you might be able to
call for more information. Get the serial number first, though. (E-mail
me if you don't find the 800-number and I'll dig it out...)
> The machine has been in their window for at least two weeks that I know
> of. What should I look for when I go back? I plan to take some fabric
> and thread. Would this machine take a standard needle? How hard would
> it be to get parts for it? Are there certain models to stay away from?
Be sure that the tension mechanism is there on the top of the machine --
it's two pieces of metal that are attached to a bow-shaped extension. One
has a curve in one end, and the other is straight. You need both to be
able to use the machine. Also make sure that the shuttle is there, and
that it's not worn out. The shuttle runs in a front-to-back curved path,
and there is friction between the shuttle and the shuttle race that can
wear holes in the side of the shuttle. You can replace it if it's worn
out or missing, by the way -- Boye made replacements, and some of those
are still around. (I think there's a list on the ISMACS web site that
will tell you which Boye numbered shuttle will fit the New Home.)
And yes, it does take different needles, too. And again, Boye made
needles for this machine. That list will tell you which ones fit.
The thing I like about New Home machines is that the cabinets are often
quite pretty. (I've got an oval one -- the machien is trashed, and the
cabinet isn't in terrific shape, but pretty enough I keep it around
anyway!) My great-grandmother's machine was a New Home -- and the cabinet
is pretty standard Victorian oak treadle with the elaborate carved
embossing... it's the most ordinary New Home cabinet I've seen!
Should you get it *instead* of a Singer? Well... why put limits on
yourself? You'll find treadle cabinets are quite handy... you can use
them as end tables, bedside tables, occasional tables, dining room
tables...
Terri
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Date: Thu, 02 Oct 1997 09:07:13
Subject: Re: Singer 15 or 115
Hi Everyone:
Bill Mitchell so kindly called the Singer Co. for me to get the date on
that "German" Machine. On a humurous note, I use my son's email address
for this and I asked him the other day if there way any mail for me. He
said there was one from a Bill Mitchell about a German Machine! He asked
me if I had subscribed to some WWII digest!!:-)
Anyways, thanks to Graham and Bill, we found out that the G was part of the
serial number and it's the G in model number that indicates the German
made. See, I'm learning with all this stuff! Thanks for all the education
I receive from all you guys!
Anyways, Bill found out that the G5135718 machine I have is a model 115,
made in New Jersey on Jan. 8, 1917. Now my question is, what's the
difference between a model 115 and a model 15? I looked in the guide Terri
Carl sent me and could only find the 15. Any answers out there?
Another question, the treadle is missing for this machine as it was
electrified (is that a word?) at one point. Is it possible to convert it
back to a treadle? And, can you still get the treadle part for it? We're
going to visit Mike H's store tomorrow, so may find out some answers there
also.
Thanks for any answers you may have.
Jacqui
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Date: Thu, 2 Oct 1997 08:54:42 -0500 (CDT)
Subject: replacement motors
Rebecca,
Many electric motors are repairable/rebuildable by a good small motors
specialist. So look in the Yellow Pages under motor repair instead of
sewing machine repair. Maybe some of the collectors on the list could
give a really rough idea of how much money is reasonable to pay, so you
won't be susceptible to unfair charges.
Lori
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Date: Thu, 02 Oct 1997 12:46:39 -0500
Subject: Secure Strap
Hi,
I had a brainstorm last nite. (Well, OK maybe just a little brain squall)
but here's what I came up with. Do you have a FW case that is a little
loose? Maybe the bottoms not to secure or the latches don't always hold
tight or maybe you have an older case with the leather handle that is worn
or you just don't want to wear it any more that you have too.
That was my situation so today at work (we do some sewing of packs and
safety equipment that uses nylon web and those plastic "snap" buckles) I ask
the shop supervisor to measure my FW case and make a strap with buckle to
wrap around it to secure it. He suggested that we add a fold over in the
webbing to make a handle to use for carrying. He whipped up a prototype
and it works really well.
It is 1" wide black nylon web with gold kevlar stitching (OK its really
yellow stitiching but thats the only shade of thread we have!) and the black
snap buckle. There is enough strap to snug up tight or leave a little loose
if you want to pad the outside of the case or strap your fabrics or books
along side.
I was told that we had 6 buckles in stock so I asked him to have someone
make up six straps as soon as the production schedule allows. If I want
more I'll have to order buckles.
Here is the question. The materials and labor cost plus shipping regular
mail in the US works out to about $6.00 per strap. Are any of you
interested in these straps at that price?
If you are - please email me with an idea of how many you would want (no
obligaiton at this time). If there is enought interest I will order the
buckles and schedule a slot in our production schedule to make the straps.
There may already be some other solution to this out there that is less
expensive but I like the strap he made up for me and I think you would be
pleased.
What do you think??
Amy
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Date: Thu, 2 Oct 1997 16:12:39, -0500
Subject: FW Fanatics 9/30/97
This is the first time I have posted on this list.....hope it goes
well......I live in Arlington, Tx,,,,stopped by the Sewing Machine
Museum today with a friend and mentioned to Frank that I received the
FWF post daily.....he asked that I put a little plug in for him,,,,,I
have no affiliation with the Sewing Machine Museum...November 8 and 9
he will being having a tent sale....cleaning out the attics and
garage.,,,,201's, 221's, 301's, 401's, 403's, 404's 500's, 503's, 15-
91's, 66's, 99k's, White's, National, New Home, treadles, (1) rare
Sew Handy, attachments, also taking orders for the "New Bee", only
500 produced,,,,,almost forgot,,,, he is selling the "Little Giant"
(repro of FW),,,,,gosh, can he talk!!! If anyone has any interest or
questions, listed below is his address and phone number,,,,
Smith's Sewing Machine Museum
804 West Abram
Arlington, TX 76013
817-275-0971
Marcia
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Subject: 301 card table "sighted"
Date: Thu, 2 Oct 1997 09:11:29 -0700
I can't remember who it was who said they were looking for a long bed 301 table, but there's one on eBay auction right now. Its URL is:
http://komodo.ebay2.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=775282
Sharon
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Date: Thu, 2 Oct 1997 20:23:37 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Sew Handy Toy Machine?
Has anyone ever heard about a little sewing machine called "Sew Handy
Electric"? It was made by singer in Great Britain. It doesn't look like any
picture I have seen in the books. It makes a chain stitch. It is lightbrown
and orange and has a case that locks on top of the base of the machine. Any
information would be greatly appreciated.
Linda
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Date: Thu, 2 Oct 1997 20:55:19 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Today's Treasure!
Dear Fellow Fanatics,
I'm so happy I keep babbling to my DH--I'm sure he's glad I'm upstairs on the
computer! ;>
I stopped at a garage sale on the way home from work today (thank goodness
they stayed open until 6 pm) and found a 301! Their newspaper ad listed
"Singer sewing machine" and I was hoping it was one on my wanted list. And
it was.
It's tan, short bed (I believe, are the measurements on ISMACS' web page?),
in a walnut cabinet with bench, with the instruction manual, lots of bobbins
and a green metal box of attachments. I'll go through the attachments this
weekend (some are marked "Greist" so I'm not sure what all is in there).
The machine looks in great shape and so does the cabinet. The lady who sold
it said it was her daughter's machine. It cost me $25, which was below my
mental "target" price of $50. That helps make up for the 401 I bought in
June that was about that much over its "target" price! Now if I could only
figure out where to put it . . .
I also bought about 50 issues of Workbasket magazine from the late 50s and
60s. One of these days I'll have time to sort through them and see if
there's anything interesting in them.
This makes up for the 201 I passed on last weekend. It was quite rusty and
not really on my wanted list. Besides that (and the 99 I passed on a couple
of weeks ago--too expensive!), all I've seen lately are lots of older Whites
and Kenmores.
Happy hunting!
Karen
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Subject: Seminole Patchwork, Part 2
Date: Thu, 2 Oct 1997 22:07:55 -0400
Oops. The Seminole women I referred to were piecing on a 99
handcrank, of course. I'm sure most of you surmised that, but
the grammar witch in me says I was ambiguous. Lin
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Subject: Motor for FW
Date: Thu, 2 Oct 1997 23:23:09 -0400
To Rebecca
I have a Singer motor, but I don't know which model(s) it fits. Perhaps
Graham or Capt. Dick could advise. It does have a number on it--says Cat.
No. BA 3-8 (or that may be a "B". Under that it sas S.S. Au52-17-1, The
Singer Mfg. Co. Elizabethport N.J. SIMANCO. It is attached to something
which appears to be a mounting bracket, including the receptacle part for
the cord (3 prongs).
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Date: Thu, 2 Oct 1997 16:15:24 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Cases
To all of you who have a case with the "musty odor". I also have a case with
this distinction and I also have an allergy to molds and mildew. My allergist
suggested that I place a glass jar ( I used a pint jar ) with equal amounts
of vinegar and Clorox in the case overnight. I used 1/2 cup of each
ingredient. Please be careful, the mixture is posionous if inhaled. It wasn't
offensive to smell and did not leave a lingering odor, it is just a chemical
combination you should use with care. The results were very good for my case.
The fumes from the mixture kill mildew and molds. We have lived in the
Orient, and we now live in the Key West area,and are very familiar with this
problem and have used this combination with good results before.
I also had a problem with the cord to my foot pedal on my FW. Singer told
me my footpedal was broken and sold me a new foot pedal and cord. The cord
had a #123 on it. The machine still wouldn't work so singer sold me another
cord #123 ( a different store) It still would't work. I read about the
Pottstown Sewing and Crafts having a seminar on featherweights at a Pa.
Quilt show thru the FWFanatics and contacted them. They sent me a 221 kit
which included a new cord. I attached it to my old footpedal and it has
worked perfectly since. This cord was not the cord that Singer sells as it's
replacement for the 221's. I now have two cords and an extra footplate . I
had to drive to Miami twice for these things (6hrs roundtrip) so I hope I can
spare someone the effort. Thanks for listening ...Suzi
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Date: Thu, 02 Oct 1997 21:19:32 -0700
Subject: First Fw
Hi, I'm so excited. Just got my first featherweight. She's been well
used so lots of wear on the finish. I have a couple of questions. I
read Nancy Srebro's new book but couldn't find anything about needle
size. It looks about the same size as a standard needle, are they?
It's an early 221 from 1935,so has the thread tension without the number
disc. I don't see that it has part E on page 148.THat's the stop washer
that fits in the spring. The tension seems off ( I haven"t touched it
yet -just looking) The top thread seems too tight unless the tension
screw is very loose, is this the normal position? I got several
attachments. One is very unusual. #36583 It has a ruler like gauge in
front and a bar that hits the needle tightening screw so it closes with
each stitch. It has a separate adjustment for seam size. It's very
dirty any ideas on how to clean the foot?
One more question. I've been Machine hunting, really love Capt.
Dick's book. I found a 201 but it has no bobbin or bobbin case and no
footcontrol or powercord. Are those available? I thought $250 was
high. TIA
Ingrid
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Subject: Seminole Patchwork/FW Lore
Date: Thu, 2 Oct 1997 20:20:59 -0400
Hi All,
When Karen remarked on her FIL having seen Mexican
women use handcrank TMs exclusively, it reminded me of a photo
at our local history museum, of two Seminole women, piecing with
what might be a 99. When you think of how tiny much of their
patchwork is, this seems truly amazing, a feat of skill befitting
a woman of the only unconquered Indian tribe in U.S. history.
And with no rotary cutter at that... Of course, if they had had
the Bernina from Sheol instead, who knows what kind of insurrection
we'd have had?
Heard an amazing FW collector story. The local dealer says that
Dr. Cade (of Gatorade invention fame) used to buy every FW he
took in on trade, for years, with the goal of having one to represent
each year of production. Tell your DHs/DWs that if they complain.
The same dealer told me that godzilla/crinkle paint was furnished
to independent dealers so that they could cover a worn machine and
bake this new finish on at their own stores. ??
Lin
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Date: Fri, 03 Oct 1997 00:27:04 -0500
Subject: Vesta
Rebecca said:
> On the front of
> the machine it has the word written Vestazinha. On a small metal plate
> near the presure foot it has engraved Dietrich Vesta & fabricacao
> original. The model # on the inside of the machine is 1994519. It has
> a white china handle. On the very small cabinet it has a small measure
> painted on it. I think this is German made maybe it is not.
Yes, it is German made, by L.O. Dietrich. If I remember right, this
model was made from about 1905 until World War I. It was modeled after
the Singer New Family machine, and it is a pretty thing... It was named
after the Roman goddess of the hearth -- I suppose to associate the
hearth and home with their sewing machine.
I can't remember what size bobbins the machine uses, but you might try
the long bobbins that are used for Singer machines. The only problem
you might have with the Singer bobbin is in winding it -- the Vesta may
have a pin on the bobbin winder that holds the bobbin in place with a
small hole on the cap. I'm sorry -- I just can't remember. I do
remember that it winds bobbins quite beautifully and neatly...
Good luck!
Terri
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Date: Thu, 02 Oct 1997 17:33:43 -0700
Subject: FW table
Hi Feathers. My DW says that the cutout for for the FWs in her FW table
is too far away from the edge to be comfortable for her when sewing and
she was wondering if anyone else shared the same Opinion.
Recently we have picked up several SMs. A 500A needed much clean up and
WD40, $12.50. A 337 That also needed much attention $12. A 328 That
turned out to be about an 8, $10. A free Westinghouse Rotary That is
also about an 8 $10. And LBNL a 99k Portable that polished up to be an
8, with a case that is about a 6, $50.
Jack
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Date: Thu, 2 Oct 1997 22:25:21 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Centennial 15-91
I have a Centennial 201K with serial number EE916418 which Singer dates as
December 28, 1948. I even questioned the woman on the phone at Singer about
such an early date for a Centennial. She said that machines were made well
ahead of time in order to have enough.
Denise
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Date: Fri, 3 Oct 1997 06:54:38 -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 10/1/97
Hi FWFs!
I need some info on Elna. I bought one in a garage sale last year and
had forgotten about it. (I know I know, I was in the middle of finals, I
just had a brain dump).It came with all the feet, discs, manual and case.
It looks to be in perfect condition.
However, when I got on the list I hauled it out of the closet and
examined it. It is a light green supermatic. I tried it out and it
sounds 'kinda growly'. I suspect that the insides need to be cleaned
and oiled. Does anyone have any advice? Thanks.
Respectfully Yours,
Blanche
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Date: Fri, 3 Oct 1997 10:18:59 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: FW Light
Recently someone on the list had a problem with their FW light going off
when they pressed down on the foot pedal. I am having this problem and
can't remember or find the solution in the past postings. The machine runs
fine.
Help! Thanks.
Sandy
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Date: Fri, 3 Oct 1997 10:51:59 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Touch and Sew
Ron said:
Help, please! My wife is trying to get the thread into the bobbin on the
> subject machine. She got the machine from an estate in Florida and as
> luck would have it, there were no books with it.
I have a 603E Touch and Sew. I have the manual, and here are the steps for
threading the bobbin. There are "Preparation Steps" before the actual
"Winding Steps", which I will not include, because I'm not sure if you need
them. If you do need those preparation steps, let me know and I will post
them. Anyway, here's the "Winding Steps".
1. Press bobbin push-button
2. Wrap thread around pressure foot screw, and hold end of thread firmly.
3. Start the machine.
Run the macine at a moderate speed.
Pull thread end away after a few coils have been wound.
Keep your eye on the bobbin. Do not allow thread to wind beyong FULL
ring.
4. Close slide plate to release push-button.
Terri mentioned "flipping up a lever". This is only done when you want to
remove the bobbin. To remove the bobbin you raise the bobbin latch by
inserting fingernail under end of latch at center of bobbin. Then, you
insert your fingernail under rim of bobbin immediately to right of latch and
remove the bobbin. Also, when you remove the bobbin, the bobbin push-button
must be in it's up, or sewing, position.
I hope this helps you!!!
Diana
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Subject: Needles for Standard
Date: Fri, 3 Oct 1997 11:11:36 -0400 (EDT)
Hi, Feathers.
I have a Standard Model R treadle machine that I bought from an antique
dealer for practically nothing. At the time, the cabinet was a basket
case, but the machine head was in very good condition with beautiful
decals.
My husband restored the cabinet beautifully--it now looks just as it
must have looked in the 1920s when it was new. We are so happy with it
that we have made it a part of our family room. Now I would like to get
it going so that I can sew with it. I have a belt, and we've oiled and
cleaned it well. The only problem is that the needle that it came with
was broken off at the tip. I've tried Singer and Schmetz needles, but
they don't fit. I don't know the length of the original needle, so I
can't really match any other up to it.
Does anyone have any suggestions as to how I can find needles that will
fit this machine. I've checked the manual, and haven't seen any
statements about needle size or number.
Thank you in advance for your help.
Janet
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Date: Fri, 3 Oct 1997 11:04:19 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/30/97
Sorry Bob, but I have to disagree. If you have the chance to go to the
Atlantique City antique show, it's worth the high cost of admission and
parking. I spent yesterday at the Smithsonian and the only sewing machine
I saw was a knock off of a Singer. (I not complaining, that's not why I
was there) But the last trip to the Atlantique City show I saw the only
Liliputian I've ever seen as well as a beautiful Jones, and many, many
other machines that of course I didn't buy, because they were so
expensive. I did buy an Ernst Pratt TSM, a rare Singer book, an equally
rare article on sewing machines, and I got to see a fantastic Singer sign.
And oh, the chatelaines!
If you go expecting to find bargains galore you will be disappointed. If
you go just to appreciate the unusual items you will have a fantastic
time.
Happy Featherweighting,
Krisi
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Date: Fri, 03 Oct 1997 10:20:50 -0500
Subject: Re: Touch & Sew
To wind the bobbin on a model 600E T&S:
Open the slide plate. Push a button to the left of the bobbin (this raises
the bobbin). Hold the needle thread, or wind it around the screw that hold
the presser foot on. Mash the gas, and the bobbin should start to wind.
Do not fill bobbin past the outside white circle, or you'll be sorry.
I usually cut the connected needle & bobbin threads before I begin to sew,
although the book claims it's ok not to.
Amelia
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Date: Fri, 3 Oct 1997 11:54:51 -0400
Subject: FW Fanatics 10/1/97
Sounds like the needle's in backwards or it's threaded backwards. Remember
that the flat side of the needle shank faces left, towards the fold up
bed extension and the the thread goes through the needle from right to left.
...Let me know if this helps, Chris
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Date: Fri, 03 Oct 1997 08:11:00 -0700
Subject: Part needed
Hello Fanatics,
I have been lurking for a long time, and have replied to several
individuals, but now I need some help. My favorite aunt gave me a Singer
SM that belonged to her MIL. I brought it home, and called my repair man
to see if he could get it in working shape. He called me today and asked
if I actually wanted to sew on this machine, or if it would be "just a
showpiece". I do want it to sew, because it has special meaning to me.
Evidently, the bobbin winder was replaced sometime or other with something
that will not work, so I am looking for the bobbin winder mechanism for
this machine. He tells me that it is a 127 with a long shuttle type bobbin
(he thinks). He says that it might be a 27 and that the parts are not
interchangable. I feel kind of stupid on the subject so if anyone has
either part, could you contact me personnally. I would love to have this
machine working. I would also like to find a working FW. Looks and smell
don't matter too much to me.
Thanks so much.
Bev
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Date: Fri, 03 Oct 1997 12:30:14 -0400
Subject: Mini- Convention
Hi:
In August I indicated that my wife and I would be hosting a
Swap Meet/Party/Mini-Convention in December and we received enough
positive indications from you to plunge forward. So here are some
details:
Date: Saturday, December 6, 1997
Time: 11:00 A.M. 'til early evening
Place: About 4 miles North of Annapolis, Maryland
Food: We'll provide all the goodies
Open to: Little Stitchers, Featherweight Fanatics, Toy Stitchers, ISMACS
members
Please bring: Machines and accessories for sale and show 'n tell or
simply show up for a good time.
We live near historic Annapolis and the U.S. Naval Academy, and are
about 30 minutes from Baltimore's Harbor Place and of course about 40
minutes from Washington D.C. so you can plan some side trips as well.
Please email me confirming your intent to come, number in your party,
how much table space you'll need, etc. and I'll send you detailed
directions as well as the location and reservation number of a few
nearby hotels if that is part of your plans.
Please let us know ASAP so I can decide whether to build a bigger house
very quickly 8^)
Talk to you soon.
--
Bob
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Date: Fri, 03 Oct 1997 17:39:21 -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 10/1/97
To Linda
RE: Your 222 Centennial- Just thought I'd tell you, you got a lemon
and there's nothing you can do to fix it besides unload it on some
unsuspecting individual ;-D like me!!!
Kathleen
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Date: Sat, 4 Oct 1997 00:10:41 +0100
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/27/97
To all re reproductions
Following my warning about reproduction Clown and Princess machines now
being made, I have head that four Sandt models have surfaced in the USA in
the past few weeks.
I am not saying that these are fakes but anyone about to consider parting
with many thousands of dollars should be on their guard. ISMACS has
instituted a registration system to record known examples and make it more
difficult for fakes to infiltrate the collector market.
To all ISMACS members
I've just posted off the latest magazine. Should arrive to USA addresses
towards the end of the week. The issue contains a history of the Elna
company by Terri C , details of the biggest ever Convention and auction
plus lots. lots more about our hobby.
Nearly forgot -- also details of how to win the ultimate Featherweight.
Will post more later.
Graham
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Subject: Singer Carpet Machine
Date: Fri, 3 Oct 1997 20:57:31 -0400
Well, another first for me today. In an antique mall, I saw a Singer
Carpet Machine (I think that was the name--should have written it down).
It was a strange contraption, about 1 1/2 feet long, with a pulley-like
wheel at each end and a belt kind of like treadle belts. It had a handle
which turned and lots of gears and two large spools of thread. I don't
know how to describe it--shaped more like a small chain saw, if you can
imagine that, but instead of the chain saw blade there was a belt. The
ticket said $575 firm! It did have the Singer name stamped into the metal.
To Gina and Steve, congratulations. Wish there were more people like you.
Betty
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Date: Fri, 3 Oct 1997 23:13:11 +0100
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/26/97
To Kary re Singer picture
$100 was dirt cheap for this piece of Singer history. They were distributed
shortly before the war which is why so few have survived -- many Singer
shops were closed during the conflict and never re-opened again.
Re Bob's mystery CR machine
This one had me fooled. Bob eventually pinned it down to Charles Raymond.
He was an American who moved to Canada as at the time his big business was
supplying machines to the UK and inport tarrifs between USA and England
were high. There were none between Canada and Britain.
What is strange is the "No 1" on the arm of the machine. Raymond certainly
made many models before this one including lots of small chain-stitch
machines which were sold in England under the Weir name. He also produced
lock stitch machines which would pre-date the model Bob saw. His trade-mark
was a beaver.
Graham
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Date: Fri, 3 Oct 1997 18:43:16 -0700
Subject: Gina & Steve
WOW Gina, was your wonderful husband a Boy Scout??
He sounds like he lives by the 12 points of the Scout law
Two being Trustworthy and Kind.
I admire him for his Honesty. I hope all FWF's take this into
consideration when "finding" a FW or other machine, and are a little more
honest with their deals. I would myself feel like I had taken advantage
of someone if I knew an Item was worth far more, but paid very little.
This is what you call HONOR!!
Kathy
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Subject: The Return of Centennial's Nephew
Date: Fri, 3 Oct 1997 19:04:33 -0700
Hi, all;
You know the old movies they showed at Saturday matinees: Zorro;
Zorro Returns; The Son of Zorro, etc.......? (or substitute
Tarzan, The Cisco Kid, or whoever) Anyway, I'm beginning to feel
like I'm watching that kind of series movie. Today I finally got a
Model 206, the one major model of the post Civil War to 1951 era that
I was missing... and it's a Centennial (only cost me $55, too).
Now, wouldn't it be wonderful if I could say, "Gee, I think I have
them all (at least the U.S. ones) but, no, someone comes on the
list and mentions a 222K Centennial. Aw, come on! Have a heart!
I can't even get a 222K, let alone a 222K Centennial. Ah well,
tomorrow is Saturday morning and I shall return to the Garage Sale
fields, heart ever high, hope springing eternal, etc.
Incidentally, seeral people have asked how I picked up a few more
machines when I was broke after the Golden Gate. I sold a rare
ventriloquist figure made by the same man man who made Charlie
McCarthy. That helped. However, realizing that I have a rare
addiction which even the Betty Ford Clinic is unable to treat, I have
resigned myself to finding a way to live with it, and today applied
for a job, to support my habit.
Captain Dick
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Date: Fri, 03 Oct 1997 22:32:04 -0700
Subject: Vindex SM
HI All. I saw an ad today that read like this; 1400 yr antique sewing
machine and walnut cabinet. A misprint right? OK I called and the lady
said oh no the SM was made in year 1428. She said she had researched it
in the library in Antique Sewing Machines. So what about it out there ,
Graham, Cap't Dick, or whoever. Does anyone know anything about a Vindex
SM? Years made etc? Guess maybe I will have to go check it out. I
thought the SM was invented about 1850 or so. Jack
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Date: Sat, 4 Oct 1997 12:09:49 +0100
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/29/97
To Kay
Re Vickers
This was a British armament factory which turned to sewing machine
production after the first world war producing what was virtually a copy of
the Germnan Frister and Rossman machine.
Stayed in production until 1935 when the sewing machine plant was sold off
to Jones and Vickers went back to the war business.
No parts available off the shelf but it's a fairly common machine in
England and if you are ever over here one can be picked up very cheaply.
Graham
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Date: Sat, 4 Oct 1997 06:35:21 -0700
Subject: Poor zig zag stitch
Any Singer mechanics out there?
Although I could more then likely take apart and put together
(blindfolded)many of the older singer machines there is one problem with the
zig zag stitch on machines like the 301 and many other singer zig zagers
that has bugged me for years.
The problem is the bottom side of the zig zag stitch.Instead of the top
thread catching neatly at each point of the zig zag(and this is on the
bottom side of the fabric)the top thread lays over to far.I have retimed the
hook and needle bar timing,tightend/loosened thread takeup spring
pressure,adjusted feed timing,adjusted pendulum timing and all of these with
no success.Usually it will improve the stitch somewhat but it has not
totally cured the problem.I have found that by narrowing the width of the
stitch I can usually get good results and yet on the widest selection - no
joy.An old singer repairman told me once that this was a design problem - hmmm -
I,m sure that many of you have experienced this anomaly but has anyone found
a cure.
Any thoughts on this would be appreciated beyond belief.I wait with my
fingers crossed.
Don
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Date: Sat, 4 Oct 1997 12:14:39 +0100
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/28/97
To Betty
That Climax machine you saw was a badge-engineered New Home
To Janet re Riverside.
This was produced by National, another badge-engineered machine.
Graham
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Date: Sat, 4 Oct 1997 13:22:07 +0100
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/30/97
To Rebecca re finding a motor
If it comes to it you could have the motor rebuilt but I do not know of any
company in the USA who does this work.
To Gerbill
Your New Willard is simply a White with a different name on it.
To Bob re Atlantic City
Sorry you were disappointed. Trick here, as everywhere else is to pay to go
in with the traders. Many of those overpriced machines you saw would have
been a lot less at set up time.
To Kris re S Davis
As you see from the long list of outlets, Davis was a large retailer who
specialised in adding his name to machines bought up as end of lines or
bulk ordered from German manufacturers. He made no machines himself
although tried to give the impression that he did.
Chances are this is a German model from anyone of a score of makers .
The L6.15.0 price translates to 6.75 pounds sterling in todays
mickey-mouse-metric money or about $10.80 -- just a fraction more than your
DH paid for it.
To Dan re 222
Can provide copy manual -- mail me.
To Nancy
That New Home will need a 15 x 1 or a 20 x 1 needle depending on age.
Get the serial number and check with New Home at 201 825 3200.
$200 is not out of order if we are considering a c8 machine. Worse
condition than that and I don't think it's worth considering at any price.
apers are included". I'm not sure what was
>meant by that. The price tag says $195.00 and says the machine dates
>somewhere from 1870 - 1910.
The Casige would depend on the model. Pre-war at $95 would be OK but it
sounds a lot for a rusty late model.
To Karen
Believe there's a mix up somewhere. Singer never made a lock stitch toy
and no toys were made in Mexico, only England, USA and laterly Turkey.
To Sharon
Glad to see you back with us. We all commiserate with your misfortune.
The Wilcox and Gibbs is indeed a chain stitch machine. Date is not really
important as the same machine was made from 1876 to the 1950s. If you check
the serial number, on the main casting under the stitch plate I can date it
accurately.
I can supply needles if you can't get them more locally.
$265 is a little high for an electric machine unles it's in c8 or above.
Do some dickering.
Just about the same advice goes for the Howe. Both these machines are common. .
To Renea
No reason why you shouldn't switch the foot control as you suggest. One
wire at a time is the way to go.
Graham
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Date: Sat, 4 Oct 1997 13:50:03 +0100
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 10/1/97
To Linda re 222
You sure this is a Centenial 222 we are talking about? The 222 wasn't made
until 1955 which is a little late for a centenial machine
To Nancy
Macey machines were badge-engineered models from New, Home, AG Mason, Free
and Davis
To Patty re Frister and Rossman
Sorry, but without a distributor, I can't help with dating. Those strange
needles you mentioned are standard F&R 339 needles.
To Jenny re Wilcox and Gibbs
The serial number A691417 gives a date of 1931.
Send me your snail and I'll put some brass nails in the post for that box.
To Rebecca re Vesta
You are right, this is German. Made by LEO Dietrich in Altenberg,. Can't
help you with dates without a picture as the company was in business from
the 1860s until quite recently.
Graham
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Date: Sat, 4 Oct 1997 09:40:28 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Going
Hi everyone: I'll be leaving for vacation in New England on Monday and I
will be keeping my eye out for some FW buys. Can't wait for the fall foliage
and the tag sales. I'll let you know how I do. Happy Fall!!!
Pati
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Subject: ISMACS site
Date: Sat, 4 Oct 1997 10:04:57 -0500
I have never been able to connect successfully to the ISMACS web site -- my
browser tells me the site is found and it is connecting, but then it times
out -- any suggestions for success?
Barbara
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Subject: Disappointment.....
Date: Sat, 4 Oct 1997 10:10:00 -0500
Got a lead on 9 treadle machines last week -- was told they needed "some"
restoration, and maybe "some" veneer work. I was heartbroken to find them
sitting in a tack room, badly waterdamaged, veneer peeling in all
directions, and DH, who knows about wood, said even the core underneath
was rotting. The heads were in similar shape, although one red eye might
have been salvageable to put in another cabinet or wooden base for display
only.
This being Canton weekend, the owners were going to take them up on the
road where the Canton traffic passes and try to sell them there ... I will
be curious to see if any brave souls bite at $100 each.
Oh well, there will be one down the road somewhere for me.
Barbara
PS: I did see a lovely handcrank in bentwood case yesterday that is
calling my name.......
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Date: Sat, 4 Oct 1997 11:55:09 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: K221 Needle Plate: Serial#:AH050637, April 22, 1947
Calling all FWF:
I am in search of a Needle Plate(the half circle silver plate) for my
sister-in-law. My brother(bless his heart), her husband, bought her a
featherweight at a flea market for $20, but it's needle plate has been
soldered back together. She doesn't even collect sewing machines, but I can
see she's starting to get the bug. Her birthday is next month and I would
love to surprise her with a new plate cover. I called the local sewing
machine repair shop and he doesn't have one. Can someone point me in the
right direction on where to find one?
I live in Appleton, WI. Please email me
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Date: Sat, 04 Oct 1997 12:52:58 -0700
Subject: Age of my Singer
I have a portable electric Singer which has a very nice wooden carrying
case. The manual says it is a 99-24. The number on the bottom is
SIMANCO 33681. Do you know how old it is?
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Date: Sat, 4 Oct 1997 15:39:12 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Carriers
Wondering what is the best carrier to transport a featherweight in. I would
like not to use the original carrier. Any good sources...thanks all.
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Subject:
Date: Sat, 4 Oct 1997 18:00:32 -0400
Someone said on this digest to always look in drawers of old machines. I
have been doing that and indeed see some interesting things. Today, in the
drawer of an old treadle, there was an original manual for a Singer
Stylist. The woman said she would sell it for $5. If anyone wants it, I
go to this flea market fairly often and will look next time.
Betty
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Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 10/2/97
Date: Sat, 4 Oct 1997 18:28:33 -0400
Sue, I like your idea about the library of manuals. I bought a little Elna
Lotus and have been waiting for a manual from the dealer. Now I've asked
one of the Feathers to go ahead and copy hers for me because it's like you
say--you can't get started until you know how to wind the bobbin and thread
it. I don't want to break anything. I looked for Charles Law on the
Internet but didn't have any luck. Do you happen to have his web page
address? I thought he might have a diagram of the Elna on it.
Thanks, Betty
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Subject: Exciting Weekend
Date: Sat, 04 Oct 1997 19:42:31 EDT
Just returned from First Monday Trade Days in Canton, TX, with a 201
made in 1947, serial number AH835238. It is full rotary, electric motor
mounted on the back of the machine's pillar up high, bevel gears (can't
figure out how to remove the cover on the right gear--no screws like the
left one), no belt, reverse stitch, light on the front in molded
housing--just like Captain Dick's 201 description. Cabinet looks like
mohagany with one smaller drawer on the left and three larger drawers on
the right (front inside corners rounded). Slide plate is missing.
Electric cords to the motor and foot pedal will need to be replaced.
There's some wear on the very edge of the base and scratches on the light
housing. Decals are in tact. Needs cleaning!!! Cabinet needs
refinishing. Some additional feet were included in cardboard green
Singer box (haven't had time to identify them yet), button holer, and
miscellaneous sewing. There are 4 different kinds of bobbins--metal and
plastic curved domed bobbins like 66 and 99 bobbin, flat bobbin like
standard bobbins, and a flat bobbin with larger radius than standard
bobbin. The domed bobbin is the one I need, right? No manual. Paid
$40.00. I'm so excited!!!
Hubby has offered to rewire motor and foot and assist with refinishing
the cabinet. As you know he collects medicine bottles, electric
fans,--he only found 3 bottles. I found an electric fan--Emerson
Junior, heavy metal base, great condition and running for $15. BUT--- he
spotted several FWs priced $375 and higher, two 99's (one portable and
one in cabinet) both $175, a hand crank portable $175, and one with a
long bobbin (slide plate off the front was missing $75). The last two
were in extremely poor condition--rust and wear. Now why would he spend
so much time helping me? Could it be that 1974 red Chevrolet Camaro he
just bought? Tee Hee!
Linda
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Date: Sat, 4 Oct 1997 16:03:28 -0700
Subject: New at this
Hello! I've been reading all your fun posts for awhile now (lurking, I guess
is what it's called) and am now totally obsessed and fascinated with the
idea of coming across a Featherweight. The thing is, I know nothing about
them, although I have seen one. What I want is a good resource book or two
with pictures - I think I've seen one mentioned by Nancy Stebro-Johnson and
someone gave an address of where it could be obtained but I don't have it
now. Can someone tell me? I have gone through our very limited antique
shops here in Eastern Oregon and asked about old sewing machines and they've
told me they don't even take them because they don't sell. So I guess I'll
have to come across one some other way.
Also, I just saw a question posted re. a Vickers machine and I am totally
interested in whatever you find out about that, as my maiden name is Vickers
and I had no idea there was ever a sewing machine made with that name.
This list is very interesting - keep up the good work and TIA.
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Date: Sat, 4 Oct 1997 21:50:30 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: zigzag attachments
Hi FWFriends,
I've had the pleasure of seeing several FW-compatible zigzag attachments
lately. They all are quite different. One was just a simple attachment,
like the FWF ruffler, that mounts to the needle bar. (don't know the part #)
160620 is like a small buttonhole attachment with no cams. It is pretty
basic. The other I've seen is 161157, which makes quite an assortment of
decorative stitches for collars and dresses.
Has anyone used these attachments enough to have an opinion as to which works
best on the FW? or which is best for what?
I bought a great 1/4-inch foot for my FW at the local Singer distribution
center for under $10. It's called Singer presser foot kit, made in Brazil,
446014-010. The kit makes two metal feet. One is just like the FW foot.
The other is a 1/4-inch foot just like one standard to my 1970s Singer
machine.
Am I the only one who hasn't started, and fully intends to finish, the quilt
challenge? Gadz! --Mari
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Date: Sat, 4 Oct 1997 23:54:13 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: WANTED FW Foot Pedal
Hi,
I am looking for a Featherweight Foot Pedal. I bought the machine used, and
I am not sure what year it is. From the FW Attachments and parts list, it
looks like it should be part number 194584 or 195322. How do I figure out
what pedal I need? And where can I find one? How much should I expect to
pay?
Thanks for any help you can give me.
Pam
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