Featherweight
Fanatics
Archives
July 1996
Sunday, July 14th - Saturday, July 20th
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Date: Mon, 15 Jul 96 08:41:23 -0500
From: Featherweight Fanatics
Subject: FW Fanatics 7/14/96
To: Sue@quilt.com
X-Mailer: LeeMail 2.0.5
Message-Id:
Date: Sat, 13 Jul 1996 23:16:12 -0500 (CDT)
From: Tom Jaworski
Subject: 99, misc finds
Hello all! I haven't posted for a while, but weekends are usually slow
so this is probably a good time.
A couple of weeks ago, a former co-worker asked if I'd be able to "do
anything with" an old sewing machine someone left in her yard and she'd
been hauling around in her car's trunk for some months. It's a 99, from
1941, Singer said, with a really sad wooden case (as least it *used* to
be a case!), and a fair amount of rust, and some missing parts. But I
figured for a free machine, I could invest a little in some basic parts
and tinker around a while. (cheap tuition!) I've used most of a can of
WD-40, plenty of 0000 steel wool, and too much time :) but I'm making
progress. The *Main Thing* I've learned so far: be careful when you're
taking the bobbin case screws out so you can get rid of the rust...when
you're wearing latex gloves so the steel wool doesn't shred your fingers,
those itty-bitty screws bounce *really* far away, off the newspaper and
into the family room carpeting! Gone forever--tried flashlights,
magnets, vacuuming--fortunately one of the local know-very-littles sold
me just the screws out of a used bobbin case, and they work. I'm not
sure how far to take this project, tho, since the case is irreparable and
the machine has lost one of the two little hinge-dealies that originally
held it in the case anyway. It has the stucco-y black finish, no light,
"SINGER" shadow shows up only when you shine a light on the front...does
have reverse but no adjustable screw on the stitch-length lever. Any
input?
Things I've found recently (e-mail if you're interested):
401A, "serviced and ready-to-go" for $69.95
Liberty hand-crank machine for $100.
Singer treadle (66?) in enclosed sort-of-modern-style cabinet, front
swings open, formerly owned/used by native of India, $100
Wards Damascus treadle in cabinet, w/manual +, $100 I think
(no affiliation, blah-blah-blah, just want to help out if someone's
looking...the one sm guy was rueing the fact that 20 yrs ago he had a
couple dozen FWs he couldn't get $10 for, and now that they're gone... I
didn't want to know what he did with the poor babies!)
Thanks for the work on the manual, Graham and Bobbie! I'm going to study
it a bit further, since I also found a GrB model in a cabinet...looks an
awful lot like my 99 and has a round bobbin, but the last one I saw just
like it Singer said was a 128, and I'd thought 128's had different
bobbins?
Happy Featherweighting! From Rita, who's trying to decide whether to
take both FWs or just one to Gordy's class in 2 wks.
jaworski@esu9.esu9.k12.ne.us
From: BXTJ10A@prodigy.com ( ALTON DAVIS)
Date: Sun, 14 Jul 1996 10:12:36, -0500
Subject: New Zeland Motif Memory Card
I know this doesn't really belong here but was hoping that someone in New
Zeland could help me obtain the New Zeland motif memory card for the
Janome/New Home Memory Craft 8000/9000. For some reason it isn't available
here in the US.
Thanks,
Al in IL
Date: Sun, 14 Jul 1996 08:55:26 -0700
From: sandybar@ix.netcom.com (Sandy C Barrett)
Subject: New to Featherweights
Hi,
I'm just getting involved. Would love to learn more about
featherweights so I could eventually be a "knowledgeable buyer". Any
help would be appreciated. Especially on cost. I will have to budget
for one, so I might as well start now :)
Thanks,
Sandy
PS where do I find the date of the machine? I know I saw the chart on
the net, now I can't relocate it
Date: Sun, 14 Jul 1996 12:30:07 -0400
From: Millie MacKenzie
Subject: treadle oak table top
I am going to owe my soul to the phone company here at the Cape. It is a
toll call to access my SNET online service from outside CT, and the phone
lines here are unstable, lots of static. So it ususally takes 3 or 4 tries
for the connection to hold long enough to get to the mail server and
download/upload email. Yesterday with Bertha's winds and rain, I did not
even try!
I have a very special item for the right person! It is the entire top of a
treadle stand minus the hood - an oak furniture piece with 2 ornate drawers
on either side and one in center. Also 2 keys for drawers. No treadle and
no machine, although it appears that a Singer model 27 was in it last.
There is a hole in the top for the machine and my guess is that there was a
hood which fitted over it, i.e., the machine did not drop into the cabinet.
A short side extention is held up by a fancy black piece of hardware on left
side of cabinet. The finish is really good, considering its age (1888, I
believe). One piece of wood missing from left-most side of center drawer.
I love just sitting and looking at it. The later machine cabinets cannot
compete with the beauty of the earlier sewing machine furniture. Please
email me if you want more into. I will measure it and weight it for you...
Thought I'd give you some feedback from my items offered for sale last week.
Hands down winner was the Singer hemstitcher. More people inquired about
this one item than any other; about half of all respondants. Surprisingly
not one person inquired about the 2 sets of FW attachments. I continue to
be amazed by the shifting needs of FWF collectors! You sure keep those of
us hunting for items for you on our toes!!!
All for now. Gotto go touch (fondle!) that hunk of oak again!
Millie
Date: Sun, 14 Jul 1996 12:30:30 -0400
From: Millie MacKenzie
Subject: Featherweghts for sale
I am offering the following FW's for sale. All machines fully operational,
cleaned, oiled, polished, etc. Shipping (packing, insurance) runs according
to state. Figure $27 to $35 for most 48 contiguous states.
AM693805 1/29/57 Case has side shelf and lid foot control holder. Has blue
manual, key, 9 attachments, bobbins. Condition of case is excellent.
Condition of machine is very good, with only one wear mark in gold paint.
Striated face plate. Rating: 8. $475 plus shipping.
AF875757 Born 4/1/41. Has manual, key, 8 attachments in box, 4 bobbins, 1
screwdriver, lube tube, black felt circle. Case condition very good, but top
shelf missing, handle worn. Machine condition very good; Scrolled face
plate. Bobbin winder, hooded light, numeric dial for tension, numeric lever
for stitch length, foot control, wiring very good. Condition of machine is
very good, except for some scratches starting at gold in center of bed
running to the back about 3 to 4 inches. Stitches nicely. Rating: 7. $450
plus shipping.
AL901358 1/17/55. Has case w/side tray; blue manual; 5 bobbins, Singer oil
in plastic tube; black felt circle; 2 screwdrivers; 9 attachments w/box.
Case condition good; machine very good except gold trim shows wear.
Striated face plate. Rating: 7. $400 plus shipping.
AE212602 7/13/36. Case w/top tray; manual fair and front cover missing; 5
bobbins, square oil can; 1 screwdriver; 9 attachments. Case condition good;
handle replaced. Machine very good. Scrolled face plate. Rating: 8. $450
plus shipping.
AM393478 2/27/56. Case w/side tray; excellent manual; 6 bobbins, lube tube;
small oval oil can; 2 screwdrivers; 8 attachments, gold brush. Case
condition very good; machine excellent. Striated face plate. Has original
paper w/serial no. Rating: 9. $550 plus shipping.
AM174221 6/10/55. Case w/side tray; blue manual fair; 5 bobbins, square oil
can; lube tube; screwdriver; 8 attachments. Case condition good; machine
excellent. Striated face plate. Rating: 9. $450 plus shipping.
Email to milmac@snet.net. thanks, Millie
Date: Sun, 14 Jul 96 13:04:12 0000
From: leames
Subject: wanted
my mother-in-law just bought me a '55 featherweight at a garage sale for
the unbelievable price of $20!! the only problem is that it came
without the electrical cord and foot pedal. i'm interested in picking
one up if there are any available out there. until i find one, i'll
just use my mom-in-law's. thanks, treece ames
Date: Sun, 14 Jul 1996 14:57:31 -0500 (CDT)
From: Tom Jaworski
Subject: getting together
Maybe we (those of us in the middle U.S., anyway) should check with Dale
Pickens to see if he'd be interested in having a get-together scheduled
near him, when and where it might work out to "pick his brain" and admire
his stock, etc. Any Oklahomans out there who want to pursue this??
Does LittleFoot still sell their "I (heart) (FW)" pins? I know I'd seen
their ads in some mags. Maybe the pin was in the catalog from A Stitch
In Time, also--I just haven't gotten around to ordering one yet. A
neighbor FWF and I had joked about how those would *not* be the thing to
wear when out scavenging for abandoned machines! ;)
Rita in NE
jaworski@esu9.esu9.k12.ne.us
From: BXTJ10A@prodigy.com ( ALTON DAVIS)
Date: Sun, 14 Jul 1996 16:47:41, -0500
Subject: American Girl
Hi All;
Has anyone ever noticed a magazine called "American Girl"? The Dec 1952
issue has an ad which features the 301 and also shows the FW. It says you
can get the 301 in traditional black or the new soft beige. It doesn't
mention the portable version but does say you can lift it out of its
cabinet and carry it anywhere.
Al in IL
From: "Laurie Engle"
Date: Sat, 13 Jul 1996 17:22:14 +0000
Subject: question on greasing 99k motor
Hi, all. I finally got some Singer motor lubricant and have cleaned
and filled the grease tubes on my FW and my model 15.( Amazing how
much better they sound already) I started to do the same for the 99k,
but I can't seem to find any grease tubes.
The motor is numbered RFJ5-8. Is this a motor that doesn't need
lubing? The manual copy I have is for a 66/99, and doesn't mention
the 99k model. The motor does look different from the one in the
manual, too.
Could anybody explain , please?
Laurie
lengle@newnorth.net
From: Greta_Hambleton@tvo.org
Subject: Graham's BOOK etc
Date: 14 Jul 1996 23:34:47 GMT
Hi Fw fanatics
I've been out of commision for a while. Could some one please
let me know how I can obtain Graham's book you are all so pleased
with ?
Just had a little white FW (221K5) in first class condition find me,--
at an auction ! I'd never seen one before, and really never expected
to. It stitches beautifully,-- after a good dusting &oiling, following
the
accompanying instruction book. This booklet also gives instructions
for using many attachments including,- binder, ruffler, automatic
zigzagger, buttonholer, gathering foot &edge stitcher, printed in England.
If anyone is looking for any of this info, let me know. Had to share my
my good luck. Nobody understands my addiction here, but it has been
nurtured wonderfully by this list ! Anybody know if I can find a "birth"
date
for this UK machine, EV 963827 ?
I have just come across a source of pure silk thread. Just beautiful
vibrant colours ! From a factory close down. Very fine thickness of
threads, which could be used doubled I presume. Any one got other
ideas ? I really am not into hand work any more.
TIA (hopefully) for book info. Greta.
--- OffRoad 1.0 unregistered
Date: Sun, 14 Jul 1996 19:21:28 -0400
From: SewJude@aol.com
Subject: Books and cats
I just received a great looking book from my Cousin Al (the "old" sewing
machine guy). Called "Sewing Machine Handbook for Home and School" It's
yellow 4.5 x 6.5 inches, with a copyright date of 1965 by Lee Robinson. It
looks like it's brand new!! It's 135 pages of how to do small adjustments to
your own machine. Aligning and timing, tension and all kinds of stuff,
complete with pictures/drawings.
<< Terri Janson, in Michigan.
Oh, one more thing. Does anyone have cats??? They LOVE thread....>>
That's why I NEVER leave spools laying around. With three cats and two dogs
I would have a house of string!!!
I also have a childhood memory of my Mother weaving. With a LARGE yellow
tomcat sitting on top of the loom, watching her toss the shuttle back and
forth. I think Daddy even took a photo of this!
Judy, in West Central Illinois, where the rain has chased the golfers away
from their Sunday cookout, and my back yard ; )
Date: Sun, 14 Jul 1996 19:49:14 -0400
From: LFisher902@aol.com
Subject: Re: 301 in Grahams manuel??
I have you received the great ISMACS manuel from Bobbie and Graham(thanks),
but can't seem to find the 301 listed. Am I missing it or is the manuel?
Anyone know?Thanks, Laura
Date: Sun, 14 Jul 1996 20:42:51 -0400
From: duck@clark.net (Bob Campbell)
Hi:
Sorry, for my double posting of the convention discussion yesterday, had
trouble with my server.
My wife just returned from a quilting related teaching engagement in Dallas,
Tx and brought back an interesting detailed ad for a FW reproduction. It is
offered by Frank Smith's Sewing Machine Museum in Arlington, Tx.-- asking
price is $339. The machine pictured is black with Singer look-a-like gold
decorations -- it does not appear to have a light (the xerox copy of the ad
is a little fuzzy) -- the word "Classic" appears in place of the standard
Singer emblem -- from the ad it appears to be a very good looking repro --
it also comes with a very authentic looking black carrying case (bet they
couldn't reproduce the FW odor)-- the latches on the case look just like the
original (if nothing else, they should market the case alone since many of
us collectors have at least 1 FW without a case). This does not appear to
be the "new" FW by Singer. I plan on calling them on Monday. Will get back
to you with any additional info. Have any of you seen this particular FW
repro -- this is "not" the same as the "MINI" that I've seen before.
I'm in the process of designing, test marketing and prototyping a full line
of FW accessories -- (lapel button, enameled pin, T Shirt, Cap, Key Tag,
Refrigerator Magnet, Canvas carrying case, Plastic carrying case, FW
Cleaning and Repair kit, Replacement decals set, notepads, post-it notes, a
toy FW in metal (fairly expensive), etc, etc). I'd like some feedback from
FWF's -- if you would like to receive copies of the artwork, along with a
questionnaire please Email me personally your snail mail address and I'll
see that you get a copy (most of artwork should be complete in about 3
weeks) -- I value your opinions and need your input.
Thanks for listening
Bob Campbell
duck@clark.net
Date: 14 Jul 96 20:56:05 EDT
From: Chris Vagtborg <71155.1072@CompuServe.COM>
Subject: post
For Elsise... my email address is 71155.1072@compuserve.com
For Graham... I've got a #27 and the manual with the machine has "#2
Vibrating Shuttle" underneath the #27 text...
For Marci (ManyPigs)... I'm not familiar with a No. 17... Please describe the
machine for me...
For Liz Toth... Please bring your 24-66 to our shop the next time you decide
to wander over here!!!!! I lust for a Singer chainstitch machine....
For Anthony K. Sebro, Jr.: The Nancy Johnson book has the SREBRO attachement.
For Joan Smith... You did 'good' by bying the W&G treadle for $65...
For Bob Campbell... I agree with your suggestions for the meet. Please keep
me posted and please do this!!!!!!!
For David White... Thanks for buying the book from me...
PS: please contact Al Davis about the DAVIS...
Bye for now, Chris @ Stepping Stones Quilts in St. Simons Is. GA...
Date: Sun, 14 Jul 1996 18:15:58 -0700
From: Bobbie
Subject: Check this out!!
http://www.naples.net/govern/county/emrgmgt/sewing.htm
Ya'll should go and check out this web site.
-=bobbie=-
Date: Sun, 14 Jul 1996 21:13:56 -0400
From: raba@mindspring.com (Becky Rabalais)
Subject: 99K for sale
Hi! I just received a call from the lady who I purchased my FW from. She
found another portable Singer at a local garage sale and wanted to let me
know. I called the lady and its a 99k. The serial number is EN029240.
She wants $75.00 for the machine. I have not seen it myself, but if anyone
is interested e-mail me and we will see what can be arranged.
Happy sewing,
Becky
raba@mindspring.com
Date: Sun, 14 Jul 1996 18:59:39 -0700
From: Bobbie
Subject: Here's another to check out
http://softworld.com/sewing/sewdir.htm
-=bobbie=-
Date: Sun, 14 Jul 1996 22:55:19 -0700
From: Mark &Katy
Subject: My "New" treadle :)
Hello FWFans,
Here is my machine of the week story :). Yesterday morning I went garage saling
but only
found one VERY sad 99(wanted $50 and many crucial parts were missing) and two
treadles
that were beyond even coffee table usage. In the afternoon I had to go to MILs
so I
wandered through her neighborhood on the way looking for a sale. Stopped at one
and what
do I find but an old 66-1 treadle with a sign saying "make an offer". I haven't
been
looking for a treadle since they take up a lot of room and I already have
...hmmmm...about a dozen or more machines at home plus the ones at my folks.
Anyway I
had to look at it. The head is just like the 66k pictured in "The Manual", same
decorations. The cabinet has the three fancy drawers on each side and one in
the center.
The machine was seized up and the top of the cabinet had obvious water damage
(veneer
coming up) but the paint on the head was beautiful with very few scratches and
the
cabinet (except for the top) was beautiful also. It has some attachments and
the center
drawer is carved so that each one has it's own spot. I asked what kind of offer
they
were looking for and they didn't want to say so I started to walk away since I
wasn't
all that serious anyway. Then the guy said how about $25? Now I was serious! I
brought
it home, of course! I got the machine working ( needs a belt but it now sews
nicely) now
I have to figure out how to fix the top of the cabinet.
HELP!!!!!
My DH says we can put new veneer on the top but part of it will need to be
stripped. I
don't want to touch the drawers and sides of the cabinet since they look great
and are
very ornate. What do I use to strip the old varnish (?)? How do I go about
matching a
new finish on the top with the old on the sides?
One interestng detail about it. I pulled out one drawer and penciled in on the
back was:
Kate Whaley
43 Walnut Street
Oneida, New York
I would love to find out who this person is/was. Was it the owner? A daughter?
Grand
daughter? The amazing part is that I too am a "Kate" and was born in Oneida
county...Wisconsin :). This machine was destined to be mine. Anyone out there
live near
Oneida, New York?
TIA for any help and for letting me share! Have a great day, Katy
____________________________________
FWFanatics@ttsw.com - Singer phone # 1-800-877-7762
And now a word from our sponsor:
Flower Mound Design Studio - Patterns with a Southwest Flavor. Designs by
Barbara Oliver Hartman, teacher, judge, lecturer, and award winning quilt
maker. http://quilt.com/FMDS
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Date: Tue, 16 Jul 96 08:23:54 -0500
From: Featherweight Fanatics
Subject: FW Fanatics 7/15/96
To: Sue@quilt.com
X-Mailer: LeeMail 2.0.5
Message-Id:
Date: Mon, 15 Jul 1996 00:09:25 -0500
From: Carol Austin
Subject: Oil Can
I bought my first Singer oil can but it is round not oval and about six
inches tall, half of it spout and bronze in color with Singer on it.
Finally!!!
Also bought a tan fw yesterday in about 7 condition. It is gear driven not
belt driven. Made in 1962. I have a copy of McCall's Dec. 1961 with a
Singer ad which shows this particular machine. Price was $132.50 in the ad.
I was told by a Singer man that the Spartan was just a 99 and most dealers
took the Spartan name off and replaced it with Singer. Does anyone know if
that is true? Saturday was a good day as I also bought a 99K in a bentwood
case with manual, attachments and probably a 7 to 8 in appearance. Saw a
beautiful 1918 New Home that looked as if it had never been used. Price was
too high me but caused a lot of heart flutters. Then I found out today that
a friend of mine bought it right after I saw it. At least I can go and
admire it.
Thanks Graham for the description of the centential.
Carol McNiece Austin
Date: Sun, 14 Jul 1996 23:00:59 -0700
From: Bobbie
Subject:
http://128.253.230.232/sylvain/Sewing.html
Go to this website and see what the owner says about the FW she has. Rather
disappointing, I say.
From: "ELIZABETH MILLER"
Date: Mon, 15 Jul 1996 15:56:41 GMT-10
Subject: Tea
When is a cuppa not a cuppa?
When it is made with tea bag!
As I ramble through the antique shops and garage sales looking for
sewing machines I also keep an eye out for Robur tea pots which have
inadvertently become another one of my collectable hobbies
.
In my grandmothers day you could save the labels off the Robur tea
packet and get a discount on buying a silver Robur tea pot. The
special thing about a Robur tea pot is the infuser inside the pot.
So the correct way to make a cuppa is to :
1 boil water
2 warm the pot
3 place tea leaves in infuser
4 poor boiling water over tea leaves in the infuser
5 poor cup (or cups ) of tea as required
So you will all have to come to Melbourne for a decent cuppa.
Elizabeth
Date: Mon, 15 Jul 1996 07:53:54 -0400
From: "David M. White"
Subject: askSam Database program
Hello Again Everyone,
Several people asked for more information about the askSam program I
mentioned several days ago. It is a database program that is completely
free form. You can have one large document or break it down into many
documents each several pages long. It will search the whole database with
equal speed either way. I use it here to keep track of all my FWF e-mail
messages. When I see something that interests me, I can search all the old
e-mail that I have for and other references to that item. It sure beats
printing each one out and storing it.
To get more information about askSam contact them below:
askSam Systems
PO Box 1428
119 S. Washington
Perry, Fla. 32347
1-904-584-6590
1-800-800-1997
Also on the WWW at http://www.asksam.com/asksam.htm.
Disclaimer: I have no finaical interest in this company, only a satisfied
customer.
Have a good day.... David (:D
###############################################################################
#
David M. White Email: wd4skq@erols.com
Woodbridge, Virginia or dmwwd4skq@aol.com
20 Miles South of Washington DC.
Hobbies: Amateur Radio, WD4SKQ, Computers, Electronics, Home Automation,
Koi Fish, Softball, Old Sewing Machines
Favorite Quote: "You Will Pay For Your Lack Of Vision" The Emperor, Star Wars
Date: Mon, 15 Jul 1996 09:28:23 -0500
From: Robert Smith
Subject: 221 For Sale
A quick FYI for all the FWFs out there. There is an older black Singer 221
for sale at the Greencastle Antique Mall in Greencastle , PA. The machine
is about a 6 and has the older case with a leather handle and a scroll
end . It is missing the bobbin case. The price is only $165 but I am quite
certain that they take 10% off of purchases over $10.00.
Greencastle is located just above the Maryland border in Pennsylvania.
The mall is only a mile or two off of Route 81. The Antique mall is closed
on Wednesdays. If anybody out there has any questions, please e mail
me at RESMIT@ARK.SHIP.EDU
Bob Smith
Shippensburg, PA
Date: Wed, 14 Feb 1996 09:25:02 -0800
From: "James M. Welch"
Subject: FW pins
I didn't post this yesterday because I thought Phil from Little Foot
would but he didn't, so I will! Yes, Little Foot does have FW enameled
pins. A FW inside a red heart. We carry them at our shop and have sold
many along with the FW rubber stamps. I think the pins retail for $5 to
$6 (Im not at the shop and I have a terrible memory for prices . . .)
Anyone interested in one can email me.
Debbie at QPs in NJ
PS JIm ordered my part for my 301 and she should be running by the end
of the week!!
PPSS I ordered a clear acrylic table for my FW. Can't remember the
brand name but it is a table that fits around your FW base and enlarges
the sewing bed. Wish I had ordered it years ago when I first heard of
it. These we also sell and I remember they go for about $50.
Date: Mon, 15 Jul 1996 09:51:20 -0400
From: lorre.mccaffrey@po.state.ct.us
Subject: New Home Treadle
I saw a New Home Treadle for $85.00 in an antique store this weekend. Some
spool type bobbins, cabinet needed refinishing, no attachments. The head
looked worn, but the salesperson said it was a working machine. Hard to
test though there was no needle or manual. Does anyone know anything about
this type of machine?
Date: Mon, 15 Jul 1996 10:25:58 -0700
From: Mark &Katy
Subject: Serial numbers and the continuing saga...
Hi Folks,
I just called Singer with a couple numbers of machines I have not seen. I
called for a friend of my mom's. The numbers and dates they gave me were
as follows:
G 8025986 Model 66 April 28, 1920
G 0762695 Model 128 March 10, 1924
I asked the gal why the lower serial number had a later date and she said
that after number G 9,999,999, they went to G 0,000,001 and used a 0
instead of a 10. Anyone know anything about this? My serial number list
from the blue book says machines G10,000,000 - G10,999,999 were made
around 1924. Machines numbered G 0- G 999,999 were made in 1909. What do
you think? Could this be the source of some of the confusion? Do you
think she is right?
Continuing with the treadle saga.......... My Dh helped me do a phonebook
search of the Oneida, New York area and found a name that matches the one
penciled in on my treadle drawer! The address is very close to that on
the drawer as well. It is a shot in the dark but I wrote to her and asked
if she knew anything about it. I realize this is crazy but I just had to
know. I sent her a SASE so I hope to hear back from her. I'll let you
know what I find out.
Have a great day! Katy
Date: Mon, 15 Jul 96 11:58:44 EDT
From: ems@fame.com (Betsy Szymanski)
Subject: I'm published!
Just a quick note to say that an article I wrote is in the latest
issue of Lady's Circle Patchwork Quilts (Aug/Sept '96). It's
about how to get the colors you want in computer quilt design
programs. I know this isn't about antique sewing machines, but
I've enjoyed "talking" to everyone on this list so much, I thought
I'd let you know.
Betsy Szymanski
ems@fame.com
Date: Mon, 15 Jul 1996 12:07:28 -0400
From: Larry Doyle
Subject: machines for sale
FW Black April 22,1947 condition is 8 all decals in tact in perfct
working order$375.00 With scroll front
Singer 503 condition is 9 many attachments and cams $350.00
99 condition 9 w/reverse $125.00
shipping and handling
Date: Mon, 15 Jul 1996 11:38:29 CST
From: jjoens@netins.net
Subject: weekend finds
Saturday morning DH and I decided to go take a quick run thru our local junk
shop (they buy estate stuff) and see if there was anything new.
I discovered a 128 with a broken case, kinda sad condition, missing knee
lever. Made a big mistake in not bringing a flashlight. They wanted $98.50
for this poor thing. I bought mine from them a while back in much better
condition for $35.00.
They also had a 99K stuck in the back of the furniture garage. I had to climb
thru a folded up ping pong table to get within an arms length of it. I could
just touch it, it had the stucco type finish. Is this the famous Godzilla
finish? They wanted $87.50 for it, but the man thought the woman in charge
might come down, if I wanted to come back later and talk to her.
So, are these fair prices? RE the 128, did I get a deal or are they suffering
from "it's old, it must be valuable" syndrome? I am interested in the 99K,
but not enough to get taken. They had a lovely one there a couple of months
ago for $38.00 but I didn't have the money at the time (dead car).
Thanks,
Jeanne (jjoens@netins.net)
Date: 15 Jul 96 13:09:53 EDT
From: Chris Vagtborg <71155.1072@CompuServe.COM>
Subject: post
Hi All...
For Treece... We can supply you with a good aftermarket power cord and Foot
control for your FW. Email me for details...
For Laurie Engle... The RF series motors have to be disassembled to lubricate
them. Remove the screws, and 'pop' off the motor end caps. Try to avoid
dropping the armature on the floor. Keep track of the washers as they fall
off the armature shafts. Put a few drops of Singer oil in the felt cups that
surround the bushings in the end caps. Reassemble motor... Happy sewing!
Bye for now!
Date: Mon, 15 Jul 1996 14:04:45 -0400
From: Millie MacKenzie
Subject: ancient manuals
Greetings. Just realized that I had not priced an item offered for sale
last week: A30 - Boxed set of buttonholer templates. Made by White. Sizes
are 3/8, 1/2, 1 5/16, and keyhole 5/7. $6 includes shipping.
I located a really nice antique dealer who deals in 'paper' and could not
resist buying these really old manuals.
First is a 1888 Swedish Singer manual for Vibrating Shuttle No. 2 machine.
18 pages. Bronzy colored cover with treadly picture. Dog eared and slight
dirt - but I should look this good at 108....
Next, an 1894 Singer manual (in English) for the No. 27-2 (V.S.-2) machine.
16 pages, dog-eared and soome tears. A quarter of back cover is missing.
Cover is grayish with treadle pictured.
Last, an 1894 Singer manual for Attachments, Style No. 9. "Embodying all
the Latest Improvements and Enclosed in a Patent Folding Box." Yes, this is
a manual for the attachmnets which come in the fold-out oak boxes.
Also, for a model 27 shuttle bobbin machine, I have a bobbin case and 5
bobbins.
If there is any interest in coppies or purchases, please email me at
milmac@snet.net. Thanks. Millie
Millie MacKenzie in CT
milmac@mail.snet.net
Date: Mon, 15 Jul 1996 17:05:15 -0400
From: Kilda@aol.com
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 7/13/96
I vote for Bob Campbell's idea on a FWF meeting. Count me in.
Flo Jolly
Date: Mon, 15 Jul 1996 17:19:50 -0400
From: D2Lee@aol.com
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 7/13/96
I LOVE Bob' s idea of a Spring Convention in Lancaster, PA for '97!!!
I would really like the class on taking our FW apart and oiling every single
little bit. I currently use the Srobo book and it is great but I remember
hearing others in CA ? or AZ ? talking about a class that did that.
P.S. LOVE the idea of FWF T-shirts!!
Date: Mon, 15 Jul 1996 17:41:26 -0400
From: LASimon@aol.com
Subject: Care of FWs
I'm a fairly new FWF and owner. Really love the information I've picked up
reading this newsletter. I've learned a lot, but no one so far has asked
"my" questions so I decided to see if I could get someone to answer them for
me. I realize that I'm supposed to oil my FW periodically. Can anyone tell
me how often? AND, am I also supposed to lubricate it? When? With what?
How? What should I clean the black enamel with to keep it nice and shiny?
I'd appreciate any information as I want to keep my "Baby Heather" in good
working condition. She sews like a dream and I want to keep it that way. I
bought her in late April and she had just been completely serviced when I
got her. She's my first. Found two more almost immediately but passed them
on to two friends who were green with envy when I got mine. None were real
bargains but seem to have been fairly priced according to the information I
read here. Incidentally, I LOVE Graham's stories and look forward to them.
TIA for your help.
Date: Mon, 15 Jul 1996 16:33:54 -0400 (EDT)
From: JEANIE BARNHART
Subject: sell carry case
have a leatherette beige "singer" machine carry case with handles
is great for the fw, lots of room for quilt fabric etc
i used for toting 234 bernina overlock. condition is perfect.
asking $50.00 plus shipping. email me direct if
you are interested. jeanie in massachusetts
Date: 15 Jul 96 18:42:36 EDT
From: Graham Forsdyke <100661.3256@CompuServe.COM>
Subject: Contribution
To Laura: re missing 301
The manual only shows machines which were sold in the UK. Even some which were
manufactured at Kilbowie, just outside Glasgow are not mentioned as they were
for export only.
To all those enquiring about the Singer Recognition Manual.
Keep checking for FWF for news of Bobbie's next mailing.
Whilst on the subject of Bobbie, let's all give her a lot of support for the
Sincere re-print idea. It's a big job and she is going to need oders as soon as
it is available to help offset the considerable costs involved.
To Chris re No 2/ 27 mystery
A lot of 99 manuals have 66 added to them because the book could double for
both
machines. Are you suggesting that the 27 was called a two in America or that
the
two machines were so similar that the manual could double up for both?
To Bob re FW accessories
I used a great company called Pinsource in America for my last lot of ISMACS
badges. Really helpful people and much cheaper for a quality job to mail from
the States, pay import duties and taxes than to have them made here. Cant find
the address but if you point your web search engine at pinsource (one word) it
will pick them up.
Would love to see your ideas. Possible market at ISMACS.Snail is 158 Hampton
Road, Chingford, London E4 8NT, England.
To Bob and others re convention.
Please allow someone from thousands of miles away to have 2 cents worth of
comment on your proposed get-together.
I've run around a dozen ISMACS conventions finishing up this year with a
172-strong meeting so I've bought the T shirt.
I think there is a lot of value in starting small -- a number of get-togethers,
perhaps built around shows -- rather than going for broke first time out.
Lancaster PA with its wealth of antique activity in the area sounds good as
does
the West Coast.
We found that if we chose a natural vacation area we would get more visitors
rather than just somewhere that was equi-distant from everyone.
Over the years we have evolved a formula which seems to work - seminars,
auctions, competitions etc and I'd be happy to give any long-distance help that
I can. Also have a set of 35 mm slides of the more wow! machines from Maggie's
collection that might go down well.
Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help.
If Bob is suggesting Lancaster PA for the spring of next year it could be tied
in with the Renninger Extravaganza antique shows in Kutztown and Adamstown.
Have found that the promise of bulk bookings at hotels, decimates the room rate
and most are happy to provide meetings rooms etc free of charge.
One last point. We found the swap-meet system led to a few unhappy people who
were jealous of other people's bargains. Found the fairest way was to chanel
everything thru an auction. With the right auctioneer this can become a super
entertainment in itself.
To David C re Piedmont
This was a popular name amongst early 20th century manufacturers. Davis, Hew
Home and Goodrich all produced Piedmont-branded machines.
To David M W re Singer
Can provide a copy manual for your machine. But are you sure it is a Singer?
Every Singer of that period had the name on the top arm , probably, at that
date
on the top of the arm, only visible from above.
There were many vibrating shuttle clone machines made in later years in Germany
that used Singer look-alike motifs and it was well after the date you mention
that Singer began to use the "big red S". I don't want to be downheartening (is
that a word?) but it's best to be sure of what we've got here.. Please describe
the shape and size of the base which might give us a clue.
To Wander re tea
Don't know about the coffee incident but let me have the last word on the
tea/coffee saga. I'll be in the States in a little over a month and one thing
I'm looking forward to is meals in family restaurants where the servers really
seem anxious that you enjoy the meal. That's virtually unknown in England where
we went straight from fawning, tugging forelocks servers into a band who
resent
the fact that they should wait on you at all.
To Rosemary
Thanks for the further list of Americanisms
White Castle would be Chateau Blanc in French.
Thanks but now have the Singer phone number business under control
To Laurie re chips with everything
Wimpys was the first-ever burger chain in the UK and at one time had shops in
about every town. Now many have been bought out by Burger King whilst Mac D
prefers to custom build new premises. WARNING if you buy a BK or Mac in Europe
it will be a pale imitation of the American version.
Yes there are those who eat burgers -- and even a hot dog with a knife and
fork.
Strict etiquete (sp?) also demands in England that you do not put down the
knife
after cutting food. You cut the portion and use the fork in the left hand. The
only exception allowable is for a meal where you would use a fork only -- then
it can be held in the right hand.
Even odder, but a mark of manners, is that the fork, when used in the left hand
can only be used with the tangs pointing down -- not as a spoon. A tad
difficult
at times, especially with peas. The fork alone, used in the right hand can be
used as a spoon. Deserts, puddings, sweets call them what you will, can be
eaten
with spoon and fork or fork alone. Never with spoon alone.
In my home I eat as I please but in a restaurant I would abide by the above,
silly, dictates. Reminds me of a silly poem
I eat my peas with honey,
I've done it all my life
It makes the peas taste funny
But it keeps them on the knife.
To Joan re transport
Just about every treadle ever made will break down and go into a suitcase. See
true story number twenty nine which I will post, out of sequence because you've
made it topical, this weekend.
To Terri
I wouldn't advise painting the treadle. If I'm buying a machine I always knock
a
few points off for repainting. Unless you must have it all shiney, simply go
over it with boot polish. This will protect the surface and provide a finish
most people can live with.
To Larry
I've noticed the DC (direct current) on the English made 240-volt motors. I
haven't had the courage to try one yet nor can I guess how many volts to put
through it. Now, it they would work on 12 volts DC the camping fraterity would
be in a whole new ball game. Guess I have to try it......
Excuse more than usual number of typos in above but it's 3 am and I've had it.
Graham F
London
Date: Mon, 15 Jul 1996 20:09:26 -0400
From: EHurl10028@aol.com
Subject: Re: What is it?
To whom it may concern, HELP. I just hate it when a machine follows me home
and I don't know a thing about it. It is a Singer 306W. The machine is in
very good shape execpt that the foot control is missing as is the bobbin
holder for lack of a better word. It looks as if it might use cams. So help
me I have never seen a machine like this. The only thing I am sure of is the
model since it is on the machine. Will call Singer in the AM and hope for
more info. Does anyone out there own this machine? If so do you have a spare
manual or a copy to share? I will gladly pay costs. Does anyone know what
size bobbin case I should be looking for. I'm sure any foot control will work
such as one from a featherweight. TIA for any help you can give me.
Elaine
Date: Mon, 15 Jul 1996 18:26:40 -0700
From: David Danbert
Subject: wanted
featherweight machine in good working order
Date: Mon, 15 Jul 1996 19:27:33 -0700 (PDT)
From: Grant Miller
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 4/26/96
On Sat, 27 Apr 1996, Featherweight Fanatics wrote:
> From: Lydia Pratt
> To Viola: E-mail me your snail mail address and I'll send you a
> photocopy of the bottom of a Greist buttonholer box. It shows various
> types of attaching mechanisms (including the horizontal ones) and that may
> help you decide what goes with what.
>
> From: Graham Forsdyke <100661.3256@CompuServe.COM>
> The Spartan mentioned in Grace Cooper book is a different machine from the
> Singer model.
>
> Treadle machines are still produced -- there's quite a bit of the world out
> there that doesn't have electricity. I heard that Singer's headquaters in
China
> is now producing a treadle model.
>
> To Mary re Spartan
> Singer UK have told me, and their early literature bears out, that there was
> never a 192 produced in K (Scotland). Incidently, the birth date they gave
you
> was the date on which the EP series was first used. The EP series ran until
> March 1960 so you machine could date anywhere in that period. My guess is
that
> this is what Singer do every time as, to my knowledge, sn did not give
accurate
> date information until the 1970s.
From: "Laurie Engle"
Date: Sun, 14 Jul 1996 21:45:45 +0000
Subject: WTB: Zigzagger for FW
Hi all- I'm in the market for a zigzagger for my FW. I'd like to get
the kind that has the cams--I don't really know what the part number
is, though. I don't need a box, but a manual would be nice.
Email me if you have one for sale
Laurie
lengle@newnorth. net
Laurie
lengle@newnorth.net
From: Gail Pickens-Barger
Subject: RE: FW Fanatics 7/14/96
Date: Mon, 15 Jul 1996 21:49:42 -0500
Hello All!
Thanks for the emails on the little Pin. With my Star trek fan club,
it was only a Dollar to order a replacement pin. Do you really
think if FWF was on it people who don't know about FWF,
would connect it with featherweights?
Dad &Mum (Dale and Deloris Pickens), often go to "local" quilt shows. Mum, is
the secretary of the Oklahoma State Quilt Guild, so she "sorta" has to be
there.
Dad has met a lot of folk at these, he offers to "do a maintenance" check on
the
fw's that people bring for a nominal fee, and brings 8-10 fw's to sell. He met
a couple people off of this list, I believe at the Fort Smith, AR, and Oklahoma
City quilt shows.
check out the sample "button" for I "heart" FWF!! http://www.icsi.net/~pickens
Gail Pickens-Barger
From: BXTJ10A@prodigy.com ( ALTON DAVIS)
Date: Mon, 15 Jul 1996 23:30:11, -0500
Subject: Question on Greasing 99K Motor
Laurie,
The RFJ motor on your 99K doesn't have grease tubes and must be
disassembled to lube. If it seems smooth and strong I wouldn't worry about
it. If it does seems to need lubricant and you don't feel comfortable
taking it apart, take it to a repair shop if you know of a good one and ask
them. Depending on when it was made, the 99 was supplied with any of about
seven different motors and the RF series is the only one without the lube
tubes.
Al in IL
____________________________________
FWFanatics@ttsw.com - Singer phone # 1-800-877-7762
And now a word from our sponsor:
Flower Mound Design Studio - Patterns with a Southwest Flavor. Designs by
Barbara Oliver Hartman, teacher, judge, lecturer, and award winning quilt
maker. http://quilt.com/FMDS
Received: from ttsw.com ([204.249.244.11]) by pcnet1.pcnet.com (4.1/SMI-4.1)
id AA20586; Wed, 17 Jul 96 08:18:16 EDT
Date: Wed, 17 Jul 96 08:28:59 -0500
From: Featherweight Fanatics
Subject: FW Fanatics 7/16/96
To: Sue@quilt.com
X-Mailer: LeeMail 2.0.5
Message-Id:
Date: Mon, 15 Jul 1996 22:56:35 -0400
From: Millie MacKenzie
Subject: needle case
I have from time to time seen FWF's talk about needle cases and could not
imagine what they were. Well, I saw my first one in an antique store last
weekend. It was in fairly good condition tho there seemed to be not too
many needles in the storage area. Loved the way the sm company names are
listed around the circumference. Anyone interested in pursuing this, get
your $400 from your ATM!! Is this really what they are going for? Are they
so rare to actually sell for this price?? Millie
Millie MacKenzie in CT and Cape Cod, MA
milmac@mail.snet.net
Date: Tue, 16 Jul 1996 07:22:35 -0400
From: Fritz906@aol.com
Subject: FWFConvention
Hi all," I think a FWF convention sounds great ",
I agree OKLA would be a great place for us all to get together, Dale Pickens
may have an idea on a good sight in Ok , it would be a central location ,
maybe Tulsa, Ok City, Ponca City ?? I'll go where ever. I'll bring my FW's ,
a swap &Show meet would be great , spare parts ect.
I'm busy cleaning my newest FW , it has" THE SMELL!!" put coffee in
case see how that works .Thanks to all , for all the help on parts ect, for
our little Darlings, without your help we would never get it together. Gotta
go to work see ya! Sandy
Date: Tue, 16 Jul 1996 07:05:46 -0700 (PDT)
From: Grant Miller
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 7/15/96
Hi everyone - sorry about the odd message. I was going through old FWF
postings and trying to save parts of them. Apparently I hit the wrong
button on one of these and sent them to the group.
Does anyone know if there is any type of guide to needles for old machines?
I recently purchased a number of packets of needles and am trying to
determine which machines they belong to .
Elise
--Grant--
gem@netcom.com
Time is Nature's way of keeping everything
from happening at once.
Date: Mon, 15 Jul 1996 21:57:29 -0700
From: The Halls
Subject: Machine's Spotted-good food
Hi fw fans! I have traveled a bit, and spotted some nice
machines. At good prices.
I saw a 15-91 wo/ book, in an odd cherry cabinet. It opened
oddly. when opened it would fit neatly into a corner. It was in
nice shape, and it was only $8. The head had a little craze on the
neck, but the cabinet was perfect and the attachments were with it.
I saw a Jones handcrank, in a bentwood case without the top.
Nice finish, no chips, no attachments. $25.
A nice 50's kenmore, with book attachments, in a lovely refinesed
four drawyer cabinet. $35.
Ohhhhh a cute "little " singer in a bentwood case, smaller than
a 128, book attachments, $25. godzilla, or wrinkeled paint finish.
Sad me DH said it was too much :( .
Last, my treasure, a 15-91, dusty, with book, a few bobbins and
a way cool blue curved up at the bottom case with blue leatherett.
Its so cool. I'll need some advice from Katy for lubing, but sews
so well. $15. :) Dh really liked this one, let me buy it!!
I also found a very old treadle singer, with a garish green
painted cabinet, with the coolest scroolwork. It had an
ejyption (creative spelling here) scrollwork. lovely lovely desingn.
He wanted $95.
And a few more nice Whites and Singers in cabinets, around $100.
each, but they offered to dicker. Oh , a really nice Franklin, good
cond, large bentwood case, priced at $30.
I also found a wonderful sewing basket that folds outward with
lots of storage, and a tiny wooden sewing box that stands alone.
I dicked from $10. to $9, I'll have to refinish, but its darling!
Grahym, in Ohio, remember Bob Evans, Pretty good food,
Fresh Coffee, and HOT HOT tea, and best of all very nice waitresses.
We have the nicest waitresses at the Owosso Bob Evans, but Ohio does
pretty well.
On week days, the breakfasts are $2.99 With a lunch
special at $3.99. DH loves the food, I'm fussy, its good. The
rolls and biscuits however more than make up for any dish that
isnt to my taste. And, the meatloaf I must admit, is better than
mine. The pricing is uniform, as is the quality of the food.
Anyway, Thats all the bargains so far, except for the
buttons I found. I'm finding more and more that I love to negotiate
on price. I'm learning to do it well, and love to take a dollar off.
I thik my vendors enjoy it also, as they seem happy to sell.
Take care, and don't forget the good deals on machines are
plentiful. I wish summer up here lasted at least another month. I
will misss the neat garage sales, and the flea markets! Take care all!
Huggs, Cheryl, creative spelling in michigan
Date: Tue, 16 Jul 1996 18:32:16 -0400
From: JimAlmonte@aol.com
Subject: Finds
Hi--
I've been lurking this summer educating myself from all the postings. I had
decided to that a 301 was what I needed and probably more in my budget and
have been searching for one. I found four of them in a nearby city, each at
$150, and couldn't quite make up my mind. Then this past Friday at a garage
sale I found a 301 table for $5 and decided that I had to get the machine to
go in it. Saturday, I called the retired Singer man that I've been
negotiating with and went and picked up my 301--an all tan, short bed (serial
number NA057766). It fits perfectly in the table and sews beautifully--I've
started piecing a crib quilt. Today, I had a call about two more 301's--one
for $249, one for $349.
My mother has the same table as I found for the 301--she got it for her 404
in 1956 and that's the only reason that I recognized the table as sewing
machine table--I learned to sew on her 404 many years ago. The man running
the garage sale kept insisting that it was a computer printer table--I
figured he could call it what ever he wanted as the price was right.
My Featherweight story is after much searching and realizing that my budget
doesn't extend that far right now, I found out my71 year old aunt has a
centennial Featherweight that she is still using but will sell to me when she
is ready to give it up--this same aunt also had my grandmother's 127 and
treadle stand in her basement and has given them to my parents for me to pick
up when I get back east.
Anyways, I know of five 301's available in my area(south central WI), ranging
from $150 to $349. If anyone is interested in following up on these, e-mail
me and I will give you contacts. Also today I saw a centennial 15-91
(electric with knee control) in a cabinet--the machine appeared to be
mechanicallyintact (bobbin case present, feed dogs move when the hand wheel
is turned, and the top thread picked up the bobbin thread properly) but I
couldn't check the motor. The gold is worn off on one part of the bed,
serial number begins with EE, and on top where it says Singer, it also says
Made in Canada in gold. They are asking $60--manual but no accessories. I
also found a Singer buttonholer in the green "Jetson" case with 5 cams,
manual, for a straight needle machine--the manual is dated 1948--asking price
is $10. E-mail me if you wish more details.
Many thanks to all of you who have unknowingly contributed to my learning
curve on these machines that past couple months.
Cyndi
in Janesville, WI
Date: Tue, 16 Jul 1996 15:49:29 -0700
From: Bobbie
Subject: ORDERING/PRICE info on Sincere Books
DATED information---has a deadline date.
If you received more than one copy of this msg. pls. advise so I can
check my distribution list for "duplicate entries", and I apologize if
you did. thanks -=bobbie=-
Now for the good stuff:
FINALLY.......here are the prices for the republished Sincere Books:
The books are bound in what is called Perfect Bound [soft cover]
This is the same binding that most of today's quilting, and the
Singer Sewing Library books have.
Retail: $34.95 + $5 SHIPPING
*************************************************
>>>>> ----- SPECIAL OFFER* ---- <<<<<
ONE WEEK ONLY!!
From: 07/17/96 thru 07/27/96
Price is: $24.95* PER BOOK + shipping
All orders &payment MUST be in my mailbox no later than midnite 07/27/96
to take advantage of this ONE TIME, Special Offer. No
exceptions.
*Note: Does not apply to dealer orders
Shipping within the United States is $5 for 1 book, and $2 per each
additional book, when ordered all together in one order.
Pre-orders are being taken for a "collectors' edition".
If enough pre-orders are recieved to warrant printing of a hard bound,
deluxe cover, to include color plates, it will be printed. This
price will
depend on the number of Pre Order Sales I receive.
If a Collectors' Edition is published, William Ewers, Author,
has agreed to a book signing opportunity.
----------------------------------------------------------------
---------
Dealer inquires welcome via pvt. email
______________________________________________________
TO INSURE RECEIVING your copies, email your ORDER NOW
to: bkopf@rtd.com
Then immediately send payment with a PRINT OUT of your ORDER to:
Bobbie Kopf - 3715 North Runway - Tucson, Arizona 85705
Here is a sample of what your order should look like:
=============================
To: bkopf@rtd.com
Subject: Sincere ORDER
Body of Message:
=============================
Please send
Qty. Title
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
_____ copies of Sincere's Sewing Machine History
@ $24.95
_____ copies of Sincere's Sewing Machine Service Manual
@ $24.95
_____ copies of Sincere's ZigZag Sewing Machine Service Manual
@ $24.95
_____ Special Offer - Set of 3 [1 of each title]
@ $69.95 no shipping charges
_____ Pre-Order for Collectors Limited Edition
[available, Spring '97]
Total amount for Books:$____________
Total Shipping charges:$__________($5 -1book)
$__________($7 -2 books)
$__________($9 -3 books)*does not
apply to
special
offer of a set of 3 dif.titles.
Total Payment of $_________ remitted
Name:
Mailing Address:
Date Pymt sent:
Email address
INCLUDE hardcopy of this order form with your payment.
==============================
"Projected" Shiping Date is 12 - 14 weeks. You will receive
confirmation of shipment via emai,l the date your order is shipped.
Be sure you include your email address.
Date: Tue, 16 Jul 1996 19:02:27 -0400
From: BeckyRab@aol.com
Subject: Quilting with a FW
Hi friends,
I know that many people use their featherweights for piecing quilts.
What experience have you had with actually quilting with a FW? Does the
even-feed foot really make a difference?
Many thanks
Becky
raba@mindspring.com
BeckyRab@aol.com
Date: Tue, 16 Jul 1996 19:26:14 -0700
From: Michael Auen
Subject: clear acrylic table for my FW
These clear acrylic tables for the FW are fantastic and they also double
as a small light box (about 12/18 inch size for tracing and quilt
marking on fabric, especially dark fabric). Just pickup a small
under-the-counter-type floresant (stays cool) light at your local home
center for about $15.00, plug the light and slide it under the table for
the best light box yet.
Date: Tue, 16 Jul 1996 20:56:18 -0400
From: tmfrazer@netcom.ca (Tracy Maureen Frazer)
Hi Everyone its Tracy on Bowen,
Well I started out wanting an FW and now I have 3. This list is
addictive, cause now I also have a 99k in 9 condition! Just need a
manual, anyone have one they'd be willing to part with? Also found a
301A without a bobbin case, but my sewing machine mechanic friend, who
used to work for Singer, says that the bobbin case for the FW will work
in the 301. Now all the Singer guys I talked to wouldn't give me a
straight answer on that question, very irritating. More than happy to
sell me a new case for $115 Canadian through! Also found a case for the
301 for $2, so when I bring the little two tone grasshopper home,
she'll ride in comfort! I'm paying $50 Canadian for her, but it was
love at first sight. She's so 1950's ugly.
Also found a Singer dealer with spare parts for FWs and a buttonholer,
and a zigzagger, anyone interested just email me for his name.
Tracy on Bowen where summer back to coming and going.
tmfrazer@netcom.ca
Date: Tue, 16 Jul 1996 20:59:25 -0400
From: Judy Snow
Subject: Sewing Machine Salvaging
Hello all,
Bobbie, checked out emergency site. A lot of good info .
Note to all---received a combination Mother's Day and anniversary gift from DH
of "Maggie the Messmaker", a numbered limited edition print by Charles Wysocki.
The cat has made mess in a sewing room and after she tired out is laying with
a Singer treadle machine sleeping. It was well worth the wait (had to be
ordered and then I got to pick out the framing I wanted). Just picked it up
last week. Beautiful!
We now have two black FWs, one white FW, a 128, a Singer treadle, one that I'm
not sure what it is, a Singer made in Canada, and a tan Sewhandy with booklet
and box, in near perfect condition.
Soon there is not going to be room enough for us humans.
Judy, in the Muskumgum River valley of Ohio.
Date: Tue, 16 Jul 1996 22:03:05 -0400
From: Larry Doyle
Subject: machines for sale
FW Black April 22,1947 condition is 8 all decals in tact in perfct
working order$350.00
Singer 503 condition is 9 many attachments and cams $350.00
99 condition 9 w/reverse $125.00
shipping and handling additional
Date: Sat, 13 Jul 1996 22:27:07 -0400 (EDT)
From: Lydia Pratt
Subject: Brief notes ..
To Frances: Interesting that your 8/22/50 FW is a centennial model. My
8/22/50 FW is NOT a centennial model -- maybe it just came off the
assembly line too late for the different medallion. Would you mind
posting the SN for comparison purposes for me??
To Graham: Here I was all set to take your tea problem seriously, then you
proceed to tell us that you actually put MILK in the stuff! Whatever are
you thinking??!!!
To all: Just back from a week in a cabin at a state park. I apologize if
some of my comments are "old news" to the group, but it will take me a
while to catch up. I did not find the 99K of my dreams, but I DID find
the White Rotary portable that I have been thinking about. Terri (ragdoll
in Montana), if you're still out there, I think I may now own "Mamazilla".
Black rough-surfaced matte finish. The big surprise (to me) is how many
of the miscellaneous attachment sets that I have picked up do NOT fit this
machine. But for $45 I got: the machine (works but needs oiled), a
buttonholer with the full five standard cams, a zig-zag attachment, the
original instruction book, and a While Sewing Manual that is copyrighted
1947. When I remember to write it down, I'll post it and perhaps one of
you can supply me with a date??? And all because LMTS decided he wanted a
"comfort break" right before Exit 59 on I-70 Eastbound. (He also stated
in no uncertain terms -- once he figured out what was going on -- that
he'd rather go to the Truck Stop. I, on the other hand, had control of
the vehicle (snicker snicker)!)
Re: attachments. Very shortly I intend to "clean house" on some of these,
so watch for postings and prices.
Lydia in central Ohio, back home and trying to get caught up as
fast as possible.
_ _
Lydia Pratt |_|X|_|
Columbus, Ohio |X|*|X|
lspratt@freenet.columbus.oh.us |_|X|_|
Date: Tue, 16 Jul 1996 22:05:16 -0500
From: Tim and Sherrie
Subject: I got a Spartan! I got a Spartan!
I went up to my Mom's in Knoxville TN for a couple of weeks (just got back
today...), and had the usual family 4th of July picnic. I had asked my
father's cousin if I could have her mother's machine back when I was
"featherless", but hadn't been able to get it due to a greedy 88 yr old
great-aunt who doesn't sew but wouldn't relinquish the machine (which wasn't
even hers!).
Anyhow, at the picnic, My great-aunt listened to three of us bragging on our
old singers and the thrill of the hunt, and told me to come up and get the
machine before I left town! (wonder what got into her???) We had no idea
what machine it was, my mother had seen it once in the back of a closet, but
knew it wasn't a featherweight. I was really hoping it wasn't a 99 or 66,
as I have one of each of those.
When we got to her garage and found the machine - what a sight! This thing
needed vacuuming on the outside!! It is sitting IN the base for a 301-size
machine, not sure what, and covered with spiderwebs and grunge. And, sure
enough, there across the front, the word "SPARTAN"!! Aunt Mattie kept
making references to how she wanted to 'get it fixed, but it would cost too
much" , but when asked what was wrong, just backed off and said "Oh, just
sitting in the basement". I took it back to Mom's, and we had a gloriously
grubby evening! Got a big handfull of real honest dirt and pieces of needle
out of the bobbin area - and there's more there I can't get! Surface
cleaned with damp rag and then oil, but not really cleaned the paint up.
Now the interesting part is that this poor machine has NO base! We did give
it a test run, by holding the machine above table level and running it...
:-) Can you imagine? If you don't look at the paint chips on the
handwheel, this machine looks like a 9. Looks like someone dropped
something and chipped the paint.
Does anyone have a source for a base for this machine? Or a manual?
Question: Does the Spartan have an oil wick in the bobbin raceway area?
There is a very firm red felted piece stuck in there, and with my history
of pulling out wicks, I thought I'd ask first (VBG) ...Also, this machine
has no grease tubes? or am I missing them? How likely is it that all this
dirt got into the motor itself?
and another interesting note...this machine was bought by my father's
cousins for their mother at the same time,in the same store as my mother's
Spartan was traded in for her Touch -n- Sew...isn't it tempting to imagine
that it's the same machine???
Sherrie Groman, laughing at herself for getting so "het up" over such a
machine!
Tim and Sherrie
gromant@ebicom.net
Our Home page =http://www.ebicom.net/~gromant - now complete
with quilt and firetruck pictures! (Last Revised 6/30/96)
Date: Wed, 17 Jul 1996 13:37:40 +1000
From: brenda@ismacs.com.au (Brenda Dean)
Subject: Re: G'Day from OZ!
Hi Everyone,
Brenda here, ISMACS rep. from downunder.
It's a while since I posted anything. I've been busy updating the ISMACS
home page and sorting out interesting links. It should be finished by the
weekend. I'll let you know when I have it all in place. I am adding two more
sections, one will be a selection of very old and interesting sewing
machines, the other will be some details on books. Keep watching!
I've had fun reading some of the postings with regards to our language
differences.....Mickey D's.... we call it Mackers!
I do have a very funny story for you highlighting these differences.
At the beginning of this year I attended the Melbourne Stitches &Craft
show. One of the visitors giving demonstrations and seminars was Lynn Graves
from New Mexico(she's the inventor of "Little Foot" and author of "The
Frame Game").
Her seminar was full and overflowing with enthusiaistic quilters hanging on
her every word. Lynn is an excellent speaker, full of vitality with an
ability to inspire and hold her audience. As she was busy sewing a frame on
her FW she made a casual reference to the purse/bag people wear around the
waist to protect their valuables whilst leaving both hands free (a F---- P---).
Suddenly a deathly hush descended over the room, you could have heard a pin
drop. The hush gradually turned into an uneasy shuffle, which gave way to
embarassed giggles. Lynn looked towards Robyn her Australian assistant who
began to blush.
"O.K. guys - what did I do?" Lynn was oblivious to the faux pas. Robyn
hesitated a little, blushed even more and said quietly "I'll tell you later".
The seminar carried on without another hitch and at the end the lady sitting
next to me turned and said "Wasn't she good? I'm so glad there weren't any
gentlemen present".
The "F----" is probably a very innocent word in American terms but it
definately isn't a word used in polite company in Australia.
____________________________________
FWFanatics@ttsw.com - Singer phone # 1-800-877-7762
And now a word from our sponsor:
Flower Mound Design Studio - Patterns with a Southwest Flavor. Designs by
Barbara Oliver Hartman, teacher, judge, lecturer, and award winning quilt
maker. http://quilt.com/FMDS
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id AA09345; Thu, 18 Jul 96 08:13:22 EDT
Date: Thu, 18 Jul 96 08:24:00 -0500
From: Featherweight Fanatics
Subject: FW Fanatics 7/17/96
To: Sue@quilt.com
X-Mailer: LeeMail 2.0.5
Message-Id:
From: YBPM37A@prodigy.com (MR PHILIP G HAYS II)
Date: Tue, 16 Jul 1996 16:47:18, -0500
Subject: Luv My Featherweight Pins For Sale
Little Foot is still selling the 'Luv My Featherweight' Pins. We
also have a 4 inch embroidered patch and a metal license plate (if
you state does not require two plates) priced at $6.95 each plus 75c
shipping. The pins are still $5.00 and 75c shipping. The design of
the red heart with the Featherweight superimposed over it has been
copyrighted. We've discovered a lot of FW owners who do not own
computers.
If you have not seen a picture of the pin in any of the quilting
magazines, send your snail mail address for a copy of our newsletter
to:
Little Foot Ltd.
605 Bledsoe NW
Albuquerque, NM 87107
The newsletter also contains numerous stories from customers on how
they acquired their FW.
Scheduling ameeting during a major quilt show is a great idea. I
hope when it is organized that there will be some function taking
place after the normal quilt show hours. Some of us "fanatics" will
also be vendors and not available during show hours. The Little Foot
booth will be happy to post a small sign directing other FW Fanatics
to the gathering area.
Date: Wed, 17 Jul 1996 07:49:08 -0800
From: Linda Edwards
Subject: 301 case
Anyone know where there is a picture of a 301 case on the internet? I need
to see what one looks like by Friday, the 19th.
thanks,
Linda Edwards
email: xtpc004@tsmail.state.ak.us
Date: Wed, 17 Jul 1996 11:53:14 -0500
From: Rebecca Sunderman
Subject: FW's,??? &For Sales
Hi, FWF'ers !
Haven't posted in awhile, and I owe some of you long past due letters !
But Ijust wanted to tell you what I finally got out of "layaway" - Graham,
if this term isn't familiar,it's a pay-as-you-can-plan, with the seller
holding the merchandise until the full purchase price agreed upon is paid in
full, then you can take your stuff home - a 1950 FW, minus its foot pedal
and case. GWillie provided me with those a few days back, and they have been
patiently awaiting the machine. All are now happily residing together.
Along with the FW came a FW table at a steal of a price. Of course, it is
not in tip-top condition - the veneered top is peeling and chipped, but I am
going to try Carter Bays' solution of a towel soaked with vinegar and water
to remove it. Since it is so thin, I don't think it will make that much
difference in as far as retaining an almost level surface for sewing once
the machine is in place.
But I have a question for those of you who have removed veneer from the FW
tables - should I replace the veneer or just treat the underlaying wood with
a sealant? What are your recommendations, please?
On to the other finds, which, by the way, are still where I saw them, if
anyone is interested.
1. An old Wheeler and Wilson in a gorgeous wooden case. It sews left to
right, #320490, Bridgeeport, Conn. Patent dates Nov.12, 1850, Aug. 12, 1851,
June 15, 1852 and Dec. 19, 1854. The foot pedals are two foot or shoe
shapes, and the machine needs a belt, but both machine and case are in
excellent condition, I would say an 8 or 9. Asking price $450
2. A Small Singer (Toy?) in a tiny suitcase, rather grayish-green looking
machine, with an attachment for clamping the machine to a table or other
surface. Is this the Sewhandy? Looks unused - I would give it a 10 - asking
price $85
3. A Phoenix machine with a pretty wooden cover. The paint is chipping off
the machine, but it runs smoothly and quietly.
Anyone have any information on "Phoenix"? This is a new name to me.
4. A Singer Model 128 with the round top wooden case, and manual, condition
7-8 -Asking price $100
5. A Singer Model 201 - no cabinet didn't get asking price
6. ( I brought this home because of the low price, but am not sure which
machine models it will fit ye does anyone have the answer ?) - a Singer
Automatic Zigzagger with 3 cams, in the original box - part No. 161102
Oh, I find myself with two Singer Model 128 machines, one without the top of
the case( seller is still searching for it !), and 2 Singer Model 66's, >
Now I only need one of each model, so if any of you are in the market for a
66 or a 128, please e-mail me privately.
Still enjoying FWF immensely -look forward to my daily "fix" !
"Piecefully",
Becky S.
Becky Sunderman
sewcarve@cei.net
Rule#1: Don't sweat the small stuff. Rule#2: It's all small stuff !
From: Tiffin Sewing Machine / A B C Reruns
Subject: What a surprise
Just wanted to share this. Had a lady walk into my store and said she had
three machines in her van and would I be interested in buying them. I said I
would take a look. Well she had a 404, a 1919 (66-6) both around a 7. Also a
kenmore that needs work. When I asked her what she wanted for all three I
was happy to hear $75.00. The 404 was in a nice cabinet. So I said that
seems fair.
Just a word of advice to anyone who decides to take their motor apart to
lube it. My experience has always been that your in for a very messy job.
There is a cleaner that you can use on the motors. You just spray the motor
while it is running and it will clean the grease of the motor and the
armature cleans up great. I have been using this for over 10 years and it
does a nice job on the motors and a lot less mess. This cleaner also does a
nice job of cleaning all the old film off the shafts and metal gears. Then
all you need to do is oil and regrease the machine.
--
Tiffin Sewing Machine A B C Reruns
Michael Hayes Juanita Yambert
800-773-9556 419-447-3366
Mike@needle.com Juanita@abc-reruns.com
www.needle.com www.sims.net/ksme/abc-reruns/abcrerun.html
136 S. Washington St. Tiffin, Ohio 44883
All E-mail mhayes@bpsom.com
Date: Wed, 17 Jul 1996 15:37:18 -0400
From: "David M. White"
Subject: This &That
Hello again everyone,
Everyone and Graham F.
I finally got thru to Singer today, after calling for three days, about the
two machines that I purchased on Saturday. The G0276051 machines is a Model
66 made in Elizabeth, NJ on January 16, 1911. This is the "Drawing Room
Cabinet Model." That is funny because before when I was looking at it, I
called Singer and they told me it was made in 1924. Which one is right?????
The other one, 300932, they say is a "Standard". This is the one with the
wood inlay in the cabinet and what I beleive is Mother of pearl inlay in the
big S on the base. The helpful lady on the phone said that this was the
oldest one that she ever looked up. She said it was made in 1869 and that
they didn't give machines "model" numbers back then. Graham.. How can I
tell for sure if this is a Singer? I will try to get a picture of it and
mail it off to you. My photography leaves something to be desired. Anybody
got a idea on where I can get a manual for it and some needles. The needle
that was in it was broken at the tip. It is one diameter all along its
shaft, no flat section and has a groove in it from the eye almost to the
top. The groove I believe goes in the back away from the operator.
Bobbie:
My check will be in the mail for the Sincere soft cover books tomorrow. How
much of a deposit do you need for the collectors addition? Let us know how
much to send to get on the list or are you just asking for a head count
right now? Please advise.
Also, what is the address to send the money to??? The same as for the
Grahams' Book????
Enough for now... Talk to you later... you all have a good day.... David (:D
###############################################################################
#
David M. White Email: wd4skq@erols.com
Woodbridge, Virginia or dmwwd4skq@aol.com
20 Miles South of Washington DC.
Hobbies: Amateur Radio, WD4SKQ, Computers, Electronics, Home Automation,
Koi Fish, Softball, Old Sewing Machines
Favorite Quote: "You Will Pay For Your Lack Of Vision" The Emperor, Star Wars
Date: Wed, 17 Jul 1996 15:07:35 -0500
From: Tim and Sherrie
Subject: giggling...
Brenda and others...
Brenda said about Lynn Graves...
she made a casual reference to the purse/bag people wear around the
waist to protect their valuables whilst leaving both hands free (a F---- P---).
Suddenly a deathly hush descended over the room, you could have heard a pin
drop.
LOL!
When I was in college, one of my friends was Mike Fancutt, an Aussie. His
nickname here was, predictably, Fanny. He took his roommate home over
break, and Doug (the roommate) casually said (at the dinner table).."Fanny,
pass the butter". Wonder what his family did?? I hadn't thought of that
in years!
any other words I should avoid? We have an Australian marrying into the
family , all his family is coming "up" to Texas in September for the wedding.
Sherrie Groman - typing with 8 fingers, since the fireants decided to munch
on the other two!
Tim and Sherrie
gromant@ebicom.net
Our Home page =http://www.ebicom.net/~gromant - now complete
with quilt and firetruck pictures! (Last Revised 6/30/96)
Date: Wed, 17 Jul 1996 16:55:04 -0400
From: duck@clark.net (Bob Campbell)
Subject: CENTENNIAL for Sale
Hi:
I have a very, very fine black **CENTENNIAL** model FW for sale for 475.00
plus shipping and insurance (about $25) - payment by certified check please
. Serial number AK427734. Born on
Here's a detailed description so you know exactly how nice this black beauty
is.
Condition rating of the FW is a 9 -- There are 2 very light scratches in
front of the throatplate; 1 light scratch to the right of the throatplate, 2
light scuffs behind the throatplate. The gold trim is 99.9 % intact with
only a slight blemish visible (which I believe was original to the machine.)
The gold is "bright" and the Centennial Emblem is very bright and crisp.
The pedal and electric cord are original and in excellent condition. I
would rate the motor speed of this FW as a medium.
There was NO OIL CAN with this machine **. The FW comes with the original
attachments box with all 6 attachments. There is also the famous black
Singer screwdriver serial #25537, Seam Guide and mounting screw serial #
25527, Small aluminum screwdriver serial #120378, 5 bobbins, 2 packages of
singer needles (never used). The attachments box is in excellent condition.
Also the Green Singer Instruction book is in very crisp condition with only
a slight scuff on the spine. ( As many of you know it usually hard to get
this manual in good condition, since these were manufactured the same way as
comic books of this era and contain high acid content paper, which usually
deteriorate).
The case is in condition 8. It is the type that does NOT have a lift out
tray, but rather has a small metal compartment to the left for bobbins,
manual , attachments box and a metal clamp used to hold the green oval oil
can (remember there is NO oil can with this machine). The case has the
traditional FW odor, several scuffs on two corners and a few light
scratches. The hinges and latches are in excellent condition and the handle
is of the plastic variety in excellent shape. The case came with the two
original keys in their UNopened envelope. (I've never seen this before).
**I'm sorry there was NO singer oil can with this machine, however, to
complete your FW, if you like I can sell you one for an additional $45.
This is the hard-to-find short green oval variety. Oil can collectors call
this a lead top because the spout and spout cap are made of lead. It
measures 3" inches tall (1 3/4" is the can body, 1 1/4" is the spout.
There is a slight bit of rust on the cap which can be removed with steel
wool (but I'll leave that up to the new owner). The green and red/orange
paint is bright, with only a few light scratches on one end. I rate this
oil can as an 8+.
Sorry to be so long-winded, but this way there will be no surprises when you
buy this very,very nice Centennial.
Thanks for listening
Bob Campbell
duck@clark.net
Date: Wed, 17 Jul 1996 17:18:56 -0400
From: DickDreyer@aol.com
Subject: Sincere Books
For those of you who have or have read the Sincere books (and some have
referred to them here), which is your favorite? Which was the biggest
success? I searched the library for the books months ago but was told
"unavailable--never returned" by several libraries. They must be excellent
books, but I can't afford all 3. Prompt opinions are MOST appreciated as I
am leaving on vacation and want to meet Bobby's deadline. THANKS! --Mari in
a breezy, cool N. Cal on my way to rural Missouri! Cheers!
To Brenda in Australia: My grandmother's name was Fanny Love Kirby. Infact,
she was one of many Fanny's in the family. We always thought the name of
funny! Smiles!
Date: 17 Jul 96 18:07:55 EDT
From: Graham Forsdyke <100661.3256@CompuServe.COM>
Subject: Contribution
To Lydia
There I was thinking that this tea thing has gone away and you throw another
spoon in the works.
Of course I have milk in tea. Doesn't every one?
Seriously, there are two types of tea. The most popular (Lipton, English
Breakfast etc) are made to be drunk with milk. The herbal teas (Earl Gray,
Lapsongsouchong -- don't argue, you know what I mean -- etc) are to be drunk as
is.
If you asked for tea in an English restaurant you would get the milk variety,
with milk.To get anything more exotic you would have to ask for it specially.
To all
Folks have been kind enough to ask about the itineray of my up-coming USA trip.
Looks like the following.
Aug 18 fly into JFK New York
next few days driving to Niagara (never seen it, playing the tourist any hints
on antique malls would be appreciated) and back to Lancaster County PA where I
stay with friends for a couple of days
Sunday Aug 26 drive to Baltimore for mini-sewing machine meeting that I wrote
about earlier and I know some of you are attending (I think there are about 40
people going.
Monday Aug 27 fly to Fort Worth TX
Tuesday morning at Frank Smith's Sewing Machine Museum in Arlington.
Then drive North West to Wichita area. Will spend the next few days being a
tourist in TX and will try to get down as far as Austin (any hints on antique
hunting and touristy things to do would be appreciated)
Saturday Aug 31 fly to Los Angeles say with friends for a couple of days before
driving out to Las Vegas . Few days in LV with Marvin Tabic, a very smart
old-time sewing machine dealer who used to be the ISMACS respesentative in the
USA.
Friday Sept 6 fly to Seattle. Spend a few days going up to Vancouver and back.
Over to Orcas Island to meet with ISMACS rep Sharon Tedrow and meet with Elias
Howe's great grandson.
Fly home Wednesday Sept 11.
Will report back on what I found (or didn't, when I return.
To Brenda, DownUnder
I know just how your speaker felt. We have to be very carefull with differences
in language. I remember upsetting greatly a spinster lady in the mid-West by
asking "How's tricks?". A simple English idiom for "how are you?". Seems in
America (or in certain parts at least) it's reserved for ladies of a rather
dubious occupation.
From: "Lois Whelan"
Subject: Lots of FWs
Date: Wed, 17 Jul 1996 19:01:57 -0400
I just returned from Montpellier, Vt. where a quilt show and vendors' mall
is being held. I saw at least 15 fw. for sale with prices ranging from
$350-$550. The lower priced machines were in good physical condition and
the cases were all in great condition and contained the trays and
atttachments. What surprised me was seeing one with hardly any gold work
on it with an ask of $500. One vendor must have had at least 20-30 toy
machines, all brands but most were Singers. He guaranteed they all worked
well. There were red, green, black and beige ones and all kinds of
carrying cases. Prices from $150 -.
So for all of you FWFs who have hunted high and low, up and down, on,
under and behind debris to find the black , beige or white gem in the
smelly case for less than $100. please feel your had work and
determination have paid off. And as you clean, polish, shine and oil your
treasure , smile. Anyone can go to a quilt show and buy a FW .
Date: Mon, 15 Jul 1996 00:06:04 GMT
From: Diana McAninch
Subject: Hand Cranks
I don't have any personal experience with hand cranks, but the Sewing and
Craft Supply catalog (1-800-542-4727) shows a hand crank (Item KS1) for
$7.95--"Allows you to sew when there's no power available. Fits older
machines."
Diana in Penna.
Date: Sun, 14 Jul 1996 19:41:54 -0400 (EDT)
From: Lydia Pratt
Subject: Notes from trip, and others
To Bobbi: Count me in on the Ewers books! How are you going to handle the
pictures? Does he (or anyone else) know if the original plates still
exist? (I'd bet "no" since the book is out-of-print.)
To Bob Campbell: I think the Spring/Fall thing is a really good idea. I
don't know if I could afford to make it to the west coast, but my family
still lives in Pittsburgh so I could make it as a two-day drive and stay
cheap while in transit. I also have a very dear friend who recently
retired to the central Pennsylvania area, and I'd have a chance to meet up
with her while I was in the area! I vote YES on Lancaster!
The following items are available at the Springfield Antique Center at
Exit 59 (State Route 41) of I-70. This is NOT the little antique mall that
you can see just as you come off the exit ramp. The BIG mall is up the hill
and slightly to the east. No financial interest in any of this. I
think that if we post what is being offered where, we can all get a better
idea of current prices and let Graham off the hook for the "how much is it
worth" problem.
At Booth 107: Franklin treadle vibrating shuttle machine with Scarab
ornamentation. Maybe a 6 on the scale. No attachments or book. Asking
price: $245.00.
At Booth 127: Fold-out wooden attachment box. No attachments, and
unfortunately some barbarian even stripped out the metal pieces that hold
the attachments. The dealer (who was rearranging her stock as we were
there) told me that she knew it was an attachment box, but that was the
way she got it and no, she did not know what happened to the attachments.
Asking price: $38.00.
At booth 126: Martha Washington cabinet, mahogany. Good condition.
Asking price: $175.00.
At Booth 236: Domestic treadle vibrating shuttle machine. Has the box
that fits over the machine head. Machine and cabinet in fair condition.
Some attachments in one of the drawers, no book. Asking price: $190.oo
Then in the next booth I found the White Rotary portable that I bought, so
I quit looking before I got myself into more trouble.
To Graham: Did anyone ever come up with a copy of "Sew Easy to Kill" for
you? If not, e-mail me privately and I'll see what I can do. BTW, I
think someone asked a while back if there is in fact a quilt in the story.
My answer is no, the closest one of the vic- I mean "characters" comes
is a quilted satin wall hanging. But the book makes interesting reading.
however, I wonder if someone who didn't sew would be put off by all the
"techincal" stuff involving walking feet and treadles. (And no, the
butler didn't do it.) I bought another summer reading mystery (which I
never got around to) called "Turkey Tracks" which has quilts all over the
front of the book. When I've finished my latest "The Cat Who..." book
I'll start this one, and "clue" you all in as to how much or little the
quilts figure in the plot.
Lydia in central Ohio, who hasn't the vaguest idea how she is going to get
up "on time" and make it through a full day of work tomorrow!
_ _
Lydia Pratt |_|X|_|
Columbus, Ohio |X|*|X|
lspratt@freenet.columbus.oh.us |_|X|_|
Date: Wed, 17 Jul 1996 20:40:09 -0400 (EDT)
From: Lydia Pratt
Subject: Still playing catch-up
To Carol Austin re:treadle tables. Page 152 of the Grace Rogers Cooper
book shows a c1913 Singer treadle ad featuring a 66-1 in "Embossed Cabinet
Table No. 6" -- which is the fancy 7-drawer model with the carving around
the drawer pulls and on the sides. The ad also states: "Your choice of
the following on this Table: No. 66-1...No. 15-30...No. 115-1...No.
127-3". This indicates to me that it was possible to pick the style of
table you wanted and the type of machine you wanted on it (within limits).
I believe I have also seen different styles (class 66 vs class 127) of
machines on the plainer tables, although I can't give you exact model
numbers.
To Millie: YES this is THE book (Machine Sewing, A Treatise...). Guard it
with your life at least until you find another one. I think you and I have
the same edition. The only "problem" is that the older editions don't
include FW information but...hey, I can live with that.
To Jeanne: I wouldn't buy the 99K without giving it good look-see. Yes,
the stucco-type finish is what everyone refers to as the "Godzilla"
finish, courtesy to Terri in Montana who seems to have disappeared.
$85.00 sounds high to me. $50.00 sound more reasonable for a good,
working (if ugly) used machine. If you get this one, or even look at it
again, could you note down the serial number. I'm looking for an
EF-series somewhere between EF210110 and EF252524.
To Lorre: If you decide to get the New Home treadle, let me know. I have
a very complete set of Greist attachments specifically for a New Home that
I'm willing to sell.
To Millie II: I paid $75 (down from $110) for my Boye circular needle case
with not a lot of stuff in it. I think at least one other person on the
list paid about the same. I'm not sure how many of us actually HAVE them,
but I think it would be fun to know. I would NOT pay $400 for the case.
To Grant: If your needles are Boye needles in the little round wooden (or
sometimes plastic) cases, post the numbers on the end of the cases. I'll
consult my needle case and let you know which needles match up with which
machines.
To Judy: WHERE did your DH get the "Maggie the Messmaker" print?? It
combines three of my very favorite things: cats, Singers, and Charles
Wysocki prints!!
To Sherrie: Yes, the Spartan, being a 99 in disguise, has the red oil wick.
DO NOT pluck it all out. Your Spartan may lack a case because it
originally came in a table. Now I hear you all saying "She's lost it
--why would you put a Spartan in a table". But if you look on the rear of
the right-hand edge of the machine bed, you'll see (I hope) a keyhole-type
hole which would allow the cords to drop through the bed if the head were
set into a cabinet. Anyone out there ever heard of/seen a Spartan
actually in a cabinet??
Lydia in central Ohio, who has certainly rambled on enough for one day!
_ _
Lydia Pratt |_|X|_|
Columbus, Ohio |X|*|X|
lspratt@freenet.columbus.oh.us |_|X|_|
Date: Sun, 14 Jul 96 20:47:55 EDT
From: woodnspl@rma.edu
Subject: Re convention
On Jul 9 Barb mentioned the Feed sack club had a convention down the road from
the quilt show in Lancaster PA. If anyone would like to talk to the founder
of
the Feed Sack Club, Jane Clark Staple, to see how she worked it out etc, she
has
just gotten on the internet and would be glad to discuss it. Her experience
might be helpful if we were to connect our convention to a quilt show. Her
e-mail is:
jane Also e-mail her for information about the
Feedsack club.
Ann in Front Royal Va (also a member of the feed sack club)
woodnspl@rma.edu
Date: Sat, 13 Jul 1996 06:09:39 -0500
From: Candy
Subject: featherweights
Hi! I am brand new to the internet and to featherweigts. Even though I
have sewn for years and love antiques, I've been missing out on such a
special little machine. I would like any information to help me find
one, including suggestions of things to look for, best places to look,
and what price I might expect to pay. What a great idea, a subsciber to
the newsletter. Any help greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Date: Wed, 17 Jul 1996 18:55:31 -0700
From: Bobbie
Subject: Re: Sincer Books
DON'T FORGET:
>>>> ----- SPECIAL OFFER* ---- <<<<<
ONE WEEK ONLY!!
From: 07/17/96 thru 07/27/96
SINCERE BOOKS
Price is: $24.95* PER BOOK + shipping
All orders &payment MUST be in my
mailbox no later than midnite
07/27/96
to take advantage of this ONE TIME, Special Offer.
No exceptions.
*Note: Does not apply to dealer orders
Date: Wed, 17 Jul 1996 21:14:29 -0500
From: sassybb@siu.edu (Frances Walker)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 7/16/96
>
>To Frances: Interesting that your 8/22/50 FW is a centennial model. My
>8/22/50 FW is NOT a centennial model -- maybe it just came off the
>assembly line too late for the different medallion. Would you mind
>posting the SN for comparison purposes for me??
>
To Lydia: Well I wondered, too, because obviously the centennial was in
1951, not 50. The SN is AJ815212. Singer said it was made in Elizabethport
NJ. I figured they were just getting a jump on the celebration! I would
think yours came off too *early* not too late, assuming they changed in the
middle of the run. You forgot to post you SN.
*****************Frances Walker **************
Sassafras Ridge Bed &Breakfast
in the "front woods" 5 miles south of Carbondale, Illinois
**************************618/529-5261**************************
Date: Wed, 17 Jul 1996 22:47:46 -0500
From: Carol Austin
Subject: Model 127
Well, I bought my 127 treadle in the pretty oak cabinet. Now, I have to
coerce one of my friends with a truck to get it home. No manual though.
Chris, do you have a manual for the 127 and I need a new little rubber tire
for the bobbin winder?
I was thinking today that when I first saw this digest I had a FW and a
Bernina and I was perfectly happy........... and I spent most of my leisure
time going out to lunch (not at Mickey D's or Mackers) going to plays,
movies and all that clean stuff............now I have 3 FWs, a 66, a 99, a
15, a 301 and now a 127 and I spent a good portion of my time in the
grungiest places, half the time on my knees and looking at very oiley oil
cans! But I'm happier...............uh,
of course! I also now have a our foot Singer neon sign on its way to my
house. It's a wonderful digest and I enjoy every posting. I get very
grouchy when something delays my reading it. Thanks or listening.
Carol
Carol McNiece Austin
____________________________________
FWFanatics@ttsw.com - Singer phone # 1-800-877-7762
And now a word from our sponsor:
Flower Mound Design Studio - Patterns with a Southwest Flavor. Designs by
Barbara Oliver Hartman, teacher, judge, lecturer, and award winning quilt
maker. http://quilt.com/FMDS
Received: from ttsw.com ([204.249.244.11]) by pcnet1.pcnet.com (4.1/SMI-4.1)
id AA01662; Fri, 19 Jul 96 08:42:20 EDT
Date: Fri, 19 Jul 96 08:56:40 -0500
From: Featherweight Fanatics
Subject: FW Fanatics 7/18/96
To: Sue@quilt.com
X-Mailer: LeeMail 2.0.5
Message-Id:
From: THHY72A@prodigy.com (MRS CHRISTINE DEITCHLEY)
Date: Wed, 17 Jul 1996 23:10:25, -0500
Subject: Manual for 306
To Elaine,
A few weeks back I posted about a mystery black zigzag machine that
also followed me home. Unlike yours, the model number was not listed on the
machine. The serial number totally confused Singer as they said it was a
an unknown model dating to 1911! However I was able to match photo and
descriptions with Graham /Bobbie's recent recogniton manual and determined
it was a 306 from 1954.
Fellow FWF Karen C. saw my post and wrote to me that she had at one
time ordered a manual from Singer and they sent her the 306 manual by
mistake. She thus had a 306 manual which she had no use for and offered
it to me. (Such kindnesses are unusual in most of the real world, but
refreshingly common among this great group of FWFs!) Needless to say, I'd
be happy to copy my copy for you Elaine, contact me privately and we'll
exchange addresses.
The interesting thing about this machine is that it uses cams to
sew various zigzag stitches, but the cams are smaller than the later
versions of cam controlled machines and they mount on the upper right front
of the exterior of the arm with a screw on knob instead of the drop-in,
"flip-top" system of the later versions such as my 401a and 758.
The bobbin case part # is 105032. The foot control part # is
194828 and appears to be the same as the usual foot controls for FW and
others. The other odd thing about this machine is the fact that the throat
plate does not open! You have to access the bobbin by lifting the entire
head of the machine back. I guess that's okay if it's in a cabinet, but it
is definitely awkward when it isn't!
Does anyone know....Was this one of the first zigzag machines
available for home sewers and they hadn't developed what later became the
"standard" style for cams and bobbin loading of the later zigzags? Or was
this the "poor woman's" version, lower end machine and lacked the
sophistication of the high end zigzags? It certainly has some oddities!
Chris in South Bend, IN
From: EHZG23B@prodigy.com (MRS LISA DUGGAN)
Date: Wed, 17 Jul 1996 21:27:39, -0500
Subject: Embroidered shirts for FWF
Hey gang,
Caught the note someone wrote about shirts for the
FWF get together. Well this is right up the DH's alley, he owns an
embroidery business! I summoned him to the post to read and the ideas
began to fly.;) Give me feedback on this now gang. We can embroider a
likeness to a featherweight machine on denim shirts,polo shirts, t-
shirts ect....We can also add "Featherweight Fanatics" to it. Please
respond to us at EHZG23B@Prodigy.com if enough interest we will sew
away! Lisa and Rob Duggan proud parents of our own 221 bundle of joy!
Date: Thu, 18 Jul 1996 10:56:39 GMT
Subject: No Subject
From: prlyles@usa.pipeline.com (Phillip Lyles)
Hi All
Can someone give me some info on a Damascus treadle sewing machine? I
seem to be able to get all the info I need on Singers but can't find
anything about the Damascus. Thanks in advance.
Phillip Lyles
prlyles@pipeline.com
Date: Thu, 18 Jul 1996 08:20:11 -0400
From: GWillie37@aol.com
Subject: Singer FW Table For Sale
I have the FW Table &small oval Singer oil can for sale. The table is
complete &in good condition with the normal scratches, and is priced at $175
+ shipping. The oil can is also in good condition &is priced at $25 with
shipping included. If interested and want additional details, E-mail me at
gwillie37@aol.com(Glenn Williams)
Date: Thu, 18 Jul 1996 08:28:39 -0400
From: GWillie37@aol.com
Subject: Singer 328K
To Graham:
I have a friend with the 328K machine &she wishes to know if there is
somewhere to obtain a manual for it. Did it come with a carrying case or is
it a cabinet style machine only? Do you have any additional information
regarding this machine other than the picture with brief description in the
ISMACS Manual? Any help would certainly be appreciated. Glenn Williams
gwillie37@aol.com
Date: Thu, 18 Jul 1996 09:17:35 -0400 (EDT)
From: Kristina Santilla
Subject: Re: Boye needle cases
A few years ago one of the Kovels price guides priced the Boye needle
case at $175. Ever since then, I have seen ones rusted closed with no
wording left to almost complete floor stand models all priced at $175. I
would guess that the basic round tin in very good to excellent shape with
some needle cases should be worth that price, and if either the counter display
with a drawer for hand needles, or the floor display with a drawer for
extra wooden cases is included, that it would be worth more. It's
interesting to see the difference between the number of needles
listed on the oldest ones and the later ones. I have one excellent one
almost filled in a table top stand, and one in poor shape. I bought the
two to combine to make one good one.
Happy Featherweighting,
Krisi Santilla in Gaithersburg, Md.
santilla@umd5.umd.edu or santilla@aol.com
> To Millie II: I paid $75 (down from $110) for my Boye circular needle case
> with not a lot of stuff in it. I think at least one other person on the
> list paid about the same. I'm not sure how many of us actually HAVE them,
> but I think it would be fun to know. I would NOT pay $400 for the case.
>
> To Grant: If your needles are Boye needles in the little round wooden (or
> sometimes plastic) cases, post the numbers on the end of the cases. I'll
> consult my needle case and let you know which needles match up with which
> machines.
Date: 18 Jul 96 09:53:41 EDT
From: Chris Vagtborg <71155.1072@CompuServe.COM>
Subject: post
Hi All...
For All, re Serial No.s... I've seen several posts from people about serial
no.s and thought I'd post a few of my own: a #27 - 15516035 - 9/29/98, a #27 -
H1489205 - July of '24, a #127k - G9296772 - 3/20/22, a #221 - AE540276 -
6/11/37, a #221 - AF181269 - 2/15/39, a #221 - AJ006640 - 12/9/48, a #221 -
AJ358691 - 1/23/50. Now, check this out... I just called Singer and gave them
"AP937544" and they gave me a 1924 birth date! For a Touch and Sew #628 circa
1974, HA!
For Graham re: 2/27 mystery... The manual with my '98 #27 is labeled
"Instructions for using the Singer Sewing Machine NO. 27 (Vibrating Shuttle
No. 2.)", so I guess the manual is for both machines. Maybe the VS #2 had
"brand recognition" and the #27 was a new model at that time...
For Graham and Larry re: DC... The motor's voltage is the same for AC or DC.
Let's see, for a 240 volt motor, that'd be about 20 automobile batteries
wired in series!
For Lydia Pratt, re: Spartan in a cabinet. I've got one! The cabinet is the
poorest example of carpentry - pressed wood with veneer over. It's a simple
box with four legs and a drop leaf that folds open to expose the machine. No
counterweight springs for the head. Looks like the "Belrose", #369, without
the trim. Probably a '3' for the cabinet. A *very* chintzy foot control
(metal, rusted). Whole thing looks early-sixties. The Spartan, however, is a
'7' and sews perfectly... And yes, the motor cord passes through the 'key-
hole' in the base.
For Carol... Yes, we have the rubber 'tires' for your 127 and a copy of the
manual. I'll email you with the details...
A friend of mine gave me a display case for our shop. It's 5' wide and 4'
high, glass all around in the uppper half, wood enclosed lower half, sliding
wooden doors w/ mirrors in back of upper half. A new home for my FW; the
case, tray with attachments, oil can, etc. and FW (with even feed attachment)
on display. On a glass shelf above the FW, I've put all the goodies we stock
for the FW - belts, even feeds, quilting feet, N. J-S books, etc. This is way
cool! It also allows me to keep my FW out and on display w/o having to dust
it...
Bye for now! Chris in sunny and hot St. Simons Is., GA where we're getting a
few 'out of country' folk in on their way to Atlanta for some kind of
sporting event....
Subject: Need face plate
Date: 18 Jul 96 09:12:26 -0500
From: tsanta@nomvs.lsumc.edu
My local sewing machine repairman has my distressed FW in his shop. He
can get a bobbin case, thread take-up lever, new belt but he cannot fin
d a face plate for it. Does anyone one have a face plate I can
purchase? If so please email me with a price. TIA
Terri Santa Coloma in New Orleans
tsanta@nomvs.lsumc.edu
Date: Thu, 18 Jul 1996 11:07:31 -0400
From: duck@clark.net (Bob Campbell)
Subject: Centennial birthdate
Hi:
Yesterday I posted a centennial FW for sale but left off the birthdate.
Well Singer informed me that it was born on May 10, 1951.
Thanks for listening
Bob Campbell
duck@clark.net
Date: Thu, 18 Jul 1996 11:32:52 +0000
From: lrolando@attmail.com (Linda J Rolando)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 7/17/96
This is my first time posting, but I had to tell folks that understand the
excitement of obtaining these old beauties.....I have had a fw for some time
now..it is a 8 on graham's scale...came in a black box and also had
attachments...Does anyone have a source for the plastic handles...mine is
broken, but I just got it dated and am so excited...it is one of the first
manufactured - November 27, 1937..I use it all the time and it runs
wonderfully. I also have a Model 99 born 10/22/25 in a bentwood case that we
got running....we just are looking for the knee lever and the hardware for
lock and hinge side of the bentwood case...anyone have a source....I have
contacted the Singer Service Center and they have a manual for operating the
machine that can be bought and I will get that this weekend...I also have a
model 66 treadle that I just picked up on vacation in Maine...it is in a
beautiful seven drawer cabinet with lots of gingerbread on it...in one of the
drawers was a beautiful oak case that opens up and had lots of
attachments...can't tell yet if all the attachments in the box are for the
treadle...that machine is dated 10/ll/1911...it is a 9 on graham's scale and I
paid $110...thought this was a great price. I am enjoying this newsletter so
much...a public thanks to Bobbie for all her work on the manual as well as
getting the Sincere books published...you are wonderful...also thanks to Lydia
Pratt for introducing me to this service. Happy hunting.
Linda in Hot Humid Sunny NJ
Date: Thu, 18 Jul 96 11:59:46 EDT
From: woodnspl@rma.edu
Subject: FW for Sale
I have a featherweight for sale:
AG874716 birthday 11-22-46. Black, scroll plate. box with tray. This machine
is an 8. Only the very tiniest bit of wear to gold on one place, a couple not
noticable minor scratches. Overall this machine was well cared for and looks
beautiful. Attachments, copy manual. Box is a seven as it has some paint
splashed on it but it does not have a musty smell! $425 plus shipping, $30?
Please e-mail if interested.
Ann in Front Royal Va
woodnspl@rma.edu
Date: Thu, 18 Jul 1996 13:39:04 -0400
From: Tsuneko1@aol.com
Subject: Needle Chart
Hi everyone. Came across an interesting booklet published by U. S. D.A.
called Sewing Machines, Cleaning and Adjusting, dated l944. Anyway, in the
back it has an Interchangeable Needle List. Has all the old SMs, including
Singer, Domestic, Free, New Royal A, Eldredge, many more. If anyone could
use this list, please e-mail (no charge).
Re: FWF convention. I think Graham's idea of smaller, regional conventions
would be a good idea. I could travel maybe as far as a couple of states
away, but not across country right now. Sure many of us are in the same
position. BTW, are there enough of us Californians to have a
mini-convention? Is there anyone who is knowledgeable enough amongst us to
organize this? Step right up!
Bobbie, thanks so much for having the courage and fortitude to republish the
Sincere books. I'll be sending in my order. There are several Compuserve
sewing/quilting people who would like to know more about each book and
actually so would I. Can you post a succinct description of each volume. I
think they will be interested too. Claire Fukuda (Tsuneko1@AOL.com)
Date: Thu, 18 Jul 1996 13:20:05 -0500
From: Doreen Foote
Subject: Need Room!
HI Everyone,
I have a few things I need to part with to make room for some treadles(my
passion). Sometimes we have to decide what we want the most and I've decided
it's the treadles...Mark says I have to sacrifice (as we have two rooms wall
to wall),
Singer AL 654751 model 201..B.D. 11-20-1953 beautiful machine in excellant
condition with attatchments..zig-zagger(never been out of the box)
buttonholer, in very nice cream and maroon case (it's like new). This is a
real nice machine and it sews as good as it looks. 250.00
Tan 301A in very good conditon..attatchments, no case 225.00
Black 301 no case both of these have been cleaned and sew great 175.00
Singer Spartan.. 3-1-61 in excellant condition, very nice machine 125.00
Olympia..green (light) very nice machine and sews great.....75.00
I have several buttonholers and attatchments and a Singer oval oil can.. I
have to get the numbers and get them together. All 36 of my machines are in
excellant condition and they all sew soooo nice..I hate to part with these
but hopefully they will go to someone who will love and appreciate them as
much as I have (at least I'll still have the pictures) I have to go pick up
2 Singer treadles and a New Vassar treadle this weekend..anyone know
anything about the New Vassar ( besides it was made by Davis)?Thanks!
Oh...I am looking for a New Home treadle cabinet.........
Doreen
dfoote@cnmnet.com
From: sarah@zephyr.manawatu.planet.co.nz (Sarah Brown)
Subject: For sale 222K Featherweight Freearm
Date: Thu, 18 Jul 1996 20:22:00 +1200
For sale 222K Featherweight freearm SN EJ268111 made 1953 at the Kilbowie
plant, Scotland. Condition: slight wear to gilt, some fine scratches, some
paint chips on balance wheel, spot of rust on little plate which holds the
thread guide below the bobbin winder. (This part could be replaced).
Toothed belt. (original belt included). Sews beautifully. Has the
following attatchments: #121464 #35931 #255527 #120855, tube of grease,
manual for 221K, 8 spare bobbins, spare needles. This machine's motor is for
use with 230-250 volts power supply. US$1300.00 plus shipping and
insurance.
Sarah Brown
New Zealand
--
Date: Thu, 18 Jul 1996 13:11:10 PDT
From: Beth_Brandkamp@mc.xerox.com (Brandkamp,Beth)
Subject: Back from Vacation and Shopping
Well, Bertha chased us out of the Outer Banks of NC a little ahead of
schedule. It took me two or three days to catch up on all the
digests. I really missed it while I was gone. I did convince a
thrift shop owner in OB to sell me a box of Greist attachments from a
no-name machine head that was just a pile of rust and truly looked
like good boat anchor material. The attachments were fine and I
offered her $5 and she took it.
I was in another thrift shop and saw a machine that I have not seen
before -- a Singer. It was green metal, straight stitch with a foot
petal like the featherweight (little plastic knob). I hope I didn't
make a big mistake resisting the $30 price tag. I didn't see a case,
manual or attachments. What was it? Looked late forties, early
fifties? Wasn't sure how I could get it all the way back to NY
without husband or daughter finding it in the car! Bertha prevented
me from visiting the three or four other thrift shops I saw down there
and was planning to sneak off and visit late in the week.
I did purchase another 128 in the bentwood case yesterday. It was in
fairly good shape (7) and was a hand crank and worked just fine. What
fun -- it was a different bentwood case than the other 128 although
the machines look identical except for the hand crank. The case is a
little more beaten up but has a wooden lid on the attachment case
inside. Also had the original key. Thought for $27 this was a good
buy. This case says Singer Manufg Co. and has a logo and some extra
wooden bracing that other case didn't have. The serial number was a
G7xx so I assumed it was late 1910's (can't find the list of sn's in
my old digest!) although have not called Singer.
Also saw a Boye needle case (empty) for $200. Was in excellent
condition but not tempting enough to bargain for. (I am sure I could
get for $175).
The guy I bought it from (local antique co-op) says that a woman was
bringing him in a 221 next week. He is supposed to call me if she
actually follows through. I told him I would buy it if reasonable.
Told him I would like to see it under any circumstances. Let's hope
he follows through. He says he used to get them in a lot but for the
last couple of years, none. He knows how much they are worth but
knows nothing about sewing machines -- I told him what to look for and
about FWF list. He says he turns down about 5 SMs a week and just a
couple of weeks ago went to house that had 8 machines to sell. He
says he only buys FW's except for machines with really nice cabinets.
He is not interested in machines though. Someone else on the list
mentioned that in NY there were a lot of machines at low prices. I
believe it. Now if only shipping were free.............we NYers good
fill everybody's wish list.
Graham, I sent you email on your visit and drive through NY and
hopefully you get it. Let me know if you don't and I will post to
list. Also I would highly highly recommend the Brandywine valley area
outside Philadelphia/ Wilmington, Delaware area. Pretty close to
Lancaster and truly historic. A visit to Wintertur (DuPont mansion
filled with American antiques) and Longwood Gardens -- just nice
DuPont gardens would be enjoyable. There are a number of antique
shops in the Brandywine area. Also the home of the painter family of Wyeths.
Beth in Upstate NY where Bertha did not follow.
Date: Thu, 18 Jul 1996 15:54:48 -0500
From: Doreen Foote
Subject: buttonholers
HI, Thought I'd go check out the buttonholers... 2 Singer in Black
plastic case with manual and extra templates and manual (copywrite 1948) 1
in green plastic case with manual and extra templates (copywrite 1948) all 3
are #16506 28.00 each (includes shipping) 1 White Rotary in red
plastic case with manual and extra templates 30.00 (includes shipping)
Singer oval oil can 60.00. I am desperately trying to get the sewing
rooms cleaned out...you know how it goes after you've collected soooo much
Ha!Ha!
Thanks, Doreen
dfoote@cnmnet.com
Date: Thu, 18 Jul 1996 16:28:49 -0700
From: Carol Sanders
Subject: Graham's Itinerary
Greetings to all.
Graham,
I was glad to see your itinerary before I had to bid my days off for
August. I will most certainly try to get off for August 27-28 and look
forward to meeting you at Frank's Museum. I was most pleased yesterday to
receive my introductory mailing from ISMACS. I read the magazine from
cover to cover and enjoyed every page. My thanks to Maggie for such a
great publication.
No news from North Texas today. All four of my machines are sitting on
the Living Room floor being oiled and serviced (by me) and "sniffed" by
my 4 four legged children (feline type).
As always, this is such a great list, I look forward to it every day.
Carol Sanders,
Bedford, Texas
Date: Thu, 18 Jul 1996 15:26:06 -0700
From: smangels@llnl.gov (Susan M. Mangels)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 7/17/96
HI,
All those posting's about slang English usage have been really funny. It
reminded me of college freshman year. A group of us in the girls dorm were
together and on the topic of swear words etc... I'll always remember my
friend stuttering, stammering, red in the face just to tell us the word she
felt was the worst. Well she finally got it out - and the rest of us had
never heard it ever and hadn't a clue what it meant. She flat refused to
explain further. Fortunately now I have a copy of Partridge's Concise
Dictionary of Slang and Unconventional English and can look up why Brenda's
story is so funny.
Since the FWF is about sewing let me share this ---
I had a neighbor who was from the Azore's. When she first came to the US in
the 30's she worked in a large dressmaker's shop. She went up to the
supervisor one day and asked her for a hook &eye. Just like Brenda's story
- you could have heard a pin drop in this large workroom. Rosa had asked
for this in Portuguese -it sounded like she had asked the supervisor for a
cold sh_t! She also mentioned that new immigrants from the Azore's where
warned never to ask for a flashlight in Portuguese. It apparantly rhymes
with duck.....
Susan M. Mangels
UC/LLNL
Livermore, CA
e-mail: smangels@llnl.gov
Fax: (510) 422-9560
Date: Thu, 18 Jul 1996 18:29:35 -0400
From: Millie MacKenzie
Subject: throw-away machines
To Claire who says 'I wouldn't think that antique dealers would take apart/make
into a lamp (yes, I did see one in the antique store) a perfectly good SM or
cabinet.'
I agree that there are many machines which are not salvageable. However,
many dealers have no use for machines since they traditionally do not sell.
I have a great model 15-91 which I rescued from an antique shop. The helper
was working on making a nice table from the treadle and the owner was
grinning as he told me how easily they sell and how he makes a lot of money
from them. He thought I was rather odd, being concerned about the machine
and uninterested in his treadle.
Millie
Millie MacKenzie in CT and Cape Cod, MA
milmac@mail.snet.net
Date: Thu, 18 Jul 1996 18:18:15 -0500
From: Carol Austin
Subject: Help on Model 24
I'v just seen a model 24, serial #B7362 in a cabinet which looks original.
Born 2 June 1904. It is really small and unusual looking. Is this model
very collectable and is it worth $250? Did it have a bobbin case. I didn't
see one, just a little arm going back and forth and you have to lift the
entire machine up to see that. No sliding plate. Anyone? Thanks
I didn't see this posting on FW but have had some trouble with my computer
and may have missed the day it was on, so I will try again.
Anything about the model 24 Singer?
Carol McNiece Austin
Date: Thu, 18 Jul 1996 18:14:43 -0600
From: Caryl Eschweiler
Subject: Sincere Books
To Bobbie
With so many libraries NOT having these when they used to have them,
is there some place you can post where library aquisition folks might see
this opportunity and pick up a few?
I'm scrambling to get my $$$$$'s in the mail!
Caryl
Date: Thu, 18 Jul 1996 21:22:38 -0400
From: WRDipple@aol.com
Subject: Toy or No???
Stopped by my favorite consignment shop today and happened upon what looks
like a toy Singer. It's a plastic “Sew Handy Electric, Made in Great
Britain. Just a wee beige breastie with an tangerine case that buckles on to
the base. I’d rate it at a 7 or a little above. It’s about eight inches
tall, maybe nine wide.
What’s the scoop on this machine. Is it a toy or the 1970 version of that
new hand held travel Singer you see in department stores? Chris? Graham?
Anyone?
Tanx - Wander
By the by - summer hit Iowa. (And I mean hit) 98 degrees and 99 percent
humidity.
Wish we had AC.
From: "June Millican"
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 7/16/96
Date: Thu, 18 Jul 1996 19:35:25 -0700
I just bought a $9.95 sewing machine and cabinet. It is a MW macine and
cabinet. The machine is brown with the godzilla finish. It has a shuttle
bobbin that moves front ot back. It says Model E on the motor, and H 15
NS-3110 on the cabinet. I think the machine was made by White but I have
no idea of the year it was made. The plug is in bad condition and I'm
trying to replace it or get my husband to do surgery on it. It came with
a cigar box from 1951 that had a lot of attachments in it. Unfortunately
it didn't have a manuel. The machine is about the size of the 99 that I
have and looks somewhat like a 99 that I saw with the godzilla finish.
If anyone knows anything about this machine I'd be very happy to hear
about it. My husband thinks it's ugly and wonders about my sanity. Of
course everytime I come home with a new machine he wonders about that!!!
I'll have to look around for the bobbins for it. They're about 3/4 inch
long and thin and look like tiny barbells. One came with the machine. I
want to find a Singer with this kind of shuttle, they are very
intriguing. Can anyone tell me where I can locate a 301a manuel? and a
99k manuel. I never seem to find machines with manuels. Thanks June
____________________________________
FWFanatics@ttsw.com - Singer phone # 1-800-877-7762
And now a word from our sponsor:
Flower Mound Design Studio - Patterns with a Southwest Flavor. Designs by
Barbara Oliver Hartman, teacher, judge, lecturer, and award winning quilt
maker. http://quilt.com/FMDS
Received: from ttsw.com ([204.249.244.11]) by pcnet1.pcnet.com (4.1/SMI-4.1)
id AA27137; Sat, 20 Jul 96 09:40:04 EDT
Date: Sat, 20 Jul 96 09:50:43 -0500
From: Featherweight Fanatics
Subject: FW Fanatics 7/19/96
To: Sue@quilt.com
X-Mailer: LeeMail 2.0.5
Message-Id:
Date: Fri, 19 Jul 1996 00:24:24 -0400
From: tmfrazer@netcom.ca (Tracy Maureen Frazer)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 7/17/96
A very sad, sad story to tell about another beautiful 301A. Had it on
hold, even had a case for it. Went back to get it and they had TRASHED
it for an FW, if I didn't love my FWs so much I could almost hate
them... Or at the very least the people that gut and toss away these
beautiful machines. She was only missing her bobbin case and I had
called and put her on hold with my name and phone, even offered to give
them my credit card number, but they said it wasn't necessay! There I
was case in hand, when the mechanic said, Oh that old thing, we took
her hook and threw her away! I wasn't sure whether to kill him or
start crying! Left the store feeling very sad and very MADDDDDDDDDD!
So I need your help, I have the location of another 301,this one is
cocoa colour, with long bed, but she is missing a hand wheel, a hook
and a bobbin case, the last two I can get, but the hand wheel is not so
easy. I do not want to see another machine trashed, so please if any
one knows of a handwheel, please, I will be happy to pay for it and for
the shipping! I don't want to see this one in the trash heap too! By
the way, the 301A was in mint condition. I am so determined that I will
get this one home in any condition I can!!!!!!!!!
Tracy on Bowen Island(finding it hard to type through the tears)
PS on an up note met a very lovely lady via this Fan Club who sold my
dear friend a beautiful FW today. Thank you Diane for your
graciouness, your FW, and the info about the Elna Lotus! The people on
this list are very, very special!
Date: Fri, 19 Jul 1996 00:44:05 -0400
From: tmfrazer@netcom.ca (Tracy Maureen Frazer)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 7/17/96
Just Tracy again, quickly to say I am also very seriously in the market
for a 301 I don't have to rescue, so if anyone has one to sell or sees
on for sale, please give me a shout!
Thanks, thanks, thanks, I think I am calming down now. Thanks for
letting me vent, I know many of you understand how I am feeling. :)
tmfrazer@netcom.ca
Date: Thu, 18 Jul 1996 21:46:14 -0700
From: "Kathleen J. Dedon"
Subject: Re: Greist tucking attachment
Kathleen J. Dedon wrote:
>
> Hi'
>
> I am new to the fanatics but,I have 3 FW one is a 222 freearm. Does
> anyone have a greist tucking attachment they would like to sell reading
> the digest someone wrote they worked much better than the singer ones.
> I have learned so much from reading it, keep up the good work. By the
> way this foot need to be a low shank.
>
> Thanks KathyI hope I can send it this time.
Date: Fri, 19 Jul 1996 00:51:17 -0400
From: Larry Doyle
Subject: FW attachments,503
Hi Millie,Thanks for responding to my request so soon,however it seems as if
I must already have these attachments.I thought that FW had a different size
altogether from the 201 for example,so if that is the case I have them.
On to the 503 this is one of the great machines I think,It is gear driven so
it has good speed and good power for a home machine.Repairs on them are
infrequent and simple.maintenance is very simple.If you do not already know
this it is a zig-zag machine and it uses cams to create a limited amount of
designs(It does however seem as if there is an endless number of cams to be
had.be interesting to see how many y realy did make.)The 503 also has the
usual type of attachments but fitted for the slant needle.Machine embrobedy
is very nice done on this machine.Stiches are smooth and even.$300.00 is a
very fair price for a 503,I have seen them in sewing machine stores around
here for as much as $425.00.I do hope you take some time to fool around with
it. Myy kindest regsards are
yours, Larry
P.S. Let me know how you like it after you get it and play with it.
Date: Fri, 19 Jul 1996 01:10:16 -0500 (CDT)
From: 0177supt@informns.k12.mn.us (Dick Orcutt)
Subject: Centennial FW fixed
Hi all,
I posted a message a few weeks ago on here asking for help with fixing my
Centennial FW my dad had bought at a garage sale for a bargain price.
People were really helpful with names of shops to call. I didn't know which
one to pick because I am sure they are all great at fixing FW's. I called
Mike at Tiffin Sewing Machine in Tiffin, OH and he was able to tell me
immediately which part I needed replaced and the price. I decided to send
the machine to him to go through it and fix the broken hook gib. My FW was
gone about a week and a half and it works just great now. Thanks to
everyone who sent me names of people who fix FW's. This is a truly great
group for help. Also, I have a Singer book for a Slant-O-Matic 403 special.
The copyright in the book is 1958. It is in excellent condition, just has
the slight smell from being in a case for many years. E-mail me if you
would like to purchase it for $6 (shipping included).
Sue in MN
Date: Fri, 19 Jul 1996 02:38:48 -0400
From: KennaleeM@aol.com
Subject: Table?
Hi all! On a field trip with my quilting buddies last weekend, we found a
table. I had hoped it was THE table but the cutout is too large, 8 1/4" x
19". Is it for a 301? On the underside is a P and A919120. Does that mean
anything to anyone? It's very nice with a wood top and black metal folding
legs. Of course it now is in my garage!
My other treasure of the weekend is a tiny Bell electric machine in a tan
case that looks like a backgamon case. I looked for a reference in the
archives and Jenifer has one just like it. It has the inspection tag dated
11-10-54. It came with a ziplock bag of Greist attachments that I haven't
counted yet. There is also a way to attach it to a table for "free arm"
sewing. Very wonderful machine!
Kennalee at the foggy beach in L.A.
From: Bob McFarland
Date: Fri, 19 Jul 96 01:19:21 -700
Subject: Request Assistance
My wife just became the owner of a Minnesota Model A with cabinet.
It is in very good condition but has one drawer missing.
Could you please advise where we might find a replacement - or do
we need to replicate the drawer? Also, please what is the approximate age
of this machine - we could find no patent mark?
Please advise.
Bob
argonaut@cwo.com
Date: Fri, 19 Jul 1996 07:49:58 -0500
From: Tim and Sherrie
Subject: Thanks Lydia!!
Lydia,
About the Spartan...
Just when I had decided to re-post and get an answer on the oil wick!!
Family history doesn't mention a table/cabinet for this machine, but it does
indeed have the keyhole opening for the electric cords.
do you have a spartan? can you tell me how to take apart the bobbin
raceway? I remember from my 401a that there is a part you can remove...to
clean underneath , and there is lots of dirt there (Dad says "Harlan county
coal dust " - that's where this machine lived), but i can't seem to get it out.
And, the oil wick is in place and now oiled (at least I learn from my
mistakes!). but, what about the motor? Is this a job for....Singerman?
Sherrie Groman, in Columbus MS where it is much too hot!
Tim and Sherrie
gromant@ebicom.net
Our Home page =http://www.ebicom.net/~gromant - now complete
with quilt and firetruck pictures! (Last Revised 6/30/96)
Date: Fri, 19 Jul 1996 07:51:14 -0500
From: Tim and Sherrie
Subject: Graham's visit stateside...
Oh, Graham, I'm so sorry! I won't get to Austin TX until September 14.
Wonder if my Sister in Law would change the date of her wedding? Ha ha.
sherrie Groman
Tim and Sherrie
gromant@ebicom.net
Our Home page =http://www.ebicom.net/~gromant - now complete
with quilt and firetruck pictures! (Last Revised 6/30/96)
Date: Fri, 19 Jul 1996 10:46:53 -0400 (EDT)
From: Kristina Santilla
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 7/18/96
Carol - the model 24 is a chain stitch so it will not have a bobbin. I
have yet to see one in a table, although I do have a picture of one. They
are more commonly found as a portable with a wooden dome top case, and
later they came in a black case just like the Featherweight case.
Happy Featherweighting,
Krisi in Maryland
Date: Fri, 19 Jul 1996 11:54:44 -0400 (EDT)
From: "Joan E. Smith"
Subject: Broken FW
My SIL tells me she has a FW that she picked up at a garage sale that
looks really good but "doesn't work". I have no details yet but she
originally bought it for my MIL to use for spare parts for her FW. With
luck I'll be seeing this machine in about a week and will know more.
But, if the problem is with the motor and it requires replacing, can
someone give me an idea of how much that might cost? I plan to look in
the usual places to see if it's just bound up with thread, but any
guidance is welcome!
Joan
Date: 16 Jul 96 11:44:39 EDT
From: Chris Vagtborg <71155.1072@CompuServe.COM>
Subject: post
Hi All...
For All, re Serial No.s... I've seen several posts from people about serial
no.s and thought I'd post a few of my own: a #27 - 15516035 - 9/29/98, a #27 -
H1489205 - July of '24, a #127k - G9296772 - 3/20/22, a #221 - AE540276 -
6/11/37, a #221 - AF181269 - 2/15/39, a #221 - AJ006640 - 12/9/48, a #221 -
AJ358691 - 1/23/50. Now, check this out... I just called Singer and gave them
"AP937544" and they gave me a 1924 birth date! For a Touch and Sew #628 circa
1974, HA!
For Graham re: 2/27 mystery... The manual with my '98 #27 is labeled
"Instructions for using the Singer Sewing Machine NO. 27 (Vibrating Shuttle
No. 2.)", so I guess the manual is for both machines. Maybe the VS #2 had
"brand recognition" and the #27 was a new model at that time...
For Graham and Larry re: DC... The motor's voltage is the same for AC or DC.
Let's see, for a 240 volt motor, that'd be about 20 automobile batteries
wired in series!
A friend of mine gave me a display case for our shop. It's 5' wide and 4'
high, glass all around in the uppper half, wood enclosed lower half, sliding
wooden doors w/ mirrors in back of upper half. A new home for my FW; the
case, tray with attachments, oil can, etc. and FW (with even feed attachment)
on display. On a glass shelf above the FW, I've put all the goodies we stock
for the FW - belts, even feeds, quilting feet, N. J-S books, etc. This is way
cool! Hey Graham - I've got a museum!!! ...
Bye for now! Chris in sunny and hot St. Simons Is., GA where we're getting a
few 'out of country' folk in on their way to Atlanta for some kind of
sporting event....
Date: Fri, 19 Jul 1996 13:09:41 -0400
From: Larry Doyle
Subject: machines for sale
FW Black April 22,1947 condition is 8 all decals in tact in perfct
working order$350.00
Singer 503 condition is 9 many attachments and cams $350.00
99 condition 9 w/reverse $125.00
shipping and handling additional
Date: Tue, 16 Jul 1996 12:53:06 -0400
From: CHEVY38@aol.com
Subject: Model 15
Well, this list has nailed me too! I saw an old Singer sewing machine
advertised last week. Went to see it and found a Model 15-91, serial number
AL776681 born May 11, 1954. It was in a very nice walnut cabinet and quite
small so I bought it for $35. It also had a buttonholer in a green Singer box
#160506. Does anyone have a manual for this buttonholer they could copy? I
have a manual for a 15 but my machine doesn't seem exactly the same or even
thread the same way. Is there a 15-91 manual I could get a copy of? By the
way, I have a FW born April 1, 1941, a Model 66 treadle born Feb. 24, 1916,
and two other machines.
Barbara in Iowa where it is going to be a major heat wave for several days
but I am headed for the lake so who cares :)
Date: Fri, 19 Jul 1996 13:51:53 -0400
From: duck@clark.net (Bob Campbell)
Subject: Accepting Reasonable Offer on Centennial FW.
Hi:
Several days ago I offered a 9 rated Centennial FW for sale -- well I've
had no takersl -- so, being a determined salesman, I'll consider all
reasonable offers on this AK Centennial FW with a birthdate of May 10, 1951.
Condition rating of the FW is a 9 -- There are 2 very light scratches in
front of the throatplate; 1 light scratch to the right of the throatplate, 2
light scuffs behind the throatplate. The gold trim is nearly perfect and
99.9 % intact with only 2 slight blemishes visible (which I believe were
original to the machine.) The gold is "bright" and the Centennial Emblem is
very bright and crisp. The pedal and electric cord are original and in
excellent condition. I would rate the motor speed of this FW as a medium.
There was NO OIL CAN with this machine **. The FW comes with the original
attachments box with all 6 attachments. There is also the famous black
Singer screwdriver serial #25537, Seam Guide and mounting screw serial #
25527, Small aluminum screwdriver serial #120378, 5 bobbins, 2 packages of
singer needles (never used). The attachments box is in excellent condition.
Also the Green Singer Instruction book is in very crisp condition with only
a slight scuff on the spine. ( As many of you know it usually hard to get
this manual in good condition, since these were manufactured the same way as
comic books of this era and contain high acid content paper, which usually
deteriorate).
The case is in condition 8. It is the type that does NOT have a lift out
tray, but rather has a small metal compartment to the left for bobbins,
manual , attachments box and a metal clamp used to hold the green oval oil
can (remember there is NO oil can with this machine). The case has the
traditional FW odor, several scuffs on two corners and a few light
scratches. The hinges and latches are in excellent condition and the handle
is of the plastic variety in excellent shape. The case came with the two
original keys in their UNopened envelope. (I've never seen this before).
Thanks for listening
Bob Campbell
duck@clark.net
Date: Fri, 19 Jul 1996 16:15:16 -0400
From: lanza@marie.mit.edu (Dick Lanza)
Subject: Places to add to resource list
I have a couple of additions to the resource list for parts &
accessories:
The Sewing Emporium
1079 Third Ave.
Chula Vista, CA 92010
(619) 420-3490
They have a whole page in their catalogue on sewing machine needles,
with full-sized illustrations of the types, so if your machine is not
listed, you may be able to match the needle by the picture. They also
make custom feet. I went there. It was fun, because they had all
sorts of old stuff (they buy out stores that are going out of business)
that just isn't listed in the catalogue.
The other store is near me:
Morreal Sewing Machine Center
128 High Street
Waltham, Mass 02154
Carmen Morreale, Prop.
(617) 891-5333
1-800-678-1010
FAX 1-800-4-SEW MOR
This place was founded by Carmen's father in the 1940's, and has been
in the same location all this time. Recently they began to clear
out the basement... They have attachments &accessories going back
all that time. Recently they were able to furnish a customer with
templates from the Singer Deluxe Monogrammer of the 1970's. You may
be surprised with what they may have. They are helpful and friendly.
Sylvia
lanza@marie.mit.edu
Date: Tue, 16 Jul 1996 15:14:46 -0500
From: Carol Austin
Subject: Help on Model 24
I'v just seen a model 24, serial #B7362 in a cabinet which looks original.
Born 2 June 1904. It is really small and unusual looking. Is this model
very collectable and is it worth $250? Did it have a bobbin case. I didn't
see one, just a little arm going back and forth and you have to lift the
entire machine up to see that. No sliding plate. Anyone? Thanks
Carol McNiece Austin
Date: Fri, 19 Jul 1996 16:43:21 -0400
From: Heather166@aol.com
Subject: 1/4 inch foot
Where can I find one? Need for 1/4 inch seam allowance for
quilting. Thanks.
Heather Burke
Bozeman, MT
heather166@aol.com
From: BXTJ10A@prodigy.com ( ALTON DAVIS)
Date: Fri, 19 Jul 1996 16:26:23, -0500
Subject: Singer Model 24
To Carol:
It's a matter of personal preference, but I really like the Model 24 and
think of it as very collectable. Since it's a chain stitch just like the
Singer toys it doesn't use bobbins or have a bobbin case. Different parts
of the country may be different but in the St. Louis area $250.00 is a very
good price for a Model 24 treadle in good condition.
Al in IL
Date: Fri, 19 Jul 1996 18:41:39 -0400
From: "James L. Wilson"
Subject: buttonholers and accesories for sale
Everything is included except where otherwise noted. First come first
served. No
personal checks please as MY bank is on the other side of the state and
Mom's bank
doesn't like to cash personal checks for lil ole me.
Jetson buttonholer in Mint case low shank $30
Slant zig zagger in box marked as for a 301; one extra cam (161004) Box
slightly beat up
$35
Slant zigzagger no box all four cams $28
404 box. No accessories and no divider. $5
4 404 manuals one with no cover $12.50 each
Low Shank buttonholer slightly scratched $27
Low Shank buttonholer 1 x 2 cm area of paint missing $24
319 Manual $12.50
15-91 manual $14.00
Auto Pilot Buttonholer manual (the top loading design) and one green
plastic template
$10
Sets of the 4 extra buttonholer templates (no box) $10
3/8 and 1/2 and 15/16 size templates (from the extra set sold by Singer)
$7.50
for all three
slant b-h $25
1 buttonholer in Mint Jetson case (buttonholer and inside of the case
exposed to
smoke...still works just looks funny! Case cracked in front no cams no
manual) I
don't know how much...but I don't want the thing!
3 manuals for Jetson case style buttonholers (the plastic cover
buttonholers). $10 each
4 slant buttonholers no manual $23 each
slant buttonholer missing 13/16 template no connecter screw no manual
$20
503 Special manual $19
328k accessory box 8 cams, ruffler, binder, hemmer, button foot,
straight stitch foot,
seam guide, throat plate $30
Extra cam as for above. Cam number 3...alternating rectangles. The
flat type cam. $3
Singer publication: List of Parts Singer Machine No. 112w146
(Industrial looking
machine 2 needle high speed ball bearing drop feed safety clutch for
vamping foxing space stitching tipping etc) $10
I also have several slant shank Greist buttonholers, a couple top
clamping Greist
buttonholers. A Domestic buttonholer (by Greist--but then all are).
Another couple
Singer buttonholers (newer plastic cover). Not all of these last have
parts but I don't
want to go through them right now. If anyone is interested I'll look
for you.
I found a Singer shop that is no longer going to do sewign stuff so I
have all this
stuff now.
Jim
--
James L. Wilson
jwilson@uky.campus.mci.net
http://www.geocities.com/soho/2755
http://www.geocities.com/soho/2755/sewing.html
Date: Fri, 19 Jul 1996 23:40:25 -0400 (EDT)
From: Kristina Santilla
Subject: Another long one
Hi all,
I love the idea of get-togethers. Although I would love to see a
nationwide meeting, I agree with Bob Campbell that the quilt shows are the
most feasible. Nancy J-S is also often at the shows, and we could invited
her. Maybe we could do regional shows and if we find that one particular
quilt show is well attended by FWF's, it could become our national meeting
place. I also love the idea of a swap meet. Hopefully my junk is someone
else's treasure.
A few people have asked if there is an American version of the Singer
identification guide. I haven't seen one, but I did just get a repairman's
parts booklet from 1963. It shows a picture and an exploded view and
lists parts and attachments of models 15, 66, 99, 185, 188K, 192K, 201,
1200, 221, 301, 306K, 319K, 327K, 328K, 329K, 401, 403, 404, 500, &503.
If you subtract the vacuum cleaner pages it is 63 double sided pages
(126pp). I am guessing that it only covers the models that were still
being sold or that were still being brought in for repair frequently. The
221 section covers 221-1, 221K1, 221K4 and 221K5. Is there enough
interest in this manual to make copies "for educational purposes", or has
everyone spent their literary allowance on the Forsdyke/Kopf publication?
One of the things it lists is what each attachment set consisted of.
These are the lists for the 4 different 221's:
**221-1**
8879 Arm spool pin washer .02
160359 Binder (slotted) with pin tape guide 1.25
36865 Edge stitcher .70
35931 Hemmer (adjustable) 2.50
Needles (6) Cat. 2020 (15x1)
3 each of sizes 11 and 14 .30
121441 Presser foot for gathering .70
25537 Screw driver (machine) .40
120378 Screw driver (tension) .15
86742 Ruffler, for one, six and twelve
stitch ruffling 3.45
160809 Attachment set complete 9.20
(notice there was no mention here of an oil can, so maybe Singer changed what
was in a complete set over time)
**221K1** This is the same as above, but made in Great Britain
8879 Arm spool pin washer .02
121464 Binder, complete 1.35
25527 Cloth guide .30
50053 Cloth guide thumb screw .30
171071 Darning foot 1.75
131441 Gathering foot (double toe) .70
161307 Needle threader (wire) .15
Needles (6) Cat. 2020 (15x1)
3 each of sizes 11 and 14 Pkg. .30
161127 Presser foot (hinged, adjustable) 1.45
86742 Ruffler, for one, six and twelve
stitch ruffling 3.45
161294 Screw driver (machine) .35
161295 Screw driver (tension) .15
120861 Tin of oil (3 oz.) .30
161329 Attachment set complete 10.95
Note- the darning foot listed above was only supplied with the 222, don't
know what it's doing here. And I think the gatherer should be #121441.
**221K4** This is the British version with the light switch up by the light
shade
121464 Binder, complete 1.35
36865 Edge stitcher
121441 Gathering foot (double toe) .70
35931 Hemmer (adjustable) 2.50
Needles Cat. 2020 (15x1)3,size 14 Pkg. 30
86742 Ruffler, for one, six and twelve
stitch ruffling 3.45
161294 Screw driver (machine) .35
161295 Screw driver (tension) .15
161609 Tube of oil (1/2 oz.)
**221K5** This is the earlier (long-bed) non-black machine
121464 Binder complete 1.35
25527 Cloth guide .30
50053 Cloth guide thumb screw .30
120885 Edge guide
Needles Cat. 2020 (15x1)3,size 14 Pkg. 30
161127 Presser foot (hinged, adjustable) 1.45
161294 Screw driver (machine)
161295 Screw driver (tension)
161609 Tube of oil (1/2 oz.)
This manual lists the following as Special Attachments for the 221 series:
25525 Bias guage .30
25510 Braider .60
289 Braider thumb screw .30
160506 Buttonholer, complete 9.95
160719 Darning and embroidery attachment,
complete 2.95
35505 Embroidery attachment. complete
for two thread 8.25
121309 Feed cover plate .75
120914 Feller (foot) .80
121725 Finger guard .45
120855 Hemmer foot, 5/64 in. hem 1.55
120687 Hemstitcher with yielding presser plate .85
121632 Needle threader (universal) .25
161127 Presser foot (adjustable) for cording
and slide fasteners 1.45
160845 Presser foot (left toe) cord and
zipper work .70
160846 Presser foot (right toe) cord and
zipper work .70
121718 Presser foot with extension and
graduated adjustable guide, complete 2.95
121614 Presser foot for blind stitch braiding 3.95
36058 Presser foot for blind stitch cording,
to turn small curves 8.25
121615 Presser foot braid guide 1.70
36067 Presser foot for braiding, for braid
1/16 in. to 3/16 in. wide 2.95
35932 Quilter .80
121170 Ruffler shirring plate .50
25527 Seam guide .30
50053 Seam guide thumb screw .30
160927 Underbraider .65
25637 Underbraider foot .50
160741 Walking presser foot, complete 3.95
161157 Zigzagger attachment, complete
Style-O-Matic 4.95
Keep in mind that your attachment part numbers may be different due to slight
design changes over the years, this is just what was available in the early
60's. I have some parts that look absolutely identical, but have
different part numbers.
I just got back from vacation, which I mostly spent doing research and
searching for FWs. (Got 3)
Some recent prices at Brimfield on items I passed on (Brimfield is a
humongous antique flea market in Mass.):
Boye wooden needlecases - $5 a piece (ouch)
FW's - $200 (poor) to $495
Green G.E. Sewhandy - $100 (rough)
Model 99 $10 - nice (This was as far away from the car as possible, I had
sunburn and leg cramps, and I didn't have the strength left to lift it, let
alone carry it - hope one of you got it)
Wheeler &Wilson # 6 - rough $250 - saw the exact same one at Kutztown two
weeks earlier for $100.
At another flea market I found a 301 in cabinet with matching stool for $50,
but had run out of room in my truck. Moral: next time take bigger truck.
I found a book written by a retired employee of the St.Johns, Quebec
Singer plant. It's called "Singer (Histoire Industrielle)" written in
1994 by Guy Prud'homme. It's in French, and being as my junior high
French is a little rusty, I haven't read the whole thing but it seems to
be mostly about the workers, showing photos of the Singer hockey,
softball, and golf teams, and telling about all of the changes the plant
went through. It includes a lot plan of the buildings which is
interesting. There is nothing on specific machines other than the mention
that the last sewing machine produced at the St. Johns plant was the
Diana 560.
There are a few items of interest though. Apparently during both
World Wars the Singer factories in the U.S., Canada and Great Britain
obtained federal munitions contracts. Photos are shown of munitions and
aviation parts being made. In a brochure I have dated 1951, it states
that for World War II, these factories "were converted almost entirely to
war work and the sales organizations were drastically reduced". In the
late 1950's the St John's plant obtained a contract with Craftman tools
to produce circular saws, sanders, drills, etc., in 1972 they began
making vacuums for Sears, Eaton, Eureka, and Regina, and until 1983 they
made typewriters for IBM.
There is also a really neat picture of the workers leaving the
plant at quitting time with a two story Singer logo on the side of the
building.
I also came across some copies from the late 50's/early 60's of
Singer newsletters. I know from searching the Library of Congress that a
publication began in 1926 called "The Singer Worker", which was issued
by workers of the Elizabethport, N.J. plant, and in 1953 the St. Johns,
Quebec plant started a publication called "Entre Nous", but I haven't
located any copies yet. (Mary in N.J. - maybe your Elizabeth library has
a few) The ones I have are called "Singer Light", which was probably
circulated to store managers, and "Shop Talk" which may have been sent to
salespeople to get them hyped up to write more sales. Each one has a section
where salespeople tell about their conquests. Makes it sound like a
little old lady didn't have a chance when it came to Singer salesmen.
There wasn't a whole lot about FW's in these newsletters, just the
occasional photo, but I thought it was interesting that every year when
Singer had their sewing contests (which was really a way to get women and
young girls into their stores) the runner ups sometimes got a FW, while
the champion got the top of the line. I would rather have been a runner
up. I also found one copy of a British version called "Red S Review". It
is a little more chatty, with recipes (none for tea) and employee
weddings. I'll write more about info from these newsletters
later.
Lastly, I have *many* items for sale. I don't want to take up
space here, as it's pages and pages long, and I didn't mean for this to
become a novel, so please e-mail me for a list at santilla@aol.com If
you have bought things from me before, I will automatically send you one.
I have all kinds of attachments and feet, some of the Singer newsletters,
a supply of original Singer dealer window stickers, manuals, ephemera,etc.
Happy Featherweighting,
Krisi in Maryland
santilla@umd5.umd.edu or santilla@aol.com
Date: Fri, 19 Jul 1996 21:48:47 -0600
From: Ken Behler
Subject: Misc.
Greetings to all,
Bought a black 301 at a garage sale of the weekend. I brought her home
and cleaned her up and sewed alittle on her. She sew great. She came in
an altered cabinet that wasn't worth a plug nickel. Now I have to find
"unsuspecting dumpster" to get rid of her :-( Anyway now I'd like to
find a case for her. Does anyone out there know where I can get one?
I have a two-tone beige 301a already. These are the differences I
noticed between them. Black 301: Long extension bed, black bobbin
tension guide on base, different thread guide bracket on top above
tension, single plug in. Beige 301a: short extension bed, chrome bobbin
tension guide on base, differing thread guide bracket, and two seperate
cord outlets for the power and foot pedal.
Glenn: Last year, I purchased for my daughter a 327k at a garage sale.
(Singer told me it was regis. as a 328). The manual that came with it is
a 327. Both the machine and the manual pic look the same. Coincedently,
just yesterday, a friend gave me a manual for a 328. The picture in the
manual looks just like my 327k. The front says Style-O-Matic. Is this
what your friend needs? Let me know.
Buttonholers: I have 2 buttonholers for the slant needle machines (301
etc.) One is the older in maroon case complete with copy manual. The
other is in the pink 60's egg case, complete looks never used. $20 for
each.
I also have 1 straight needle short shank buttonholer for the FW, 66, 99
etc. This is in the green box complete and includes the set of 5 extra
templates. $20.
I, too have noticed Terri's (ragdoll) absence from this list. I hope she
is still around and alright. Terri, are you there?
Well, I've got more to say but I gotta go. Teenage daughter is needing a
ride, I suspect to the mall. Later, Jacque in Boise.
Date: Fri, 19 Jul 1996 22:45:40 -0500
From: Doreen Foote
Subject: need throat plates
Hi, I have a friend who is in need of 2 front throat plates for a 201 and
he still needs a hook for a Sewhandy.... is there anyone who can help him
out? It would be greatly appreciated..Myself I have been enjoying sewing on
my antique New Home Treadle ! Gosh I love that thing ! Am going to look at a
New Vasser treadle and a Singer treadle this weekend and another Singer
treadle tomorrow! I can't help it! I LOVE TREADLES! You are a great
group ! Happy hunting everyone!
Doreen
dfoote@cnmnet.com
____________________________________
FWFanatics@ttsw.com - Singer phone # 1-800-877-7762
And now a word from our sponsor:
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Received: from ttsw.com ([204.249.244.11]) by pcnet1.pcnet.com (4.1/SMI-4.1)
id AA06141; Sun, 21 Jul 96 11:34:51 EDT
Date: Sun, 21 Jul 96 11:50:21 -0500
From: Featherweight Fanatics
Subject: FW Fanatics 7/20/96
To: Sue@quilt.com
X-Mailer: LeeMail 2.0.5
Message-Id:
Date: Sat, 20 Jul 1996 00:04:17 -0700
From: Bobbie
Subject: Who sent this check
Sorry ladies, to take up the FWF space with this, but
if I don't SOMEONE who wants their Recognition Manual
sent out this coming week, is going to be very disappointed.
I received a check for the manual, however, the envelope
contained nothing else. The only thing I have to go on,
is the return address on the business size, white envelope
is on Bay Avenue in NEW YORK....I want to be careful and
protect the person's privacy, so I'm not posting the entire
address....If this looks like your address, please, please,
email me
Thanks
-=bobbie=-
Date: 20 Jul 96 07:59:09 EDT
From: Graham Forsdyke <100661.3256@CompuServe.COM>
Subject: Contribution 29
Again a story out of sequence, but it's topical so I jumped it up a few places
True stories number twenty-nine
A word of advice here. Avoid the combination of NorthWest Airlines and Logan
Airport Boston.
I've done my fair share of air travel and have gotten pretty casual about
weight
limits on baggage. In fact, we carry on long trips to the States two ultra-
large
cases, the hard-shell type, into each of which you can pack, after stripping
down, two complete treadle machines.
Of course the cases get pretty heavy -- in fact so heavy that one man can't
lift
them. But this was never a problem--- until Northwest and Boston a couple of
years back.
We had over-done things a tad.A total of four treadle machines, around six
heads, a few miniatures and toys and the biggest problem of all, 50 copies of
Glenda Thomas's book on toys.
We arrrived about 20 minutes before the flight -- quite early for us and
manhandled, with the help of a skycap, the first case onto the scale at check
in.
The attendant, fresh from her audition for the first act of Macbeth, spat out:
"You can't take that one." Feeling that here was a soul mate in the making, we
weighed the other three. They came out at 65 112 85 and 90 pounds apiece. The
hadrian smirked that this would cost me $400 in excess baggage.as the limit was
70 per bag. I appealed to her better nature, resisiting comments about
broomsticks etc, and she relented, producing a carboard box which I could use.
But, she added, this would be five pieces of checked baggage and the extra
charge would be $375. A saving of 25 bucks already!
Things were getting better and feeling I was on a roll, I declined her offer
and
decided to re-pack.
I want you, dear reader, to picture the scene. The crowded concourse full of
heaving humanity and, centre stage, Maggie and Graham unpacking all the cases
in
an attempt to transfer sufficient weight to hand baggage on which there is no
restriction.Piles of dirty underwear getting under the feet of the crowds. All
the time encouraged by the friendly attendant with her joyful cries of: "If you
don't clear up that mess we'll call the police" and "We're over booked you know
and if you don't comply soon I'll give your seats away". Like it was my fault
they were over booked.
We must have looked pretty pathetic for soon the offers of help started. A guy
returning home to Lancashire took 20 books, his wife a New Home head. An
American business man strolled over from first class to enjoy the show and was
given a box of toys to carry with his lap-top.
All this sympathy was upsetting NorthWest's employee of the month who loudly
started telling everyone that it was not allowed to carry goods for other
passengers. "Hey, lady", retorted a guy from Houston, "my friend here has just
made me a present of this here sewing machine and if I chose to give it back to
him in London, well I don't quite see what the hell you can do about it".
We made it. The plane took off with the same load that it would have had if we
had not been hassled and in the baggage lounge at Heathrow airport, bemused
customs officers watched as various books and parts of old machinery were
transfered to our three trollies.
Needless to say we haven't used NorthWest since. Now we are American Airline
customers and have no complaints. Mind you, we haven't, as yet, used them from
Boston.
Graham Forsdyke
Date: Sat, 20 Jul 1996 10:26:12 -0700
From: BettyPatGoddard
Subject: HELP
Last weekend I found an AJ FW in good condition, a slight bit of wear on
the gold trim, but very little. The machine had been serviced and is in
good running condition, the receipt from the servicing is in the case.
The case was in excellent condition, it looks brand new. It also had the
square Singer oil can and the little oval can, that fits in the metal
clasps in the case. It had the original FW manual in outstanding
condition. It had attatchments. It had the buttonholer. It also had the
FW table in good condition. The price was $495, what is fair price to
offer? Since I am seeing machines often listed at $395, I thought maybe
this was a pretty good price. I saw the oil can for $25 and the table for
$175 here yesterday. What do you think. Help, I need some assurance that
I need to run as fast as I can and get it. What do you think?
Date: Sat, 20 Jul 1996 12:39:58 -0400 (EDT)
From: gchamber@bright.net (Glenn Chambers)
Subject: Toy machine
I just missed a Featherweight yesterday, , but I did get a really
cute toy machine for $25. It's a KAYanEE Sew Master. I got the original
box, manual and a clamp to hold it to a table. It's in really nice
condition - has a few very slight scratches and chips in the paint. It
doesn't sew, it should chain stitch, but it just needs some oil and a
little TLC - the timing is off. It was made in Berlin. The only thing
wrong is that there is no year of manufacture listed anywhere. Do any of
you toy collectors out there know anything about this?
Also, if you advertise a FW for sale, please tell us where you are located.
I am unwilling to buy a machine sight unseen *and* then trust it to the
tender mercies of the US Postal Service, etc. I'd rather see the machine
and bond with it first before buying.
TIA,
Susan Chambers
(on her husband's account)
Toledo, OH
Date: Sat, 20 Jul 1996 15:35:02 -0500
From: Carol Austin
Subject: Model 24
Thanks to Kristina, Krisi, Al in Il.(hope I didn't miss anyone for all the
information on the Mod. 24. I'm going back for my fourth look-see today.
I'd like to go to Brimfield in the fall. Do you live close enough to day
trip or can you recommend a place to stay (affordable)? Would like a list
of items you have for sale. TIA
To Chevy re the 15-91 manual. Did you see that James Wilson had one for
sale in today's digest?
Chris, your display case for the FW sounds great. You realize that after
seeing your museum that EVERYONE will be looking for a FW!
Will you send me price for 127 manual and instruction book and rubber tire
for winder. TIA
Graham, I bought a Mod. 127 treadle in a beautiful cabinet from a self
taught machine repairman and trader. I tried to tell him about all the
wonderful information on this digest but he declared that "Those internet
people don't know what they are talking about!" He then proudly brought out
a copy of Carter Bays book and I pointed out your name on the fly sheet (?)
and mentioned that you contributed to our email almost every day. Now he
looks at me with a little more respect, thanks to you and this wonderful way
to visit and learn.
Carol McNiece Austin
Date: Sat, 20 Jul 96 14:10:25 0000
From: leames
Subject: wanted
HI ALL...I'M LOOKING FOR A SERVICE MANUAL FOR A FEATHERWEIGHT 221. DO
THEY EXIST? IS THERE ONE, OR A COPY OF ONE OUT THERE? TIA FOR ANY
INFO! TREECE
Date: Sat, 20 Jul 1996 15:10:17 -0700
From: Bobbie
Subject: Singer does it again!!
Well, this list has nailed me too! I saw an old Singer sewing machine
advertised last week. Went to see it and found a Model 15-91, serial number
AL776681 born May 11, 1954.
Hi Barb,
Oh Boy! Singer does it again. I have a Model 15-91 and the serial number
is AG799395; it was mfgd. 07/31/46. Now how can this be???? Your
machine has a serial number is 22,714 machines before mine and yet
mine was born in 1946!!!!
Wouldn't it be nice if Singer had reliable people looking up this
information and/or just reliable records?
From what I know about the 15-91 machine, it is far from small,
and it weighs a ton.
It was in a very nice walnut cabinet and quite
small so I bought it for $35. It also had a buttonholer in a green Singer box
#160506. Does anyone have a manual for this buttonholer they could copy? I
have a manual for a 15 but my machine doesn't seem exactly the same or even
thread the same way. Is there a 15-91 manual I could get a copy of?
I would be glad to send you a photocopy of my manual (original). Let
me know....
-=bobbie=-
Date: Sat, 20 Jul 96 20:49:42 EDT
From: Gene Baker
Subject: American Beauty
Found a near-new "American Beauty" Heavy Duty, Zig Zag in a yard sale today.
Serial
Number: JA316416. The machine is blue and white in a blue and cream case.
It has lots of attachments but no manual. Would appreciate information
anyone might have on this machine and would like to have a manual or a
reprint if anyone knows of one. It says
"Heavy Duty" on the front and that's no lie. It weighs a ton. No plastic
parts.
Thanks for the help.
--
Thanks
Gene Baker
You can find us on the World Wide Web at:
http://www.esinet.net/cabg/real_estate/bakerinc.html
Date: Sat, 20 Jul 96 20:49:42 EDT
From: Gene Baker
Subject: American Beauty
Found a near-new "American Beauty" Heavy Duty, Zig Zag in a yard sale today.
Serial
Number: JA316416. The machine is blue and white in a blue and cream case.
It has lots of attachments but no manual. Would appreciate information
anyone might have on this machine and would like to have a manual or a
reprint if anyone knows of one. It says
"Heavy Duty" on the front and that's no lie. It weighs a ton. No plastic
parts.
Thanks for the help.
--
Thanks
Gene Baker
You can find us on the World Wide Web at:
http://www.esinet.net/cabg/real_estate/bakerinc.html
Date: Sat, 20 Jul 1996 20:03:38 -0500 (CDT)
From: Mary Jane Tatum
Subject: Re: 1/4-inch foot
Little Foot, LTD., 605 Bledsoe NW, Albuquerque, NM, 87107, sells the
plastic 1/4-inch "little foot" that fits perfectly on a featherweight.
Telephone number is 505 345-7647.
Mary Jane in Abilene
Date: Sat, 20 Jul 1996 21:19:16 -0400
From: CTislander@aol.com
Subject: 301 table &FW date
I've been browsing the FWF digests for months now, but have not been
contributing. If you let the digests pile up they can be overwhelming.
Today, at a garage sale under a tablecloth piled with glassware, my DH found
a 301 cardtable. We got it for $20 and it is in pretty good shape, but needs
some refinishing. The cutout is 7"x16 1/2" and fits our cocoa 301A perfectly.
I noted the post from KennaleeM@aol.com asking if the table she found with a
larger cutout (8 1/4" x19") was for the 301. I don't think so. Perhaps they
made other cardtables for larger machines??
We finally found a white FW. The instruction book is copyrighted 1964 and
plainly shows a white machine. So they were made in England before 1968?
You all have probably discussed this thoroughly, but since I didn't have a
white FW I did not pay any attention. (We paid $250 at a garage sale where
the people knew what a dealer would pay.)
Graham: did you ever get the copy of "Sew Easy to Kill" I sent you months
ago?
I miss ragdoll (Terry), too.
Christine in the California Delta
Date: Sat, 20 Jul 1996 21:56:27 -0400
From: "David M. White"
Subject: New Finds
Hello Again Fellow FWF,
Today I went looking again and found a few items. I found and purchased one
of the Boye Needle Cases. The metal one that you dial up the needle you
want and slide open the door to retrieve you needle and shuttle cases in
small wood tubes. There are a few needles in it but no shuttle's. I assume
the shuttles came in wood tubes also. I paid $72.00 for it.
I also found a small metal sewing machine ornament that is a pencil
sharpener. It is about 1" by 2" by 1" high. It has a small hand wheel on
it with a crank that turns and makes the little needle go up and down. I
paid $5.00 for it.
Bobbie and everyone: one of the dealers had a supply of "Howards Orange
Oil" products. I purchased a small pump spray of Orange Oil that says
Furniture Polish and a samll bottle of Howards Feed-N-Wax which says
"Preserve it with Bees Wax and Orange Oil". Can I use this Orange Oil
Furniture Polish with fine steel wool to clean the grime and dirt off my new
sewing machine cabinets before applying the Feed-N-Wax?
I also say a Wheeler and Wilson samll sewing machine which I thing was a toy
machine. It had a large washer and screw that appeared to screw into the
bottom of the machine as a way to fasten it to a table. What puzzled me is
that it did not have a hand crank on it but what appeared to be a grove on
the hand wheel for a belt of some sort. They wanted $125.00 for it and I
would say that it was a 5 on the GF scale. I did not buy it but if it goes
on sale I might consider it later.
I met the dealer from who's booth I purchased the 1869 Singer, "Standard",
with the inlaid wood. She said that it belonged to her grandmother and that
she would try to find out a little more history about it for me.
That's about it for today, I have never seen a FW yet at a antique dealer,
yard sale, or anything, but I keep looking.
I hope you all had a productive weekend. Talk at you later...
Have a good day... David (:D
Date: Sat, 20 Jul 1996 18:57:06 -0700 (MST)
From: toms@goodnet.com (Stefan Szenina)
Subject: A sad day
Hi FWFs,
I thought I'd share this with people who understand. My DH put an
ad in the local paper to sell one of my FWs. I have 2, one that I use a
LOT and one that belonged to my mom. We discussed it first and decided
(reluctantly) that we need the money right now more than a machine that
just sits there. Hopefully after the baby is born I can start looking for
another. (and another, and another). I'm just afraid that around here
they aren't plentiful or inexpensive. We saw one in an antique store
recently for $475. Nothing special about it. Also one in a sm shop
that the owner was asking $400 for. I don't think this one had a case,
either. The owner of the shop was also telling my DH that he wouldn't
recommend a FW, since you can't get parts for them (he obviously hasn't
checked out this group) and you can get a 'really decent new machine' (his
words) for about $375.
I'll probably be really sad when it goes, but then I'll think that
"hey, we only owe so much more to the midwife before I can have this baby!"
Thanks for listenening.
From Lisa who is getting bigger and crabbier by the day in AZ.
Date: Sat, 20 Jul 1996 22:11:47 -0400
From: ManyPigs@aol.com
Subject: Re:fwf
was out antiquing today with my mother. I found this little shop, that had
3 or 4 different attachments for singers. They were in 2-tone green boxes.
They were all 9 1/2s or 10s on Grahams scale. The manuals were in them all,
and they look like they were never used. The guy bought an old machine from
this woman, because he saw all of these boxes. He threw the machine away (he
said it was no good, it was a 1940's model Singer). I almost cried. But he
does have these attachments at reasonable prices. I got a zig-zag attachment
and extra cams. He also has an old Singer in a Bentwood case. I don't know
the model #, but the serial # is AG824970. They said they get old machines
alot. If anyone is interested the shop name was Oliver's Twist, the phone #
was 352-735-3337. The address is 404 N. Donnelly St., Mt. Dora, FL 32757.
The owners are Clay and Cindy Oliver. They gave me permission to put this
info on here. They will ship!! Thanks again.
Marci in FL, where we are ready to drive boats, because of all the rain.
From: TGKU14A@prodigy.com (MRS SANDRA L COPELAND)
Date: Sat, 20 Jul 1996 22:01:57, -0500
Subject: Improved Faultless
My DH and I went to an auction today and bought a beautiful treadle
machine. It is called an Improved Faultless by John M. Smyth Co., Chicago,
IL. It is probably a 9 on Graham's scale and the cabinet is a beautiful
enclosed oak with not a scratch on it. It has designs on the front and
back and 4 star like figures cut out in the back and the top has raised
scrollwork. When you open the top to the left, the machine lifts out
smoothly at the same time. Serial #1060508. It has a shuttle and the
original belt in cherry condition. It came with the manuel and what seems
to be the bill of sale however it is written on a vehicle lifetime
guarantee and there is no price and the date is 1906. We probably paid
more than we should for it but it is just beautiful!
Sandie in middle PA where the floods hit again yesterday. My modem has
been down for about 24 hours and I thought I would just die if I didn't get
to read my FWF digest!!
Date: Sat, 20 Jul 1996 19:14:44 -0700 (MST)
From: toms@goodnet.com (Stefan Szenina)
Subject: A sad day P.S.
BTW, Jim, I tried hiding it in the back of the closet, but DH remembered it
anyway! It was a great thought, though!
Lisa in AZ
____________________________________
FWFanatics@ttsw.com - Singer phone # 1-800-877-7762
And now a word from our sponsor:
Flower Mound Design Studio - Patterns with a Southwest Flavor. Designs by
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