Featherweight
Fanatics
Archives
August 1996
Sunday, August 11th - Saturday, August 17th
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Received: from ttsw.com ([204.249.244.11]) by pcnet1.pcnet.com (4.1/SMI-4.1)
id AA22613; Mon, 12 Aug 96 11:40:52 EDT
Date: Mon, 12 Aug 96 11:56:06 -0500
From: Featherweight Fanatics
Subject: FW Fanatics 8/11/96
To: Sue@quilt.com
X-Mailer: LeeMail 2.0.5
Message-Id:
Date: Sat, 10 Aug 1996 20:39:40 -0800
From: corbin
Subject: misc.
I have a couple questions maybe someone can help me with. I have a 66-16, bd
7/50, and
the finish seems to be failing on her. It has a crazed or crackled look, and
when I try
to clean her up, I come away with brown gunk. I thought the brown gunk was
nicotine,
but when I clean anywhere near the gold trim, it comes away too. I'm very
frustrated,
needless to say! I'd appreciate any help. (I've tried wd-40, dish soap,
murphys oil,
etc).
My second question refers to the value of sewing machines and treadles. I've
been
looking for a treadle with no luck, and I went into a used sewing machine store
and
talked to someone. He quoted me "at least $225 to get into one", and that's
the treadle
table, no machine! He said he might be willing to trade for something, I told
him what
I could give up, and he wants me to bring in the 301a. I'm thinking that maybe
the 301A
is more valuable than previously thought, or that the value of the treadle is
fairly
low. I'm so confused!!!
Also, I picked up a green cardboard box of greist attachments at the thrift
store
yesterday. I have no use for them so if anyone wants them, they can have them
for what
I paid plus shipping. The box has about 13 attachments, and 4 or 5 of them say
hemmer,
different sizes, I guess. One is a ruffler, the others don't specify and I
have no
idea. The ruffler looks like something from the movie "Dead Ringers"! Don't
know why I
purchased them, only that they'd been mentioned here. Sharon from the rainy
North.
Date: Sun, 11 Aug 1996 15:27:33 +1000
From: Jeanette Holkner
Subject: 301A
Shelly,
Thanks for putting the picture of Norma your 301A on your webpage. Now at
last I know what these machines look like. They were never sold in
Australia so I read info on them out of curiosity only. Congratulations on
the really good looking page.
For those fwfanatics who enjoy quilting, I have put selections of the
Waverley Patchworkers quilt show on my page. It can be found at
http://edx1.educ.monash.edu.au/~dtb
I will also adding more machines including an Improved Family treadle, 185k,
306k and Muller No. 1 soon.
Jeanette
Date: Sat, 10 Aug 1996 23:05:19 -0700
From: Bobbie
Subject: Reply for FW Digest
>
>In reference to the treadle cabinet Mary McC saw in Evanston-- I saw one just
>like that in an antique mall in southern Wisconsin. It had double doors
>front and back with the tall side doors, one of which covered the treadle
>belt. They wanted $65 for it---I don't remember anything about the machine
>that was in the cabinet so it must not have been notable. Anyways--maybe
>what you saw was not one of a kind but maybe one of a few.
>
> Cyndi
>
These cabinets were called "Drawing Room" cabinets by Singer.
The Minnesota, White, New Home (c.1905), William &Orvis, (c.1862)
&Wheeler &Wilson all offered this type of cabinet.
Oh..yes, Stockwell Bros. offered their Howe machine in this style
cabinet, also.
I have one with a Singer head which is "tiger's eye" oak veneer and
hardwoods; one of the most attractive ones I've ever had the pleasure
of seeing. Second one is Cherry wood.
They really are a pretty asset to the old machine head.
-=bobbie=-
Date: Sat, 10 Aug 96 21:49:18 EDT
From: Gene Baker
Subject: "Free" Sewing Machine Company
Please help with information on the "Free Sewing Machine Company" of Rockford,
Illinois. Specifically need information on the "Free-Westinghouse" Model ALB.
There was mention of this machine on FWF some time back, but we can't find
it now.
If anyone remembers when it was please let us know. We have the back copies.
Asked Graham directly. Hope he can help.
We still have keys for the Bentwood and Featherweight Cases. E-mail for Info.
--
Thanks
Gene Baker
You can find us on the World Wide Web at:
http://www.esinet.net/cabg/real_estate/bakerinc.html
Date: Sun, 11 Aug 1996 09:35:31 -0400
From: Rose525@aol.com
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 8/9/96
Hi! I purchased a portable tan sewing machine at a thrift shop for $5.00. It
has PRECISION SEWING MACHINE across the head and Universal on the front.
Does anyone know anything about this machine. I also have a hand crank
machine I think is from Belgium. I enjoy reading these letters. Thanks,
Rosemary (rose525@aol.com)
From: Diana McAninch
Subject: 99K and Hook System ???
Date: Sun, 11 Aug 1996 15:26:26 +0000
Last night I glued down the loose bits on the 99K's case. It sounds much
like the Spartan's that someone described as looking like saddleshoes --
although it's more of a yellow than white. The gold trim on this machine is
in excellent shape.
I've had a lot of fun reading "A Manual of Family Sewing Machines" that came
with this machine (copyright 1914, 1926 and 1929). I makes the Singer light
(which barely casts a glow, IMHO) sound like the greatest thing since the
wheel. Apparently Singer sold machines using a variety of stitch-forming
systems at the same time. Does anyone know why there were so many? Did
they tout one or another as being better? This book shows threading for the
"vibrating or long shuttle machine," "oscillating hook machine,"
"oscillating shuttle machine," and "horizontal rotary hook machine." And
that doesn't include our beloved FW.
I'm planning to stop at an auction tomorrow that has a Singer and a White
Rotary listed. I don't expect to buy anything, even though DH said he could
build on :)
(Courtney -- Thank you so much for conducting and posting your survey; I'll
save it!)
Diana in Penna.
Date: 11 Aug 96 12:14:35 EDT
From: Graham Forsdyke <100661.3256@CompuServe.COM>
Subject: Contribution
To all re vacation
I'll be out of circulation until September 10 but my server assures me mail is
kept for 90 days so please pile up any queries and I will get to them as soon
as
I get back.
I have a bit of a backlog of true stories so I have arranged for one to be
posted each week.
I look forward to meeting many of you during my American trip.
About 30 collectors are getting together on August 25 in Baltimore -- hopefully
the first of many such meetings.I'll report on it when I get back
Trusting that every Fanatic will find at least one $25 FW whilst I'm away.
Graham Forsdyke
ISMACS London
Date: Sun, 11 Aug 1996 13:52:35 -0400
From: Irenemunro@aol.com
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 8/6/96
I just want to say hello to all you FW Fanatics. I am new to computers and
new on the internet. I am really amazed that there are so many sewers
interested in these little machines. I have learned so much from this forum.
I purchased my feather weight about six months ago, before I really new
anything about them. I have a computerized sewing machine and found it too
awkward to lug around to classes so I decided to get a light weight machine
and thought it would be neat to buy an old fashioned machine that I had read
about in several quilting magazines. When I asked the Singer dealer if he
had any, he put my name down on a waiting list and said he would call me if
one came in. Well, two months later I got a call and picked it up for
$325.00 Cnd.
I have been reading about people looking for green oil cans and grease tubes
and must confess that in my ignorance I threw out the tube of grease in the
green box that came with my machine. It had never been opened! In fact I
also have the green oval oiling can with the lead top, also never opened.
Fortuneately I kept that.
My machine is a 10, in a black case and have a feeling that it has never been
used. I wish I had found this forum before I puchased my machine . My
dream now is to stumble across another one at an antique store or better yet
at a garage sale and pick it up for a song. It would be almost like
stealing but what the hey, Caveat Emptor.
BBGN
Irene Murno
Date: Sun, 11 Aug 1996 13:27:46 -0500\
From: Tim and Sherrie
Subject: funky feet
Maggie Arlotta -
I think I have your odd T shaped foot here...Is the T a bit short on one
arm, longer on the other? A foot like this came with the junked 128 that dh
bought last weekend.It took me a while to figure out how it worked! Is the
wiring good on yours? Mine's shot.
Sherrie groman
gromant@ebicom.net
Our Home page =http://www.ebicom.net/~gromant
Fire Page=http://www.ebicom.net/~gromant/fire.htm
Quilt Page=http://www.ebicom.net/~gromant/tgquilt.htm
Date: Sun, 11 Aug 1996 14:29:28 -0700
From: Bobbie
Subject: Sewing Machines
Hi Ya'll....wanted to share with ya what I did all morning, today.
I got so tired of two things. Either all my machines were 'tucked away'
or the ones that I kept out, needed dusting 3 times a day. Had about
enough of that 'dusting thing'.
Took a couple yards (3 to be exact) of a nice mid-weight, clear,
vinyl/plastic and made covers for the heads of all my machines....or at
least the ones I liked to leave open and out to be seen. They look so
nice now! And I won't be dusting and using q-tips to clean them like
I had been.
I made the covers much like an old fashioned toaster cover.
but long enough to cover handwheels, and handcranks, where applicable.
also made them wide enough so that the plastic isn't resting against the
machine head. I must say......job well done! Thought sharing this
idea might help someone else to be able to leave their machines open
and viewable.
I don't like to have all the machines closed up and put away.
I have them spread throughout my house; even got one in one of the 3
bathrooms....a bathroom that seldom gets used, more for "pretty" than
use! I would not personally leave a machine in a bathroom that had
the bathtub or shower used daily; too afraid of rusting problems!
-=bobbie=-
Date: Sun, 11 Aug 1996 17:43:01 -0400
From: TJanson280@aol.com
Subject: 2 more to add to my list
Hi FWF's!
I have just returned from "the hunt" to add 2 more machines to my
collection. I know these are not that unusual, but I like them. One is a
99-13, that I got for $40 in the bentwood case. It has the knee lever
instead of a foot pedal. This is the first time I have seen this. Neat
idea!. Came with a manual and bobbins. The other is the 66 with a green
case with a light green stripe down the center of the case top. The cloth on
the case and base look like "weaving". I paid $35. Did'nt get a manual or
any attachments. Also I think it has a different motor because it does not
have Singer written on it. The cords have to changed and the silver metal
plate that's on the back (above the motor) is gone. Can't wait to start
shining them up. I was talking to DH while we were eating lunch and he says
"Well this will be the last meal we have at this table for a few days". I
also got 2 boxes of attachments for the "White" brand sewing machine. I sure
did'nt expect to find all of this today. It was FUN!
Also, a man I have met during one of my "hunts" asked if I would pass on some
information about a treadle he has for sale...He is very nice but I just want
to let all know that I am simply just posting this as a favor for him (just
in case the worst senario were to happen).
He has a treadle Wilcox and Wilson for sale. The last patent date was 1854.
Cabinet is good but could use some refinishing. The machine is very good.
I have not seen it but he says the decals are great and it's a very pretty
machine. I don't know what price he is asking for it. If interested, you
can call: Luther Manus at 517-321-0416.
Take Care everyone!
Terri Janson in Michigan.
From: "June Millican"
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 8/9/96
Date: Sat, 10 Aug 1996 21:51:41 -0700
I went looking at antique stores and thrift shops for sewing machines. I
found a 99 at one place and it needed new wiring and some serious
cleaning. There was no manuel, no feet, and no knee control. I asked
about them and was told that there weren't any. They wanted 70 dollars for
it. I again stressed the fact everything was missing and they thought they
had probably thrown the knee control away because they didn't know what it
was. I offered $30 for it but she said she had paid more for it than that.
I have a really nice 99 (bought at the same place) for $61, it didn't
have feet but it was in great condition. I also ran across a machine made
in Japan that looks almost identical to my 15 but it had no bobbin or the
sliding plate over the bobbin area. It was in great shape and only $10 but
I wasn't sure if I should get it. It was a Belair (I think). It was from
the 50's. Do you think I should have gotten it? I'm not sure how difficult
it would be to get the missing parts. I did find a couple of buttonhole
attachments,one a Greist and the other a Singer. I found a 1967 one for a
slant needle so I think this will work on my 301a. I keep looking for
another 301 and for a 99. I love cleaning them up and finding a wonderful
machine underneath all the grime. The rewiring doesn't bother me since my
husband can do that for me. I'd still like to find a cheap deal on one of
these old machines but they are pretty difficult to find. I enjoy hearing
about everyones finds. By the way Graham, I see you are coming out to
Seattle. We will either have cool weather and rain or we may have the
80-90 degree weather we're having presently. Be prepared to be surprised.
June in very sunny and hot Washington.
From: TQKW64A@prodigy.com (MS MARGO A ROCCONI)
Date: Sun, 11 Aug 1996 15:43:10, -0500
Subject: new member
Hello all:
I wanted to finally say hello. I have been reading for awhile and
wanted to tell you all my featherweight stories. I am a beginner
quilter. For my birthday, I asked my DH to buy me a sewing machine.
I learned to sew on my mother's 301A and always had to borrow hers
when I wanted to sew. I started my first quilt top on her machine.
So, I decided that I wanted a Singer. I naively thought that one
Singer was as good as the next. My DH bought me a new Singer with a
bunch of fancy stitches, etc. I tried to continue piecing my quilt
top on it. What a disaster! I couldn't make a 1/4 inch seam for the
life of me. The feed dogs just pushed the material down into the
holes and made it impossible to sew a straight seam, let alone one so
small. Frustrated, I gave it to my mother to see what she thought.
She sewed a pair of shorts on it and was equally disgusted. We
decided that the new plastic machines were a cheap imitation of a
sewing machine. I took it back and someone at a fabric store
volunteered the name of a good sewing machine shop nearby. I went
and saw my first featherweight. He had a few and sold them for $329.
He also sells 301s for the same price (he thinks that they are
better because of the more powerful motor) I thought about it for
awhile and decided to get the featherweight so that my mother and I
would have different machines. It so happened that the machine was
made in my mother's birth year (1937). It is in great shape - maybe
a 9. He gave it to me for $300. I finished my quilt top on it.
Recently, I visited relatives in Minnesota, Iowa and Michigan. My
great Aunt had me over for dinner one night and we started talking
sewing machines. She said she used to have a small Singer and
described the featherweight. She said she probably got rid of it
because the bobbin stuck all the time. She was about to sell her
house and move into an apartment and was getting rid of a lot of junk.
She thought she may have thrown away some attachments. She went
out to the garage and found a button holer, a zigzagger, and the
green box of featherweight attachments. She told me to take them -
they were in a pile of stuff that she was going to throw away! The
more we talked about her machine, I realized that it was probably a
1951 centennial edition (she remembers that the Singer plate said
1851-1951). I didn't want to make her feel bad, so I didn't tell her
what she threw away. I tried the zigzagger and the buttonholer out -
they are great!
Today, I went to the Pasadena Rose Bowl flea market. It is held
every second Sunday of the month. I immediately found a white
featherweight. They wanted $160 but I offered $135 which was
accepted. Guess what? The original instructions, case, the
attachments, and a buttonholer all included! It looks a little mint
green. It is perfect except for a paint chip on the face plate near
the tension knob. Has anyone tried to fix such a thing? We got it
home and it wouldn't run. I panicked, but my DH remained calm. The
wheel wouldn't turn hardly at all. It just needed a little oil and
now it is off running! While at the Rose Bowl, I also saw a black
featherweight. The woman selling it had put a tag on it that said
"circa 1926". It had a striated fact plate and the more modern gold
trim. The case was the newer addition too. I told her that there
was no way that it was a 1926 (they didn't even make them then, etc.)
Also, the bobbin case was missing. I told her how expensive they
are and that she should let a prospective customer know that it
wasn't there. The kicker - she was asking $350. I showed her my
white one and told her how much I paid. I wonder if she knew what
she was doing or was just uninformed.
I bought the FW card table from LFisher. She refinished it very
nicely.
Question: one of my cousins showed me a toy sewing machine that
she has. It is a Singer Sew Handy, model 50 (original box said $24.
95). We couldn't get it to work - I couldn't see a bobbin in there.
Would it be worth buying? She said that I could have it, but I felt
strange taking something that might have an unknown value.
Sorry for such a long message. Just had to tell my history. ---
Margo
Date: Sun, 11 Aug 1996 18:54:27 -0400
From: Kilda@aol.com
Subject: Singer part??
I have a small item, Singer #36806. It is 2 7/8" long. One end is a pointed
oval. That end is 5/8" by 1". The other end has a 3/8" long finger-about
1/8" wide, projected from the opposite end. Attached to it on a keyring type
loop is a very small pointed item. This is 3/8" long. Does this ring a
bell with anyone? It is not on Terry's list of attachments.
I made a return trip to the Sal. Army store and found the attachment case
that went with my 401a. Somehow it had gotten separated from the machine.
They charged me all of .59 for it. This mystery item was tucked
inside-along with other things which I was glad to get-cams, throat plate
etc.
Any help on idenifying would be appreciated.
Flo Jolly
From: JP
Subject:
Date: Sun, 11 Aug 1996 23:39:28 +0000
Just had to share with others who could appreciate the fact that I've
finished cleaning and oiling my 27 hand crank. Took me about six weeks to
complete the job but the end result is worth it. It was in worse condition
when I got it home than what I thought it was at the antique shop, but
perhaps I wanted it so bad I was blinded to how bad it was. Singer said it
was made before June 1910 in GB, and I don't think it had been cleaned since
then, and the person who owned it believed that more oil is better. Now the
machine shines and once again the Egyptian Shinx can be clearly seen. DH
just walked in and I read him this note and he said that "perhaps I wanted
it so bad" is an understatment!!!
Someone told DH about a machine yesterday so went to look at it this
afternoon. A 127 that was just about solid rust and the guy wanted $25 for
it. Told him thats what I paid for my 127 that was a 9, so he lowered his
price to $15 and thought it would be worth it for parts - not only would
nothing move, but the shuttle was gone, as well as the handle on the
bentwood case. As we were leaving he wanted to know if we would pay $5 just
so he could be rid of it and it "certainly would be worth $5 for parts" - we
just kept on walking. He did tell us about some other places that have
machines so another week-end we'll check those out.
JP in North Carolina where it's started to rain
Date: Sun, 11 Aug 1996 21:40:56 -0400
From: Larry Doyle
Subject: Toy machine
Hi all, If any is interested I found a Singer lock stitch machine red and
white plastic with case ,the white plastic flap to hold in the batteries is
missing but minor to replace everything else in tact in very good condition
they are asking &25.00 for may get it for $20.00
____________________________________
FWFanatics@ttsw.com - Singer phone # 1-800-877-7762
And now a word from our sponsor:
Hickory Hills Antique Quilts - Offering a variety of antique
quilts, tops, blocks and fabrics at reasonable prices. Personal service,
credit cards accepted. http://quilt.com/HickoryHill
Received: from ttsw.com ([204.249.244.11]) by pcnet1.pcnet.com (4.1/SMI-4.1)
id AA14989; Tue, 13 Aug 96 12:05:11 EDT
Date: Tue, 13 Aug 96 12:26:59 -0500
From: Featherweight Fanatics
Subject: FW Fanatics 8/12/96
To: Sue@quilt.com
X-Mailer: LeeMail 2.0.5
Message-Id:
Date: Mon, 12 Aug 1996 00:21:12 -0400
From: Millie MacKenzie
Subject: machines for sale
Please email me if you are interested in details on a 503A machine or a
99-31 machines. Thanks. Millie
Millie MacKenzie in CT and Cape Cod, MA
milmac@snet.net
Date: Mon, 12 Aug 1996 00:43:42 -0500 (CDT)
From: Steve or Terri Carl
Subject: braid attachment
Gail Pickens-Barger said:
> When we were in Peru, we went to the "fabric" section of Lima.
> While there we found this little device that you just "hook" onto
> your where your needle is tighten into...then you can feed yarn,
> or lightwt cord, and sew the yarn right straight (curved, zigzagged)
> onto your fabric. (Like the fancy machines do!) You don't need
> a fancy machine to do this. Has anyone else found an
> attachment like this that they can put onto their featherweight?
> (Sorry, we didn't buy a lot, just a few for ourselves!)
With a model 15-80 came what Singer called an "under-braider" -- an
attachment that screws onto the bed where the seam guide does. There's
a metal sleeve that feeds the braid under the needle -- you use the
"quilting" foot (short foot that looks like a machine embroidery foot,
but with a bar you can use to measure distance from the previous row of
stitching) and mark your braiding pattern on the wrong side of the fabric.
The braid is stitched on the bottom side of the fabric.
I haven't tried this one yet, so I don't know how well it works, but since
it's meant to be used with a separate foot, there's probably no reason it
wouldn't work with a Featherweight as well.
Terri
Steve and Terri Carl
terric@neosoft.com
From: Mary Rothenbuhler
Subject: RE: 27 with high mounted bobbin winder
Date: Sun, 11 Aug 1996 21:36:33 -0600
Chris,
I'm pretty sure my 27 is the one mentioned in Courtney's survey. It is a
27, converted from a treadle to an electric. They moved the winder from
the original low mount to higher up on the machine to accommodate the motor
and allow the moving of the belt. Maybe it's not supposed to be possible,
but my machine is living proof that they did it and it works. Hope this
clears up the mystery.
Mary in Idaho
Date: Sun, 11 Aug 96 23:06:09 0000
From: leames
Subject: Sincere's Sewing Machine Service Book
I know that I've heard about this book on the FWF's before, but leave it
to me to not keep the info...can anyone inform me how to find a copy of
this book?? I'd greatly appreciate it! Thanks, Treece
Date: Sun, 11 Aug 1996 19:10:59 -0700
From: gqminldy@bdt.com (Gretchen McKinsey-Clarke)
Subject: Re: FW for sale
Hi All,
Mom has finally picked up three of the six Featherweights. They are in
exquisite condition! They are nines on the Graham scale, have all their
attachments, manual copies, keys and one even has the spring on the spool
holder. The cases are in excellent condition. They are all AM's made in
1956.
We sold one at the Peddler's Faire yesterday so there are 2 left at $425
each plus shipping.
AM141123 and AM166734
So... first come, first served!
Gretchen McKinsey-Clarke
Date: Mon, 12 Aug 1996 06:12:46 -0600
From: coeur@cu.soltec.com (Lisa)
Subject: special day
On this date (Aug. 12) in 1851, Isaac Singer was given a patent for his
sewing machine.
Heard it on the local public radio station about 5 minutes ago. Thought we
should all be aware of such an important anniversary! :)
Lisa
Date: Mon, 12 Aug 1996 08:18:37 -0700
From: mark &katy
Subject: My First FW!
Hi Folks,
Just bought my first FW last Friday. After nearly 11 mos., I am no longer
FWless. She wasn't a terrific bargain, I paid $295 and she came with a
great case and a manual. She is an AM and in pretty good shape. She has
some wear but most of the gold is intact and she sews well.
I am still looking for a bargain FW....aren't we all? In the mean time, I
have one to play with. She is lovely. Thanks for listening. Katy
Date: Mon, 12 Aug 1996 08:34:16 -0400
From: GWillie37@aol.com
Subject: Singer FW's using 240 volt motors
Hi FWF's,
You've noticed recently the recommendation to use the Foreign Converters for
FW's brought back from the UK requiring the 240 volts. These converters plug
into the wall receptacle and will allow you to plug the FW into them (like
the AC receptacle on the wall) and use them without any problems. You don't
have to change anything on the FW and these converters weigh about 10 ozs.
and can be unplugged &carried anywhere. It was suggested Radio Shack may
have them for $30-40. I have them for $19.95 + $3 proirity mail shipping with
a money back guarantee if not satisfied.
I also have the case keys for $3 or 2/$5 (shipping included) shipped in the
small penny envelope exactly as Singer supplied them when new. These keys are
the exact same ones used by Singer and are new. I have the replacement black
rubber feet for the bottom of the FW to protect from scratching tables,
desks, etc. for 4/$3 (shipping included). I have new AC foot controller cords
using the original bakelite Singer plug for $10. I offer the bakelite AC
receptacle on the base of the FW (which sometimes has a portion broken off)
for $11 + $1 shipping . The spring for the spool pin to reduce rattling...75
cents. Case leather handles, hasps, locks, 221/301 bobbins and many other
hard to find FW items. In addition, I have several moderately priced FW's in
the $300's. If interested in any of the above, E-mail me at gwillie37@aol.com
(Glenn Williams)
Date: Mon, 12 Aug 1996 08:49:54 -0700
From: mark &katy
Subject: This and That
Hi Again,
Just wanted yo encourage you all to check out Charles' web page at:
http://www2.hawaii.edu/~claw/sew/
This is a terrific page and will be a great help to us all. He has a picture of
a 301
with case so you can see what one looks like. He had it listed as a mystery
machine but
it is definitely a tan 301 with case. Check it out. My 66-1 treadle looks just
like the
one pictured in the 7 drawer cabinet.
Darlene Shrader, can you e-mail me please? Our computer is in the shop
...again, and I
don't have any e-mail addresses on Mark's.
Gene-- Do you use the Sun of a Gun stuff on the head itself? Is it okay on the
gold?
Sounds like something I may need to try out.
Mary--Congrats on the terrific 301 find! I really need to find one of these
benches....
Finally, I have a question to ask and realize I risk treason and
excommunication at
doing so. I played with my new FW quite a lot this weekend, have her all
cleaned, oiled,
made a quilt top on her etc. but in all complete honesty, I don't think she is
as smooth
and as quiet as my 201. Do you all think the FWs are the best of the old
Singers in
terms of sewing performance? What is your absolute favorite machine to piece
on? In a
fire, which would you grab and why? I might grab the FW since she cost me more
and would
be easier to run out the door with :), but I haven't found a machine I like to
sew on
better than my 201 so I might have to struggle out with that one. What do you
all think?
Katy in the coolest Michigan summer I ever remember
Date: Mon, 12 Aug 1996 08:58:46 -0400
From: BSawyer631@aol.com
Subject: De-Lurking! (New to this)
I have been reading for a few weeks, but since I did not want to appear too
ignorant I thought it best to wait before posting! Am looking forward to the
Sincere books - maybe they will answer my many questions.
But I was too excited to keep quiet any longer! This weekend I purchased a
handcrank Singer. Cleaned up to be a shiny black body and very bright gold
metalwork. Lots of beautiful vines and large bouquet of roses in the center
of the base plate. This gilt is 1" deep all around the base - even in the
back and below the crank. Also has gilt all over the head, the back of the
head, on the wheels (but not on the actual handwheel) . Only wear on the gilt
is at the front, along the edge to the left of the needle. Large Singer
logo. Thread tension and stitch length adjustment are just unmarked dials.
What is the screw for in the base plate, about 2" to the right of the
needle? The mechanism is very smooth. The shuttle is working position and
the slide covers are all present - though corroded. Any ideas on cleaning?
They are deeply pitted.
The bentwood case has a very large Singer decal in good condition, but the
wood is pretty dry. Looked better after cleaning with Lemon Oil. Will
probably need several applications.
Saw another machine almost exactly like this one at another place, but did
not buy it. The case was not bentwood, but more of a box with - framing or
moulding, I think. Kind of rectangular? Really nicely done. They wanted
$125, but marked down to $100 firm. Seems like a lot - I got my other one
for $70. Do you think I should go back and get this other one? Are these
28's? I have the serial numbers, so think I will call Singer to get a make
on them.
DH was with me and seems to be quite interested in joining me in this
passion. I own 3 FWs, 2 Berninas, the crank, and a Singer 237. (I know, no
one is interested in the 237, but it is the machine I was using from High
School until 3 years ago when I got my first Bernina. I do not intend to
ever part with it - still sews like a dream, though the foot pedal was
overheating when machine quilting for more than a few hours. Still have the
attachments, manual, case.)
It's nice to come out of the closet!
Barb in Texas
Date: Sun, 11 Aug 1996 21:06:23 -0700
From: ThE hAlLs
Subject: Wheeler and Wilson
Hi Fw Fans,
This week I recieved a "mail bomb" from one of the childrens
online playmates, this resulted in the complete formatting of the hard
drive. I no longer have anyones address, or any urls.
If your used to me E-mailing and havent heard from me, It
means I no longer have your address.
Ok, if you guy's say so, I've got a Wheeler and Wilson. It
sure would have made life more intresting if it had been a a
"Wilson and Gibbs" tho!
I think I was quite carried away by this lovely old lady. I
havent enough time right now to do a proper job on her. But I'm
hoping when school starts again to restore her a bit. I just need to
clear out a nich for her in our tiny home.
This is a very ornate and lovely cabinet, and I suspect I may
end up leaving her as is. Are the finishes on the old heads damaged
by Wd 40? She has some scrollwork that I cant tell if it will "come
back" or not.
Grahym if possible could you e-mail me how much I need to
send you for a copy of what information you have about her? I'd
offer to send you one of the children, but your already wise to
that!
Charles, your page is grand. When I fix up this lady a bit
I plan on sending a picture to you. Thank you for all your hard
work. I have located a few "old' machines around town and plan on
taking some pictures when things slow down here.
Take care all,
Cheryl in Owosso mi, where the weather was worth waiting
for!
Date: Mon, 12 Aug 1996 09:21:27 -0400
From: Steve Stromvall
Subject: Singer ZigZagger
Just returned to Georgia from a month in beautiful Washington State.
The scenery was great, but the junk shops were devine! Lucky Washington
FWFs! I found a Singer Automatic Zigzagger #160985 in its box for
$1.50. Seems complete?, but has no instructions on its use. Can one of
you help me out?
Also, try placing an ad in your local Nickel Nick type paper for a
Featherweight. I did, and got a beauty for $100, with case, manual,
attachments, etc. It still had the sample fabric in it from the sewing
serviceman and a receipt for a $99 overhaul. It hadn't been used
since! Go figure!
Isn't this site fabulous!? DH keeps counting my machines and shaking
his head. But I'm not the only sewing machine nut, am I?!!!
Date: Mon, 12 Aug 1996 08:20:11 -0500
From: Doreen Foote
Subject: Spartan!
Hi Everyone! I just had to tell everyone about my New Find! I got a call
from a lady Saturday. She sad she had 2 cabinets for sale, one she said has
an old sewing machine it it, "Idon't know if it is all there, It's been in
the garage for years." Needless to say I wasted no time getting to town! I
was delighted to find a little Singer Spartan inside the cabinet! I bought
"Ginny" for $5.00! Trashed the cabinet and now she's happy in my collection.
Happy sm hunting to all!
Doreen
dfoote@cnmnet.com
Date: Mon, 12 Aug 1996 09:26:06 -0400
From: Larry Doyle
Subject: Deception
Dear FolksThere seems to be some question of my honesty and intergity on
this digest.I have to the few people I have sold to I would appreciate a
plug Thank you.
My kind regards,
Larry
Date: Mon, 12 Aug 1996 10:13:17 -0400
From: yes@lansol.net (Rush Wickes)
Subject: Flea market finds
Hi everyone,
After two to three "dry" weeks, I was thrilled to hit the jackpot at
my least favorite flea market. Some finds and prices I paid:
Green singer box of attachment #160809, complete, paid $3.00
Greist box of attachments with manual, complete, paid $1.00
Sorry looking bag of debris, tangled thread, bobby pins and (!!!!) 2
tension screwdrivers #120378, a wooden handled Simanco screwdriver, low
shank tucker, binder, hemmer. Also manuals for the 15-91 and the
101-4 or 101-2. Paid $3.00
Simanco wrench #232935, paid 25 cents.
Last, all attachments, cams and manual for my 328K. Paid $7.00.
I found all of this stuff in 45 minutes! This probably happens to
all of you, but not me. Boo hoo.
I see "Jetson" buttonholers from time to time for $2.00 to $7.00,
and I always buy them. I almost fell over at an antique store last month
when I saw an empty turquoise case for $30.00. The dealer told me that he
can sell them as art deco pieces and that he was unaware that this held a
buttonhole attachment. Furthermore, he added, he could not care less!
Now for the "kicker" - A flea market guy I ask regularly about the
little Singer in the black box told me that he found one for me. He said
that he paid $3.00 for it, didn't see me that morning (hey, I don't live
there) and sold it "to a guy for $15.00." Can you believe it? DH thinks that
he was just pulling my leg. Anyhow, this is the guy who sold me the
abovementioned bag of "junk" that hid all of the goodies.
Happy hunting!
Nancy Wickes
Date: Sun, 11 Aug 1996 21:24:38 -0400
From: Millie MacKenzie
Subject: toy machine
C43 -Singer toy sewing machine - model 20. Black with silver crank and
silver sewing area near needle. Nice condition. No box or manual. This one
has SINGER on front bottom and back top. Also the old shuttle bobbin case
Singer logo on the bottom back. Oval base and square sewing area plate.
Operational. Offers will be accepted.
C44 - A bookklet by Madelene Perrin titled: A Simplified Couorse in
DressMaking. 32 pages. Probably 1940's vintage. $4 includes postage.
C45 - The Singer Post Card. Card used to request shipment of sewing machine
from catalog. Says: This machine to be delivered without cost to me of any
kind, for trial, with intention to purchase....etc. Not dated, but one cent
stamp needed. $10 includes postage.
C46 - Delightful booklet about 3x6 titled "The Singer Drawing Book for Young
Artists". Cover shows female child in blue/white checked dress writing on a
black board. Old style Singer logo with shuttle bobbin is also on cover.
Back outside cover has photo of 3 young girls at play - 2 sewing at a table
on their model 20's. The inside back cover has ad for the Singer model 20.
Inside pages have tracing paper page followed by a drawing to be traced.
There are 8 such drawings - one of which is the new electric sewing machine.
$20 includes postage.
C47 - Paper: Guarantee Bond for a Free-Westinghouse Electric Rotary sewing
machine. 20 year guarantee. Dated May 19, 1941. $10 includes postage.
Please email me if interested. Thanks. Millie
Millie MacKenzie in CT and Cape Cod, MA
milmac@snet.net
Date: Mon, 12 Aug 1996 10:46:07 -0400
From: EHurl10028@aol.com
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 8/5/96
Hello all. I went to a sale in Seattle on saturday and was lucky enought to
find a 301 and a wilcox and gibbs cat back chain stitch machine. The serial
number on the 301 is earlier than the ones in the survey and I can't wait to
call Singer later today to find out if the date of manufacture is the same
as those listed in the survey.
Does anyone have any info to share with me on the wilcox and Gibbs? The
serial #A658539. It sure is a cutie. The gentleman I purchased these machines
from also had a sew handy for sale for $150.00. He asked me if I would let
you know in case someone wanted one. It does have the foot control but no
case. He also had a 301A for sale. Boy I sure wanted that one too but decided
not to push my luck. His name is Dick Wightman. phone number is 206 784-0883.
He said that he would be willing to ship. Elaine
From: woodnspl@rma.edu
Subject: Singer 12K
Singer12K:
This weekend I found a singer 12K. I need some input as to price. The shop is
asking $90. I know I can get some discount. It a hand crank in a good
bentwood
case. I would call it a 6. There appears to be a good bit of gold left maybe
most of it, but needs a good cleaning. There is no rust but all around the
edge
of the machine there is a good bit of chipped paint. Is this one I need to run
back and get or should I wait for one in better condition?? I do want to
resell
and make a little. Graham?? If I get it is there a copy of a manual available?
I forgot to look at the serial number.
There was also a 128,I think, also a 6 but price $130. It was also a hand
crank
but had the front part of the throat plate missing. It wasn't so hard to walk
away from. Then they had a German hand crank that I couldn't read the name on,
the condition appeared worse and price if I remember correctly over a $100.
Margo:
On the feed sacks, $6 is about an average price and what I sell most of
mine for. But plain colors if not faded are harder to find. Some areas of the
country seem to be high, some lower. For more info e-mail me at
or the feed sack club-- Jane Tell her
you are a FWFanatic
Ann in Front Royal Va
woodnspl@rma.edu
Wooden Spool Antiques
Date: Mon, 12 Aug 1996 13:54:46 -0400
From: DickDreyer@aol.com
Subject: toy
I saw a Model 20 Singer toy (1930s version/7-spoke wheel) in a antique store.
Some nice father has custom-built a sewing tabletop and dome-shaped cover
for his little daughter and screwed (!) the base of the machine into it.
Four holes drilled into the base of the machine. Question: does this ruin
the value of the machine? What would you pay with machine otherwise in good
condition? Dealer was asking an absurd $150 (I think Bob Campell said to
walk away at that price). But, I just wanted to know your opinions on what
you think might be reasonable? Thanks! --Mari in a stiffling 107 degree N.
Cal.
Date: 12 Aug 96 14:20:24 EDT
From: Graham Forsdyke <100661.3256@CompuServe.COM>
Subject: Re: Contribution
To Sharon
$225 will buy you a good condition treadle complete. The dealer is (how shall I
put this delicately?) trying to rip you off.
Don't be impatient. There are hundreds of thousands (really) of treadle
machines
out there. One will come your way soon.
To Gene Re Free Westinghouse
Tried to mail you directly but just got the rubber-ball thing.
The Free Westinghouse was the result of a get-together by the two companies
during the first world war.
After the war the Free Westinghouse machine was offered.
My archives on the Free company stop just after the second war when L E LeVee
joined Free from Westinghouse to mastermind a big expansion programme (English
spelling)
In 1958 Free was taken over by Janome and the name died a couple of years
later.
Sorry but I have no records that will date your machine.
Graham Forsdyke
ISMACS London
From: The Mudges
Date: Mon, 12 Aug 1996 14:12:33 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Antiquing
Yesterday DH and I went antiquing. There's a little town
out towards the coast that has turned the old school into an
antique shop and the gymnasium into a used English Furniture
store. Found a featherweight for $495 with no accessories,
manual or oil can. It was also missing its presser foot and
bobbin case. From the amount of dust on it, it's been there a
long time. Then we took the long way home and used the old
highway. Coming up on Aurora we found the streets closed for
"Aurora Colony Days". One shop had four black FW's, two for $495
and two on display - advertising the cleaning class she runs for
FW's. She had one of the two display models in a table. She
also had two white FW's. Since I know her, I asked if DH could
see one as he thinks now that we have a black we need a white for
company. She pulled out the best of the two and opened up the
case. It is immaculate. Seems a husband bought it for his wife
and she refused to even look at it since she didn't sew. The
shop owner had been told that if she advertises through the
Fanatic's, she will get at least $1000 for it. I was glad to see
Margo's post this morning for what she paid for a white one. We
didn't get a chance to see the other white FW. I have the
feeling it's rough since the handle has been ripped off the case.
We then went on to some of the other shops in town and found two
more black FWs, each $425. Someone also told us that there had
been a white one for sale at the flea market in town but we
couldn't find it. So for our Sunday's drive we found seven black
FWs and two white ones. While none came home with us, we sure
had fun looking.
Kathy in Oak Grove, Oregon
From: woodnspl@rma.edu
Subject: 1851 patent
On this date in 1851 Singer was granted his patent.
Date: Mon, 12 Aug 1996 18:03:44 -0400 (EDT)
From: Kristina Santilla
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 8/11/96
Flo, you wrote:
> I have a small item, Singer #36806. It is 2 7/8" long. One end is a pointed
> oval. That end is 5/8" by 1". The other end has a 3/8" long finger-about
> 1/8" wide, projected from the opposite end. Attached to it on a keyring type
> loop is a very small pointed item. This is 3/8" long. Does this ring a
> bell with anyone? It is not on Terry's list of attachments.
Odd items are almost impossible to describe and even harder for the
reader to understand, so I may be way off here, but is it possible that
the small pointed item is actually an incredibly small hook? If it is,
then you have a needle threader. I have seen them on rings, in the army
knife-like tool and on metal bars about 3" long.
Happy Featherweighting,
Krisi in Maryland
From: EHZG23B@prodigy.com (MRS LISA DUGGAN)
Date: Mon, 12 Aug 1996 18:52:43, -0500
Subject: Oil cans
Hi all,
Next time your in that endless line at the grocery
sneak a peek ;) of Sept. Country Living on page 125! A paper-bagful
garage sale find of oil cans. The one that caught my eye said Singer -
that name always makes me grin and I don't know why! Lisa
Date: 12 Aug 96 19:58:19 EDT
From: Sherry Gardner <72733.516@CompuServe.COM>
Subject: FW Fanatics 8/11/96
To Sharon in the rainy NOrth:
Sorry I can't help you with cleaning info, but I'm sure someone here will
be able to. Now about a treadle: I, too, love them, and have found the prices
vary a lot. In and around Denver, I've found cosmetically good, working
treadles
for an average of $150. Your dealer's price of $225 for only the cabinet sounds
like a rip-off to me, unless there is something incredibly special about it,
like a bag of money stashed in one of the drawers. Keep on looking. And don't
trade your 301 for it. Those 301's are cool machines, and are getting to be
almost as sought-after as the Featherweights.
Speaking of 301A's, can anyone tell me how to drop the feed dogs? I
explored my machine today and am at a loss to figure out the trick. Thanks in
advance!
Sherry Gardner
Date: Mon, 12 Aug 1996 20:00:36 -0400 (EDT)
From: Lydia Pratt
Subject: Howard and Rita and Sharon and Flo
For Rita in NE: E-mail me your snail mail address. I'll photocopy (and
enlarge) the illustration identifying treadle parts from my Model 127 manual.
For Sharon: Your dealer is seriously mistaken. The treadles are out
there, you just have to be patient and look around. At a shop relatively
near me, $225.00 is her top price for a White Rotary treadle with
attachments AND instruction book (I think) and -- here's the clincher --
the cabinet has already been refinished. She has a really pretty Princess
vibrating shuttle machine, this one does have attachments AND the original
instruction book, and has also been refinished. I don't remember the
price, but I know it's less than the $225. There's a 66-? in a shop over
in Oxford. Needs cleaned up, no peeling veneer that I recall, asking
price: $69.95. Do NOT (repeat: DO NOT) trade your 301 to this
approximation of a person -- I think you're being taken for a ride!
Also, your machine isn't that old but it sounds like the outer layer of
varnish/shellac/whatever IS failing. Try rubbing your thumbnail across
some inconspicuous spot on the back of the base. If you get tiny, almost
powdery amber or brown flakes, that's probably the outer layer coming off
and there's nothing you can do except take it all off. If you are very
careful, you may be able to work around the decals. My guess is that the
decal layer has become bonded with the bottom of this varnish layer, so
when the varnish flakes off -- bye bye decals.
Flo: From your description I think you may have what I've always
considered to be a threader for the machine needle. Someone else has one
and she described it as looking sort of like a Dachshund. On mine, that
tiny tiny little protrusion (get a magnifying glass, really!) is in fact a
flat hook which fits through the eye of your machine's needle and will
(with some encouragement on your part) pull a thread through. This tiny
tiny hook is blued metal, BTW.
OK, so by this time you're all asking: "So who's 'Howard'?" Actually,
Howard is the "them" that makes Bobbie's much-beloved furniture polish,
etc., and I'm writing to let anyone in the central Ohio area (or anyone
NOT in the central Ohio area who is coming in for the Ohio State Fair)
that there is a furniture dealer called "Amish Plus" who has smaller sizes
of three Howard products. They are stocking: 8 oz "Restore-A-Finish", 8
oz. "Feed-N-Wax", and 16 oz. "Orange Oil", at $7.35 each, two for $12.95
(more or less). If you want to find them: Come in at the northern
entrance to the fairgrounds, off of 17th avenue. Immediately to the south
of the actual entrance gate there is a large white tent exhibiting "An
1846 Agricultural Fair". Immediately beyond this is a tent/awning that is
green &white stripes and bulging with more oak furniture than you can
shake a stick at (and probably more than you can afford, too -- the stuff
is beautiful but it isn't cheap). Anyway, these are the people with the
non-gallon sizes of stuff, and besides, the fair is a great place just to
wander around for the day for the price of admission (which I think is
maybe $7.00 these days).
Lydia in cool and rainly (at least this week) central Ohio, who enjoyed
her cotton candy VERY much!
_ _
Lydia Pratt |_|X|_|
Columbus, Ohio |X|*|X|
lspratt@freenet.columbus.oh.us |_|X|_|
From: JP
Subject: FW for sale
Date: Tue, 13 Aug 1996 00:18:41 +0000
AM (1956) FW for sale: case, copy of manual, and several attachments. No
oil can nor lube tube. FW is rated an 8, and one back corner on the case is
torn, exposing wood. This FW has been loved by an elderly woman who knew
how to take care of her machine and can no longer see well enough to use it.
$320 plus $30 shipping.
JP
Date: Mon, 12 Aug 1996 21:59:06 -0400
From: Courtvo@aol.com
Subject: reply to Chris V.
Chris V.
My survey is only a report of what is sent to me. I am not a sewing machine
expert, just another FW/Singer collector. I appreciate your input but the
survey has 3 Model 27s (2 with manuals) and 2 model 28s. If you would like
to enter some of your machines in the survey I would be happy to add them and
any info they add.
Courtney
Date: Mon, 12 Aug 1996 23:49:52 -0400
From: Larry Doyle
Subject: For Sale
hi Folks I had a good day today infinding things,
A Willcox and Gibbs Silent Electric Sewing Machine,manual.some
attachments,condition 8 $135.00(newly rewired)
Singer model 28 hand crank in good condition sewa well made June3,1912.
$135.00
____________________________________
FWFanatics@ttsw.com - Singer phone # 1-800-877-7762
And now a word from our sponsor:
Hickory Hills Antique Quilts - Offering a variety of antique
quilts, tops, blocks and fabrics at reasonable prices. Personal service,
credit cards accepted. http://quilt.com/HickoryHill
Received: from ttsw.com ([204.249.244.11]) by pcnet1.pcnet.com (4.1/SMI-4.1)
id AA21812; Wed, 14 Aug 96 14:47:25 EDT
Date: Wed, 14 Aug 96 15:06:05 -0500
From: Featherweight Fanatics
Subject: FW Fanatics 4/13/96
To: Sue@quilt.com
X-Mailer: LeeMail 2.0.5
Message-Id:
Hi Everyone,
Just a reminder that our online chat begins tonight at 7pm edt
Any questions, http://quilt.com/Chat or Sue@ttsw,com
Thanks,
Sue T
Date: Tue, 13 Aug 1996 01:59:34 -0400
From: Millie MacKenzie
Subject: contribution
Last Sunday I was at the local flea market asking for sm stuff and at one
booth was told that they sold a late 1800's Singer manual earlier in the day.
Then I went today to a fairly large antique shop and was told that a
gentleman had been in earlier in the week looking for sewing machines. He
left a flyer with pics of various sewing machines and the tempting header
"$500 to $2000". The dealer said he wasn't born yesterday and knows if he
called the guy's 800 number there would be something about the machine that
wasn't quite right to warrant those prices.
Anyway, the whole thing made me think of Graham's contributions regarding
someone in England flooding the market with high offers. What chances that
it the same guy following the path of the Pilgrims. If so, look out Plymouth!
I did get a copy of the flyer and will post more info as soon as I can
remember where I put it!!
BTW the dealer is from England, very nice gentleman,and I have bought 2
machines from him since his store opened in March. He gets a lot of stuff
shipped from England.
Just one new item for sale:
C48 - Singer hemstitcher and picot edger for Lockstitch Family Sewing
Machines - # 121387. Manual 1935 copyright. Includes cover plate w/screw.
$20 includes postage.
All for now. Millie
Millie MacKenzie in CT and Cape Cod, MA
milmac@snet.net
From: sarah@zephyr.manawatu.planet.co.nz (Sarah Brown)
Subject: 222K
Date: Tue, 13 Aug 1996 16:11:00 +1200
Hello everyone
A little while ago I offered a 222K Featherweight Free-arm for sale. I got
no responces so I'm reducing the price. This machine is currently wired
for 240volt usage: I am prepared to obtain a transformer for it to make it
usable in USA. I would like US$1000.00 for it.
Thanks for listening.
Sarah Brown
New Zealand
--
From: sarah@zephyr.manawatu.planet.co.nz (Sarah Brown)
Subject: Oak box
Date: Tue, 13 Aug 1996 16:28:00 +1200
Hello again
I also have one of those oak fold-out attatchment boxes. It is lined with
green velvet. It has an imprint in the wood on one side as if there has
been a stamped brass plate attatched at some time. I can't read the
imprint. If one assumes that this imprinted side is the top, the
five-fingered holder is on the top right. The holders are numbered
14,15,16,17,18 (five "fingers"), 26185, 7,8,9, 26364, Most of the
attatchments are not numbered but those that are are: 26086, 35831, 2, 4,
5, I seem to have too many attatchments for the number of holders. There
are nine loose pieces all together. Some of the 8s could be 6s and
vice-versa, they're a bit hard to read. Hope this helps.
Sarah Brown
New Zealand
--
Date: Mon, 12 Aug 1996 23:20:37 -0400
From: Claudette Roy-Viall
Subject: Westford Gathering
Dear Millie:
Your have just come across the info for a great show, classes and all
round good time. An unexplored treasure. I have attended for the past 6
or 7 years. . .Jeanne and Marie, the directors, are great and that follows
through to the rest of the events. The food is to die for and the Westford
Regency is clearly a classy place. I arrive Wed. morning and work with the
judges to get the show set up. We work all day, but we also get to see the
quilts up close and personal . . .what a treat. Last year Linda Poole's
"The Bride" was there (she was, too!) Truly inspiring! Can't say enough
about the quality of the exibits, quilts, and of course, the vendors! Hope
to see you there. Claudette in New Bedford
Date: Mon, 12 Aug 1996 21:48:08 -0400
From: JimAlmonte@aol.com
Subject: Featherweight Table
Hi--
Many thanks to whoever suggested checking the tables that things are on at
sales--Saturday at an auction I found that one of the auctioneer's tables was
a Featherweight table. I'm sure he thought I was slightly crazy but I bought
the table from him for $10--he moved the stuff to be auctioned to another
table and went on with it. The table does need to be refinished and so my
question is if the black painted edge and legs should have a matte or glossy
finish--it appears to me to be matte but I want to get it right.
My DH got the stripper on the 301 table I found at an yard sale before I
knew what he was doing out in the garage and all the paint on the table edge
got taken off (even though it was really not in bad shape). Eventually, I
will get paint matched and redo that one, but this Featherweight table is
going to be restored properly the first time.
Still looking for the Featherweight for me but now at least I have a table
for it to come home to someday. Thanks for any information on the paint for
the table.
Cyndi
(Janesville,
WI)
Date: Tue, 13 Aug 1996 07:37:15 -0400
From: Larry Doyle
Subject: FW For Sale
Mint condition case oil can manual attachments $450.00
Date: Tue, 13 Aug 1996 08:42:26 -0400
From: MargelS@aol.com
Subject: Toy Machine
I am on cloud nine. I also collect toy sewing machines, but most are very
common. I do not spend big bucks for them. All , but one, cost me in the
$10-$60 range. Most that I see are in the $150+ range and getting more
expensive all the time. Last Sunday, I spent $180 on a machine and am
thrilled. It is a Muller no.12 just like Bob Campbell found. Mine does not
have the tip back base. Glenda Thomas' book describes 2 styles. I would
rate it an 8. The decals are complete. There is no rust on the chrome or
painted areas. It does have a few tiny paint chips on the base. It is so
wonderful. I didn't know that they numbered toy machines, but the number is
70894. Does anyone have a manual for this machine? I find myself staring at
it all the time!! The dealer said it didn't go with her other machines
because it was "one step up" from the size of her other toy machines. I
couldn't see the logic, but was not going to argue. I was stunned at the
price and quickly snatched up the machine. If and when I ever see an early
cast iron machine, it is sooooooo far out of my price range that it might as
well be in a museum. They also had a Shirley Temple electric for $150, but
my money was gone. I now have 2 cast iron machines. My other one is a
Casige no.3. I got it by advertising in the local paper that I wanted toy
machines, and a lady responded. She asked $25 for it.
Margel - South Bend, IN. The back to school flurry is in full swing. I
teach and have 3 in college.
Date: Tue, 13 Aug 1996 08:48:52 +0000
From: lrolando@attmail.com (Linda J Rolando)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 8/8/96
To Mary L in NJ.....I would be very interested if BOB (the Singer machine guy)
would make up the knee lever for the 99....Mine is in a bentwood case and I
really want the lever and not a foot pedal....SO, put me on the list...also, I
have bought my 2 Featherweights from Bob...he is very reputable and a great
mechanic...knows these old babies well.
Linda in rainy NJ
Date: Tue, 13 Aug 1996 09:05:16 -0400
From: BSawyer631@aol.com
Subject: Old Handcrank
Haven't seen my first posting (after lurking for a couple weeks, I posted
yesterday about and old handcrank I had bought). But I am going out of town
and wanted to give an update.
Singer 800 number told me the machine is a #3 vibrating shuttle, made
3/24/1892. It was missing the needle - but I think I found one in an old
Boye needle box I had which contained 2 needles. It fits, but I have not
tried to sew on it yet. (The shuttle does have thread in it.) When I get
home I will try to sew on it - but I am not sure how to thread the machine.
Does anyone have a manual? Or a copy of the Family Sewing Machine manual -
that has this information, doesn't it? Any chance I can get one of those? I
seem to recall someone had one for sale.
Thanks to anyone who can help me!
Date: Sat, 13 Jul 1996 09:03:10 -0600
From: Ken Behler
Subject: Re: Singer part
To Flo, Hey, I can answer that! The Singer #36806 is a needle
threader. A few months ago I went into great lengths to describe tht
same piece on line and found out what it is. The long finger slips aside
the needle to guide the very small black pointed item (there is one
there, correct?) into the needle to catch the thread on the other side.
The two? black pointed items ont the key ring type thing on the opposite
end are extras. I guess I should say this is to thread a machine needle.
I've only seen one other of these aroung and it is currently in with a
box of attachments for a little 99 at an antique store. The dealer
wants $150 for the machine in its bentwood case, so I think it will be
there for a while.
To all: I found one of those cute little pocket oilers as Millie
described recently. I is complete but had some green paint in it. A
little paint thinner took care of that though. I think the oval shapes
on the front and back are for thrumb and forefinger placement to
squeeze. Mine has Made in USA, Pat. April 05, and April 69? stamped on
the bottom. I gather, these are dates in 1900 rather than 1800. I item
looks too new. Nothing eludes to it being a singer item.
Later, Jacque
Date: Tue, 13 Aug 1996 08:29:18 PDT
From: Beth_Brandkamp@mc.xerox.com (Brandkamp,Beth)
Subject: Wheeler &Wilson #8 Treadle for sale
Hi folks,
There is a very nice working W &W no 8 (according to serial number
265618 manu in 1866) in definitely 8 condition in original cabinet
with a manual (a little dilapidated) in my local fabric store. It is
for sale for $199 which I think is a bargain. I would love to have it
but DH would kill me. The cabinet is nice with a drop leaf on the
side and in back. Also the breadbox lid to the cabinet. The only
flaw is a crack in the wood on the breadbox top. Obviously original finish.
The guy that sells these machines is only there a couple of days a week
and they seem to go pretty rapidly. He will be there tomorrow if
anyone out there is interested and would like me to get his phone
number at home etc.
No affiliation just thought someone might be interested. The cabinet
is so nice I am afraid someone will buy it for that and trash the
machine which would kill me. I may talk to the guy just to make sure
that doesn't happen!! He also has a tan 301 for sale but no cabinet,
no manual for $89.
Beth,
who is preparing for the garage sale from hell where she will attempt
to get rid of 30 years accumulation of excess fabric, patterns, yarn,
books and magazines. (Don't worry folks, I still have another 10K
yards in inventory and you wonder why my DH would kill me if I bought
another sewing machine!)
Date: Tue, 13 Aug 1996 12:54:11 -0400
From: Millie MacKenzie
Subject: Westford room accomodations
I called and found that there are rooms with King beds for $80/nite still
available.
Also, 2 FWF's who have been to Westford have responded. I hope they do not
mind my some pulled quotes. Thanks Linda and Claudette!
*****it is a great show...
*****I'm excited...hopefully we can get some FWs to join in on the fun..
*****The workshops are great...this is not as large a show as the one in
Lancaster, Pa., but I like it better. There is a warm feeling and it is
cozy...lots of real friendly folks...each night there is a quilters
gathering with lots of prizes and fun...I know you will enjoy it...call NOW
and get your requests for classes in NOW....don't delay or it will be too
late....
*****.. a great show, classes and all round good time. An unexplored
treasure. ***** .Jeanne and Marie, the directors, are great and that follows
through to the rest of the events. The food is to die for and the Westford
Regency is clearly a classy place.
*****I arrive Wed. morning and work with the judges to get the show set up.
We work all day, but we also get to see the quilts up close and personal . .
.what a treat.
*****Last year Linda Poole's "The Bride" was there (she was, too!) Truly
inspiring!
*****Can't say enough about the quality of the exhibits, quilts, and of
course, the vendors!
I forgot to include my snail address for SASE's. Sorry...
Millie MacKenzie
18 Pequod Lane
Eastham MA 02642
On to another subject: the fellow who left the flyer at the antique shop
is Gene Bishop. He is offering $200 to $2000 for certain pre-1870 machines
and $500-$2000 for others.
Millie MacKenzie in CT and Cape Cod, MA
milmac@snet.net
Date: Tue, 13 Aug 96 13:13:10 EDT
From: Gene Baker
Subject: "Son of a Gun"
To Mark &Cathy:
Yes, use Son of a Gun on the metal head. However, you should avoid excessive
rubbing on the gold with anything. This product does not harm the paint, at
least, it has not on the many machines, old and new, I have used it on. It
really cuts the old, hard grease off and leaves a protective shine.
--
Thanks
Gene Baker
You can find us on the World Wide Web at:
http://www.esinet.net/cabg/real_estate/bakerinc.html
Date: Thu, 14 Mar 1996 08:56:12 -0800
From: "James M. Welch"
Subject: 66 story
Hi everyone, I haven't posted in awhile but have been lurking, enjoying
the stories. My sister-in-law and family came to visit and brought with
them a Singer 66 that she bought at a yard sale just because she wanted
the cabinet. She thought I might like the machine!!!! Of course I
would!! Jim has cleaned it up and Singer told me it was made July 10,
1920. I am going to use it in the shop window display next month. Next
month marks the 150th anniversary of the sewing machine patent and I am
doing a "You've Come A Long Way Baby" window with the 66, a FW, and a
computerized ELNA. If I could get my Elias Howe treadle in there I
would, but it won't fit, too wide.
I too would like any suggestions on how to shine this 66 up. Jim has
used WD40 like on all the others he has done but it seems that the laquer
is just coming off and making it more dull. Any suggestions on how to
make it shine? without making the gold trim come off? She has some
beautiful scrolling on her and I've named her Esther after my s-i-l.
Debbie at QPs in NJ
From: BXTJ10A@prodigy.com ( ALTON DAVIS)
Date: Tue, 13 Aug 1996 15:37:17, -0500
Subject: 201 vs Featherweight
To Katy:
The 201 is all gear driven and very heavy so it is much smoother and
quieter than the Featherweight, all else being equal. The Featherweight is
probably the best portable ever made but one of the best machines ever made
as far as sewing performance goes is the 201, although portable it
certainly isn't. My wife uses a 201 for piecing almost exclusinely at
home and reserves the Featherweight for trips and classes. I don't know
about other areas, but around here it's a lot easier to find a nice
Featherweight than it is a nice 201. Some drapery and light upholstry
shops like them and a couple of dealers here give nice trade-ins on 201s
because they have standing orders for any 201 that is mechanically perfect
at $250.00.
Al in IL
Date: 13 Aug 96 15:50:08 EDT
From: Graham Forsdyke <100661.3256@CompuServe.COM>
Subject: Contribution
To Cheryl re Wilson and Gibbs
Sure would have been easier if it was a Willcox and Gibbs -- they basically
only made one domestic model.
The following should help guide you to deciding which model Wheeler and Wilson
you have.
Models 1 to 7 Square(ish) metal stitch plate raised above the bed of the
machine. Needle moves in an arc so is curved.
Model 8 Looking a little more convention but with exposed arm mechanism. Large
figure 8 cast in main frame.
Model 9 Looking very much like a conventional high-arm Singer with enclosed
mecanics.
Which ever model, I can provide a photo copy manual. No charge. Send me snail.
To Elaine
Your new Willcox and Gibbs dates 1917. Threading is tricky but you never have
to
worry about tension -- it's fully automatic. If you need threading diagram,
please let me know.
Ann re Model 12
Yes photo copy of handbook is available but I consider $90 'way too high for a
beat-up anything. Wait for a better one.
Mari re perforated Model 20 toy
You guessed right, the extra holes in the base make it a no no. Prices for
these
-- and all early toys -- are going up every month and I guess you can pay close
to $150 for a near perfect one in its box. $120 if no box. By the time you read
this they will probably have gone up again.
To all
Just a hint. That 8 condition Willcox and Gibbs Larry is offering sounds like a
good buy to me.
Graham Forsdyke
ISMACS London
Date: Tue, 13 Aug 1996 13:34:38 -0700
From: bhickey1@ix.netcom.com (Betty Hickey )
Subject: Mystery Machine is solved
.Early.last.week.I.sent.a.request.for.some.help.in.trying.to.identify.a.sewing.
machine.I.got.at.auction.I.wish.to.extend.my.thanks.to.several.of.you.who.jumpe
d.right.in.there.to.help.me.figure.it.out.To.Shirley.Senitza:I,
with.a.birthdate.of.15.April.1931.My.thanks.to.Terri.Carr.for.your.indepth.info
rmation.on.what.clues.to.look.for.I.will.save.that.data.for.future.mystery.mach
ines.By.the.way@ix.netcom.com,
I.got.the.machine.in.a.lovely.mahogoney.cabinet.I.paid.$35.00.I.think.I.got.a.s
teal.Fwaiting.away@ix.netcom.com
Betty
Date: Tue, 13 Aug 1996 18:25:21 -0400
From: Kilda@aol.com
Subject: Mystery attachment
Thanks to Krisi and Lydia for suggesting one possible solution to my mystery
item. I did get out a magnifying glass and take a better look. No question,
the tiny little pointy item is blued steel. Whether or not I could persuade
it to hook a thread is another question altogether. Given that I am now into
trifocals, I need all the help I can get in threading needles. Seriously,
though, I can neither see nor feel a hook on it. I was hoping that the
Singer # might be helpful in identifying it. Unless anyone else has a
suggestion, I will assume it is a threader and just park it in my stash of
interesting Singer items.
Many thanks.
On another question. I love my FW's. There is no question that they are
easier to haul to class. And if there were a fire, I guess they'd be on my
list just because they don't weigh much. But-------the 401a seems more
powerful, is quieter and has a stitch that I can't match on the FW. And best
of all, it has a knee control lever. I'm awfully tired of chasing a foot
pedal across the floor.
All I know for sure is that any old Singer-geardriven or belt-made primarily
with metal not plastic-gets my vote over any of the newer, fancier machines.
I owned a top of the line Pfaff before I got my first FW. I gladly donated
it to my daughter. The Pfaff was very very tempermental. I really think it
was insulted to be asked to quilt rather than make clothes.
Flo
Date: Tue, 13 Aug 1996 19:46:27 -0400
From: Amishcrazy@aol.com
Subject: White FW
Dear FWF's,
Just had to tell someone about my new addition (had to sneak it in, DH
doesn't know about it yet). Its a white FW 221K, #EV971737. Have to call
Singer for its age.Came with a bunch of attachments and the original manual.
The manual is a hoot, geared very much to that "little woman at home". Well,
the machine is about a 91/2, looks like it hardly saw the light of day. Very
sweet!!! Can anyone give me any more information on the white version? Is it
the same as the black version? Any differences in motors etc.? Also, wanted
more information on 201's and 301's. Any help or info you could give me would
be greatly appreciated. You can e-mail me at Amishcrazy@aol.com or just post
it on the FWF page.
Thanks so much,
Vicki
Date: Tue, 13 Aug 1996 11:55:06 -0500
From: Rebecca Sunderman
Subject: FW's &Other SM's for sale
I've got to make some room here, folks, can't walk thru any longer, and DHh
says something has got to go so here they are -
AJ222043 ( mfg'd.11-18-49) This little FW runs so smoothly and quietly ! I
got it from a woman who has used it as a spare - she makes clothing out of
vintage fabrics, and has taken good caaare of this machine - when I bought
it, it did not have a foot pedal or a case, so I purchased a reproduction
case and new pedal ( which looks just like the original), & new belt, then
had it serviced, even though it didn't need it. It has some weaer on the
front edge and the decals, the faceplate is striated or tuxedo style, and
there is a key and extra bobbin. $395.
AF585856 - (mfg'd. Aug. 15, 1940 )- Like new , except for a few slight
scratches in front of the needle area, and a bit of wear on the front decals
of the fold-up arm. The faceplate on this one is the fancy scrollwork
design. Several extra bobbins. The case is in pretty bad shape, but I have
new latches and a handle ordered for it, which should be here any minute
- right now there is one latch in the center of the case which keeps it
closed, and the handle is a piece of rope. It does have the original tray.
The edges of the case have wood showing where the black covering hs worn
through, but the case itself is structurally sound, as far as I can tell -
in other words, it will hold the machine without it falling through the
bottom or the top coming open. If I were to sell it as is, I would ask $360,
if I replace the latches and handle, it will be $400 ( that is, if my
husband replaces them ).
AH062416 (mfg'd. April 22, 1947) - This one has the fancy faceplate, too,
and is mechanically sound, but the decals on front and side are pretty worn.
There are some attachments, extra feet, etc. The case is in fair shape,
leather handle and tray, but needs new hasps, which are coming with the
other set I have ordered. As is, $300, with new hasps,$330.
This is the one I will have for sale when my birthday buddy shows up -
AK786008 ( mfg'd. February 20, 1952) - striated face plate, case* with
tray, manual, extra bobbins, zigzagger attachment, etc. DH has decided to
strip off the old black covering from this case, since it was torn on the
edges, and is stripping it down to the wood and refinishing it. He wanted
to see how it would come out, since he is thinking of making cases for FW's,
after seeing the reproduction ones. He can do a superior job, IMNSHO, to
what is being done now. I think it's going to be beautiful ! This machine
has been regularly serviced by a Singer guy, and is oiled regularly by yours
truly, and cleaned ! It is showing it's age and use a bit, too, but runs
like a champ, never given me a moment's trouble. I am partial to this
machine, so don't want it to go to just anybody, and will probably ask $375
for it -
I also have a model 128 in a bentwood case, and a model 99 in a case -
each $125. I have some cabinet models, too, if you are interested.
From: sharon@cvo.oneworld.com
Date: Tue, 13 Aug 1996 19:43:31 +0000
Subject: items for sale
An antique dealer in my area (Corvallis, Oregon) has a Centennial 128
(AJ09434) born March 9, 1949 for sale. The birthdate is per Singer,
and the machine does have the Centennial medallion (1851-1951).
Bentwood case with no handle-he's looking for the key. Photocopied
manual. No extra attachments (he's looking), extra bobbins. Lamp
not working. Runs well. Godzilla (ie not shiny) with almost no gold
decorations. Gold faded. Condition 6.5 (wear to paint, no rust). He
wants $70 plus shipping, but I think he'd make a deal for a quick sale.
He also has a shuttle-type bobbin case. It looks like it would fit a
128, but I do not know what size bobbins it takes. He does have
several different size bobbins someone might be able to convince him
to throw in. Price is $39 plus shipping. I don't know if this is a
good price, but I think he'd make a deal if not.
If interested, contact him directly. Jim Hunt 541-753-7155. Please
mention my name or that you heard about it over the internet. I do
have an interest in this as he will give me free attachments or a
discount (I'm hoping for an oil can) if I help him sell either item.
Sharon Reese
____________________________________
FWFanatics@ttsw.com - Singer phone # 1-800-877-7762
And now a word from our sponsor:
Hickory Hills Antique Quilts - Offering a variety of antique
quilts, tops, blocks and fabrics at reasonable prices. Personal service,
credit cards accepted. http://quilt.com/HickoryHill
Received: by emout14.mail.aol.com (8.6.12/8.6.12) id AAA11075 for FWFanatics@ttsw.com; Wed, 14 Aug 1996 00:12:12 -0400
Date: Wed, 14 Aug 1996 00:12:12 -0400
From: WRDipple@aol.com
Message-ID: <960814001212_259041341@emout14.mail.aol.com>
To: FWFanatics@ttsw.com
Subject: As the Fly Wheel Turns ----
Found a beatiful Model 66 over the weekend for $40. Bent wood case in good
condition - the machine is an Apollo hook?(round, drop in, horizontally set,
side bobbin) , born September 20, 1921. A solid 8. The head has an
elaborate floral design in reds and greens and wheel is bright chrome, as is
the brake knob. The foot peddle is a large heavy industrial looking thing --
which makes me wonder if it is original. It has a heavy back-screw presser
foot -- I've never seen this type of foot stem. All of the attachment that
came with have the same type of heavy gauge back mounting fork -- there were
two rolled hemmers, a binding foot, a ruffler and a long gauged metal piece
and foot that I can only assume are for wide hems.
Does anyone have a copy of the 1920's Model 66 manual? Send me a note. TIA.
Oh, and, Graham . . . the machine's name is Ashley.
Wanda from dry-dry-dry Iowa.
=====
Received: from mypc.tdsnet.com (pemi1-a01.shiatel.tds.net [204.246.11.34]) by madison.tdsnet.com (8.6.12/CICNet) with SMTP id XAA13783 for ; Tue, 13 Aug 1996 23:18:06 -0500
Message-ID: <32115403.2832@ccm.tdsnet.com>
Date: Wed, 14 Aug 1996 00:20:31 -0400
From: william gale
Reply-To: bgale@mail.tds.net
X-Mailer: Mozilla 3.0b5 (Win95; I)
MIME-Version: 1.0
To: FWFanatics@ttsw.com
Subject: Auction Fever
References:
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii
Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit
Well, I know that I've been lurking to long, but just had to tell you
all that I've been looking for a treadle to compliment my growing
collection for quite some time - and this weekend I hit the jackpot.
(Cheryl - I've seen that green painted treadle you mentioned, and the
dealer is (was) really hot for me to buy it (95.00)...and he was there
at the auction as well.) The advertisement blared that a rare white FW
was to be auctioned off, and also a Martha Washington cabinet
and White Rotary treadle. Plus alot of other stuff, but who cares about
that!
There were quilters from three counties there. It was in a pristine
case, with velvet(?) attachment bag and looked pretty good - but the
treadle was drawing alot of attention as well. So I wasn't holding out
much hope after the FW went for $565..or thereabouts.
I was feeling dejected, but decided to wander over and see what the
treadle would go for - and no one was bidding! I offered 25.00 and
he said SOLD! Wow! what a birthday present. It cleaned up beautifully,
no gunk at all underneath and runs like a champ - smooth smooth smooth.
Has been electrified, (scarily) but looks to be an easy unconversion.
Needs slight cosmetic work on one drawer - but has ALL attachments, 6
bobbins and slightly edited manual (missing pages 1-4).
Thanks for all the great advice! I never would have attempted it without
you all.
Karen in Bell Oak
very happy treadle owner at last
=====
Received: by emout10.mail.aol.com (8.6.12/8.6.12) id BAA01605; Wed, 14 Aug 1996 01:23:46 -0400
Date: Wed, 14 Aug 1996 01:23:46 -0400
From: WRDipple@aol.com
Message-ID: <960814012345_455998402@emout10.mail.aol.com>
To: phrank@matnet.com, FWFanatics@ttsw.com
Subject: Treadle Machine
Sharon, Sharon, Sharon ----where do you live?!?!?!?!?
I have a lovely, turn-of-the-century WHITE I'll sell to you for __alot__ less
than that!!! This SM comes complete with attachment case in excellent
condition &extra spool-bobbins. The outside of the cabinet finish needs
work but the pulley mechanism and inside cabinet is in Great shape.
About the person who quoted you the $225 for a cabinet: find another sewing
machine repair shop!!!! This guys is trying to take you for a ride!!
Treadles ARE NOT that rare. I mean, it takes some looking but there are
many, many machines out there to be found for incredibly low prices.
Send me a note if you'd like to talk about the WHITE and keep looking at
estate sales and local auctions -- forget the repair shops...at least that
one.
Good Luck - Wanda
=====
Received: by esu9.esu9.k12.ne.us; (5.65v3.2/1.1.8.2/26Dec94-0747PM)
id AA17768; Wed, 14 Aug 1996 02:09:35 -0500
Date: Wed, 14 Aug 1996 01:56:56 -0500 (CDT)
From: Tom Jaworski
Subject: Rubbermaid case?
To: Featherweight Fanatics
In-Reply-To:
Message-Id:
Mime-Version: 1.0
Content-Type: TEXT/PLAIN; charset=US-ASCII
A few months ago, either here or on QuiltNet, someone said they'd found a
Rubbermaid-type handled box that worked well as a FW carrying case.
There weren't any other details that I recall. I've looked everywhere
around here and can't find anything that looks promising. Anybody have a
model/item #, brand name, source, etc.? My FW-babies do have cases and I
*will* get around to replacing the handles (which probably aren't as
untrustworthy as I fear--it sure *feels* like there's a metal strip
inside that leather that's flaking away!), but it would sure be nice to
have something else to use at times and not have to worry about beating up
the real thing. Besides, DH says I collect boxes, too... ;)
Rita in NE (still thinking my "Industrial Model 31" is a 127...)
jaworski@esu9.esu9.k12.ne.us
=====
Received: from ronco-i.freenet.columbus.oh.us (mail.freenet.columbus.oh.us) by pcnet1.pcnet.com (4.1/SMI-4.1)
id AA02737; Tue, 13 Aug 96 21:37:00 EDT
Received: from login by ronco-i.freenet.columbus.oh.us (8.7.5/5.960408)
id VAA07242; Tue, 13 Aug 1996 21:40:01 -0400 (EDT)
Received: by login (8.6.10) id VAA17459; Tue, 13 Aug 1996 21:40:01 -0400
Date: Tue, 13 Aug 1996 21:13:20 -0400 (EDT)
From: Marilyn Root
Subject: flea market finds
To: FWFanatics@ttsw.com
Message-Id:
Mime-Version: 1.0
Content-Type: TEXT/PLAIN; charset=US-ASCII
In Columbus we have an indoor flea market open on weekends. We have found
sewing machines there in the past. We went Friday and saw quite a few
machines - a 15, a 101, and a 603 among others. The DH surprised me with
a beautiful 66 he got for $14. Has red and green decorations as well as
gold and I am a sucker for those pretty ones. Haven't called Singer yet
but I think it is early 1920s. The 127 in our treadle had a bad case of
flaking varnish, design included, so we replaced it with the 66. Looks
like it belongs. Same vintage.
Does anyone need any parts from a 127?
My daughter was at the flea market with us and on Saturday she went back
to get a bird cage. She called us and said she had found a Singer oil
can. Did we want it? You bet we wanted it. It is one of the very little
ones and had Singer in raised letters, no paint or Singer seal.
I read about the Singer heiress this week. Do you suppose she would have
any records or info that would interest us? Probably not. Just the
money. Wonder which one of Isaac's families she came from.
To Katy in Michigan - The reason your 201 is so quiet is because it is
gear driven and not run with a belt like the 221. We are getting company
and had to take the last 3 FWs out of the living room. The DH put them in
the hall closet. There are six there now and he says he could fit in 2
more. So who needs floor space for boots? This is right next to the
front door so I could grab 2 and run in case of fire. Of course, I might
be tempted to run back in and grab 2 more and then 2 more.
To Barb in Texas - I have never seen a Singer with a bouquet of roses on
it. Sounds beautiful. Let us know what year it was made. And what is a
237? That's one I haven't come across.
The more Singers I see, the more puzzled I am about all the models they
made. They were still making shuttle models when they were making the
round bobbin machines. And I always associated shuttles with treadles but
many treadles had the round bobbin machines. In any given year, there
must have been a lot of different models to choose from, and even when
they started making zig-zag machines, they were also putting lots of
straight stitch models.
Good hunting to everyone.
Marilyn
=====
Received: from franklin.cris.com by pcnet1.pcnet.com (4.1/SMI-4.1)
id AA29072; Tue, 13 Aug 96 20:47:53 EDT
Received: from cliff.cris.com (cliff.cris.com [199.3.12.45])
by franklin.cris.com (8.7.5/(96/06/11 2.45))
id UAA20209; Tue, 13 Aug 1996 20:51:26 -0400 (EDT)
[1-800-745-2747 The Concentric Network]
Errors-To: sweigam@cris.com
Received: from LOCALNAME (cnc216341.concentric.net [206.173.126.41])
by cliff.cris.com (8.7.5)
id UAA10319; Tue, 13 Aug 1996 20:51:21 -0400 (EDT)
Message-Id: <32114D15.69D6@cris.com>
Date: Tue, 13 Aug 1996 20:50:45 -0700
From: mark &katy
X-Mailer: Mozilla 2.02 (Win16; I)
Mime-Version: 1.0
To: Featherweight Fanatics
Subject: Round rear plate
References:
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii
Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit
Recently someone was looking for a round rear plate for a 66 I believe.
If you need one, please e-mail me. I think I have one for you. Thanks,
Katy
=====
Received: from gatekeeper2.mcimail.com by pcnet1.pcnet.com (4.1/SMI-4.1)
id AA29055; Tue, 13 Aug 96 20:47:17 EDT
Received: from mailgate2.mcimail.com (mailgate2.mcimail.com [166.40.135.23]) by gatekeeper2.mcimail.com (8.6.12/8.6.10) with SMTP id AAA03552; Wed, 14 Aug 1996 00:56:27 GMT
Received: from mcimail.com by mailgate2.mcimail.com id ad25812;
14 Aug 96 0:51 WET
Date: Tue, 13 Aug 96 19:50 EST
From: Fred Headley <0002013163@mcimail.com>
To: FWFanatics
Subject: new fanatic
Message-Id: <92960814005029/0002013163PJ4EM@MCIMAIL.COM>
-- [ From: F. Headley * EMC.Ver #2.3 ] --
I have two FW's. I found the first one at a local estate sale for $5, in
excellent condition with case and attachments. The 2nd was found at a yard sale
for $25. It had a broken bobbin slot-was told that a new one would cost $150
but found a local repairman for factory machines that made the part and
serviced the machine for $25.00. Last week I found a 301 with case in very
good condition for $45. It also had the zigzag attachment.
Being new- will someone tell me the difference between a 301 and 301A?
Va quilter
=====
Received: from cgchm.is.chbs by gatekeeper; (5.65v3.2/1.1.8.2/12Mar96-0208PM)
id AA21750; Wed, 14 Aug 1996 15:01:33 +0200
Received: from mta1.is.chbs by Central.CHBS.CIBA.COM
id AA27248; Wed, 14 Aug 1996 14:59:59 +0200 (5.65c8/Ciba2.0-C1.1)
Received: by mta1.is.chbs (5.65v3.2/DEC-Ultrix/4.3)
id AA22103; Wed, 14 Aug 1996 14:59:28 +0200
X400-Received: by /PRMD=CIBA/ADMD=ATTMAIL/C=CH/;
converted ((1) (0) (10021) (7) (1) (0) (1), (1) (0) (10021) (7) (1) (0) (6), (1) (0) (10021) (7) (1) (0) (100));
Relayed; 14 Aug 1996 08:56:11 +0500
X400-Received: by mta chbs-mta1 in /PRMD=ciba/ADMD=attmail/C=ch/;
converted ((1) (0) (10021) (7) (1) (0) (1), (1) (0) (10021) (7) (1) (0) (6), (1) (0) (10021) (7) (1) (0) (100));
Relayed; 14 Aug 1996 12:59:25 +0000
Date: 14 Aug 1996 12:59:25 +0000
X400-Originator: mary.lehrhoff@ussu-msm1.ussu.mhs.ciba.com
X400-Recipients: non-disclosure:;
X400-Mts-Identifier: [/PRMD=CIBA/ADMD=ATTMAIL/C=CH/;960814035611]
From: "Lehrhoff Mary MSM SUPH US"
To: FWF
Subject: Stuff
Importance: normal
Autoforwarded: FALSE
Message-Id: <"00025B3D.MAI*/PN=mary.lehrhoff/OU=ussu-msm1/OU=ussu/O=ciba/PRMD=CIBA/ADMD=ATTMAIL/C=CH/"@MHS>
Mime-Version: 1.0
Original-Encoded-Information-Types:
Content-Identifier: CSI NC V3.0
X400-Content-Type: P2-1988 (22)
Priority: normal
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1
Content-Transfer-Encoding: binary
The best time for me to get anything out is early am these days. By the
time I get home and get over supper, it's time to hit the sack...
So: to Katy in Michigan:
Do you remember (or did your mom tell you?) the line from the old song?
"Love the One You're With???" This is the best advice I can offer on
favorites in any category...which includes our beloved SM's. I do love my 5
(used be 6...sob) FW's. But I love my 301's, my 201, my 15, my 192, 128,
all my 99's, all my 66's, my 500a, my 431G, my 401, my 24, my Bernina 1630,
my Bond, Elna, Edison, Kenmore...my No.#2 Vibrating Shuttle, my "toys" and
all the yet to be acquired little darlings. Like children &spouses, they
all have their good points....and their LESS good points...so, LOVE THE ONE
YOU'RE WITH! (That 201 is a Sewing Devil, tho')
To Barb:
One will never learn if one does not participate.. This is FUN, so it's not
too difficult to do..the FWFs are the best bunch of giving people I've had
the good luck to associate in a long while...first, there's Sue, who keeps
it all together with admirable style and then there's each and every
individual Feather who reads and or posts to the digest. This (to me,
anyway) is for Fun, Education, &Sharing....a day without a Feather Fix....I
get the shakes!
Anyway, it sounds like you have things under control if you have your DH
interested too. Mine (whilst a Dear) is barely able to conceal the
impending yawn or glaze that comes over his beautiful blue eyes when I
(every now &then) talk SMs, FWs....you can really tell his High Level of
Interest ! (NOT). He does show interest if I mention $$$, like if I got an
FW for $15. (He doesn't have a clue, or pretends not to, about all the FW
siblings &cousins!!!!)
General:
I never get to Flea Markets....I think I'm going to have to search around
and start hitting one now and again, after reading of the interesting good
stuff so many of you have found....
About dropping the feed dogs: I don't know how either, but I thought
someone posted about a plate cover that is for the 301 that will do the same
thing? Is this right? Could someone very knowledgeable Feather let us
know?
I still want to get a decent case for the 301 but "reasonable." I thought I
could do without it, but my mom will need to travel with it when she
travels...(Jim: do you have one?) I have a big ugly plastic thing the
dealer gave me to put it in, but it's not the right one, you couldn't sew
with the base...and it's too heavy for her...I know someone posted not long
ago and I put out a feeler, but didn't get a followup...so still
interested..
I have a couple "generic" manuals....not many, but I wonder if we should
have a list of all the odd balls and if there would be any way to cross
reference them...like maybe one would be good for other machines, like the
185 is good for the Spartan. I have 2 manuals called Deluxe, and one or two
others...I know how annoying it is to have a machine and not be able to get
a manual. So this would be a good database for some enterprising person to
set up and cross reference, right? (not me, I'm just volunteering the
thought and whatever documentation I have)
To Lydia:
I was just in Ohio a few weeks ago. I wish I could come back for the
Fair....I never got to go and would really love it...sigh...have a good
time...
To Larry Doyle:
IMO (in my opinion) I don't think anyone accused you of deceptive
practices...just high prices! The $650 FWs, I think....like I said, this is
just my opionion....I think we all need to think before we "speak" so as to
not hurt anyone's feelings. I know I sometimes leap without looking.
Someone else pointed this out to me recently....after all, we Feathers are
in this for the fun, right? If it becomes tedious or sad or annoying, it
would change, and there's so many wonderful, caring, thoughtful people out
there, this can't be allowed to happen....Happy Feathering only, in my
humble opinion...free enterprise being what it is, some entrepenuers charge
more than others...this is the way it is...it's up to the individual to
educate themself and learn what is a "good" price...some people
unfortunately, don't care how much money they spend and will pay any price
to get the Feather of Their Dreams. I've looked at many that were Pristine
and coveted them, but can not/will not pay Big Bucks.....but this is MY
philosophy.......now, off my platform...back to fun stuff.
To Irene:
Re: your 10 FW...after the price, you put Cnd. What does this mean?
Sounds like you got what I've been lusting after...oh well, one of these
days....enjoy!
To Bobbie:
Thank you, thank you, once again, Bobbie to the rescue...also, I read your
8/11 posting about..............DUSTING?????? You, a Woman of the
90's....dusting!!!! Yuk! Only when the cobwebs hit my head would I even
consider removal....I put the thingy on my vac and go mad about 1X a year
getting the more obnoxious dusty things....
You're now a publisher, you can't be bothered with the demands of
domesticity....that's much too mundane for a Woman of Your
Talents....(...xoxo Bobbie...you're a doll!
Well I have to put the pedal to the metal now and get cracking at the nasty
side of life, work!!!toodles to all of you Feathers....Happy Hunting! Mary
=====
Received: from 486_25.CGS.com (ppp69.s5.pgh.net [206.210.66.69]) by doit.pgh.net (8.7.4/PGH.NET-01) with SMTP id QAA04230 for ; Wed, 14 Aug 1996 16:09:54 -0400 (EDT)
Message-ID:
Read-Receipt-To: Walt Jackson
To: FWFanatics@ttsw.com
MIME-Version: 1.0
From: Walt Jackson
Subject: Model 221.
Date: Wed, 14 Aug 96 16:07:09 PDT
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; X-MAPIextension=".TXT"
Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit
Could you please send some information on the 221 to: Mrs. Pauline Oliveira, 158 Thomas Lane, North Swansea.MA. 02777, (508) 379-1142. She is a very talented craftsperson and has begun quiting. She ran across a model 221 and requires some assistance authenticating this particular machine and it's value. She does not have e mail at this time but only time will tell. Thank You very much, she is a special person and this would indeed be helpful and make her very happy.
=====
Received: from relay1.Hawaii.Edu by pcnet1.pcnet.com (4.1/SMI-4.1)
id AA14892; Wed, 14 Aug 96 18:00:50 EDT
Received: from uhunix5.its.Hawaii.Edu ([128.171.44.55]) by relay1.Hawaii.Edu with SMTP id <11568(10)>; Wed, 14 Aug 1996 12:04:14 -1000
Received: from localhost by uhunix5.its.Hawaii.Edu with SMTP id <188961>; Wed, 14 Aug 1996 12:04:00 -1000
Date: Wed, 14 Aug 1996 12:03:56 -1000
From: "Charles B. Law"
X-Sender: claw@uhunix5
To: Featherweight Fanatics
Subject: Antique Sewing Machine Resource Page
In-Reply-To:
Message-Id:
Mime-Version: 1.0
Content-Type: TEXT/PLAIN; charset=US-ASCII
Thanks to all of you who have visited the web page I created. I didn't
expect it to be so popular or to receive so many comments! I'll be
actively updating the page daily until the end of the month. If you have
any photos of machines you'd like to add to the site, I would be happy to
scan them for free. These could be either pictures of machines you have
for sale or of those you'd like to show to the other ladies and gents here
on the FWF group.
BTW, I am far from a sewing machine expert-- I learned most of what I know
by reading the FWF newsletters (which are very educational). I'm just a
student here at the university who enjoys the "odd" hobby of collecting
sewing machines. As such if you find any errors on the site, feel free to
point them out and I'll fix them.
I got most of the engravings and old photos from three books--
Sewing Machines by Rosamond Cook, 1922
Mechanics of the Sewing Machine by Singer Sewing Machine Co, 1914
Sears Catalog, 1897 (reprint)
Again, thanks for all of the positive comments and encouragement!
-Charles.
----------------------------------------------------
=====
Received: from emout15.mail.aol.com (emout15.mx.aol.com) by pcnet1.pcnet.com (4.1/SMI-4.1)
id AA11736; Wed, 14 Aug 96 17:28:24 EDT
Received: by emout15.mail.aol.com (8.6.12/8.6.12) id RAA29701 for FWFanatics@ttsw.com; Wed, 14 Aug 1996 17:34:46 -0400
Date: Wed, 14 Aug 1996 17:34:46 -0400
From: JimAlmonte@aol.com
Message-Id: <960814173446_259616927@emout15.mail.aol.com>
To: FWFanatics@ttsw.com
Subject: How I rescued somebody's DH from major trouble
While cruising the rummage sales today (Wed. and Sat. are sale days here) I
stopped at one that looked like it had a sewing machine cabinet out front.
Walked up to the cabinet and setting on top of it was the tray from a
featherweight case with bobbins, motor lubricant, book, feet, etc. The
cabinet was marked $10--I opened the cabinet up and there was a
99--mechanically okay as far as I could tell but a lot of gold missing and
scratched up, AB serial number, but definitely not the machine for the stuff
setting on top. I then asked the guy running the sale if he had the machine
that went with the tray of stuff for sale. He insisted it went with the 99
and I showed him how the bobbin in the 99 was not the same as the bobbins in
the tray.
So he takes off into the house to consult with his wife and comes back out
to tell me that he had accidentally picked up the tray of stuff from her
featherweight thinking it went with the machine they were selling and that
she was not selling her featherweight. Of course, I could have given him the
$10 for the 99 and what he thought went with it and he'd been none the wiser
until his wife went looking for her featherweight stuff, but, instead he was
resuced and I'm still looking for that bargain featherweight.
Cyndi
(Janesville, WI)
=====
Received: by hil-img-4.compuserve.com (8.6.10/5.950515)
id TAA10821; Wed, 14 Aug 1996 19:15:02 -0400
Date: 14 Aug 96 19:13:22 EDT
From: Graham Forsdyke <100661.3256@CompuServe.COM>
To: Featherweight Fanatics
Subject: Contribution
Message-ID: <960814231322_100661.3256_EHV61-1@CompuServe.COM>
To Margel re Muller
Muller was one of the few toy manufacturers to number machines. In fact the best
way to "test" for a Muller is to look for the number on the stitch plate. The
actual sn is always preceeded with "No" but with the "o" raised to the level of
the top of the "N". Only Muller machines which escaped the numbering for some
unkown reason was the Mary.
Price you paid was good in a rapidly escalating market.
There was no manual for this model simply an instruction sheet. Sure I've got
ane somewheres and will try to sort you a copy when I get back from vacation.
It's the the "yet to be filed" box.
To B Sawyer re Singer threading
Can send you photocopy manual but not for a month. If you do not get one e-mail
me after Sept 14.
To Beth et al re Wheeler and Wilson
Something wrong here. The no 8 W&W was not introduced until 1878 so the 1866
model is either much later or is a number seven. Will post this to you as well.
To Millie et al re flyer
I know the guy who spread the flyer. He's OK but this method of touting for
machines does us all harm -- including himself.
Offering $500 to $2000 for machines may well get him some phone calls,
especially with an 800 number, but look at it from a dealer's point of view.
He attends an auction with a couple of sewing machines. He normally doesn't deal
too much in them but he's had the flyer and invests a few hundred bucks. he
makes the call and of course is told that they are not quite the right model and
he gets offered less than he payed for them. Our problem is that this dealer is
never going to touch another sewing machjines in his life and he will tell of
his experiences to other dealers who will go the same route.
There's no short cuts to a good collection. You either spend a lot of time
beating the woods of you pay market price to a specialist dealer.
Debbie re shine
For a quick shine use Armorall protectorant(sp?) availble in auto stores. Won't
harm anything.
To AL in IL
Katy's experience with the "vibration" in her FW may have a mechanical cause.
Yesterday I had eight FWs up and running on the bench. Six were perfect but one
had a slight vibration and the last almost danced off the table. Don't have time
to experiment for the moment but I wonder if the machines with problems had been
stripped and the counterbalance in the lower shaft put back in the wrong
position. This would certainly cause the problems.
To Vicki
The 221K "white" machines were produced at Clydebank Scotland. They were sold in
the UK between 1955 and 64 in a variety of shades of white/green. Much rarer in
the UK than in America which makes me suppose that the majority went for export.
To Sharon
With the greatest of respect, $70 for a beat-up 1949 128 with a 1951 Centential
badge is far too high and $39 for a shuttle is plain crazy!
I'm not wanting to queer any business your dealer might do but we are here to
share information and I guess that includes comments on wild prices.
Graham Forsdyke
ISMACS London
=====
Received: from mime4.prodigy.com ([192.168.254.43]) by pimaia2y.prodigy.com (8.6.10/8.6.9) with ESMTP id SAA17370 for ; Wed, 14 Aug 1996 18:51:47 -0400
Received: (from root@localhost) by mime4.prodigy.com (8.6.10/8.6.9) id SAA20542 for FWFanatics@ttsw.com; Wed, 14 Aug 1996 18:20:31 -0400
Message-Id: <199608142220.SAA20542@mime4.prodigy.com>
X-Mailer: Prodigy Internet GW(v0.9beta) - ae01dm02sc02
From: TSGB45B@prodigy.com (MRS CATHY A SANDHOEFNER)
Date: Wed, 14 Aug 1996 18:20:31, -0500
To: FWFanatics@ttsw.com
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 8/12/96
Regarding Katy's survey what I'd carry out in a fire.....I'd definately
grab my featherweight. I only have two singers...the fw and a 99. 3
other machines in cabinets, (two Sears and one White)...too hard to carry
out...and one Minnesota head.
But I really LOVE my fw; she just purrs. So sweet. MUCH quieter than
my 99 too.
Yep! Have to be the fw in one arm, photo albums in the other. g!
...c
=====
Received: from Aunt_Em (s0edx2.educ.monash.edu.au [130.194.180.207]) by edx1.educ.monash.edu.au (8.6.9/8.6.9) with SMTP id KAA12567 for ; Thu, 15 Aug 1996 10:54:14 +1000
Message-Id: <1.5.4.32.19960815002151.00721dc4@gateway>
X-Sender: jeanette#edx1.educ.monash.edu.au@gateway
X-Mailer: Windows Eudora Light Version 1.5.4 (32)
Mime-Version: 1.0
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
Date: Thu, 15 Aug 1996 10:21:51 +1000
To: FWFanatics@ttsw.com
From: Jeanette Holkner
Subject: 210 and needle threader
If anyone is contemplating seaching out the singer needle threaders I have
one exactly the same as the threader previously described but with the part
no. 189693. It came with a 206k. This one has the 'finger' or 'daschund
head' at right angles to the oval end. It works brilliantly resting the
head on the raised presser foot and with the needle bar at it's highest
point the blue metal hook slips in and catches the thread. The finger helps
to pull the loop through.
Regarding 201s mine is my favourite piecing machine because it is so quiet,
and being a 201k it is belt driven. I also like the knee lever. Mine
wasn't springing back completly which left the motor buzzing so I opened the
control box and oiled the lever points just inside. Now it works like a dream.
I've also just met my 222k twin, the one bought back from England by Julie.
Any other twins that know each other?
Jeanette in Melbourne Australia
=====
Received: from cliff.cris.com (cliff.cris.com [199.3.12.45])
by franklin.cris.com (8.7.5/(96/08/14 2.47))
id UAA05728; Wed, 14 Aug 1996 20:23:57 -0400 (EDT)
[1-800-745-2747 The Concentric Network]
Errors-To: sweigam@cris.com
Received: from LOCALNAME (cnc216139.concentric.net [206.173.115.139])
by cliff.cris.com (8.7.5)
id UAA22645; Wed, 14 Aug 1996 20:23:16 -0400 (EDT)
Message-ID: <321297FF.4507@cris.com>
Date: Wed, 14 Aug 1996 20:22:39 -0700
From: mark &katy
X-Mailer: Mozilla 2.02 (Win16; I)
MIME-Version: 1.0
To: FWFanatics@ttsw.com
Subject: Attachments /Machine for sale
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii
Content-Transfer-Encoding: 7bit
I didn't see this show up the first time I sent it so am sending it on
again. I have found more extra attachments that I don't need so I have
the following for sale:
1. Singer Circular Stitcher, original box, no instructions. Says it is
for a Touch and
Sew but since it screws to the bed, it would probably fit any machine.
$5.00
2. Two Singer Buttonhole attachments in one box, # 121795, photocopy of
manual, one
feed cover plate. Older style that does not use cams. Box is pretty
worn. $19
3. Set of six attachments to fit FW or any low shank Singer. Includes:
ruffler,
multislotted binder, adjustable hemmer, zipper foot, edge stitcher, foot
hemmer.
Excellent condition. Has bottom only of original green box $34
4. Another set of 7 attachments, will fit FW or any low shank Singer,
contains:
binder, foot hemmer, ruffler, adjustable hemmer, tucker, zipper foot and
cloth guide. No
box. A couple of the attachments have slight surface rust, can be
removed with steel
wool. $28
5. Several sets of Greist attachments in the black metal, velvet lined
boxes, fits top
clamping machines, NOT FWs. $10 each
6. Beautiful Model 15, condition is a 9. Sews beautifully, in a cloth
covered case.$50
or best offer.
7. Metal foot pedal from a 99. May work for other models as well, the
guts look
just like those in the black plastic type foot pedal. Works fine. $10
Prices do not include shipping. E-mail if interested. Thanks much and
have a great day,
Katy
=====
Received: from x8.boston.juno.com by pcnet1.pcnet.com (4.1/SMI-4.1)
id AA25038; Sun, 11 Aug 96 20:54:34 EDT
Received: (from im.quiltin@juno.com) by x8.boston.juno.com (queuemail)
id UAB19385; Sun, 11 Aug 1996 20:57:25 EDT
To: FWFanatics@ttsw.com
Subject: treadle bobbin cover
Message-Id: <19960811.195229.4566.1.im.quiltin@juno.com>
X-Mailer: Juno 1.15
X-Juno-Line-Breaks: 0-1,6-7,14-15,17-18
From: im.quiltin@juno.com (Jenifer J Markey)
Date: Sun, 11 Aug 1996 20:57:25 EDT
Hi all,
Just was wondering how easy it is to find the little metal *thing* that
holds the cover on over the bobbin in a SM, such as a model 66. I saw a
treadle for sale and the bobbin cover was off because the metal strip
that you slide it onto was half broken off. ( This is the top loading
round bobbin).
It would be simple to replace, just take out the screw and put in a new
one. The bobbin cover is there, not missing and the machine is not in
fantastic shape, but with a little elbow grease would look pretty good.
It is in an antique shop for $48.50. I have a hard time knowing what is
a good buy, and what is not. I know this isn't an *old* treadle, but so
many of what I see are in the $125 and up range, with heads in worse
shape, only older.
I'm having a real hard time knowing what to pay for the different models.
Most of what I see seems overpriced for machines that aren't FWs.
Received: from ttsw.com ([204.249.244.11]) by pcnet1.pcnet.com (4.1/SMI-4.1)
id AA22147; Thu, 15 Aug 96 14:19:53 EDT
Date: Thu, 15 Aug 96 14:37:19 -0500
From: Featherweight Fanatics
Subject: FW Fanatics 8/15/96
To: Sue@quilt.com
X-Mailer: LeeMail 2.0.5
Message-Id:
Date: Wed, 14 Aug 1996 00:12:12 -0400
From: WRDipple@aol.com
Subject: As the Fly Wheel Turns ----
Found a beatiful Model 66 over the weekend for $40. Bent wood case in good
condition - the machine is an Apollo hook?(round, drop in, horizontally set,
side bobbin) , born September 20, 1921. A solid 8. The head has an
elaborate floral design in reds and greens and wheel is bright chrome, as is
the brake knob. The foot peddle is a large heavy industrial looking thing --
which makes me wonder if it is original. It has a heavy back-screw presser
foot -- I've never seen this type of foot stem. All of the attachment that
came with have the same type of heavy gauge back mounting fork -- there were
two rolled hemmers, a binding foot, a ruffler and a long gauged metal piece
and foot that I can only assume are for wide hems.
Does anyone have a copy of the 1920's Model 66 manual? Send me a note. TIA.
Oh, and, Graham . . . the machine's name is Ashley.
Wanda from dry-dry-dry Iowa.
Date: Wed, 14 Aug 1996 00:20:31 -0400
From: william gale
Subject: Auction Fever
Well, I know that I've been lurking to long, but just had to tell you
all that I've been looking for a treadle to compliment my growing
collection for quite some time - and this weekend I hit the jackpot.
(Cheryl - I've seen that green painted treadle you mentioned, and the
dealer is (was) really hot for me to buy it (95.00)...and he was there
at the auction as well.) The advertisement blared that a rare white FW
was to be auctioned off, and also a Martha Washington cabinet
and White Rotary treadle. Plus alot of other stuff, but who cares about
that!
There were quilters from three counties there. It was in a pristine
case, with velvet(?) attachment bag and looked pretty good - but the
treadle was drawing alot of attention as well. So I wasn't holding out
much hope after the FW went for $565..or thereabouts.
I was feeling dejected, but decided to wander over and see what the
treadle would go for - and no one was bidding! I offered 25.00 and
he said SOLD! Wow! what a birthday present. It cleaned up beautifully,
no gunk at all underneath and runs like a champ - smooth smooth smooth.
Has been electrified, (scarily) but looks to be an easy unconversion.
Needs slight cosmetic work on one drawer - but has ALL attachments, 6
bobbins and slightly edited manual (missing pages 1-4).
Thanks for all the great advice! I never would have attempted it without
you all.
Karen in Bell Oak
very happy treadle owner at last
Date: Wed, 14 Aug 1996 01:23:46 -0400
From: WRDipple@aol.com
Subject: Treadle Machine
Sharon, Sharon, Sharon ----where do you live?!?!?!?!?
I have a lovely, turn-of-the-century WHITE I'll sell to you for __alot__ less
than that!!! This SM comes complete with attachment case in excellent
condition &extra spool-bobbins. The outside of the cabinet finish needs
work but the pulley mechanism and inside cabinet is in Great shape.
About the person who quoted you the $225 for a cabinet: find another sewing
machine repair shop!!!! This guys is trying to take you for a ride!!
Treadles ARE NOT that rare. I mean, it takes some looking but there are
many, many machines out there to be found for incredibly low prices.
Send me a note if you'd like to talk about the WHITE and keep looking at
estate sales and local auctions -- forget the repair shops...at least that
one.
Good Luck - Wanda
Date: Wed, 14 Aug 1996 01:56:56 -0500 (CDT)
From: Tom Jaworski
Subject: Rubbermaid case?
A few months ago, either here or on QuiltNet, someone said they'd found a
Rubbermaid-type handled box that worked well as a FW carrying case.
There weren't any other details that I recall. I've looked everywhere
around here and can't find anything that looks promising. Anybody have a
model/item #, brand name, source, etc.? My FW-babies do have cases and I
*will* get around to replacing the handles (which probably aren't as
untrustworthy as I fear--it sure *feels* like there's a metal strip
inside that leather that's flaking away!), but it would sure be nice to
have something else to use at times and not have to worry about beating up
the real thing. Besides, DH says I collect boxes, too... ;)
Rita in NE (still thinking my "Industrial Model 31" is a 127...)
jaworski@esu9.esu9.k12.ne.us
Date: Tue, 13 Aug 1996 21:13:20 -0400 (EDT)
From: Marilyn Root
Subject: flea market finds
In Columbus we have an indoor flea market open on weekends. We have found
sewing machines there in the past. We went Friday and saw quite a few
machines - a 15, a 101, and a 603 among others. The DH surprised me with
a beautiful 66 he got for $14. Has red and green decorations as well as
gold and I am a sucker for those pretty ones. Haven't called Singer yet
but I think it is early 1920s. The 127 in our treadle had a bad case of
flaking varnish, design included, so we replaced it with the 66. Looks
like it belongs. Same vintage.
Does anyone need any parts from a 127?
My daughter was at the flea market with us and on Saturday she went back
to get a bird cage. She called us and said she had found a Singer oil
can. Did we want it? You bet we wanted it. It is one of the very little
ones and had Singer in raised letters, no paint or Singer seal.
I read about the Singer heiress this week. Do you suppose she would have
any records or info that would interest us? Probably not. Just the
money. Wonder which one of Isaac's families she came from.
To Katy in Michigan - The reason your 201 is so quiet is because it is
gear driven and not run with a belt like the 221. We are getting company
and had to take the last 3 FWs out of the living room. The DH put them in
the hall closet. There are six there now and he says he could fit in 2
more. So who needs floor space for boots? This is right next to the
front door so I could grab 2 and run in case of fire. Of course, I might
be tempted to run back in and grab 2 more and then 2 more.
To Barb in Texas - I have never seen a Singer with a bouquet of roses on
it. Sounds beautiful. Let us know what year it was made. And what is a
237? That's one I haven't come across.
The more Singers I see, the more puzzled I am about all the models they
made. They were still making shuttle models when they were making the
round bobbin machines. And I always associated shuttles with treadles but
many treadles had the round bobbin machines. In any given year, there
must have been a lot of different models to choose from, and even when
they started making zig-zag machines, they were also putting lots of
straight stitch models.
Good hunting to everyone.
Marilyn
Date: Tue, 13 Aug 1996 20:50:45 -0700
From: mark &katy
Subject: Round rear plate
Recently someone was looking for a round rear plate for a 66 I believe.
If you need one, please e-mail me. I think I have one for you. Thanks,
Katy
Date: Tue, 13 Aug 96 19:50 EST
From: Fred Headley <0002013163@mcimail.com>
Subject: new fanatic
I have two FW's. I found the first one at a local estate sale for $5, in
excellent condition with case and attachments. The 2nd was found at a yard sale
for $25. It had a broken bobbin slot-was told that a new one would cost $150
but found a local repairman for factory machines that made the part and
serviced the machine for $25.00. Last week I found a 301 with case in very
good condition for $45. It also had the zigzag attachment.
Being new- will someone tell me the difference between a 301 and 301A?
Va quilter
Date: 14 Aug 1996 12:59:25 +0000
From: "Lehrhoff Mary MSM SUPH US"
Subject: Stuff
The best time for me to get anything out is early am these days. By the
time I get home and get over supper, it's time to hit the sack...
So: to Katy in Michigan:
Do you remember (or did your mom tell you?) the line from the old song?
"Love the One You're With???" This is the best advice I can offer on
favorites in any category...which includes our beloved SM's. I do love my 5
(used be 6...sob) FW's. But I love my 301's, my 201, my 15, my 192, 128,
all my 99's, all my 66's, my 500a, my 431G, my 401, my 24, my Bernina 1630,
my Bond, Elna, Edison, Kenmore...my No.#2 Vibrating Shuttle, my "toys" and
all the yet to be acquired little darlings. Like children &spouses, they
all have their good points....and their LESS good points...so, LOVE THE ONE
YOU'RE WITH! (That 201 is a Sewing Devil, tho')
To Barb:
One will never learn if one does not participate.. This is FUN, so it's not
too difficult to do..the FWFs are the best bunch of giving people I've had
the good luck to associate in a long while...first, there's Sue, who keeps
it all together with admirable style and then there's each and every
individual Feather who reads and or posts to the digest. This (to me,
anyway) is for Fun, Education, &Sharing....a day without a Feather Fix....I
get the shakes!
Anyway, it sounds like you have things under control if you have your DH
interested too. Mine (whilst a Dear) is barely able to conceal the
impending yawn or glaze that comes over his beautiful blue eyes when I
(every now &then) talk SMs, FWs....you can really tell his High Level of
Interest ! (NOT). He does show interest if I mention $$$, like if I got an
FW for $15. (He doesn't have a clue, or pretends not to, about all the FW
siblings &cousins!!!!)
General:
I never get to Flea Markets....I think I'm going to have to search around
and start hitting one now and again, after reading of the interesting good
stuff so many of you have found....
About dropping the feed dogs: I don't know how either, but I thought
someone posted about a plate cover that is for the 301 that will do the same
thing? Is this right? Could someone very knowledgeable Feather let us
know?
I still want to get a decent case for the 301 but "reasonable." I thought I
could do without it, but my mom will need to travel with it when she
travels...(Jim: do you have one?) I have a big ugly plastic thing the
dealer gave me to put it in, but it's not the right one, you couldn't sew
with the base...and it's too heavy for her...I know someone posted not long
ago and I put out a feeler, but didn't get a followup...so still
interested..
I have a couple "generic" manuals....not many, but I wonder if we should
have a list of all the odd balls and if there would be any way to cross
reference them...like maybe one would be good for other machines, like the
185 is good for the Spartan. I have 2 manuals called Deluxe, and one or two
others...I know how annoying it is to have a machine and not be able to get
a manual. So this would be a good database for some enterprising person to
set up and cross reference, right? (not me, I'm just volunteering the
thought and whatever documentation I have)
To Lydia:
I was just in Ohio a few weeks ago. I wish I could come back for the
Fair....I never got to go and would really love it...sigh...have a good
time...
To Larry Doyle:
IMO (in my opinion) I don't think anyone accused you of deceptive
practices...just high prices! The $650 FWs, I think....like I said, this is
just my opionion....I think we all need to think before we "speak" so as to
not hurt anyone's feelings. I know I sometimes leap without looking.
Someone else pointed this out to me recently....after all, we Feathers are
in this for the fun, right? If it becomes tedious or sad or annoying, it
would change, and there's so many wonderful, caring, thoughtful people out
there, this can't be allowed to happen....Happy Feathering only, in my
humble opinion...free enterprise being what it is, some entrepenuers charge
more than others...this is the way it is...it's up to the individual to
educate themself and learn what is a "good" price...some people
unfortunately, don't care how much money they spend and will pay any price
to get the Feather of Their Dreams. I've looked at many that were Pristine
and coveted them, but can not/will not pay Big Bucks.....but this is MY
philosophy.......now, off my platform...back to fun stuff.
To Irene:
Re: your 10 FW...after the price, you put Cnd. What does this mean?
Sounds like you got what I've been lusting after...oh well, one of these
days....enjoy!
To Bobbie:
Thank you, thank you, once again, Bobbie to the rescue...also, I read your
8/11 posting about..............DUSTING?????? You, a Woman of the
90's....dusting!!!! Yuk! Only when the cobwebs hit my head would I even
consider removal....I put the thingy on my vac and go mad about 1X a year
getting the more obnoxious dusty things....
You're now a publisher, you can't be bothered with the demands of
domesticity....that's much too mundane for a Woman of Your
Talents....(...xoxo Bobbie...you're a doll!
Well I have to put the pedal to the metal now and get cracking at the nasty
side of life, work!!!toodles to all of you Feathers....Happy Hunting! Mary
From: Walt Jackson
Subject: Model 221.
Date: Wed, 14 Aug 96 16:07:09 PDT
Could you please send some information on the 221 to: Mrs. Pauline Oliveira,
158 Thomas Lane, North Swansea.MA. 02777, (508) 379-1142. She is a very
talented craftsperson and has begun quiting. She ran across a model 221 and
requires some assistance authenticating this particular machine and it's
value. She does not have e mail at this time but only time will tell. Thank You
very much, she is a special person and this would indeed be helpful and make
her very happy.
Date: Wed, 14 Aug 1996 12:03:56 -1000
From: "Charles B. Law"
Subject: Antique Sewing Machine Resource Page
Thanks to all of you who have visited the web page I created. I didn't
expect it to be so popular or to receive so many comments! I'll be
actively updating the page daily until the end of the month. If you have
any photos of machines you'd like to add to the site, I would be happy to
scan them for free. These could be either pictures of machines you have
for sale or of those you'd like to show to the other ladies and gents here
on the FWF group.
BTW, I am far from a sewing machine expert-- I learned most of what I know
by reading the FWF newsletters (which are very educational). I'm just a
student here at the university who enjoys the "odd" hobby of collecting
sewing machines. As such if you find any errors on the site, feel free to
point them out and I'll fix them.
I got most of the engravings and old photos from three books--
Sewing Machines by Rosamond Cook, 1922
Mechanics of the Sewing Machine by Singer Sewing Machine Co, 1914
Sears Catalog, 1897 (reprint)
Again, thanks for all of the positive comments and encouragement!
-Charles.
----------------------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 14 Aug 1996 17:34:46 -0400
From: JimAlmonte@aol.com
Subject: How I rescued somebody's DH from major trouble
While cruising the rummage sales today (Wed. and Sat. are sale days here) I
stopped at one that looked like it had a sewing machine cabinet out front.
Walked up to the cabinet and setting on top of it was the tray from a
featherweight case with bobbins, motor lubricant, book, feet, etc. The
cabinet was marked $10--I opened the cabinet up and there was a
99--mechanically okay as far as I could tell but a lot of gold missing and
scratched up, AB serial number, but definitely not the machine for the stuff
setting on top. I then asked the guy running the sale if he had the machine
that went with the tray of stuff for sale. He insisted it went with the 99
and I showed him how the bobbin in the 99 was not the same as the bobbins in
the tray.
So he takes off into the house to consult with his wife and comes back out
to tell me that he had accidentally picked up the tray of stuff from her
featherweight thinking it went with the machine they were selling and that
she was not selling her featherweight. Of course, I could have given him the
$10 for the 99 and what he thought went with it and he'd been none the wiser
until his wife went looking for her featherweight stuff, but, instead he was
resuced and I'm still looking for that bargain featherweight.
Cyndi
(Janesville, WI)
Date: 14 Aug 96 19:13:22 EDT
From: Graham Forsdyke <100661.3256@CompuServe.COM>
Subject: Contribution
To Margel re Muller
Muller was one of the few toy manufacturers to number machines. In fact the
best
way to "test" for a Muller is to look for the number on the stitch plate. The
actual sn is always preceeded with "No" but with the "o" raised to the level of
the top of the "N". Only Muller machines which escaped the numbering for some
unkown reason was the Mary.
Price you paid was good in a rapidly escalating market.
There was no manual for this model simply an instruction sheet. Sure I've got
ane somewheres and will try to sort you a copy when I get back from vacation.
It's the the "yet to be filed" box.
To B Sawyer re Singer threading
Can send you photocopy manual but not for a month. If you do not get one e-
mail
me after Sept 14.
To Beth et al re Wheeler and Wilson
Something wrong here. The no 8 W&W was not introduced until 1878 so the 1866
model is either much later or is a number seven. Will post this to you as well.
To Millie et al re flyer
I know the guy who spread the flyer. He's OK but this method of touting for
machines does us all harm -- including himself.
Offering $500 to $2000 for machines may well get him some phone calls,
especially with an 800 number, but look at it from a dealer's point of view.
He attends an auction with a couple of sewing machines. He normally doesn't
deal
too much in them but he's had the flyer and invests a few hundred bucks. he
makes the call and of course is told that they are not quite the right model
and
he gets offered less than he payed for them. Our problem is that this dealer is
never going to touch another sewing machjines in his life and he will tell of
his experiences to other dealers who will go the same route.
There's no short cuts to a good collection. You either spend a lot of time
beating the woods of you pay market price to a specialist dealer.
Debbie re shine
For a quick shine use Armorall protectorant(sp?) availble in auto stores. Won't
harm anything.
To AL in IL
Katy's experience with the "vibration" in her FW may have a mechanical cause.
Yesterday I had eight FWs up and running on the bench. Six were perfect but one
had a slight vibration and the last almost danced off the table. Don't have
time
to experiment for the moment but I wonder if the machines with problems had
been
stripped and the counterbalance in the lower shaft put back in the wrong
position. This would certainly cause the problems.
To Vicki
The 221K "white" machines were produced at Clydebank Scotland. They were sold
in
the UK between 1955 and 64 in a variety of shades of white/green. Much rarer in
the UK than in America which makes me suppose that the majority went for
export.
To Sharon
With the greatest of respect, $70 for a beat-up 1949 128 with a 1951 Centential
badge is far too high and $39 for a shuttle is plain crazy!
I'm not wanting to queer any business your dealer might do but we are here to
share information and I guess that includes comments on wild prices.
Graham Forsdyke
ISMACS London
From: TSGB45B@prodigy.com (MRS CATHY A SANDHOEFNER)
Date: Wed, 14 Aug 1996 18:20:31, -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 8/12/96
Regarding Katy's survey what I'd carry out in a fire.....I'd definately
grab my featherweight. I only have two singers...the fw and a 99. 3
other machines in cabinets, (two Sears and one White)...too hard to carry
out...and one Minnesota head.
But I really LOVE my fw; she just purrs. So sweet. MUCH quieter than
my 99 too.
Yep! Have to be the fw in one arm, photo albums in the other. g!
...c
Date: Thu, 15 Aug 1996 10:21:51 +1000
From: Jeanette Holkner
Subject: 210 and needle threader
If anyone is contemplating seaching out the singer needle threaders I have
one exactly the same as the threader previously described but with the part
no. 189693. It came with a 206k. This one has the 'finger' or 'daschund
head' at right angles to the oval end. It works brilliantly resting the
head on the raised presser foot and with the needle bar at it's highest
point the blue metal hook slips in and catches the thread. The finger helps
to pull the loop through.
Regarding 201s mine is my favourite piecing machine because it is so quiet,
and being a 201k it is belt driven. I also like the knee lever. Mine
wasn't springing back completly which left the motor buzzing so I opened the
control box and oiled the lever points just inside. Now it works like a dream.
I've also just met my 222k twin, the one bought back from England by Julie.
Any other twins that know each other?
Jeanette in Melbourne Australia
Date: Wed, 14 Aug 1996 20:22:39 -0700
From: mark &katy
Subject: Attachments /Machine for sale
I didn't see this show up the first time I sent it so am sending it on
again. I have found more extra attachments that I don't need so I have
the following for sale:
1. Singer Circular Stitcher, original box, no instructions. Says it is
for a Touch and
Sew but since it screws to the bed, it would probably fit any machine.
$5.00
2. Two Singer Buttonhole attachments in one box, # 121795, photocopy of
manual, one
feed cover plate. Older style that does not use cams. Box is pretty
worn. $19
3. Set of six attachments to fit FW or any low shank Singer. Includes:
ruffler,
multislotted binder, adjustable hemmer, zipper foot, edge stitcher, foot
hemmer.
Excellent condition. Has bottom only of original green box $34
4. Another set of 7 attachments, will fit FW or any low shank Singer,
contains:
binder, foot hemmer, ruffler, adjustable hemmer, tucker, zipper foot and
cloth guide. No
box. A couple of the attachments have slight surface rust, can be
removed with steel
wool. $28
5. Several sets of Greist attachments in the black metal, velvet lined
boxes, fits top
clamping machines, NOT FWs. $10 each
6. Beautiful Model 15, condition is a 9. Sews beautifully, in a cloth
covered case.$50
or best offer.
7. Metal foot pedal from a 99. May work for other models as well, the
guts look
just like those in the black plastic type foot pedal. Works fine. $10
Prices do not include shipping. E-mail if interested. Thanks much and
have a great day,
Katy
Subject: treadle bobbin cover
From: im.quiltin@juno.com (Jenifer J Markey)
Date: Sun, 11 Aug 1996 20:57:25 EDT
Hi all,
Just was wondering how easy it is to find the little metal *thing* that
holds the cover on over the bobbin in a SM, such as a model 66. I saw a
treadle for sale and the bobbin cover was off because the metal strip
that you slide it onto was half broken off. ( This is the top loading
round bobbin).
It would be simple to replace, just take out the screw and put in a new
one. The bobbin cover is there, not missing and the machine is not in
fantastic shape, but with a little elbow grease would look pretty good.
It is in an antique shop for $48.50. I have a hard time knowing what is
a good buy, and what is not. I know this isn't an *old* treadle, but so
many of what I see are in the $125 and up range, with heads in worse
shape, only older.
I'm having a real hard time knowing what to pay for the different models.
Most of what I see seems overpriced for machines that aren't FWs.
____________________________________
FWFanatics@ttsw.com - Singer phone # 1-800-877-7762
And now a word from our sponsor:
Hickory Hills Antique Quilts - Offering a variety of antique
quilts, tops, blocks and fabrics at reasonable prices. Personal service,
credit cards accepted. http://quilt.com/HickoryHill
Received: from ttsw.com ([204.249.244.11]) by pcnet1.pcnet.com (4.1/SMI-4.1)
id AA20431; Sat, 17 Aug 96 20:43:22 EDT
Date: Sat, 17 Aug 96 21:12:45 -0500
From: Featherweight Fanatics
Subject: FW Fanatics 8/16/96
To: Sue@quilt.com
X-Mailer: LeeMail 2.0.5
Message-Id:
Hi Everyone,
just a reminder that our next online chat will be tomorrow, Sunday, at 2pm edt
Questions - http://quilt.com/chat or Sue@ttsw.com
Thanks,
Sue T
From: sharon@cvo.oneworld.com
Date: Thu, 15 Aug 1996 21:13:56 +0000
Subject: Help with White Rotary
It's official that I've been biten by the old SM bug. Today, I found
a White Rotary at Goodwill for $15. I couldn't pass it up, and I
figured that it will give me hours of fun cleaning it up and playing
with it before I passed it on to someone else. (DH is threatening to
buy a FOURTH car if I buy too many machines!)
She's a 6. She has a somewhat-worn, grey case. There is a light
attached to it with a loosely fitting clamp. The light plugs into a
socket shared by the foot pedal. The double socket is attached to
the case. The foot pedal is green metal. The serial # is FR3148553.
The latest patent date on the face plate is June 3, 1913. Does this
sound like a treadle converted into an electric? I'm sure it is just
from the way it looks, but how can I tell for sure? Is there any
way to find out when it was born?
There is no manual, and I would like to get a copy of one. I'd be
happy to pay for photocopying and postage to get one, though I don't
know how hard that would be since I don't know what kind of White I
have.
There is also no needle. Where can I find new needles? Do they
really have to be White needles?
BTW, the original price on it from a garage sale was $75. The
Goodwill clerk was going to charge me that until I showed her the
Goodwill price. I told her that $75 was outrageous.
Sharon
Date: Thu, 15 Aug 1996 23:02:54 -0600
From: MomofWeedy
Subject: Box for FW, and drop 301 feed dogs
Re Rubbermaid box -- try a portable file box. I have several Rogers Jumbo
ProFile boxes for storing parts, etc., and a FW fits in there quite nicely.
It says 'portable and stackable and holds up to 18 pounds'. I bought mine
in Canada, but they are made in us by Newell Office Products Company. There
must be other similar brands on the market.
Re 301: Raise bed extention and find black screw which is behind bobbin case
(looking from the front of the machine). Turn the screw. Also, put stitch
regulating lever in neutral position in centre of slot at front of machine.
I had a hard time figuring it out, too, but it is on page 60 of the manual.
Kathy in Calgary
reyden@cadvision
Date: Thu, 15 Aug 1996 22:52:02 -0700
From: Bobbie
Subject: To FW Digest
Well, I found what could be called a 'mother lode' of Manuals today. 5 HUGE
boxes of all sorts of
sewing machine manuals...some still in plastic envelopes, never opened.
Now, I don't make any promises, however if anyone has been hunting for a
certain manual, just
send me email, and let me know which one you are hunting. If it's in the
box, I'll let you know.
If you don't get a response from me, then that means I don't have one, ok?
I will count how many manuals I have, divide the total price I paid for the
lode, and that
will determine how much I will charge to send one to you. Fair enough?
One other thing I wanted to mention. Several people have mentioned the
'brown gunk' they get off
the sm heads when cleaning them up. If I may, I have found, that in order
to thoroughly clean the
heads, I don't stop till the brown gunk no longer shows up on the rag. AND,
yes the machine head
will look 'dull', however, once cleaned of this horrid gunk, and then waxed,
that marvelous, NEW
shine returns. BUT, until you get all that dried lacquer and dirt off the
head, you will NOT get that
wonderful shine, no matter how much wax you use.
I DO NOT, work this hard on anything that has gold/red/green, etc. THOSE
areas, I clean, but
quite delicately. Anything that is black only, get's cleaned down to the skin!
Take care y'all....And Sue, THANKS A THOUSAND-FOLD FOR THIS DIGEST!!!!
-=BOBBIE=-
Date: Thu, 15 Aug 1996 16:36:09 -0400 (EDT)
From: "Joan E. Smith"
Subject: 301 Feed Dogs
Here's how to drop the feed dogs on a 301. Don't know about a plate that
covers them as someone mentioned. If you lift the extension bed and look
at the left side of the machine you'll see two things -- the bobbin case
and a black thumb screw. Turn the screw away from you all the way to
drop the feed dogs -- you may need to use a screw driver. On one of my
301s (I have two) they would not drop no matter what I did. But by
pressing down on them with my finger I was able to make them drop. A
very good oiling eventually took care of the problem.
Take care,
Joan
Date: Thu, 15 Aug 96 19:02:53 -0700
From: AJ Heywood
Subject: Identify F&R hand machine anyone?
I've just acquired a Frister and Rossman hand machine from the local
fleamarket. Serial no. is 418299 205299. Much of the gold and green
floral decoration is intact, the bobbin winder is present, as is the case
(carrying handle and key missing). Gold maker's label reads "Frister
&Rossman, 28 London Wall, London, Shuttle Machine". After a minimal
clean-up it appears to be in good working order, which is just as well
since the kids (5 1/2 and nearly 4) have bought it to learn on (?!)
Is there anyone out there can give me a clue as to its probable age? I'd
also like, if possible, to get hold of a copy of the instructions.
Naturally I'm also curious as to its actual UK value, but this is fairly
secondary given what they paid and what it's wanted for.
Cheers
AJ Heywood, Leeds, UK
From: jdo@mail.wincom.net
Date: Fri, 16 Aug 1996 09:04:20 +0000
Subject: Re: 301 feeddogs
Hi everybody - I have a 301A and I would think dropping the feed dogs
would be the same as on a 301. Hope I can describe this right. Facing
the bobbin end of the machine, to the left of the bobbin there is a
knurled knob, it also looks like you could use a screwdriver on it.
Using you fingers turn this knob to the left as far as it will go -you'll be
able to
see the feed dogs going down as you turn - then when you want to
raise the dogs, just turn it to the right as far as it will go. Hope
this helps you Sherry.
As for the survey about what machine you like best, for sewing at
home I would choose my 301's any day ( even over my $3000. Bernina) I love
the Featherweights for classes and that's my first choice if I'm
leaving home. If there was a fire, I'd grab the Featherweights, just
because I had a lot more trouble finding them, and they'd cost more
to replace. If sewing were my only concern, the 301's would be my
choice. Hope this doesn't confuse things too much.
A friend picked up a 206 last week and I told him I'd ask on here if
anyone knows anything about it. The woman who sold it to him (for
$20.) said it never sewed from day one, and you could tell it had
almost never been used. When he got it home he found the needle was
in backwards! Now it sews beautifully and it is almost perfect.
Anyway, our local Singer guy has no info on it, so maybe someone out
there can help.
Last - I joined in on the chat Wednesday for the first time and it
was a lot of fun. I never got to say goodbye to everybody, cause we
were in the middle of being very silly, with the props and suddenly
my computer froze up and I couldn't get back in. Anyway, it was great
and I'm hunting a server that gives unlimited access, so I don't have
to worry about spending three hours online. If anybody hasn't tried
it, it was worth the effort of figuring out the downloading.
Well, I've been windy enough for one day - bye for now.
NancyD
In Ontario Canada where it's already 80 and the sun just came up
Date: Fri, 16 Aug 1996 07:52:03 -0800
From: "Carrie London, Comptroller"
Subject: Featherweight for sale?
I am currently looking for a Featherweight sewing machine. Can you
tell me if you have a current listing of machines for sale?
Greatly appreciated.
Carrie London
clondon@restless.com or celondon@aol.com
Date: Fri, 16 Aug 1996 12:01:05 -0500
From: jfisher@sunset.backbone.olemiss.edu (Julie Fisher)
Subject: 222K Update
Yes! It's true! Jeanette and I have both called Singer and discovered that
our 222s were made on March 31, 1954. Now, would anyone like to figure the
odds that an American would go to the U.K, drag home a 222, contact a 222
owner in Australia, and discover that both were made on the same day?
That's one heck of a coinkedink. Well, we thought so, anyway. :-)
I have not posted about using my new sweetheart (whom I have named
"Fred"--bucking the trend toward female names) because I haven't had it
cranked up yet. I have located a Singer bobbin case for a less-than-average
price, and it is on its way to me. Also on the way is a set of attachments
(Dale Pickens). I have already received a buttonholer (with original cams,
plus an additional 4 cams) from Jacque Buehler. It is in wonderful
condition and has the manual (good thing, because I would never have figured
it out on my own). Thank you, Jacque! Graham is graciously providing a
p.copy manual. Thank you, Graham.
After bending Graham's e-mail ear into permanent deformity and talking with
Dale Pickens (a very nice man who gave me lots of information), I have
decided to find a transformer to run my FW on U.S. current. I have not
located one that goes high enough for my purposes, yet, but I am on the
trail. I will definitely post the particulars here when everything is in
place and the machine either works or explodes. In the meantime, I'll be
lurking here. And if anyone should find a stray 222 manual, I'm here!
Julie
P.S. I have also had input on this from Glenn Williams and a couple other FW
Fanatics--thanks everyone.
jfisher@olemiss.edu
Date: Thu, 15 Aug 1996 22:22:40 -0700
From: Susan Slesinger
Subject: Re:Oil Can
Is the oil can green, a lengthwise oval with a lead cap which says "Singer
Household
Lubricant"? Please advise by direct email to me. If it is, I'm in luck....DH
found it in an
employee's grandpa's toolchest and it was about to be thrown out. (He had
heard me talk
about the oil can!)
Date: Fri, 16 Aug 1996 16:20:22 -0400
From: Millie MacKenzie
Subject: misc
if you want to see what PATCHWORDS looks like, I just got most recent
edition and I can send you a copy if you email me. Also available is the
following: CUMULATIVE INDEX for 12/22/95 to 8/1/96
Thanks to Jeanette, down under, who gifted me with some very lovely fabrics
from her part of the world in exchange for some 185 parts she needed earlier
this summer. This is the second time I have received fabric from Australia
and it is so wonderful to receive and use in special projects. Thank you,
Jeanette!!
Sherry and others, on your 301 there is a screw under the flip-up extension
which, when turned, will lower/raise the feed dogs. Use a screw-driver. It
is black. It is described in the manual somewhere. Luck Millie
A gal who runs estate sales called earlier in the week to say that she would
have a FW and a 301 machine at two different Estate Sales, a half mile
apart, today. Well, I was exhausted last night when I went to bed and
decided I could not be bothered with getting up at 6:30 am to drive 20
minutes then wait in line for an hour to get in. So I did not set an alarm.
This morning at 7:10 the phone rang and woke me up, and I could not fall
back asleep (I had remembered the Estate Sales) so I quickly got dressed,
brushed my teeth, called my dog and hopped into the Explorer and was off.
At 8 am I got to the 301 house and found the machine. As I was closing the
case, a fellow came up and held it open so that he could look at it. Asked
if it was a FeatherLite. Said his wife wants him to find one for her. I
explained that it was not. I paid for it, then went to the other sale just
down the road and asked for the FW, but it had been sold to the 2nd person
thru the door. But I was/am happy - cause I had promised the 301 to a FWF
and that's the one I thought might still be there. So I figure I did good.
Anyhow, the machine is in lovely condition, so clean. It has:
the case, bobbin assembly/case, manual, 9 attachments plus cloth guide/screw,
2 screwdrivers, large and small, zigzagger, lube tube and oil can.I would
say a pretty complete machine. No buttonholer. They should all be this nice...
Millie
Millie MacKenzie in CT and Cape Cod, MA
milmac@snet.net
Date: Fri, 16 Aug 1996 13:30:29 -0700 (PDT)
From: Zsuxxa
Subject: Re: FW's For Sale
This may come out as a duplicate, my teenager picked up the phone
just as I was sending so if it a double please excuse. Shipping and
Handing, Insurance, and Tracking are $30. If you have any questions
please "E" or phone at 619-753-5418
The first offering is a new purchase and in the 9.5 category. It
is an AM, gold scrollwork is bright and black is very shiny and stunning.
Original manual, case great, attachments still in tissue paper and
include screwdrive, original oil unopened, blind hem attachment, four
bobbins, great cords and belt, perfect stitch, and orignal needle packet.
$450.
Other FeatherWeights For Sale
AG- Case, Copy of Manual, a few attachments, wear on machine but nothing
drastic. $360,
AJ Case, manual, good condition, even wear, attachments. $450.
AL " "
AM - Superior Condition, great case, attachments, manual, later edition
scrollwork. Case Is supreme. $550. Zsuxxa
Date: Fri, 16 Aug 1996 13:43:15 -0700
From: Bobbie
Subject: digest replies
(I need to call on it). After reading Bobbie's recommendation for Super
Finish II T and not finding it at my local superstore, I picked up
another carnauba-based wax, Liquid Lustre. It seems to be kind to
ornamental paintwork--with a little help from some Q-tips I was able to
uncover pretty much all of the trim on the 66 and what of it is left on
the White.
Just FYI, the store where I get the Super Finish IIT said they would
be glad to mail order to anyone who wants it...if you do, just let
me know, and I'll furnish their name/ph. No.
People have been discussing an alternate cabinet for Singers, with
drawers down to the floor on the left side and doors for belt access on
the right.
This is generally termed the "drawing room cabinet".
Finally, would someone out there who owns one of the fabled Singer
Hemstitcher attachments please describe for me what it looks like and
how it works?
It looks like a 'torture device" (grin) I will be scanning pictures
of some items, and adding
them to my website this weekend.
URL:
http://www.flash.net/~ericg/MARKET/Sewing/SEWING.HTML
-=BOBBIE=-
Date: 16 Aug 96 16:41:59 EDT
From: Graham Forsdyke <100661.3256@CompuServe.COM>
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 8/15/96
To Barb re Jones
The Jones if the Family model (everyone used Family after Singer popularised
(English spelling) it.
Never worry about a missing belt but the shuttle is a real problem. Not a thing
you could order by post from anywhere. I've probably got one in the "old
shuttle
box" but without the machine I'd only be guessing.
$255 is all the money for a complete machine and too much for one that could
cause you a lot of grief trying to find the mising shuttle. Suggest you walk on
by.
Cheryl re Jones date.
Does the machine have exposed rocking lever in front of the top arm or is the
mechanism enclosed as in Singers?
To Sue re belt
Any decent sm repairer will have the belting. Estimate the length you need by
passing a piece of string around the flywheel and over the wheel pully. Add a
couple of inches for safety. Get the dealer to show you how the fastener works
and have him fix on one end of the belt for you and show you how to do the
other
which has to be finally fastened on the machine. No big deal -- you simply need
a nail, a hammer and a pair of pliers.
To Steve re Unique
Wasn't all that Unique. In the first quarter of this century, Davis, A G Mason
and National all produced machine with the Unique brand name. I cannot trace a
Unique from the 19th century.
Belts easily available (see above) would guess around $5 or perhaps $7 with
fastner tops.
I think all machines are top dollar but not crazy. Only buy this class of 20th
century machine if you fall in love with it. No investment potential.
Clay re FW prices
Take you point over prices but we are talking collectables and the only
criteria
is rareness. There were more black 221s than white/green, therefore prices are
higher. Same with 222s. If Singer had made the 221 and 222 in equal numbers
there would only be a very slight price diferential.
Quality has nothing to do with it. The worst-made 19th century machines are
often the most expensive as so few exist. Singer Family machines (No2s) were
way
in advance of anything else in the 1870s but because they were so good millions
were made and prices are, and will remain low.
The poorest-made tin toys of the 19th century fetch the highest prices as few
survived.
When Maggie Snell offers a multi-thousand-dollar rare machine from the 1860s
the
prospective customer asks how many exisit, not how well it is made.
Graham Forasdyke
ISMACS London where temperatures are due to hit 90 in honour of my leaving
town.
Date: Fri, 16 Aug 1996 13:16:33 -0700 (PDT)
From: Zsuxxa
Subject: Re: FW's For Sale
I'll start with my new offering that I think is just fantastic
and feel real lucky in the find. As always Shipping and Handling,
Tracking and Insurance is $30. Also a note to let you know when I get a
deal from a seller I try to pass that deal on to my customers. Sometimes
I am locked into to a certain price because the dealer will only accept a
certain amount. If you have any questions feel free to "e" me or phone at
619-753-5418
My new find is an AM in what I would consider a 9.5 mint state. The case
is also really great. Footpedal and cords are lovely. The gold work is
geomentric and very brite and shiny, and the black is polished and just
shines. Belt is in great condition, plate is striated and the throat
plate has the measure line on it. Full attachments with original tissue
paper, blind hemmer attachment, original oil, never been opened and also
original needle pack with one needle remaining. Four bobbins are
included, screwdriver is with the attachments and it is a footpedal case
that is just lovely. Stitch is perfect and has been swatched out buy a
mechanic. Price $450
Other List of FeatherWeights
AG- Case, copy of manual, a few attachments, wear on the machine but
nothing drastic $360.
AJ - Case, manual, good condition, even wear, attachments $450
AL - Case manual good condition, even wear, attachments $450
AM Superior Condition, case great, attachments manual later edition
scrollwork. $550.
Forgot to mention the first offering AM does have the original manual.
Zsux
Date: Fri, 16 Aug 1996 18:21:20 -0400
From: lanza@marie.mit.edu (Dick Lanza)
Subject: Parts lists available
To all:
Kathy Mudge has kindly scanned in two nifty documents, which she has
placed on my firewall. The first one is a chart of Singer attachments
and accessories. The second one is an exploded view of a feather-
weight. They are in .pcx form, one is compressed (.Z) and one is
not. My ftp site has some formula for removing files which I am not
sure of, but I think it is either age of file, or once-a-month cleanup,
so these files will disappear at some point. I can always put them
back upon request. Since there are security measures in force, you
cannot get a directory listing, so follow these instructions:
ftp ftp.asaint.com
login with username anonymous
use your email name/address as pasword
cd /incoming
set transfer type to binary
get singer.pcx
get singer1.pcx.Z
quit
The singer.pcx file is ready for your favorite image program, but you
must uncompress the singer1.pcx.Z first.
Sylvia
lanza@marie.mit.edu
Date: Fri, 16 Aug 1996 14:45:42 -0800
From: Linda Edwards
Subject: Singer 24
I am looking for a Singer model 24 portable in good condition. If anyone
has one for sale or knows of where there is one for sale, please contact me at:
xtpc004@tsmail.state.ak.us
thanks,
Linda
email: xtpc004@tsmail.state.ak.us
Date: Fri, 16 Aug 1996 15:58:38 -0700
From: vredevoe@ucla.edu (Lawrence A. Vredevoe MD,PhD)
Subject: how do you know what sex your machine is?
Hi! I've enjoyed reading all the great information you've been publishing.
No one has properly explained, however, how to determine the sex of a
featherweight. I gather from the names they have been given that most are
female. I have a sneaking suspicion that there are a few male machines out
there. Or is like calico cats, most all of which are female?
At a recent gathering of a few featherweight owners, who are in my quilt
mini- group, we had a machine race to determine if there was a difference
between the speeds of machines with the original belts and those with the
new lugged orange ones. An orange-lugged belt machine was consistently the
speediest, as measured by sewing a 12 inch strip the fastest. Of course,
the machines were different ages, and we didn't take that into account. I
don't believe the little sweeties slow down in their old age, though. Happy
sewing! Marilyn V- in sunny, beautiful Santa Monica by the sea.
Date: Fri, 16 Aug 1996 13:33:30 -1000
From: "Charles B. Law"
Subject: URL of site
To: Mr. Paul English
Hello, the URL of the site is--
http://www2.hawaii.edu/~claw/sew/
If you aren't able to get on, you might have to try again later. The
university's server is very tempermental...
Date: 16 Aug 96 19:55:36 EDT
From: Chris Vagtborg <71155.1072@CompuServe.COM>
Subject: post
Hi FWF...
For Ervin & Evelyn... We sell a Walking Foot (aka Even Feed or Plaid Foot)
for the FW and other low shank machines - reg. $19.95, $15 for FWF + $2.50
for Shipping and Handling.
For Brenda re: FIL... B'day greetings go out Sunday evening...
For Barb in Texas re: Jones... I've been looking for a Shuttle for a Jones
Hand Crank for 6 months to no avail. The belts are cheap at $5 from us.
For Steve\Sue: Treadle Belt - $5 from us
For Roberta Hyman: Try Schmetz Microtex #60 needles - they are the tinyest
(is this a word?) and the sharpest - great for silk work. We sell 5 for $5,
including shipping... The other thing that screws up a FW stitch is the
regular foot - it slips sideways, left and right. Try a fixed foot, like our
Quilting Foot - $15 for FWF, including shipping.
Bye for now, Chris, on St. Simons Is., GA, where it's cool for August (mid
80s) and sunny - really nice if you've got a Miata w/ the top down! I do!
...
Date: Fri, 16 Aug 1996 20:07:01 -0400 (EDT)
From: Kristina Santilla
Subject: Counting FW's
Hi All!
Someone asked how many FW's were made, and this got me thinking
that if I used the FW's on the database and for each "birthdate"
subtracted the lowest serial # from the highest, along with datapage
entries, I would know for sure that at least a certain number were alotted,
so with this a. retentive theory, (did you follow that logic?)I can "prove"
that there were *at least* 1,488,610 American 221's, at least 234,262
British 221k's and at least 56,925 222k's. Be sure to fill out the form on
Sue's FW page when you get a new FW. There are now 750 machines on the
database!
Every machine helps!
Happy Featherweighting,
Krisi Santilla in Gaithersburg, Md.
santilla@umd5.umd.edu or santilla@aol.com
Date: Fri, 16 Aug 96 15:07:30 EST
From: "Nancy Brand"
Subject: answers
To Sherry Gardner and someone else who asked: To lower the 301A feed
dogs: lift the extension, as though you were going to access the
bobbin, and just to the rear of the bobbin is a good-sized screw.
Turning this screw will raise/lower the feed dogs on the 301A. Funny
how the instruction book didn't mention how to do this. I didn't know
the 301A had this feature until I bought my second one and the vac-sew
man tested it in my presence. My first 301A came in a pretty good
cabinet, and cost $50. My second one was $70 for just the head -- no
case or base or anything, but was so pretty I bought it anyway. It is
two-tone cream and tan; the first one was a one-color dark beige, but
they are both 301A machines.
To Sherri Bacon: I know I could not and would not pay more than $100
for a 301A w/case at this point in time. In a beautiful cabinet,
maybe. Who knows, in a couple of years that may be a bargain price!
One FWF wrote a couple of days ago about finding one for $14!
301 sn: The sn is on the bottom, and if your machine has a cover
plate on the bottom it is NOT covering up the sn. You may need a
flashlight to read the numbers, though, as the indentations are
painted the same color as the machine. As I recall, when you tilt the
machine backwards, the numbers are on the bottom of the machine, near
the front.
To Lorre.Mccaffrey: ID of foot: The small squarish one with a tiny
hole and turned-up lip is a gathering foot. Put a piece of fabric
under the foot and start sewing -- it makes a beautiful evenly
gathered fabric.
FYI: I ordered a manual from Singer for my 403A ($14). The book said
"401", and the clerk said, "the 401 was the deluxe model, the 402 had
built-in stitches and the 403 had cams, and they all had the same
instruction book." They are all slant-needle machines. I don't know
where the 404 comes in!
To Laura Fisher: I'll be happy to send you a picture of a 301 if you
send me your snailmail address. They are the only other machine I am
aware of with an extension that folds up, like the 221 Featherweight,
although the extension is shorter by about half that of the FW. I have
a dark beige 301A and a two-tone cream and tan one. The light is on
the front, the handle is built into the top, and lifts up for
carrying, and folds down so it's almost unseen. They are made of
aluminum, I believe, and weigh about 16 lbs, about five more than the
FW.
Someone please correct me if I an wrong about any of the above.
Nancy Brand who's hoping she still has the 9/95 Good Housekeeping
magazine and can read the Persian Pickle mystery!
Date: Fri, 16 Aug 1996 20:17:13 -0400 (EDT)
From: Lydia Pratt
Subject: Happy Birthday ERnie
To all:
I'm feeling tired and silly this evening, but I thought I would mention
that I was finally successful in getting a date for my Spartan from
Singer. You're right, it DOES depend on who you end up talking to. I
remember when I first asked about it and mentioned the ER serial number I
was told "we don't have any information for a machine like that". This
time she said something like "Sure!". I gave her the number and she came
back and asked me if I had a model number on the machine. I said "192K"
and she promptly replied: August 15, 1960. So ERnie is 36 years old
today! Just a pup compared to the 1917 treadle!
To Flo: The tiny tiny hook part may be broken. If you have "spares"
attached to the key ring part, see if you can change out the hook.
To Wanda: Your model 66 may be a 66-1 (although I think it's a little
young for that). A member of my quilt group also has one, and it has the
rear-clamping feet rather than the side-clamping feel like the later models.
To Sharon Reese: E-mail me privately as much information as you can about
your friend's treadle. I got some needles with my Boye display case, and
if I have anything she can use I'll let you know. I need to know if it's
a rotary or a vibrating shuttle machine, and the model name.
To Sue: My personal take is that unless these treadles are in VERY good
condition, they're all a little overpriced -- unless you have fallen in
love with one of them, in which case the rules don't apply.
To all: This post is one day late. The mail utility crashed on me
yesterday evening. ERnie's birthday is August 15th.
Lydia in cool and breezy central Ohio.
_ _
Lydia Pratt |_|X|_|
Columbus, Ohio |X|*|X|
lspratt@freenet.columbus.oh.us |_|X|_|
Date: 16 Aug 96 20:45:10 EDT
From: Chris Vagtborg <71155.1072@CompuServe.COM>
Subject: post
something truly neat... I've got the ProPhone Select Phone Directory on
CD rom... All the business and residential phone no.s in the US. I've got
the deluxe version which lets you search by SIC (business codes) or by
Street and City. So what am I trying to tell you? Well, you can filter
the database (on five CD's) by SIC for say - quilt shops or sewing machine
repair shops... pretty good! But, I like to Garage 'Sail'. But I hate going
to sale after sale w/o seeing any SMs... Well, with this CD package, you
can put the address from the 'Garage Sale' section in the paper and get
the PHONE NO. for the place that's having the sale!!!!! Then you can call
and find out if they have a SM for sale w/o having to drive over there in
the AM! Way cool! if I say so myself (smug grin). I'm a "happy bunny" (as
Graham would characterize me...)...
Date: Fri, 16 Aug 1996 22:21:34 -0400
From: Larry Doyle
Subject: 4- sale
Hello everyone hope you're all enjyimg the rest of this glorious summer.
I have for sale a Singer hand crank machine date1912 in very good condition
including the case for $135.00
A manual for a Free-Westinghouse electric sewing machine model:ALB $5.00
Date: Fri, 16 Aug 1996 23:00:49 -0400
From: Santilla@aol.com
Subject: Repairmen's manuals
Hi All!
I made a few extra copies of the 1963 Singer repairmen's List of Parts I
offered earlier if anyone else is interested. This is the 61 page manual that
shows a picture, then an exploded view of each machine, then has a list of
parts by number, then a list of available attachments. It includes models
15-30, 15-86, 15-87, 15-96, 15-97, 15-88, 15-90, 15-91, 15-125, 66-1, 66-4,
66-6, 66-8, 66-14, 66-18, 66-24, 66-16, 99-13, 99K28, 99-31, 185, 188K,
192K3(Spartan), 201-2, 1200-1, 221-1, 221K1, 221K4, 221K5, 301-1, 306K25,
319K, 327K(Spartan), 328K, 329K, 401A1, 403A, 404,500A, and 503A. Since this
is a xerox, some of the photos are a little dark, despite my pleading with
the gentleman making the copies to do his best to make them clear, but most
are good. All the exploded views are excellent. 63 pages.
I also made some copies of the Service Manual for the 221 for anyone
interested. It is rather basic, but interesting. 15 pages.
To save $, instead of having these bound, they are just hole punched
with fasteners. Cost of the List of Parts is $9.45 + shipping. Cost of the
221 Service manual is $2.25 + shipping.
If you would like one or both, please e-mail me and include your mailing
address.
Happy Featherweighting,
Krisi
____________________________________
FWFanatics@ttsw.com - Singer phone # 1-800-877-7762
And now a word from our sponsor:
Hickory Hills Antique Quilts - Offering a variety of antique
quilts, tops, blocks and fabrics at reasonable prices. Personal service,
credit cards accepted. http://quilt.com/HickoryHill
Received: from ttsw.com ([204.249.244.11]) by pcnet1.pcnet.com (4.1/SMI-4.1)
id AA10282; Sun, 18 Aug 96 11:21:47 EDT
Date: Sun, 18 Aug 96 11:32:52 -0500
From: Featherweight Fanatics
Subject: FW Fanatics 8/17/96
To: Sue@quilt.com
X-Mailer: LeeMail 2.0.5
Message-Id:
From: TSGB45B@prodigy.com (MRS CATHY A SANDHOEFNER)
Date: Sat, 17 Aug 1996 01:23:26, -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 8/15/96
Saw my first Spartan at the swap meet over last weekend. Clunkier than a
FW, but kinda cute. It looked immaculate...the guy was asking $100, but
came over when he saw me looking and said he'd take $75. With a 1yr.
guarantee...he said he used to have a store...guess you'd have to bring it
back to the swap meet and HOPE he'd be there if something went wrong. ???
I have no idea how much these are going for, but doubted it was that
much. Still, I may have been tempted, but he had written FRONT across the
front bottom of the case--the part the machine sits in--with black marker.
Kinda distracted from the look, y'know? The case was that kind of
fabric/tweed look 'stuff'...whatever that is. g. So, I don't think it
would have come off.
How come there is not a Spartan in the Recognition manual...and how come
the picture there is of a 99 doesn't look quite like the 99K I have?! (the
machine in the pic looks smaller)
Evelyn...I have a walking foot for my fw. It's just a generic that I
picked up at Piecemakers...should have them at almost any good quilt shop.
Brenda...thanks for the skinny on Graham-the-bday-boy! I'm sure he'll be
bombarded with email well wishes. I'll be sure to send one to George
too...how nice of you to spread the word!
Guess I'm just rambling on again...g... doesn't look like any good luck
at garage sales this weekend, since I don't even think I'll venture out---
spent too much on fabric last week and now I'm broke for awhile.
Date: Sat, 17 Aug 1996 08:28:25 -0500 (CDT)
From: cibolo@connecti.com
Subject: Singer 301-Short Bed &Long Bed???
In a letter from Elaine on 8-15, she said she had a short bed 301. Does
this mean that there are 2 sizes? Can someone please enlighten me about this.
TIA
Wilma
cibolo@connecti.com
Date: Sat, 17 Aug 96 10:04:09 -0500
From: T&T Software
Subject: Re: Graham
Received: from hrfr03-sh3-port143.snet.net by CT1.SNET.Net (AIX 4.1/UCB 5.64/
4.03)
id AA49240; Fri, 16 Aug 1996 22:54:35 -0400
Date: Fri, 16 Aug 1996 22:54:35 -0400
Message-Id: <9608170254.AA49240@CT1.SNET.Net>
X-Sender: milmac@mail.snet.net
X-Mailer: Windows Eudora Light Version 1.5.2
Mime-Version: 1.0
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
To: Sue@quilt.com
From: Millie MacKenzie
Subject: Graham
Graham says "I've just made a couple of shuttles for rare French machines".
He continues to amaze us with all his talents, doesn't he? Anything you
haven't done, Graham?
Think I'd better read up on Singer's life and wives. Sounds like it could be
juicy! I'd be interested in reading the piece you wrote on Singer...If not
posted, how about a separate email?
Maybe I should drive up to Truro and knock on Anne Peretz's door to ask to
see HER collection. Who knows, she may be lurking here online..... Anne,
speak out if you hear us....
I will soon to be driving with youngest to Miami. She is taking a car for
sophomore year and I don't want her to make the trek alone. Then back to
the CApe for a week with a visiting College Roommate. I will have no
computer here then, however, so get all your emails to me before 8/25. Bck
online 9/9. (DH told my oldest to start looking for a laptop for me - he has
to put up with me when I need my daily FWF fix and cannot get it!)
To respond to Clay's wonderings, when I price a machine I consider age, yes,
but also condition and original accessories. Thought you'd like to know.
To buyers: Ask questions to get all the details before purchasing a machine.
Millie
Millie MacKenzie in CT and Cape Cod, MA
milmac@snet.net
Date: Sat, 17 Aug 1996 09:18:44 -0500
From: hb01455@ltec.net (HOMER BRAUNING)
Subject: Wanted featherweight
Wanted featherweight in good condition to use when traveling. Please send
subscriber list.
hb01455@ltec.net
Thank You
Elly Brauning
hb01455@ltec.net (Homer Brauning)
From: Bob Waller
Subject: Wanted, Spartan Manual
Date: Sat, 17 Aug 1996 15:22:10 +0000
Hi,
I have been receiving the digests for about 10 days now and I am
really enjoying the posts.
I recently purchased a SPARTAN Model 192K and am in need of a manual
for this machine. Anyone who has one for sale or a copy thereof, please
E-Mail me.
Many Thanks,
Justine Waller
Bob Waller, in 100 degree+ Eastside Tucson, Arizona
Date: Sat, 17 Aug 1996 12:00:14 -0400
From: BSawyer631@aol.com
Subject: MW Treadle
Hi folks!
Scanning previous FWF lists, I guess I didn't tell you about a Dasmascus
treadle I saw. It was in good condition, in a cabinet that was very
interesting. The treadle pedal said MW (Montgomery Ward? Martha
Washington?), the cabinet had 2 doors that went to the floor. Inside, about
midway up on the left, was a sliding drawer. The foot pedal was concealed,
of course, buy the doors. Aside from the hinged top, the cabinet did not
look like a sewing machine cabinet. Any information? Damascus and cabinet in
good condition. Price was $255.
Would someone recommend books to me? My library has nothing. I haven't
the faintest idea what I am looking at half the time - but you folks have
provided some clues for the other half the time! Thanks for all your
assistance. You are a great bunch!
By the way, when will the Sincere books be available?
Barb in Texas
Date: 17 Aug 96 11:56:48 EDT
From: John Ordway <100344.2071@CompuServe.COM>
Subject: 1911 27 or 28 Singer in Russia! Info?
Dear FW Fanatics --
I'm new to this, so bear with my overwhelming excitement and wordy message!
I'm an American living in Moscow, Russia for 3 years; my husband is at the US
Embassy. Last weekend at the large flea market I bought a Singer sewing
machine
for @$50, thinking it was a featherweight.
It is a portable model in a wooden base with a curved lid. The machine has a
wooden crank; the gold lettering of "Singer" and the sphinx are in great shape,
and it says somewhere on the machine that it was made in Great Britain. The
lettering and such seems only to be worn near the plate area. The serial
number
is A1072081. I plan to ask the carpenters here at the Embassy to work on
cleaning up the wood a little and fix some of the hinges on the base/cover.
I took the machine out of the base to look for bugs (yes, they were there) and
found the MANUAL wrapped in a newspaper from 1972 at the bottom of the base.
(We guess "grandma" died in 1972 and the machine hasn't been used.)
The manual is in Russian, and was printed in 1911 in St. Petersburg, Russia.
I am assuming the machine was made in 1911 -- the Russians did and still do
print the instruction booklets of anything with the date they are manufactured.
The brochure is for a " 27 or 28", and shows only a few etchings -- one of the
"treadle" version, and a couple others of the bobbin and the machine 's
insides.
Otherwise, all the other instructions are in Russian. I COULD figure it out,
eventually, but would love to get my hands on an English manual. I
admittedly have spatial problems and it will take me forever to figure out how
even to wind the bobbin. There is a box of lots of accessories, including 4
tiny screws wrapped up in a parchment type of paper.
I've spent the day on and off the web -- and found lots and lots of info, and
pictures -- the machine looks like an example of a "vibrating shuttle" machine
pictured from The Online Antique Sewing Machine Resource page on the web.
I would guess the sewing machine was made in Russia and they used the "made in
Great Britain" plate or whatever. Someone on the web on Gailee's "dating and
rating your featherweight" section has talked about a plant in Russia before
1917.
Immediately after I bought the machine my family and I went to St. Petersburg
for the week --GUESS WHAT?!!
There is a HUGE building on the main Nevsky Prospket that the Singer Sewing
Machine Company built in 1902-1904 in the art nouveau style, with the Singer
"S"
or "Z" (Zinger in Russian) logo at the very top. The buildiing is used as a
huge book store, but it was obviously a gorgoeus building inside, too. The
elevators, not in use, have a stunning black and gold art nouveau design on
them. The building is still referred to in guide books as the Singer Sewing
machine building! (Someone else on the web had stated that the building still
existed but erroneously stated that it was in Moscow.) After 1917 the building
must have quickly been converted to a bookstore, as some of the signs for book
sections are in the art nouveau style of lettering -- both in Russian and in
English!!
So ... any ideas of how I might get an English manual? Any tips? Should I buy
Nancy S=Johnson's book? Other books?
Anyone want a copy of a Russian manual for their files? I'd be happy to send
it to anyone via snail mail.
I found out about the "featherweights" on the web through my quilting forum on
Compuserve. I've had great fun all day tracking down info on this machine on
the web -- I feel like I'm researching my ancestors or something!
I appreciate all the info that has been put on the web by you all -- the amount
of information is fabulous.
I knew people collected sewing machines but never thought about all the info
that went into it. I don't plan on doing any collecting (famous last words, I
can hear some of you saying!! ) but we have a weight allowance and are at
the top of it already. I did see 2 other machines at the flea market , but the
gold lettering was quite worn and therefore I didn't look beyond that. I
bought
it from a man who had a wandering (physically) left eye and was pretty drunk,
and said it belonged to his great grandmother. I think he was happy to sell it
so he wouldn't have to carry it home I'm probably going to go back
tomorrow
and will just look at the other machines if they are still there.
So, any info anyone would like to share would be greatly appreciated!
Maryjo Ordway
Date: Fri, 16 Aug 1996 18:27:39 -0400
From: SBH1@aol.com
Subject: Wanted: FW
Hi all!
I have an 80 year old aunt and I would like to find a FW for her. About a
month and a half ago, she fell in her house and was seriously hurt. After a
week in the hospital, she came home still suffering from dizzy spells and
very bad headaches. Recently she's been feeling well enough to start sewing
again, but she has to have my uncle help her up the stairs to her sewing
room. (The thought of either of them on that steep staircase makes my blood
run cold... they have a wonderful 250 year old farmhouse, but the stairs to
the second floor are almost steep enough to be a ladder!) She has no room
for her big monster sewing machine downstairs, but when I mentioned a FW and
told her how small they were, she got very excited. I'm going to lend her
mine temporarily, but I'll need to find her one of her own so I can get mine
back sometime soon. So.... my main need is for a fairly reliable machine
(we live 1 1/2 hours from my aunt, so we won't be there if it jams/breaks
down all the time). It doesn't have to be in any kind of 'collectible'
condition - a workhorse that's been well-used is fine. It doesn't have to be
a beauty to look at! Attachments, manual and even carrying case are not
important - she probably won't use any of them! If anyone has anything for
sale that sounds like it might do the job, please e-mail me directly as I
don't always get to read the FW Fanatics nowadays (my six month old daughter
has other ideas!).
Thanks,
Beth H.
sbh1@aol.com
From: Mary Rothenbuhler
Subject: Finally, my black princess!
Date: Sat, 17 Aug 1996 11:19:48 -0600
Hello all,
I can't believe it, I finally found my black 301a. I stood in line at the
first estate sale for 30 minutes, only to find that the sewing machine
advertised was a Bernina. Now I love Berninas, but my 1530 is enough for
me. So off I went to the second estate sale, but there was no sms at all
there. I decided to go home, but stopped at a yard sale with a big sign
right on the way home. I hadn't even put my car in to park, when I saw THE
CASE, I got so nervous, out I ran, and there was the 301, black, in not a
10 condition, but maybe a 7 or 8. With a manual, and a partial box of
attachments. Then I spotted a 99, I got both of them for $45.00 total. I
didn't need the 99, but it's not a question of need, just want right?
Anyway, it averaged out to $22.50 for each, which I felt wasn't too bad.
But the point is, if you keep looking, and listen to your "inner" voice,
you will eventually find all those elusive models that just keep you
going. Now if I could just find a 201 and a 66. I have never even seen a
201. But Katy, you sure make them sound terrific.
Graham, I vote yes to your info on the Singer heirs. I think it's
fascinating, please share what you know.
To whomever it was that asked THE QUESTION, what would you save in case of
a fire. Well, my FW's first cuz I've spent a cajillion dollars on them,
But I really love my 301's, they sew so beautifully. But then again, my
1530 is my first love and my first choice for sewing anything. Hmmmm, I
don't think I can come up with a logical and concise answer on that. Maybe
I better check the batteries in my smoke detectors.
If no one has answered the 301 question on how to lower the feed dogs, it's
the large thumb screw behind the bobbin case. Turned away from you lowers
them. On all 5 of mine, it has been very tight. I don't think lowering
feed dogs was a big selling point in the 50's, so I don't think it was ever
done to any of mine.
Mary in Idaho
Date: Sat, 17 Aug 96 10:24:03 0000
From: leames
Subject: 201 and Western Electric
Is there any one out there who might have a SERVICE manual for a 201??
I have one that needs quite a bit of work. I also am looking for any
info on Western Electric SM's. I have one that is about the size and
weight of my 201, green, and in the bottom part of a wooden case. It
has a bobbin case that's shaped like a bullet and slides back and forth
on a crescent track (I don't even know what to call a bobbin like this!)
Would anyone know anything about this machine or how I might go about
finding any info?? I am looking into the Sincere books, and for those
of you who already sent me info from a previous posting, I did get it,
I'm just posting again :). TIA for any help, Treece
Date: Sat, 17 Aug 1996 14:28:02 -0400
From: GWillie37@aol.com
Subject: Featherweights For Sale
I have been provided the opportunity to sell a small collection of
Featherweights from a local collector. There are a total of 11 221 &222K
machines. They are as follows:
1. 222K Free-Arm Very nice condition-loaded
2. 221K-7 White FW "Mint" condition
3. 221K-7 White FW very good condition
4. 221 AF 1938 Model Pre-war nice &loaded
5. 221 AM 1956 Model Extra nice condition &loaded
6. 221 EG 1950 Model Real nice condition/loaded
7. 221 AK 1952 Model fair condition/loaded
8. 221 AM 1956 Model Very nice condition/loaded
9. 221 AG 1941 Model Per-war good condition/loaded
10.221 AJ 1950 Model Good condition/loaded
11.221 AF 1938 Model Pre-war good condition/loaded
If you are interested in any of these machines, please E-mail me for prices &
details.
All have been serviced and have a money back guarantee if not satisfied.
Thanks! (Glenn Williams) gwillie37@aol.com
Date: 17 Aug 96 14:51:48 EDT
From: Graham Forsdyke <100661.3256@CompuServe.COM>
Subject: Contribution 25
Last contribution for a month folks. My provider keeps mail for 90 days so
please keep any requests coming and I will get straight to them as an anti
jet-lag therapy when I return
True stories number twenty-five
Have you noticed how some Americans have a thing about hats. Sorry, make that
most American males. Usually beat up caps announcing affiliation to some
long-forgotten baseball team or an afternoon at a theme park in the Bronx
.Maggie and I often wondered whether they ever take them off.
A friend from Vermont was a case in point. We'd eaten at his home the previous
trip and now it was our turn to provide a little hospitality at a restaurant of
his choosing.
It was all pretty up-market -- you know, more forks than courses and
dinner-suited waiters who filled the water glasses after every sip -- but none
of it phased our friend, he just sat there in a well cut suit, shirt and tie,
English leather shoes.... and a filthy baseball cap that I had observed him
using a couple of days earlier to save the wheel nuts from his car getting
muddy..
A few weeks later at an antique show where we had a motel room and he was using
a camper he came along to our place for a shower.
About five minutes into his shower we heard a small giggle erupt from behind
the
bathroom door. It grew into near-hysterical laughter and eventually our friend,
now dressed, returned, still unable to control his mirth.
Share, the joke, we demanded.
"Well," he said, "I got halfway through showering and realised that I'd still
got my cap on....".
Graham Forsdyke
Date: 17 Aug 96 16:27:33 EDT
From: Chris Vagtborg <71155.1072@CompuServe.COM>
Subject: post
For All...
Thought I'd share my day with you. I decided to go Antique'n today, and since
I hadn't been up there in awhile, went to beautiful Savannah. Savannah is a
less commercialized version of Charleston, SC and it has 68 antique shops in
an 8 block radius downtown! After hitting about 15, I burned out. Especially
'cause I didn't see anything but a Vesta treadle ($149). One place had taken
several treadles and converted them into tables ($165). They also took the
drawers and made them into "sewing boxes" - 2 or 3 drawers lined up
vertically with an add-on wood top cover - $95 to $135... OOOhhhh Wheee! I
did manage to find one of the little SM pencil sharpeners (turn hand crank
and needle goes up and down, pencil sharpener under bed) for $3. Also, one of
the larger stores has started directly importing English antique furniture.
Most notable were the English bars. The cute enclosed corner bars (about
10'x12') had stained glass in the ceiling and started at $15K. The one that
was *really* impressive was a bar that was at least 40' long and solid
mahogany. A huge mirror with Guinness Stout emblazoned on the back bar and
brass foot rail on the front bar - on sale at $50K. Awesome. But where would
you put it? I also found a set of silver spurs, but that's for another
discussion group here on the 'net .
I stopped in dinky Darien, GA on the way home (shrimp fishing village) and
stopped at a old hotel that had been converted into an antique store. Each
room of the hotel was decorated in a different motif. The Coca Cola room was
a treat! I finally found a new tube of Simichrome metal polish ($6). On the
way out, I almost tripped over a bentwood case. A 66-16 inside, probably in a
'7' condition. How much I ask? She replies $75, but I'll knock off 30% if you
take it now. I bought it for several reasons (one of which was price). A)
it's got a Featherweight foot control and cord set. B) She threw in a box of
attachments. C) the bentwood case is a '8'. and D) I had bought a 66-6 in a
library table (two leaves open from the top, one drops all the way down, the
left opens flat for additional sewing surface) at an estate sale sometime
ago. The table will restore beautifully, but the machine's history (a '3' at
best). Now I can put the new machine in the cabinet and have something nice!
And since the cabinet has a knee lever control, the FW foot control and bent
wood case are available for other projects!!! Way Cool. (As Grandson Austin
would say...). Bye for now, Chris
Date: Sat, 17 Aug 1996 16:41:32 -0400 (EDT)
From: Lydia Pratt
Subject: I did it AGAIN!
Hi all! Two thoughts today.....
In an effort to identify the "Mystery 24" machine I described a couple of
weeks ago, Chris Vatbourg sent me a photocopy of some sort of Singer ad
describing "Modern Singer Electrics". It briefly describes several
models, including a 24-80 (which is what I think the "mystery" machine
is), a 99-13, and the "Portable No. 221-1". But here's what it says about
the FW: "This featherweight electric, weighting only 11 lbs. 1 oz., is
sturdy, quiet-running, and fast. Has all the features and does all the
work of larger cabinet machines. Sews forward or backward with a full
rotary motion." Notice the use of the word "featherweight" in the ad.
Chris, is there a date and/or source for this ad, just out of curiosity??
I know several of us have been wondering where the term "featherweight"
originated with respect to this machine.
Long (But True!) Story of the Week:
I "owed" a friend of ours, so when she asked me to cat-sit her cat for a
week while she was on vacation, I was happy to do it. I also decided to
go over to her place last Saturday, since she wouldn't be getting back
into town until early Monday morning. Let's just say that it had evolved
into "one of those days" and I decided that I needed some quality time by
myself to avoid partial dismemberment if not outright murder of one or two
of my immediate family members. OK, so I decide that on the way back from
her apartment I will hit all three of the Volunteers of America thrift
shops listed on Broad Street in the Yellow Pages. Stops #1 and #3 were
not productive, but at stop #2 I came across a 401A in a cabinet, in
decent shape. Asking price: $10.00. NO, I did not buy it because the
cabinet was more than I really had room for, and I decided I shouldn't
really undertake any legal transactions given the mood I was it. But I
thought about it.....a lot......... So I measured the cutout in the
Singer table that I have, and DH and I went back today. I had decided
that: 1) if it was still there, and 2) if the machine head would fit into
my table, I was meant to have it. RIGHT ON BOTH COUNTS!!! So now I go up
to the counter to pay for it. I repeat my story of the $10.00 price
(which really IS true, BTW), then someone mentions that furniture is 1/2
off today. At this point I think I'm actually holding my breath. So for
the princely some of $5.28 I now own what many of you have described as
"the cadillac of Singers". I'm still amazed I did this!
It's a 401A, SN: NA6559717, which puts it 1951-1955. Anybody have a
manual they'd be willing to photocopy and send?? Just from looking at it,
I think it's missing the stitch control knob which sets from A to J; the
other one (K to ?) is still there. I plugged it in and it ran, but
sluggishly. It ran a whole lot better after I pulled the slide plate off
and blew a ton of rust-colored dust out of the bobbin case area. It's a
two-tone model, tan body, beige top and balance wheel, with copper
accents. I also acquired one lonely cam, which was in the machine. I
need some bobbins, but that's no big deal.
Fantastik, WD-40, and Armourall, here I come!
Lydia in central Ohio, who is going with DH to watch bicycle races this
evening.
_ _
Lydia Pratt |_|X|_|
Columbus, Ohio |X|*|X|
lspratt@freenet.columbus.oh.us |_|X|_|
Date: Sat, 17 Aug 1996 17:28:45 -0400
From: BSawyer631@aol.com
Subject: Oscillating Shuttles
Hi again!
DH and I went out visiting the antique shops and came across an
oscillating shuttle (bobbin, actually) Singer Treadle with a fiddle-shaped
base. Gold is in pretty good condition, mechanism is smooth. Question:
aren't oscillating shuttles more recent than vibrating? If so, why the
fiddle-shaped base? (I thought the fiddle bases predated the rectangular.)
Perhaps my ignorance is really apparent, but I am confused and would love
some information! The cabinet has only one drawer, on the left. Looks to be
all maple. Very plain. Case top, missing the key, is not bentwood, but
rather more box-ey, with a basketweave carving on the front side. (Not
really woven basket-weave, this is carved.) The manual with it is dated
1892. Several attachments. They wanted $125.
Also saw a Jones handcrank, missing a shuttle and the front slide plate.
Red and gold paint is in pretty good condition. Bentwood case missing key.
They wanted $95. Lots of other machines around. Several more #3 Vibrating
Shuttle Singer handcranks for $79 to $125, not in as good a shape as mine
though. Feeling smug!
Saw a treadle machine that just said VERTICAL FEED on the arm. Could not
find any name, date, or manufacturer on it anywhere.
Bought a "Vibra" vibrating shuttle handcrank in very good condition (gold
and black both nice), but the bentwood case will need a little work. $39.
Anyone know anything about these machines? It just caught my fancy.
This is an addiction! Good thing I do more looking than buying!
Barb in Texas
Date: Sat, 17 Aug 1996 20:29:16 -0400
From: MargelS@aol.com
Subject: Toy Sewing Machines
I have two TSM's duplicates. They are the 1914 Singer model 20 in black and
a Gateway junior model.. Both machines are in good shape. I would be
interested in trading them for toy machines I don't have of comparable
value. I would consider either one for one or both for one if the value
warranted it. Contact me through e-mail. My SIL in interested in the
machines, but I would rather trade and acquire machines I don't have.
Margel Soderberg - MargelS@AOL.com
Date: Wed, 14 Aug 1996 21:39:32 -0400
From: Pnwi@aol.com
Subject: Treadles &Other SM
A suggestion for the bold.
Several years ago I was working with a Christian relief/development group
which was interested in setting up cottage (sewing) industries in eastern
Europe. I solicited the local furniture manufacturers for fabric and
received literally tons of leftover material. I went to the local sewing
machine repair shop (the largest in town) and asked if they had any
inexpensive used machines, electric or treadle. I was offered 60 machines
for $400. The machines, which were serviced and not picked up or were
trade-ins collect in the basement of the shop until it cannot hold any more.
Then the shop owner sells the lot to a buyer in some other state (out of his
market area). So, I bought the lot and found about 45 machines which had
been serviced and were ready to go. As I recall there were some Elnas,
Spartans and other collectable machines in the lot, but no treadles. When I
asked about treadles I was told that he did not take them in trade, but was
often asked I there was a market for them. I told him to call me whenever he
heard of someone who wanted to get rid of a treadle. As a result I picked up
5 or 6 treadles in the next 5 or 6 months, cleaned them up and shipped them
out.
As far as I know, every major SM repair shop has as bunch of unclaimed and or
trade-in machines in the "basement" and gets asked what to do with treadles.
Give it a try and let me know what comes of it.
Paul
Date: Sat, 17 Aug 1996 22:09:44 -0400
From: Clay &Shelly Leihy
Subject: Bobbins FS (&a little rambling)
We have some 221/301 bobbins for sale. These are Singer, the so-called
older style, with the little hole near the middle. They are actually
newer ones, so I guess the styles changed back and forth through the
years. They are $1.00 per four pack, still sealed. Shipping is free with
orders of 3 or more packs.
Also have a set of Greist "Rotary Attachments", taken from a White
Rotary which was more rust than steel. Since the box was down inside the
cabinet, it is in excellent condition. It is a brown, kinda fuzzy,
cardboard box, with "Rotary Attachments" in gold letters on top.
Included attachments (all like new) are:
Feed cover (I think)
"5 Stitch Ruffler" (says so)
This thing that looks like a zigzagger, but has a big wheel like
the one inside our Singer buttonholer, and a nasty pointy
thing that seems designed to stab big holes in the fabric.
Seam guide
A square plate, about 1.5" square with two tabs and a piece on
it that looks like an edgestitcher. Doesn't appear to go on
the presser bar. Shelly says she thinks its an underbraider.
Multi-slotted binder
Adjustable edgestitcher
Gathering foot
Four different-sized hemmers (including narrow)
Little thingie that goes on your scissors for cutting binding
Tool that looks like a large tweezer with a bulge in the middle
(perhaps some kind of wrench?)
Screw that looks like our Singer presser foot screws, but a
little too big. (for seam guide?)
Long curved guide like goes on a quilter, but with no foot
I'll send these out to the first person with $10, shipping included. If
you don't want to buy them but know what they are, that'd be nice to
know.
Found a little oval oil can, kinda fits the clip in the FW case. This is
not a Singer can but says:
Necchi
Sewing Machine
Elna
Oil
It's a red, black and white, 3oz can with a plastic spout and seems to
be full. (Made in USA) I'd call it a 7, 2 or 3 small scratches on
painted label, and metal top is speckled with black. Anyone know about
this, and would any Necchi/Elna fanatic want to trade for a Singer oil
can? Found this can at a Goodwill in Pennsauken, with a beautiful,
black w/ white &silver scrolled, "Busch" SM (Japan). (Didn't buy the
machine, anyone know about it?)
And, thank you Joan, for the 328K part. Can't wait to get her running,
despite what the SM mechanic said about her.
Also, found a Spartan (K model) for $35. Didn't buy it, but what are
they worth, anyway? This one was a 7 or 8, in its plastic bottom, with
no attachments or manual.
Clay &Shelly
clay-l@k2nesoft.com
http://www.k2nesoft.com/~clay-l/shelly.html
(We'll have pics of 401 &328K by next weekend.)
Date: Sat, 17 Aug 1996 22:12:23 -0400
From: "l.mclaughlin"
Subject: Mystery Machines Identified; FWs Found
Thanks to all who helped identify the mystery machines I've
inquired about in the past couple of weeks. The Apartment
Electric appears to have been made by Free. The mystery
Singer has been positively identified as a 99. First by
comparing it to the 66 DH brought home and then by Singer (BD
8/21/29).
When DH and I finally got to see the mystery "Egypt" machine,
it turned out to be a Singer after all. I can understand how
the woman I bought it from got the "Egyptian" connection as
the gold decoration has a definite Egyptian theme. However,
I can't understand how she missed that the machine was a
Singer. The Singer name is on the front and back of the head
and in three places on the treadle! She was so convinced
that this was an Egypt machine that she even had the local sm
shop research that "brand" for her -- she gave me the letter
they sent her telling her they couldn't find any reference to
it. The machine and cabinet are in need of some restoration,
but I think it will be worth it.
The local Singer repairman said that the Egyptian decoration
was in honor of the opening of the Suez canal, but I don't
think this is correct. The machine dates from about 1906
according to its serial number and a friend who is a history
buff said the canal opened in 1869. Does anyone know the
significance of the Egyptian decorations? The machine is a model 27.
Sorry that I'm a bit tardy in thanking those who helped
identify these machines, but I think you all will understand
when I tell you that the reason for this tardiness is that I
finally found my first and second FW's. The first one is a
white one, circa 1964. DH really hit the jackpot when he
picked up the second one. The machine (black, circa 1941) is
in excellent condition, sews beautifully and came with a
case, manual, all original attachments, a few extra small
attachments, and an extra case of large attachments (zig-zag,
hemstitch, blind-stitch, gripper, fagoter, buttonholer,
Singercraft guide, and ripper/threader). I think I'm in FW
heaven!
To Clay in NJ:
My Singer repairman also recommended Vasoline. He didn't say
anything about the Singer grease getting hard, but did say
Vasoline is thinner and flows better, plus it is less
expensive.
Re: Chris' comments on Lehman's Hardware:
Lehman's is a great place to find interesting things.
Although my last trip there was pre-sm collecting and I
didn't even see the treadles (I see an excuse for another
trip forming!). Chris is also right about the surrounding
Amish area -- well worth the trip. The area is the Swiss
cheese capitol of Ohio, and my favorite quilt shop, Miller's
Dry Goods, is nearby in Charm. They advertise that they have
over 5000 bolts of fabric and it is a true Amish shop, not a
quilt shop geared toward unsuspecting tourists, with tourist
prices. I highly recommend Lehman's and Miller's if you're
ever in that area.
Chris - are these the same treadles that are still being manufactured for
third world countries? A friend from Nepal said that treadle and handcrank
machines are still being sold there. Where are these machines being
manufactured? Are they true copies of the old singers?
Thanks again to all who helped identify the mystery machines.
Karen (on the shores of Lake Erie where we are having a
beautiful summer)
From: Mary Rothenbuhler
Subject: RE: 301 feed dogs
Date: Sat, 17 Aug 1996 21:32:52 -0600
Hello,
After reading tonights FWF, I guess every body knows how to lower those
darn feed dogs. But it is nice that so many responded to the question.
Sometimes questions get asked, and they seem to get ignored, or we assume
that someone else will answer it. Anyway, my instructions for the feed dog
dilemma should be on tomorrow. Sorry.
Mary in Idaho
From: anne_fong_ma@ccmail.rsco.com
Date: Sat, 17 Aug 96 20:33:15 PST
If anyone is interested, I just went to the San Jose (California) flea
market today (it is the HUMONGOUS one on Berressa Road-- open 5 days a
week!). There was a sewing machine dealer there located at the South
side of the market who had a FW for sale, probably a 7 or 8 for $150.
Was clean, looked in decent shape, had some bobbins, decent case and
attachments. I did not check if it had the bobbin case because my
heart was set on the infamous $20 WHITE featherweight :)
When I asked if he had any white featherweights, he told me that it
was not as good a machine as the black ones, mentioning that it used
belts instead of gears (of course I didn't really understand what he
meant at the time since I knew the FW was a belt-driven machine) and
that it was an American-made product. You can imagine my surprise
when I got home that night, logged on to the computer, and read the
digest where Clay mentioned that he heard the same thing about the
belts versus gears from his Singer mechanics.
Is this true? Does anyone out there have both machines and is there a
difference in them besides color?
Also, FYI this Singer man had numerous machines, and numerous tables
to go along with them, but no table for FWs. Also at this flea market
were several other vendors who sold Singer SMs, most in the $50-60
range (none of them the older black beauties, but many made in the
1950-1960s, I believe).
Date: Sat, 17 Aug 1996 23:53:29 -0400
From: Clay &Shelly Leihy
Subject: Re: Belts in white FWs
Anne:
In most sewing machines, the upper stuff in the head is linked to the
lower stuff in the base by a shaft running vertically in the head, with
gears at the top and bottom. (These are the gears that need occasional
greasing in a FW) From what I understand, in the white FW, there is a
belt &pulleys replacing the vertical shaft and gears. According to one
mechanic, near the end of their run, the FWs were becoming less popular
and more expensive to produce. So the belt was one of the ways that
costs were cut in order to keep the price down. He also told me that the
hinged bed extension was made of stamped steel on these machines, for
the same reason.
Can anyone, (Graham, perhaps) verify this?
Thanks,
Clay
____________________________________
FWFanatics@ttsw.com - Singer phone # 1-800-877-7762
And now a word from our sponsor:
Hickory Hills Antique Quilts - Offering a variety of antique
quilts, tops, blocks and fabrics at reasonable prices. Personal service,
credit cards accepted. http://quilt.com/HickoryHill
Main Quilting Page * Featherweight Fanatics Page