Featherweight
Fanatics
Archives
September 1996
Sunday, September 8th - Saturday, September 14th
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Date: Sun, 8 Sep 1996 07:46:37 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: FW copy
Just got the Oct./Nov 96 issue of Threads. On pg.93 there is an ad for
what looks like a new copy of a FW for $299. It says it is "patterned
after the classic Singer Featherweight..."
Julianne W
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Date: Sun, 8 Sep 1996 11:34:01 -0400
Subject: POST: Guilt &Miscellaneous
Does anyone know anything about a Bradbury's vibrating shuttle machine? Made
in England. Interesting case - top flips up to reveal machine, and has a
hook that secures the machine arm to the case lid. To remove machine, unhook
lid, then unlatch the case from the base plate at the bottom. Latches all
over! Really interesting. Did not buy the machine, because they wanted too
much, considering the handcrank was bent and the knob broken off.
Interesting srping-loaded bobbin that went into the bullet-like shuttle
(open on one side).
Saw a Singer #3 Vibrating Shuttle just like mine (the first antique I ever
bought). Except my gold work is beautiful - four roses on the bed in great
condition. This one's roses were rubbed off, as was most of the gold. The
bentwood case needed spome work. No key. Estimate from the serial number
that it was about 1893. (I have an 1892 and and 1894) I mention this
machine only because I was aghast at the price - $300!
(Glad my husband saw that one!)
Purchased a folding wooden attachment box with purple lining and attachments.
The attachment numbers do not match the ones that are in the manual Millie
so generously sent. The manual has numbers beginning with 76. Mine are #1,
#3, etc. Perhaps these attachments are not original to the box. They are
not stamped Griest or Simanco. The price tag said they were 1839
attachments, but I think the patent stamp looks more like 1889. (Let's be
real, here!) Anyway, they charged me $32.50 (down from $38).
My husband commented, after we left the store, that he would need to broaden
his scope of what he is looking for. He "saw one of those folding boxes at
another store today, but didn't know it was for sewing stuff." Didn't recall
the price, but he remembers the store. I will call them on Monday.
My sister, who found and bought a treadle for me in New York state, emailed
me last night that it includes a folding wooden attachment box. What a
difference a day makes. From 0-2 (and could have been 3) in less than 24
hours.
Clay &Shelley - I don't need any WHITE stuff, but you've made me feel
guilty. I saw a Domestic buttonholer in a case with a nice manual for $5
yesterday and did not buy it because I don't need it... Your philosophy of
buying items for others who may need them is admirable. I may be back down
that way and will consider buying it for future friend in need. Sniff -
sorry, I wasn't thinking! (And maybe I'll take a few of your 221 bobbins.
The person who bought one of my FWs expressed concern over finding them.)
Barb
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Date: Thu, 05 Sep 1996 12:52:13 +0000
Subject: FWFanatics Digest
Stopped by the local thrift store for some clear glass jars to
separate my button collection by color. The register in that area
was closed, otherwise I wouldn't have gone to the "furniture" area and
spotted that old bentwood case with a hole in the top where a handle
once lived. Bought it for $10, despite the manager's insistence that
"It will only go up and down." Just checked with Singer and it's a
Model 128, made in Elizabeth, NJ on September 17, 1941. Just about
to celebrate it's 55th birthday!
It's not very ornate, has a godzilla finish (yes, I knew exactly
what it was when I saw it!), but looks like it's hardly been used. The
bobbin mechanism is obviously what I've read about in the digest as
being a "shuttle" type. Can anyone tell me anything about this model?
I'm new at this collecting stuff, but did I do good? TIA for any
info/feedback.
Dee
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Date: Sun, 08 Sep 1996 12:56:38 -0700
Subject: FWF message
Hi Lisa, the Model 24: I have two of them, one mfgd in 1914 &one in
1921
They had a very nice treadle cabinet, much smaller than the
standard machine cabinets.
There were many model 24's: 24-6, 24-7, 24-26, 24-31,
24-32, 24-33, and 24-53
The model 24-13 was fitted with an adjustable gathering feed
for gathering at high speeds.
The 24-14 &24-34 were fitted with a special tuck marking attachment
for tucking
24-19 is fitted with ruffling mechanism.
24-23 had a ruffling attachment
24-39 &24-52 were designed for seaming, imitation spoke stitching,
and was use mainly for making umbrellas ¶sols.
24-54 was designed for forming and stitching picot edging upon
casket linings, curtains,draperies, etc.
24-56 was designed for making caps.
24-57 for making linings for women's hats. It was fitted with a
combination
attachment, which would fold a bias strip to form piping, into which
a cord
was inserted, while the gathering feed gathered the side of the
encircling
strip, and everything being simultaneously stitched to the crown of
the lining.
As for prices, like any other machine, all dependant upon condition,
buyer,
etc.
>I have a small manual "A Manual of Family Sewing Machines" by Singer
>@1929 (51 pages). Does anyone know anything about it?
These were printed from early 1900's right up to 1954. All contain
same information,
some more as new models came out...usually covers of the book are
the only thing
that changed.
bobbie
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Date: Thu, 05 Sep 1996 17:08:36 -0400
Subject: Canadian Singers
Hi, FWFs! Found a mint green Singer 185J at a used furniture store
today. She'll be great for girls to learn on, I'm sure. I noticed
Richard Larimer's Q about Canadian Singers. This one is also made in
Canada. Will try Singer 800# tomorrow. The same store had a White
rotary in a deco cabinet, attachments and knee lever included, for $79.
I couldn't even think of buying it as the 185 is hard enough to hide
(VBG)! If anyone is interested, I will get the lady's phone # for
them. She also had boxes of Singer attachments and was a very sweet
Brit.
Happy hunting! Sue
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Date: Sun, 8 Sep 1996 10:07:50 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: 201 motor, 301 availability
for the person who passed on the old 201 because it needed a new motor: the
built-in gear-drive motor assembly from the 15-91 is a direct replacement. i
take off the handwheel and replace the whole motor/housing/bobbinwinder
assembly. 15-91's are more plentiful (i've found) and being a noisy oscillator,
i have no moral qualms about cannibalizing them to get smooth rotary 201's
working again.
no more 301 mail to me please! i sold one, and the other i've decided to keep
for awhile, fix it up and learn it's personality. i will however buy all the
301's i find now. i've been passing them up, not knowing they were wanted. as i
find them i will post to the list.
T.R.
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Date: Thu, 5 Sep 1996 15:52:05 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Newest Singer Featherweight?
I was browsing through old magazines for ideas for articles to include in a
new newsletter which I am launching for Sewers/Quilters/Crafters in a week,
and came across something I knew you all would be interested in. It was the
Fall l993 Family Circle Holiday Crafts special issue on page 16 where I saw
the NEW FW sewing machine. It's totally modern, but small with just the
basic stitches for straight stitching, zigzag and mending. I am assuming
since they call it the Featherweight Plus that it is also lightweight. Has
anyone heard of this machine? I've never seen one in the stores. But I'll
be checking it out soon just out of curiousity, if for no other reason. The
price is listed at $289.99.
Shoot....for that kind of money I could buy the real thing....an original.
But I'm still looking for the old FW which has my name on it somewhere out
there and, of course, one that is REASONABLY priced...in the $150 area since
I'm not rich and am making big payments on my once-in-a-lifetime power
machine with all the bells and whistles.
I hadn't meant this post to be about my new bulletin boards and the
newsletter...but....if you are interested check out the following sites:
http://www.wwvisions.com/craftbb/quilt.html
http://www.wwvisions.com/craftbb/sewing.html
(To subscribe to the newsletter click on Arts &Crafts Central and you will
see the subscription form....it's free....it comes out every two months and
it is emailed to you automatically.)
Sherry M
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Date: Sun, 8 Sep 1996 16:30:53 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Thank yous and news
Hi to all--
To Chris and Bobbi-Thank you both. If you keep giving me
information, someday I may get the series 15 figured out. I think I
understand the Mechanism of the Vibrating Shuttle, and the Rotary Hook, but
I am still confused on how to tell the Oscillating Hook from the
Oscillating Shuttle. Am I right that the Oscillating Shuttle bobbin fits
in a bobbin case-like a featherweight-and goes in vertical, as opposed to
just a round bobbin laying in flat in the bed of the machine? TIA from my
state of confusion.
This summer was quite good on the FW front--while on vacation I
couldn't interest the sunbathers or the book readers in any golf--So I had
to go shopping! I found a pink and white striped cotton I have been
looking for--Then started on the antique/sewing machine rounds. At the
very last shop on my list (back in the woods, and out in the country--I
almost didn't find it, then almost didn't get out of the car when I did) I
asked the prop. if there were any sewing machines I had missed. She said
she had an old portable Singer in the basement, she would go get it.--When
I saw the FW case I couldn't believe my eyes. It was missing one latch,
and the machine wasn't sewing, but the price was right (almost garage sale)
and the reason it was not sewing was the bobbin mechanism didn't have the
finger up between the pegs on the bottom of the feed dog plate. Its a 1947
and sews like a dream. DH (who has come to recognize the FW case also) put
down his book in a minute when he saw me bringing it in (I'm sure for a
minute he wished he had decided to play golf) but when he found out what a
bargain I had all was well.
Today I couldn't get the Palace software to download for the
chat-line (the computer with the Palace software went to college) so I was
back to the newspaper, reading ads. Sewing Machine-$20. I called and they
said it was an old Singer--Any numbers on it I asked--It says 301--Off to
the car am I. It really wasn't in such great shape . It had been
cannablized-no bobbin case, and part of the tension mechanism is gone. But
I bought it for $10 and brought it home and promptly wrote Chris an E-mail
for prices. Sometimes when my plans must change I'm sure I am the winner.
Love this list--Thanks again Sue. Ellen
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Date: Sun, 08 Sep 1996 17:48:40 -0400
Subject: Our Latest Finds (or, Last SM--Again)
We took a ride up to Red Bank (NJ) Saturday to check out the antique
stores, not really expecting to find anything, just enjoy browsing
around. (Even our 5 year old son, Nick enjoys "antiquing.") They have
this cluster of about a half-dozen multi-dealer shops within a two-block
area, so we parked at the first one and headed out.
The first couple of shops were a bust, mostly overpriced furniture and
nic-nacs, but at the third, Shelly spotted a bentwood case with a $5.00
price tag. She took a quick glance inside and saw an older 99 (AA sn).
So the man at the shop called up the "owner" of that particular booth,
and confirmed the price. In five minutes, it was in our car.
At the very next shop we hit a bonanza. In one booth, Shelly spotted an
old-style, camless, buttonholer, so we searched the rest of the booth.
Altogether there we found the buttonholer, a hemstitcher, two little
green boxes of Singer needles and one of the green Singer boxes of
standard attachments. All of it looks like new, with the instructions,
and the needles still wrapped in tissue! The total for the day --$21.
Though there were a couple of misses. There was another bentwood case in
another building, but the case was locked, and the owner had the key in
her purse at home, and they didn't know what it was, or how much. Also,
there was one of those neat floor standing sewing boxes, with the angled
top, sitting by some trash by a door. It was just missing the
doorhandles, and needed a little tightening of the legs, but we had to
leave it, since nobody there knew who it belonged to, and wouldn't sell
it without knowing whose it was and what they wanted for it. All in all,
it was a good day.
Clay &Shelly
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Date: Sun, 8 Sep 1996 22:48:02 -0400
Subject: Non-Fanatics
Hi all!
Two stories to tell about clueless non-Fanatics:
We went to a weekly flea market about a month ago and saw a gorgeous
black 301, but didn't see a case, attachments or manual. Price? 500!!! We
went back today, and saw that the gentleman must have sold it, so we asked
what he got for it and he said he got his asking price. Did he think he had
a FW? And worse yet, did the buyer think it was a FW too?
Second, we were in an antique store yesterday and spied the beautiful
wrought iron legs of a Florence. But they were attached to a nasty old desk!!
To some extent I can understand canibalizing a Singer that there are millions
of, but to destroy a Florence?! Just to make sure the gentleman thinks twice
the next time, my DH told him after finding out that the machine was long
gone, that the missing sewing machine was extremely rare and valuable and
that we would have paid a lot of money for it. I think that got his
attention. I might even try that next time I see a plain old Howe or other
base with a marble top, too.
Questions: What do the faceplates look like on the G.E. Sewhandys that
FWF's have? The one at the Zacharias's had a really cool art deco-ish
faceplate that was silver and green with the G.E. logo. Another friend has
one that has the same faceplate as the Standard/Osaan Sewhandy, whch is an
ornate floral urn. I wonder if this was a replacement, or if theirs might be
an early G.E., before G.E. had all their own tooling. Also, at the
get-together was a photo book that had a photo of a turquoise Sewhandy. Did
anyone there see this? Was it a G.E. or a Standard? Did anyone notice the
faceplate on it?
Wouldn't it be great to have one of each color of the
Standard/Osaan/G.E./Western Electric Sewhandy's? I feel another quest coming
on!
Happy Featherweighting,
Krisi
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Date: Sun, 08 Sep 1996 08:14:38 -0700
Subject: 5 New SM's
We just got back from vacation last night. I got 5 "new" sm's and
various books. My DH was fairly patient until #5. I got a 99 in
bentwood case with knee control, book, oil can &attachments in green
Singer box #AB260334 born 10/5/26; a 99K in a bentwood case with key and
attachments #EF123171 born 3/4/49 $69; a 99K in suitcase type case with
attachments (no book) and buttonholer with manual #EJ256085 born
11/17/53 $35; a 185J (the little green sm I posted about) with no book or
attachments #JD708152 $15.99 and a 128-23 in a bentwood case with book
and attachments #AJ864089 $10. I haven't called for birthdays of the
last 2 yet.
The 128 was in the back of a thrift store. My mother, sister and I had
gone to clean a friend's house as she fell &broke her leg just as she
was starting to do it. On the way back I spotted the store and of course
we stopped. We found a White 565 for $8. My mother likes older Whites
so she got it. While we were looking at that, a lady told me she had
donated an old Morrison that morning and we should ask. My mother was
interested so I asked the man in the back. He didn't have it yet. I
spotted the Singer in the bentwood case. He told me they hadn't priced
it yet because they couldn't get it opened to check it. I pulled out my
screwdriver and opened it. He asked the manager how much? and he said
$10 or $12. He priced it at $10 and I bought it. My DS was going to
store it at her house for a while but dropped us off first. We were
getting my mother's White out of the trunk and I was looking at the 128
when DH came out to help. He kept asking me if it was mine but I
never answered then my DS took it with her. My DS mail the 128 as soon
as things cool off. DH isn't sure that one is mine but I think he
suspects. Our little house IS crowded already since my FIL moved in with
us but I do have a sewing room.
I also bought quite a few sewing books. They are way cool. I mailed the
other 4 SM's home. I can't wait until they get here so I can start
cleaning them and sewing.
If anyone has attachments for the 185J, a green case bottom (top is very
good)and/or a manual for sale, I would be interested in buying them.
Please email me privately. Sorry to be so long winded. Happy
collecting! Janet
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Date: Sun, 8 Sep 1996 23:33:40 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: value/appearance scale?
greetings from Oregon!
i've heard you all describe machines on a numerical scale: is this arbitrary or
is there a published guideline i should know about?
Being introduced to this group has re-kindled my interest in machines. i
intend
to start searching for good old Singer machines again on a serious basis
beginning tomorrow. i think there are a lot of undiscovered machines here in
Oregon, people just haven't caught on to the fever yet. One of my other
hobbies
is vintage guitars. the market is incredibly inflated. i want to get my sm
collection together before all the machines are bought up! i've had several
e-mails (out of literally hundreds!) as a result of my Threads magazine article
from people who have FW's and just didn't realize what they had. (..."some old
Singer portable that my mom gave me, can you help date and identify it. it came
in a little suitcase and looks like a toy."......!!!) i can't be unscrupulous
and deceive them into selling machines cheaply to me though. bad kharma. the
machines are out there for us!!!! search! buy! fix! sew! revel in the glory of
finely-made machinery!
I LOVE BEING HERE!!!!!!!!! thank you all who invited me to join.
T.R.
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Date: Mon, 09 Sep 1996 02:23:43 -0400
Subject: 401 attachment list...
For those of you who recently asked about the 401 attachment part
numbers...check out my
sewing page. I have included everything that I found with my Grandmother's
401. I am
not sure what originally came with the machine (and during the Flood of '77 at
least the
ruffler was lost) and if anyone wants to add to the list...please email me the
part
number and what the attachment does.
Also the same goes for the 221 list I have up...
Jim
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Date: Mon, 09 Sep 1996 02:23:58 -0400
Subject: Singer Genie...
Does anyone know anything about a Singer "Genie" (Model 534 or 543???) It is a
plastic
tan machine only about 10 inches across. Obviously a 60's model as it had the
bright
orange and yellow flowers on the arm. It also has a "u" shaped piece that
slides in
from the left that holds the pedal and completely encloses the machine's work
area when
not in use. Was it either made to be a child's machine or just a tiny
portable? I saw
it at a local sew n vac. Didn't ask the price as it was in his parts/to-be-
cleaned
machines. He didn't have a 201 but did have an almost pristine 301 case and
monogrammer
and two boxes of attachments for 301's and an old style low shank buttonholer--
one of
the pre-template versions.
He also had a 301 in the parts pile that is in almost pristine shape
cosmetically. The
throat plate and take up arm and hook assembly is missing but I have everything
it would
need on a 301-junker I have...except for the bobbin case base. Would anyone
have a
bobbin case base (part with the position finger) for the 221/301? I know I can
get one
new but 90 dollars is too much to spend on that machine when I already have a
working
301. Or...if anyone is interested in persuing that machine (it is still at the
shop)
contact me via private email.
Jim
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Date: Mon, 9 Sep 1996 14:41:30 +0800
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/5/96
Barb wrote:
>Anthea: Forgive me for having to ask this, but how much is a pence and how
>much is a quid?
Anthea is English and so p stands for pence like c stands for cents, and a
quid is a pound (100 p, used to be 20 shillings). Here in OZ we've had
dismal guernsey (decimal currency) for 30 years, but we still remember the
good old days :-)
Currently a British quid is worth about $Aus2.25 or $US2.00
Joan
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Date: Sun, 08 Sep 1996 16:13:36 -0400
Subject: Welcome T.R. !
Welcome to the group T.R.! You sound like a kindred spirit. Haven't read the
article yet but wil look for it.
I have a couple of questions for you and decided to post here so the group
could benefit from the answers. The 201 is also my favorite, currently have
two but mine are 201-2s. How does a 201-1 differ? Also, I just acquired a
306K and noticed you have a 306W. Same question, differences? Similarities?
I appreciate any enlightenment :). Thanks much, Katy
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Date: Mon, 9 Sep 96 12:43:41 UT
Subject: Help!!!
I am a computer hacker who knows nothing about sewing machines, but I am
trying to find a FW for my wife's birthday this November. I have asked at
mainstream sewing stores and most of the high school help does not know what I
am talking about. Apparently Singer is also producing an imported piece of
junk with the Featherweight name on it that adds to the confusion.
Any suggestions of where I can look (, what to ask for, what to avoid, etc.? As I said, I
know nothing about sewing and would hate to present some old boat anchor of a
machine to my wife as a FW.
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks.
Steve T
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Subject: In praise of ELNAs
Date: 06 Sep 1996 15:06:43 GMT
Hi fellow fanatics,
I am delighted that more and more postings are about the
older Elnas. In the early 1950s my DH bought me a beautiful
green one. Why do so many think the green is not great ? When
they are polished up they are quite attractive IMHO. In 1979 I
updated to an Air Electronic, (white in colour) having passed
my green machine on to my DIL. I very soon regretted this move.
Especially as my DIL had no incination to sew at all !!
The chamfered bed of the AE made it difficult to piece the small
pieces of quilts.
I use a tan coloured Supermatic ALL the time for my quilting and
everything, bought at an auction,--it found me. We bonded right away !
I would be lost without her,-- even tho' I enjoy the wonderful embroidery
my Janome 8000 does, all by herself. If there was that mythical fire, I
know which I'd rescue first. My third trip I'd rescue at least 2
Featherweights.
One white (slightly green) and my black 221. Taken for granted my DH and
little dog,-- Jessie Russell could make it on their own, of course
Thanks Sue for this avenue to express ourselves.
Greta
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Date: Mon, 9 Sep 1996 07:55:52 PDT
Subject: Another old Wheeler and Wilson
Happened into local antique co-op (where I had bought handcrank for
$25). They had a really neat old Wheeler and Wilson treadle which
according to the list that Bobbi sent out was manu in 1870. It had
four patent dates, 1850,51,52 and 1854 so I had thought it might be
earlier. It had no model number but serial number of 544745. I am
certainly no expert on really old machines but this one looked so
unusual. It faced sideways, ie you faced the faceplate on the
machine. The machine itself was shaped somewhat like a "T". It had a
breadbox type top and when you opened it it had two drawers, one on
either side of the machine. I would love to know the model and how
common it is. The asking price was $175 but I am sure I could get for
less., It has been in the shop closed up for a long time -- this was
the first time I had seen it open. It usually had tons of stuff on
it. It had a couple of really odd attachments -- nothing
recognizable. It looks nothing like the W&W "8" that is in another
local shop.
Also found my local sm guy is a closet fwf. He has 11 fw plus free
arm and says he can't bear to sell them! I am giving him the address
of ISMACS as he and his wife were very interested and didn't know it
existed. They have a gorgeous old Howe (according to them) at home.
They took me on a tour of their backroom at the shop which is loaded
with old sewing machines. Said they did not have time to get on the
net although do have net access.
Also the guy that has the 301 plus case for $89 now has a cabinet 401
with attachments for $149. I am sorely tempted. I am thinking of
just getting the head -- can you get the bottom part to fit this or is
this a woodworking job?
Beth
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Date: Thu, 5 Sep 1996 12:20:47 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: wanted
WANTED: PINKER FOR FEATHERWEIGHTS, THANKS!!!!
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Date: Wed, 4 Sep 1996 17:19:09 -0400
Hi:
I'm in the process of putting together a FW information resource. Would you
Email me personally if you :
1. Sell FW parts - including bobbin cases, needles, light bulbs, foot
pedals, foot pedal cords, replacement motors, accessories, carrying case
parts, handles, hinges, latches, keys, rubber feet, repair manual copies,
instruction manuals, reproduction cases, reproduction card tables, etc. ,
etc. etc
2. Sell or manufacture FW accessories including pins, stationery, decals,
t-shirts, canvas carrying cases or bags , any other FW related item.
3. Sell and/or repair FW's
4. Teach any courses relating to using or cleaning FW's.
Thanks for listening
Bob C
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Date: Mon, 9 Sep 1996 11:35:41 -0400
Subject: POST: Starved for more information
Hi all - have been reading past posts about Threads magazine articles and
went looking for the one w/ the Ruffler info and the one with "Perserving the
Past" article. Did not find either - the only issue they had was Oct/Nov.
with an article by John (forgot his last name) on buying a sewing machine.
Which issues am I looking for - and how can you get them if they are earlier
issues? Would really like to read these articles.
Have been reading Grace Rogers Cooper's book, The Invention of the Sewing
Machine. Really informative! I am looking for others (starved for
information) and am having a hard time finding anything.
Marijo in Russia - what is the Singer biography by Bette Feinstein that you
mentioned?
What else is everybody reading?
Saw a lot of sewing machine cabinet drawers made into tables, racks, plant
displays, etc. this weekend. They say they throw the heads away because they
can make more this way. Ouch! And they said "It's a shame, because some of
them are really pretty."
Barb
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Date: Fri, 6 Sep 1996 11:00:42 GMT-6
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/4/96
Hi: I have been reading all the posts as I have only started to
collect sewing machines. I have been trying to look for a
featherweight. Well, there was an auction yesterday and my husband
went to look for me. No featherweights, but he did end up with 12 sewing
machines for $80.00. The oldest was a New Family, 1879, then a Model
27 from 1897 in an oak cabinet with an oak folding box of attachments
but it had an instruction manual for model 127-3 and 128-3. It had a
picture of like a sphinx with wings on the SM. Beautiful! He did
pay the most for that one, 47.50. Let's see, then there was a Model
66 from 1918 and another from 1923 and again another from 1946. He
also got a 201 from 1935 and 1937. The said the 1937 was an
industrial one, it sat on an oak table, had a treadle like foot pedal
and a knee bar that lifted the pressure foot. Excellent condition.
Is electric and runs perfectly. The other 201 was portable in an
ugly blue case. He also got a model 15 from 1953. The newest was a
model 404 from 1959. There was also a New Home treadle, vibrating
shuttle, a Precision Deluxe Electro Sunbeem model 202 made in Japan
(face plate looks like a singer) and a Sears Kenmore (that was thrown
in with about 5 of the sewing machines and 2 vacuums for $2.50).
When he called me at work I was so excited I couldn't hardly wait to
get home. Then I had to wait until today to call the Singer # for
all the model #s and years. Well, that's about it. He could have
gotten more, but he missed some taking the SMs to his van. Now for
the clean up job. Two are perfect, no clean-up needed though.
Thanks for letting me talk, I'm still giddy!
Rachel Mi
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Subj: Another Request
Date: 96-09-03 22:02:50 EDT
Hello Again:
Ok, so here's my second posting of the day. I have a friend with a Model 66
treadle that she loves dearly and uses frequently. Singer tells me it's a
66-6, but from what I've read it's a 66-1 because it has a back attached
presser foot. My friend wants to find a walking foot and a quilting foot to
fit this machine, but has been unsuccessful due to this back attached presser
foot arrangement.
Does anyone have experience overcoming this problem? TIA for your help.
Regards,
Larry M
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Date: Mon, 9 Sep 1996 14:36:25 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Happy Birthday!!!
Happy Birthday Featherweight Fanatics!!
September 10, 1995 Sue sent out a message welcoming the 30 original
subscribers to FWF! Hard to believe it's been a year already. Thank you
Sue, for all the work you have done to give us the past year's worth of
interesting reading and for the opportunity to make such wonderful friends.
Happy Featherweighting,
Krisi S
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Date: Mon, 09 Sep 1996 15:06:07 -0400
Subject: Hemstitcher and Picot Edger
Julie F wrote:
You mentioned that the hemstitcher and picoter was available for
different models. Was there one that would work with the Featherweight? Is
there a part number for this gadget? Also, I have the 222. If I dropped the
feed dogs, would that suffice, or does the thing need to have the special
throatplate to work?
I have the hemstitcher and picot edger attachment. The attachment with
thumbscrew is part # 121387 with thumbscrew #51347A. This fits Class
15,66 (except 66-1), 99, 101, 127 &128, 201, and 221. The throat
plates are the key difference. They are #121388 for Class 15 and 201,
#121389 for Class 66 (except 66-1) and 99, #121390 for Class 101,
#121391 including screw 202J for Class 127 &128, #121392 for Class 221.
I copied this off of the Instruction Manual. Hope it helps! Sue
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Date: Sat, 7 Sep 1996 19:17:21 -0800 (AKDT)
Subject: looking smug!
My mother tells me that I am looking very smug and I'm
sure she is correct.
I went to an auction where they had 3 treadles for sale.
Now, I have no desire and more importantly no room for
another treadle....but one of them had the little
folding wooden box with attachments in one of the drawers.
This is the first time I've seen one. And, needless to
say, I WANTED that box.
Well, I got everything for $30.00 and then sold the machine
to the woman bidding against me for $25. OK, yes,
I am gloating! HEHEHEHEHE!!! Can you tell that I am
very pleased with myself?
My other piece of good fortune was finding some old McCall
Needlework Magazines from 1948-49 (boy, do they smell BAD!)
that contain a Singers advertisement that includes the
featherweight!
Now if my good luck would only extend over to the airconditioner
in my car...after $1900 to have it totally redone it DIED
totally died....cross your fingers for me and my van!
Susan
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Date: Mon, 09 Sep 1996 16:00:58 -0500
Subject: Buttonholer
>I know this is a dopey question but can you use a buttonholer with a
>straight stitch machine (I have a 301A and an FW) or must it be used with
>a zigzag machine???
>
>I found a Singer buttonholer at the Goodwill, black with only 3 cams in a
>green plastic box, part #160506 for $8.99.
I use this buttonholer with both my FW and my circa 1969 Singer Stylist.
Works far better than the four step buttonholers on the Stylist and my Pfaff
955. I believe it was designed to work with any low shank machine. It makes
a perfect buttonhole every time. The buttonholer zig zags by moving the
fabric, not the needle. I believe it came with five cams, and there was a
box of four additional sized cams available separately.
Several people have commented on the replica FWs which they have seen in ads
or SM stores. I have seen them at my local Singer store for $299. I've
been reading this list since day one and this has come up several times.
Consensus seems to be, no comparison, don't buy it, piece of junk.
Sighted my first FW in months at the Vernon IN Labor Day Antique show.
Beautiful condition, all attachments, case appeared to have pewter colored
replacement latches, asking price $335. As I am the rare FWFanatic
satisfied with my one (but would not pass up one of those real deals) I
passed it up. In fact I set a new record, my 9th or 10th year at this show,
and I spent all of $2.00 - $1.00 on hankies, and $1.00 on a snow cone! Plus
$3 at DQ on the way home. I amazed myself! Of course, I never found any
delft...or Rover Boys books... or any of those things I can't resist.
My MIL gave me my FW, purchased by her in 1949, but I can't seem to convince
her to give me that table - she still sews on it! My offer of the card
table or folding table of her choice in exchange has failed to convince her.
Connie O
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Date: Mon, 9 Sep 1996 17:43:25 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Improved High Arm Windsor
Hi All. I was in Vermont in August and picked up a Windsor treadle model
for the Parlor case. The Windsor was made by Montgomery Ward. I like the
case better than the machine and had planned on installing an electric
singer in the case which is a very attractive oak cabinet with a gallery and
floor length doors which close to hide the treadle and storage drawers. I
have the attachments, but no manual. I would like to find a copy of the
manual either original or a copy. Thanks in advance.
Al O
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Date: Mon, 9 Sep 1996 21:56:37 GMT
Subject: many small treasures
Hi everyone!
I went to an antique flee market over the weekend in my area which
occurs 4 times a year.I have yet to find so many sewing related items in
one spot.I actually had to go home and rest and go back again cause there
were so many vendors I wanted to see.
I picked up some odd things, one of them being a "hemstitching and
Picotting Attachment" made by Nete Ellis and made in NY.It came in its own
brown envelope w/manual and says w/a small adjustment would fit on ANY
SM.1929 issue manual.This attachment fits right onto a regular straight
stitch sewing foot.Kinda like a shoe it goes over one of the foot prongs
and thats it.Haven't tried it yet but should be interesting.
Also found lots of singer trade cards I see people write about.1891 dates
and in mint condition.I will go to the dealers shop in comming weeks to get
more if anyone is interested in any.
Got a miniture Singer 1929 calander with a mother and child pictured and am
going to buy the full sized one also.These are like new and very nice.
Lots of thimbles, buttons scissors and best of all a toy SM.
Thanks go to Sue, Mari and Bob for trying to help me identify it.I finally
ordered the Glenda Thomas book today from Stitch Back in Time and can't
wait to read it.Maybe I'll finally discover what I've got.Seems to be
German made and looks like a Mueller or Casiege but I just don't know.
Saw 2, W+Gs heads in bad shape, $28 and $60.Not worth even that for just a
rusty old head.A domestic portable in good shape but didn't even ask the
price.
Happy Hunting,
Maggie
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Date: Mon, 9 Sep 1996 15:32:21 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: today's find: 404
today at St. Vinnies i got a 404 (slant needle straight stitch) for $2! in a
tweed case, no foot control or power cord, book or attachments, (i'm sure i can
scrounge those up somewhere) but the machine itself is in perfect shape, two
tone cream and tan. and that styling! ooooh to die for! i love these
direct-drive metal geared beauties. the 401A is cool and the 500A Slant-o-Matic
is the spiffiest (is this the one you're all calling the Rocketeer?) I gave my
401A to my mom and the 500A to my dad for mending and such, and so i'll have
nice machines to sew on when i visit them. (they save all the mending for my
visits anyway!) Dad fixed the wiring harness in the 500.
today I also got a complete box of cams and a buttonholer for a 603. the
buttonholer is a cam-type with a grey metal housing, complete, never used from
the looks of it. very nice. anyone need these items? i couldn't pass them up.
T.R.
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ate: Mon, 9 Sep 1996 19:40:34 -0400
Subject: No. 3 featherweight for me
Hi everyone!
I've just picked up another FW about 2 hours ago. She is the oldest one I
have. The SN# is AD725725. An easy one to remember. I think it is one of
the first ones from the year 1934. It came in the case w/key and manual.
Some attachments too but I'm not sure what yet. I know there are 2 zipper
feet though. It's got the old style foot pedal with the silver metal bar
instead of the brown plastic button you push. I paid $250. Got there a day
before someone who was going to buy it and sell at an action.
We have just decided to sell our house....AHHHH. The thought of moving all
of my treadles..and they are soooooo heavy. But also the thought of a NEW
house is great too!
Happy collecting to all.
Terri J
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Date: Fri, 6 Sep 1996 19:50:41 -0400
Subject: Post: Miscellaneous
Hi all,
One of my featherweight cases was missing a handle. Have been watching for
a piece of luggage in poor condition that I could get for a song and snatch
the handle, but no luck. Went to Cole's (Pearland, TX) and got an unused
black plastic handle. Attached it using rings (like key-rings). Works well
(sure beats rope!), though obviously doesn't look like the original. (Total
cost $7.50)
I found a thimble to add to my thimble collection. This is for Krug's
Bread. Anyone know anything about Krug's? A brass thimble that says M. T.
PAT'D. 10 MADE IN USA is also a mystery. There is no patent number on it.
(I assume the 10 is for size 10.)
Also have a sewing machine attachment that is a Famous brand, has 2 slots
on the left side that look like buttonhole cams. Under one it says "CUTTING
EDGE" and under the other it says "DEPTH OF STITCH." Next to each of these
is a large canister-style metal area. To one is attached the arm that screws
to the machine. The other has a butterfly screw. The entire assembly
appears to "walk". (If it's Famous, someone must know what it is.....)
Stopped at an estate sale that mentioned sewing items. Bought a pair of
old scissors that are rather wierd ...Black blade and handle are forged from
single piece of metal, handles are long and skinny (1/4" diameter) and turn
back into loops which are the handles. These loops are large - big enough to
fit all four fingers. Reminds me of a butterfly. Work the same for right or
left hand use. Also very sharp. Paid $3. Also bought 2 hemastats, one for
$3 and a larger one for $5. Got a 1957 manual, in mint condition, directions
for using Griest attachments. Paid $5, and it was worth it - very
informative. But everything else there was high. A local Antique Shop
owner was handling the sales, and for the most part had priced things high.
Sewing stuff was pretty well picked over (sale was yesterday, too, I hear).
They said everything would be half-price tomorrow, but I won't be going
back.
Anyone need copies of the Griest attachment manual?
By the way, I have the Featherweight cabinet set up in my family room,
looks great and is sooooo convenient! I am loving it. (Sorry - not selling
anytime real soon!)
Barb
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Subject: Non moving (sideways) SU needle
Date: 10 Sep 1996 01:13:14 GMT
For Leslie .
Tried to contact you directly but messages just bounced !
Note your problem with getting the needle of your Elna SU
to zig-zag. Could it be that the cam or disk is not seated down
properly ? Or did you not use the lever (which moves from
side to side) numbered 0 - 4 to give you the width of decorative
stitch you prefer. This is situated just below the flap where you
insert the cams,- to the left of the needle positioning control.
Do you have the manual for this machine ? If not would you
like a copy of mine ? Let me know how you make out because
I am the greatest fan of these wonderful old machines. I have
several and use a light brown one all the time, even tho I do
possess a computerised Janome 8000. That is great in its
way. But I doubt if it will still be useful in another 40 yrs.
Happy stitching. Greta
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Date: Mon, 09 Sep 1996 20:12:53 -0700
Subject: elnas
Hi everyone, I spoke with elna this morning and I think they think I am
off my rocker asking about all these old machines. I am not sure I am
any clearer on them now or more mixed up! I did send for all the old
manuals I could get my hands on in the hopes that they have pictures.
Some of the ones we have do, and some don't. PLEASE, PLEASE PLEASE!!!!
if you have an elna dealer in your area, give them your business, if not
you can email me to see if I can help.
Debbie
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Date: Mon, 09 Sep 1996 19:06:20 -0700
Subject: SM Attachment styles
Here's some info, to help identify machines by method of presser foot
attachment:
SIDE SCREW CLAMPING:
Singer, White, Brother, Morsse, Atlas, Kenmore, Domestic
Free Westinghouse, and most all imported, straight stitch machines.
TOP CLAMPING: (has one knurled tightener)
White, Kenmore, Domestic, Majestic, Franklin, Worlds, Dressmaster and
all Rotary machines made by White &Domestic Machine Corp.
TOP CLAMPING (slightly different mount than above top clamping
Kenmore 49, 71 &76, Free Westinghouse, New Home (Rotary),
Stratford, and most machine mfgd. by Free &New Home SM Co.
TOP CLAMPING (yet different, but almost like the first top clamping above)
these mount with 2 knurled tighteners)
Eldredge, National, Montgomery Ward, and all machines mfgd. by
National SM Co.
This may help those of you who wonder what machine the attachments with
the odd mounting style belong to.
Then there's a side mount, that mounts like the pronged, top clamping, however
it has an attachment of its own, which has to be put on first, and then all the
other attachments 'snap' into the little knob sticking out of the first
attachment.
I sure hope this helps more than confuses.
bobbie
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Date: Mon, 9 Sep 1996 20:06:15 -0400
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/7/96
Arden,
Some button holers work with straight stitch machines. The one I got with my
15-91 treadle works by moving the fabric back and forth.
Grahm,
A while back you said you would send some information on Domestic machines if
I sent my snail mail address to you. I am having some problem E-Mailing you.
It came back everytime as "undeliverable". Please E-mail me and I will try
again.
Thank you
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Date: Mon, 09 Sep 1996 22:45:32 -0400
Subject: (no subject)
A sm mechanic we know has a cute Singer chainstitcher in a bentwood
case, may sell it, if he can get the parts its missing. Don't know what
model it is, but its no toy. There's a motor under the base and a knee
lever like some of the 99s have. Anyway, what is missing is the feed dog
and throat plate. Maybe if we can find him the parts he'll sell us the
machine cheap.
T. R.:
Well, I know not to let you near our 15-91. Carry on, I guess, since
you'll only be raising the value of the ones that remain, much like the
mechanics that are driving the price of 301's up by cannibalizing them
for FW parts. BTW - you say the 15-91 is noisy? Ours is smooth and
quiet, even runs the buttonholer and hemstitcher like a dream.
Clay &Shelly
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Date: Mon, 9 Sep 1996 13:19:14 -0400
Subject: POST Re: Athena 2000
Hi again - Another friend has asked me for information, and I have none...
Is $300 a lot for an Athena 2000, made in the early 1970's (she thinks).
Not used much, in excellent condition, with all the attachments. Sounded
like a lot to me. Is this a reliable machine? She wants it for sewing, not
for collecting. Any information would be appreciated.
Barb
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Date: Fri, 6 Sep 1996 16:44:08 -0400
Subject: The Lark
Can anyone tell me more about a Westinghouse, Patent Applied for Sewing
Machine, called The Lark. It comes in a wood case, with many accessories and
probably dates back to the 1940' or 50's. I have one and would like more
info.
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Date: Fri, 6 Sep 1996 21:04:25 -0400
Subject: About Elnas (long)
There has been a sudden interest in the old Elna machines amoung us
FWFanatics. These machines all of a sudden have been surfacing.
My first Elna was a Lotus, the portable with the fold-down flaps,
I then found an Elna Carina (vintage 1980), the last mechanical
Elna, which some think is the finest Elna made. I recently acquired
an Elna #1, which someone named the Grasshopper, because it is a
bright olive green c-clamp looking machine. And recently, after
2 years of looking, two Supermatics came my way. These are the
chunky, also bright olive zigzag machines that Elna started
producing in the 1950's. The #1 was produced from around 1940
to about 1950.
Any of you who have had the opportunity to look at these up
close can see the obvious quality put into their manufacture.
They are cast of aluminum, which for its day was innovative.
Every part is finished by machining, polishing or plating.
The ergonomic design is well thought out: The attachment
boxes tuck under the free-arm &there is a diagram in the
instruction book on how the attachments are to fit in the
box. The engineering of the gear mechanism, the way speed
control was achieved, these all were forward looking for
their time &proved to be designs that stood up to use and
time.
Another nice thing about those old Elnas, they use standard
low-shank feet, so you can retro-fit any missing feet.
And the stitch cams. Many of them are still available from
your Elna dealer, because the Carina of 1980 used the same
cams as the Supermatic of 1954. There are single thickness
cams, which are similar in function to the Singer 503 cams:
They make simple decorative stitches. And there are
double-thickness cams which do forward &backward motion
as well as side-to-side. (Not all the old Supermatic
models have this capability). There are about 30 single
disk patterns and about 50 double disk patterns, including
some suitable for using with a wing needle and getting
hemstitch effects.
Supposedly the Elna has one of the nicest satin stitches,
so is very good with machine embroidery.
One thing that does wear on the old Elna is a rubber bushing
on the top end of the motor shaft. This is, of course, a
cleverly tapered shape, part of speed control. I've heard
mixed reports of whether or not it is still available.
When it wears down too much, the machines runs noisy &
can chatter a bit.
I only wish I could win the Powerball or the Big Game,
so I can stay home and play with my old toys!
Sylvia
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Date: Fri, 6 Sep 1996 16:03:10 -0400
Subject: FW
Saw an AE FW in a quilt shop with silver rather than gold paint. Pattern was
still interlocking "paperclips" but it definitely was silver paint on black.
Some of silver was worn off. Had a strange metal case that looked a lot
like a FW case, but not. No attachments. No manual. $450 Outrageous!
Anyone know if there was a FW embellished with silver? --Mari
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Date: Mon, 9 Sep 1996 23:08:16 -0600
Subject: Hemstitcher and Picot Edger
My hemstitcher came with throat plates for both the 201/15 and the
66/99/192, but not for the FW. Does anyone know if such a thing is
available anywhere or am I only dreaming? It is part 121392.
After passing up a 15-91 on holidays because $95 US, translated into Cdn $,
is too much, I thought, I was lucky to find a 15-91 at home today (actually
called a 15J) and $20 Cdn was about the right price -- pretty beat up
because someone had tried to paint over the scratch marks, but it is exactly
what I need as a no-worry machine to use with the 'Miracle Stitcher'. Now I
have a variety of the dropping feed-dog machines and I am happy --222K,
301a, 201, 15K88 treadle and 15J.
While in the US, I had shipped to me a spoked wheel and hand crank for a
model 15. I don't know whether or not they will fit other machines. From a
place called SMS embroidery supplies, each was $7.95. I am anxious to try
and this may be an option for the school that needs a hand crank machine.
Kathy
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Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/7/96
Date: Mon, 9 Sep 1996 22:16:15 -0700
I had a great find at the thrift store. I found a centenial 15 in a nice
Singer cabinet for $14. The machine is in great conditon after my husband
rewired it (probably why it was so cheap). The motor is built onto and not
an addition to the machine. Very few scratches, nice gold work and all
parts present. It runs beautifully and after Howards feed and wax (thanks
for recommending it Bobbie and others) the cabinet looks wonderful. A
beautiful addition to my other Singers.
Chris, I put the assy on my bobbin case for the 301 but apparently there
should be a tiny spring in there first to keep the assy finger flat against
the bobbin case. Is it possible to get this spring so I can get the bobbin
case to stay in place? Thanks . By the way my son's name is Christian
too. I'm Swedish and wanted him to have a Swedish name but he doesn't
appreciate it and tells everyone to call him Chris. Of course, the school
computer cuts off the an and his teachers think his name is Christi and
that he is a girl. Oh well....TIA June
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Date: Tue, 10 Sep 1996 05:42:44 +0000
Subject: sightings - Bradbury and others
I sent an email to Barb because I too saw a Bradbury hand crank and a
$300 treadle in Texas. They were different stores, though. For
those of you in the DFW area, I saw these and other SM's at Antiqueland
in Plano (corner 15th and Custer). I thought the Bradbury to be
interesting because the shuttle bobbin went right to left in a straight line
instead of back and forth in an arc, and I had never seen that before. The
paint was worn somewhat, but the case was refinished and looked great.
Owner wants $125 and will ship - Joe Staser 214-380-5253. I have no
idea is this is a good price, but it was too much for me.
At Antiqueland, I also saw a treadle with Egyptian decorations and no
belt (no brand name that I could see) for $595, an Egyptian Singer
treadle for $295, a Domestic treadle with no belt and no gold decorations
for $200, a FW with no face plate for $400, a Singer handcrank with
beautiful gold, green, and red (no bobbin case?? I can't remember)
for $95, a Viscount handcrank for $185, and either a 66 or 99 in case
for $90. I thought these prices to be too high, but I had fun
looking.
On my way home from the airport, I saw another handcrank with right
to left moving shuttle for $135. I can't remember the name, but most
of the black paint/enamel was gone! I couldn't believe the price.
Goodwill here has the most depressing treadle machines I've ever
seen. They aren't in cabinets, and they are completely rusted.
Goodwill wants $10 each. I'm afraid they're just ready for the junk
yard. If only someone had taken better care of them...
Sharon
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Date: 9 Sep 1996 17:40:56 +0500
Subject: Stuff
Hi Guys:
To Maggie: Yes, that Singer Guy is Richard...(with a pony tail). I bought
my 431G from him and my Singer #24...I almost got my Lotus, but it fell
through...it's really fun to poke around in back through his stuff. He has
a number of FWs but at more retail type price...also good Singer guy in
Linden and Union...not to mention Bob, whom I discussed before...in
Elizabeth.
To Tracey:
I'm sending you a FW table for your birthday ....good luck with someone
sending you a spare one.....can't you trade the guy's mom a nice regular
table for the Beloved FW table since they aren't using it for sewing anyway?
It seem indecent to not have when you're a FWF and they (she) aren't
treating it with the proper reverence it's due...
To MaryJo
Long time "no see." Good to hear from you...my Singer lites are absolutely
fascinating and will prove a great source of more detail information as they
are assimilated. I'd like to write a Singer (Issac, that is) that is more
readable. I can see the characters in the movie to be made from the Best
Selling novel now....I'm casting them...maybe Armand Assante as Issac, or
Anthony Hopkins....and then....and blah, blah...
I like your idea of figuring out everyone's location...I see a map with
Singer Lites on it, for each FWF....around the globe. Who can do this? We
have a lot of smart, creative Computer Whizzes out there....that would be
SOOO cool! Your lite would flicker from Moscow, mine from Union,
NJ...commonality.....
And...trivia: I have a picture of "the huge sewing machine machine factory
at Podolsk, built by Singer and "nationalized" by the Bolsheviks after the
Communist revolution, still stands.(? This article is 1956) But the
apparent scarcity of low-priced clothing hardly substantiates the production
claims of the Russina machine industry." (I'm not sure if Podolsk is in
Russia....the name of this article is: Fashions behind the "iron curtain."
(Sub title is Whatever Communism has to show behind the "iron curtain," it
doesn't seem to be able to show it in a well-dressed manner."
To Lisa:
I have a 24 that's not electric. I bought from a Singer man in Hazlet, NJ
for $45. It's so cute, I love it. I don't have it working as I don't have
the treadle table for it..
To Bobbie:
(Not that we ever write to each other ): re: models 15...in one of the
Singer Lites, they make referernce to: 15-91-40...(I guess it 's the year
of birth?)
To SOMEONE...I forget who....asked about the 306. I just read about it,
can't remember where, but will look it up. I think it was Singer's first
Ziggag offering and was a total bomb in the market place because it didn't
even meet the Japanese competition, in that it was not better than theirs.
When I find the article, I'll post more on it...It was A Big Effort Tho for
Singer in the 50's to try and keep their notch in the market place and it
didn't succeed. ..follows a quote from Fortune Magazine, 1/59: " It wasn't
until early in 1957, with its model 401 Slant o'Matic " fully automatic"
zigzag machine with slanted needle, was it able to claim clear superiority
over its competitors."
The article goes on to mention another way of dealing with the competition
was to come out with..."to meet the price of the chapest comparable Japanese
models, which sell for around $69... a simple straight-stich Clydebank
machine called the Spartan, which will sell for around $70.!!!
Then it mentions that the Singer is shifting production, reducing costs,
......betting $6 million on a semi-automatic plant, the world's most modern
sewing-machine works, that it has set up in the waste spaces of it's old
Elizabethport, New Jersey, factory. The new plant is simply a mechanically
programmed assembly for the production of the new 401, 403, and 404
models...the plants weekly capacity will be 5,000 complete machines...
Just some interesting trivia....(I didn't see any mention of a 409, but did
see a picture of a 600W1 which looks like Flash Gordon would have liked
it....I do.)
To TR: (I hope you have become One of Us...you certainly have the
credentials and you don't even need any! I love my 201. It's in a cabinent
and I know many Singer people have referred to it as the Finest made. Bar
none...it's been described as the home machine that has the power of an
industrial without the minuses. It's funny that I've just mentioned the 306
and you have one....I'm on the lookout for one, along with a Lotus or Stella
and 101....then I have to QUIT . You wouldn't have the flip up part
for a 431G would you? Mine is missing, which I didn't discover until I got
the manual (after the machine purchase, of course) so I really want the
part, as I hate to have anything missing. I have a guy's name in Germany
that Graham (our "Resident-in-Net" Guru for SMs...but trying to find it in
US first.) It's almost exactly the same size as the 301, but a slight
difference...maybe it would work...I'm not sure. If anyone has a "spare"
flip up piece, I would like to give it a go, if you can part with the piece
for a "reasonable" cost.....I hate having things missing or not
working...Keep coming back....
To Sharon:
Congratulations on your Rocketeer...mine is a 500 and I love it...its'
SO-O-O Cool! Sews great, too!
To Paul:
What's the address of your factory? You should post it so all of the FWs
could pack up all their SMs and send them to you....
General:
I want to have a FeatherWeight Thing in Elizabeth, NJ...that should be
appropriate, don't you think??? (Also, then, I have only about 3 miles to
crate all my SMs...I would host it at my house, but it's not big enough for
everyone, and my DH might catch on.....it would be so wonderful to see,
meet, and do face to face with everyone....
CORRECTION, CORRECTION: I made a mistake in mentioning Princess Elizabeth's
sewing machine gift in saying it was a 201....(quote): "It is unlikely that
the Princess Elizabeth will ever agina want for themans of running up a
seam. When she &the Duke of Edinburgh (ther her fiance, Lieutenant Philip
Mountbatten RN) visited Clydebank on October 30, 1947 to launch a ship, they
were presented with this Singer 210K-2 4OQA by the people of the city. ""A
most useful(????-mine) present," commented the Princess as Alexander
Murdoch, Chairman of the Board of the Singer Manufacturing Company Ltd.,
stepped forward to explain the machine's operation." Anyway, her Hartnell
wedding dress was made on numerous Singers, taking 1900 hours!!!
Some Singer jokes:
Why is a Singer Sewing Machine like a Kiss:
Answer: Because it seams so good.
WHy is Singer Sewing Machine Operator like a farmer?
Answer: One sews what he gathers, and the gathers what he sows.
A doctor was called upon to attend a seamtress who felt indisposed. He
inquired as to her health and she replied, "Well it has been about SEW SEW
but lately it SEAMS worse. I have frequent STICHES in the side.
The doctor HEMMED for a moment as he felt her pulse. "I'd recommend that
you buy a Singer Sewing Machine," and then you'll MEND sooner.."
Bye for now....Mary
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Date: Tue, 10 Sep 1996 08:50:38 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: We have a celebrity
Maybe I'm the last one to know this. I was looking at a quilt magazine
that I bought a few weeks ago, and instead of looking at the pictures, I
read the article about the library block. It was designed by our own
Christine Thresh. I haven't seen her post for a while, but you will
remember that she got a model 24 and loved it so much she kept it on her
dining room table. The magazine is the premier issue of Quick Quilts.
Chris, I got my walking foot yesterday. Haven't tried it out yet.
I'm completing blocks every day on my 66 treadle. Everyone needs a sewing
machine in the kitchen. Of course, I get lots of help from the kitty
cats.
Marilyn
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Subject: RE: 28-k
Date: Tue, 10 Sep 1996 07:55:05 -0600
Hello,
While out antiquing Saturday, I saw a really beautiful Singer treadle. I
called Singer this morning and found out it is a 28-k, born in June, 1902.
It's in a cabinet that is in really nice shape, it had a hand crank on it,
as well as it being a treadle. The price was $450.00. Now to me that
seems pretty high, but it is in a 9+ condition. The decals are near mint,
and it has a beautiful glossy finish, it was definitely not kept in the
barn. I'm not really interested in buying it, but am curious if that is
the going price for these kinds of sm's. Can anyone enlighten me? If it
is a bargain, I might consider robbing a bank and going back for it, if
it's not, I'll just go back and admire it.
I also saw a 201! Finally, it was in a totally cool cabinet with more
gadgets and attachments then I'd ever seen with a machine in this area.
But she wanted $200.00 for it and my DH almost passed out, thinking I
would buy it. I knew it was a 201, cuz I'd never seen one like it before,
and by process of elimination and the fact that that was the only model I'd
never seen, it had to be a 201. The drawers were packed with sewing stuff,
and that infamous bench had a copy of a Mary Brooks-Picken book, a
wonderful pair of Wiss scissors, attachments, manual, buttonholer, etc.
But alas, there is no more room at the inn for another cabinet, and
$200.00 is a bit out of my range. DH breathed a BIG sigh of relief when I
went back to the car empty handed.
Mary
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Date: Tue, 10 Sep 1996 10:19:31 -0400
Subject: Re:FW
I have purchased a Singer Treadle machine born on 7-11-17. It is in
beautiful shape, except for some veneer missing on the folding top. It's
number is G5529257. SInger said it is a model #17. Does anyone have a
manual and any bobbins for it? I would appreciate any help that you can
give. Also, I took my 221K in for some TLC and the man in the repair shop
has 3 beautiful toy machines just sitting up on a shelf looking lonely and
dusty. He also had some really strange looking old machine that was made in
1864 or some such date. He said that it was a Warwick or something like
that. If anyone is interested in the toy machines just e-mail me and I will
give you the information.
Marci
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Date: Tue, 10 Sep 1996 11:53:16 -0400
Subject: Elnas
There has been a sudden interest in the old Elna machines amoung us
FWFanatics. These machines all of a sudden have been surfacing.
My first Elna was a Lotus, the portable with the fold-down flaps,
I then found an Elna Carina (vintage 1980), the last mechanical
Elna, which some think is the finest Elna made. I recently acquired
an Elna #1, which someone named the Grasshopper, because it is a
bright olive green c-clamp looking machine. And recently, after
2 years of looking, two Supermatics came my way. These are the
chunky, also bright olive zigzag machines that Elna started
producing in the 1950's. The #1 was produced from around 1940
to about 1950.
Any of you who have had the opportunity to look at these up
close can see the obvious quality put into their manufacture.
They are cast of aluminum, which for its day was innovative.
Every part is finished by machining, polishing or plating.
The ergonomic design is well thought out: The attachment
boxes tuck under the free-arm &there is a diagram in the
instruction book on how the attachments are to fit in the
box. The engineering of the gear mechanism, the way speed
control was achieved, these all were forward looking for
their time &proved to be designs that stood up to use and
time.
Another nice thing about those old Elnas, they use standard
low-shank feet, so you can retro-fit any missing feet.
And the stitch cams. Many of them are still available from
your Elna dealer, because the Carina of 1980 used the same
cams as the Supermatic of 1954. There are single thickness
cams, which are similar in function to the Singer 503 cams:
They make simple decorative stitches. And there are
double-thickness cams which do forward &backward motion
as well as side-to-side. (Not all the old Supermatic
models have this capability). There are about 30 single
disk patterns and about 50 double disk patterns, including
some suitable for using with a wing needle and getting
hemstitch effects.
Supposedly the Elna has one of the nicest satin stitches,
so is very good with machine embroidery.
One thing that does wear on the old Elna is a rubber bushing
on the top end of the motor shaft. This is, of course, a
cleverly tapered shape, part of speed control. I've heard
mixed reports of whether or not it is still available.
When it wears down too much, the machines runs noisy &
can chatter a bit.
I only wish I could win the Powerball or the Big Game,
so I can stay home and play with my old toys!
Sylvia
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Date: Sat, 7 Sep 1996 15:30:54 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: SInger 306
to Katy:
the 306W was one of singer's early zig-zags and a commercial flop, kind of a
Simanco Edsel, if you will. you'll know why if you ever try and change the
bobbin. there is no slide plate, the entire machine head must be lifted. also
it
uses 206x13 needles, not the regular Singer 15x1. (the 206 model machine also
uses these). also uses a unique bobbin. i bought a portable one complete last
year for a pittance. it sews beautifully, despite it's eccentricities. if you
decide to get it, i can xerox the manual for you.
T.R.
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Date: Tue, 10 Sep 1996 20:34:21, -0500
Subject: Ask Sam
The number for the Ask Sam Systems is 1-800-800-1997. I called and their
most inexpensive program is $149. I decided that was more than I wanted to
spend even though it sounds like a wonderful program to keep track of FWF
info. Sandie
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Date: Wed, 11 Sep 1996 01:32:44 -0400
Subject: Singer 206A
Hi all!
I have enjoyed reading FWF for these past few months. I am so glad you
shifted the "for sale" postings elsewhere. They were a bore. I have a 221
and a model 15, and am interested in a 206A that I found for sale simply
because my mother had one when I was young and I can remember sewing my very
first project on it. However, I don't recall seeing any postings about this
model. Does anybody have any nuggets of wisdom about this model? Thanks
very much. Karen
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Date: Tue, 10 Sep 1996 22:19:28 -0400
Subject: Wanted: Feed cover plate for 401A
Got this really cool monogrammer (thank you Cyndi), but to make it work
100%, we need the Feed Cover #161825 -- "Replaces the throat plate of
Touch &Sew and Slant-O-Matic Zig-Zag Sewing Machines with elevator
throat plates." This thing is about 4 inches long, and has "ears" at
about the middle to fit into the throat plate place.
TIA,
Clay &Shelly
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Date: Tue, 10 Sep 1996 18:58:34 -0700
Subject: Silver on FW
Saw an AE FW in a quilt shop with silver rather than gold paint. Pattern was
still interlocking "paperclips" but it definitely was silver paint on black.
Some of silver was worn off. Had a strange metal case that looked a lot
like a FW case, but not. No attachments. No manual. $450 Outrageous!
Anyone know if there was a FW embellished with silver? --Mari
Mari, no....that is not a FW made with silver gilt....it is the results of
someone
using too harsh cleaners on the gold; took off the yellow that makes gold
over metallic silver, and the results are what is left.........the metallic
only.
bobbie
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Date: Wed, 11 Sep 1996 02:53:42 -0700
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/9/96
>
>For those of you who recently asked about the 401 attachment part
>numbers...check out my
>sewing page. I have included everything that I found with my Grandmother's
>401. I am
>Also the same goes for the 221 list I have up...
>Jim
Good Idea Jim, and thanks for doing that!
>Hi fellow fanatics,
> I am delighted that more and more postings are about the
>older Elnas. In the early 1950s my DH bought me a beautiful
>green one. Why do so many think the green is not great ? When
>they are polished up they are quite attractive IMHO. In 1979 I
>updated to an Air Electronic, (white in colour) having passed
>my green machine on to my DIL. I very soon regretted this move.
Agreed...they certainly can stand on their own, those old Elnas!
>
>Happened into local antique co-op (where I had bought handcrank for
> $25). They had a really neat old Wheeler and Wilson treadle which
> according to the list that Bobbi sent out was manu in 1870. It had
> four patent dates, 1850,51,52 and 1854 so I had thought it might be
> earlier. It had no model number but serial number of 544745.
Sounds to me like it is a Wheeler &Wilson typical treadle
for that time. I know Graham can tell you so much more
about it when he returns.
That box on top of the machine is very similar to the top on my
recently acquired Florence (c.1850).
I would love to know the model and how
> common it is. The asking price was $175 but I am sure I could get for
> less., It has been in the shop closed up for a long time -- this was
> the first time I had seen it open. It usually had tons of stuff on
> it.
They are 'abundant' [so I've been told] and go for between
$100 &$250...of course depending on condition.
>Also found my local sm guy is a closet fwf.
OH...those Closet FWFs.....ain't it something? (giggle) weren't
we all in that classification once? I WAS till the FWF Digest
came into my life...then I could come out and talk, cause everyone
here, UNDERSTANDS!!
Bobbie
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Date: 10 Sep 96 21:46:36 EDT
Subject: post
Hi All...
For Arden re: 'dopey question'. First, no question is dopey if you don't know
the answer. And if you don't ask the question, how're ya gonna learn? Second,
PN 160506 is the Buttonholer for a straight stitch, low shank machine
(Featherweight). PN 160020 is the ZigZag attachment. You did good.
For Elizabeth. You might try painting the scratch with India Ink and wiping
it off right away. The idea is to fill the scratch with the ink, but leave no
ink residue on the bed. (A permanent magic marker won't come off with out
using a solvent that will most likely remove the paint). Seal the scratch
with car wax - try to find Black Turtle Wax (automotive store) to wax the
bed. The wax being black will hide the scratch and fill lots of little
scratches - and (bonus) your fabric will move more easily across the bed! No
guarantees here, but it's worth trying...
For Dee : I can tell you the sub-model no. of your 128 if you can tell
me what the motor model no. is and if the hand wheel is spoked or solid.
There are 8 sub-models of the 128... (and 9 127's) each of which was
available in one to three "trim packages" - or bed ornamentation options.
For Lisa (and Bobbie K). Gee, don't forget the 24-80! This is a way cool
little chainstitch that was offered in the '30's. It was sold with the same
case, attachments, &foot control as the FW.
For Sherry re: FW+... The Featherweight Plus is a plasticised import. Its
model no. is 324. Has straight, zigzag, mending and blind hem stitches. Has a
free arm, universal pressure system, and built in carry handle. You can get
it cheaper ($169.95) at Chatauqua Sewing (716-763-1834). Hmmm, I notice in
the Singer Ad for this machine (1989) that "Featherweight" is a registered
Singer trademark...
For Ellen re: Osc. Hook vs Osc. Shuttle - I threw in the 'confusion' factor.
Actually, the Osc. Hook is the horizontal equivalent of the vertical Osc.
Shuttle.
Bye for now! ...Chris
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Date: Wed, 11 Sep 1996 05:46:25 +0000
Subject: looking for manuals
I would like to purchase an original or a photocopy of a manual for a
503a and a 201. Singer will sell copies for $5 each, but I have been
advised that the copies aren't the greatest.
Sharon
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Subject: Re: ELNA and machine collection
Date: 11 Sep 96 07:57:30 -0500
I learned to ssew on my mother's green Elna with the knee speed
controlland freearm. It was a straight stitch machine. I do not know
the model number. She traded it over 30 years ago for an Atlas. My
present Elnais a Carina which I bought new in 1984. I never thought of
it as a collectable machine until I read todays post. It sews well
except that the cams don't work anymore. I put them in and they pop out
when I start to sew. I also have a small Kenmore portable, not much
bigger than a FW which I got in new in 1973 with my college graduation
money. It does zig-zig and stretch sitches and semi-automatic
buttonholes. I don't remember the model no., my mother is currently
using it because her Kenmore does such lousy buttonholes. Lastly I have
my (newly acquired) AH FW. I'm having trouble getting used to sewing on
it because my Elna will sew with the needle in the up position (it
always stops with needle up) but the FW will not sew unless I put the
needle down. Is this normal? I was tring to teach my 8 year old to sew
on the FW but because of this she has an easier time with the ELNA.
Terri
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Date: Wed, 11 Sep 1996 06:54:07 -0700
Subject: Genie
For James
I,m familiar with the Singer Genie and am quite surprised that there isn,t
more discussion of this fine little machine on the FWF forum.I,ve repaired
many of these and as a matter of fact rebuilt one that the owner had
flooded(rust all over the place).One of the disappontments from my days as
a Singer dealer back in the early 1980s was when I had run out of Genie
stock and calling my supplier was told that they where no longer
produced.They where great graduation gifts as well as a really neat portable
with the slideing cover to totally enclose the machine.The only drawback I
could see was that they where never produced as an open arm machine.
I vaguely remember a Singer Lotus which was basically the same design as the
Genie but I saw very few of these and can,t recall stocking any of them.
Don
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Date: Wed, 11 Sep 1996 10:29:16, -0500
Subject: Zigzagger for Featherweight
To Julie F - The part number the the zigzagger that works with
the Featherweight is 160985 and the part number for the decorative
cams that fit in the zigzagger is 161008. It is really fun to watch
the zigzagger run as it moves the fabrics from side to side. Hope
this helps.
Bonnie
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Date: Tue, 10 Sep 1996 20:31:22 -0500 (EST)
Subject: Sew n Vac Bobbins
hi all!
bought a Sew n Vac machine that looks much like my 99k singer. the
bobbin seems to be making a clanging noise.
should the bobbins and bobbin cases be interchangeable with the 99ks??
tia,
cynthia
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Date: Wed, 11 Sep 1996 11:15:41 -0400
Subject: Old Elnas Available
Dear Fanatics,
I just called one of my local sewing resources, the first European
sewing machine dealer in the Boston Area. They have been in the
same location since the late 1940's or early 1950's. They have 2
Elna Lotus's available for sale, plus an old Green Supermatic,
and a Star (1974-1980). The Lotus's he wants $400 each, but he
gives a 2 year parts &labor warranty, and 100% trade-in allowance
on an upgrade (read: new machine, something we Fanatics are not
likely to do). Their name is Mor Real, located in Waltham, MA &
they have an 800 number: (800) 678-1010. These aren't your yard
sale finds, but I don't think the Lotus's will appear in yard
sales very soon.
Sylvia
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Date: 11 Sep 96 11:15:19 EDT
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/9/96
Sue --
Many many congratulations on all of your hard work!! It's amazing what draws
people together!!
I'm still waiting to see what countries are logging on here -- so far there's
the UK, me in Russia, Australia ....
there has to be more!!
I've had an answer to an e-mail about getting information about the Singer
building in St. Petersburg from a Russian who does research/geneology hunts;
for
a fee he'll do some digging for me on the "Zinger House."
I'll probably take him up on it next month.
Maryjo
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Date: Wed, 11 Sep 1996 20:48:42 GMT
Subject: Wanted
--Hi everyone!
Anyone looking to sell/trade a Elna Lotus please feel free to
mail me.Those of you who use the Elna, I'd appreciate info on them
also.Anyone w/copy of manual I could buy?Love to read more about them.
TIA,
Maggie
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Date: Wed, 11 Sep 1996 16:50:21 -0400
Subject: Spartan help
Help! Can anyone tell me about a Spartan? The dealer says it's just
about the same as a FW, but base doesn't fold up. What are they worth?
Etc, etc. Any info anyone can give me will be very appreciated.
Thanks, Sue
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Date: Wed, 11 Sep 1996 14:09:03 -0700
Subject: Goof up
I posted recently for James ref the Singer Genie.So far so good.I
also indicated another similar Singer and called it the Singer Lotus(I must
have Elna on my mind)The real name of the Singer look alike was the Singer
STARLET.Sorry for the goof.
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Date: 11 Sep 1996 21:22:02 +0000
Subject: Stuff
To T.R.:
It's so nice that you are published, and especially the topic. It really
gives Presence to the FWFs in a very visible way. I'm so glad to have you
join us, especially to help celebrate Birthday #1. We owe it all to Sue,
our Feather Mistress, without whom (shudder at the thought) we would be a
bunch of renegade SM collectors, holing up and playing with our machines
basically on our own. It's so much more rewarding and fun to be able to
share with each other...personally, it's the only thing that really makes me
get through the day at work...something to persue and look forward to and
learn from, laugh from, share with...Welcome, welcome...PS: have you had
other stuff published we can peruse?
I THINK (not positive) that I have a 404 Manual, if you need a copy...so let
me know, and I'll make a copy..(.I have the 401 SM and 403, but not the
404...)I was under the impression that the 500a is the Rocketeer (which I
have and adore!).
To Rachel M
WOW! 12 machines for $80! That was some buy! You are going to be very
busy but having a lot of fun...good luck to you on all your "tinkering." I
recently was able to buy a bottle of SM oil from my SM guy, Bob who is a
terriffic SM mechanic and very knowledgeable. I think it's a quart and it
cost $6.95. This sure beats those teeny tiny little ones. At the rate we
use the stuff, we should probably buy 55 gallon drums. I hate those itsy
bitty little-hard to-squeeze-without-the bottoms-popping-out- lubricants (by
Singer).
To Susan:
You are very funny and you certainly did well on your recent expedition.
Such good stuff. Maybe if you put your Neddlework Mags in the sun for as
long as you can (watching carefully for rain, of course) it might make them
smell better. Heloise suggested fresh air and sun to get rid of the
mothball smell from drawers and chests, so it might help your mags...(she
also said to wash them with denatured alcohol, but I wouldn't advise THAT!)
To Debbie:
I've had an Elna (Air Electronic) since about 1978 or so. I've always loved
it. I got a lot of the cams when I was using it more actively (before I
gave to Mom in Florida when I got my Bernina) and now she's living with me
and it's back in my house again!
To Bobbie:
Your mail is on the way! Mailed from work this AM! (to DR. Bobbie--it
looks more Work-Related!)
To Mari:
COOL!!!!! A great find...you lucky, lucky girl. I haven't had a sighting
in awhile. I've gotten to the sale and of course, that SM they
adverstised...oh yes, it was a little black Singer in a little black
box.....just was sold! SOB, SOB, SOB...but of course, I will persevere on
my Chosen Path to FWs...never lagging or giving up..
General:
Everyone except me to seems to have the best of luck with their GoodWill &
Salvation Army stores. I just give them stuff, never find any goodies!
It's very disheartening. But I did see 2 estate sales for weekend with SMs
in the ad.......who knows....what lies ahead? The Thrill of the Chase is an
integral part of the obtaining the Prize! I still remember how excited I
was when I got my first Baby...birthdate 1933...I was so excited, estatic,
beyond words (not the norm for me) that I could hardly control my excitement
and didn't even BARGAIN at all, just paid him the $75 and ran to my
car...hardly remember driving home. Played with it for hours...this was the
first and I had a lot to learn, which I certainly did by the time I got to
FW #6...
Good Luck to All in the Upcoming Weeks Hunt!
Mary
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Date: Wed, 11 Sep 1996 17:19:03, -0500
Subject: Misc.
Hi All,
Went hunting yesterday. Lots of machines but none came home with me. I
did find another Singer bank, a green one, so now I have all three colors -
red, blue, and green.
Saw a bunch of Singer milk bottles. It seems that there was once a
Singer Bros. dairy in Peoria, IL. Makes me wonder about those big Singer
oil cans that seem to be everywhere. Does anyone know whether or not they
have anything to do with the Singer Sewing Machine Co.? I always assumed
they were for industrial machines and there were so many around because St.
Louis used to have a garment district.
At the Springfield Mall there is a group of 8 Boye needle tubes each with
three needles. The needles are longer than the standard Singer and the top
of each tube has the number 10 on it. If anyone has one of the Boye
dispensers and can identify what machine they fit and needs the needles it
would probably be a cheap source - $20 for 24 needles and you would still
have the tubes. If anyone needs them and doesn't live in the area I would
be happy to pick them up next time I go there if they're not gone.
There is also a Wheeler &Wilson attachment box there. Someone had done
an excellent job of refinishing and it is perfect. Oak, dovetailed and
really beautiful embossing on top (looks like it was carved). They want
$60 and won't come down more than 10% so I didn't get it but would have
liked to even though I don't have a Wheeler &Wilson.
Al
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Subject: Singer Calendars
Date: Wed, 11 Sep 96 18:00:47 PDT
Greetings to all!
This is my second try at getting my message out to cyberspace!
I'm looking for any information about calendars produced by the
Singer Company probably in the late 1920's.
I recently learned that my mother and aunt ( both are deceased) were
models for these calendars when they worked for Singer in Scotland.
I'd be thrilled to find a source for one of these calendars. My mother
died when I was 11 yrs. old and I never knew much about her early life in
Scotland.
Thanks!
George T
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Date: Wed, 11 Sep 1996 16:28:02 -0700
Subject: Suggestion
Just a suggestion for those of us who 'ship' via UPS.
When UPS puts a 'tracking number' on a package, UNLESS YOU HAVE
PAID an extra 75 cents, that tracking number serves only two purposes
TO UPS...1) proof of pick up and 2) proof of delivery.
If the SENDER and/or RECEIVER wish to "track" a package, the sender MUST
spend the extra 75 cents for a totally different tracking number.
ONLY UPS 'guaranteed services' can be tracked.
I offer this because I never understood this till today, and just maybe,
it'll inform others.
bobbie
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Date: Wed, 11 Sep 1996 19:21:21 -0400 (EDT)
To all: Saw the ad for the "Mini Classic" in the October/November issue of
"Threads". Sounds like it's the same as the "Mal's Mini Classic" which
several folks have seen and panned.
To TR: Hi and welcome! Read your piece in the "Closures" column, and all
I can say is: you have come to the RIGHT place. Please continue to advise
us of articles like the one on the ruffler in "Threads". Sometimes I get
so behind I just scan down the table of contents, and then I never get
around to reading the articles.
To TR and Everyone Else: When checking out a cabinet machine, be sure to
look in all the drawers, compartments, and in the well underneath the
machine. When I first pulled the 401A up in its cabinet, it was missing
the top flip-up part with the spool pins and the slide plate. But both
had been squirreled away in the side drawer. Had I not checked and found
them, I never would have bought the machine.
To Mary: I think $450 is too much, unless you are buying it as a true
"museum piece". There are good condition working treadles around for $85.
I tend to regard $150 as my personal top price, UNLESS the cabinet has
been refinished (and it's a good job). The seller will expect a higher
price due to the work that's been done.
To Marci: What type of bobbins -- round, long, etc.???
_ _
Lydia P
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Date: 11 Sep 96 19:27:17 EDT
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/10/96
help
it seems i need some help on that white model 77. i cant seem to get it to sew
well
i know it's the tension but for the life of me ive tried to set it and am
having
a---- of a time trying to get it to stay stitching w/o bunching up. also the
gozilla finish is very gunky. i have tried several thing to no avail---help
again.
also does any one know about the standard presser foot for the mod 77.
i tried to find the one that came with it alas to no avail.\
i think i should just give up and restart my projects with the 201's that i
have.
still looking for that elusive fw that i can afford(under200):>)
tia kathy r
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Date: Wed, 11 Sep 1996 16:43:14 -0800
Subject: model 247
Hi all;
I just saw a machine singer 247 zig-zag I was wondering if anyone
knows anything about it. And around what year it is. Thanks
Lori S
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Date: Wed, 11 Sep 1996 20:13:16 -0400
Subject: New Finds &Elna Repair Info
Encouraged (or egged on) by your discoveries, I went out on a hunt for
accessories &goodies for sewing machines. First find. I picked up
a well-made but plain oak box 2 1/2" x 3" x 8 3/4" that had a velour
lining that looked very much like sewing machine attachment velour,
but ruby red color. As a matter of fact, I thought I might use it
for longish things like serger threaders, hem gauges, etc. Then I
discovered a box with the exact dimensions &material, but it had a
lovely leaf design carved into the top with the Wheeler &Wilson logo
in the center. So these really are attachment boxes &probably fit
into the narrow drawers on the sides of the treadle machines. In all
my years of noticing sewing machines &poking through the drawers of
cabinets, I never came across anything like these. Now two in 3 weeks!
In looking through the manual of my newly acquired Elna Supermatic I
noticed I was missing the oil can. And recently I was thinking about
Elna resources in my area (Boston), and realized that there is a
sewing machine store that has been in the same location since 1948,
and the first to sell European machines, including Elnas. This is
one business where the father passed on the business to the son,
and they know their stuff. They also have quite a few old things
squirreled away in drawers, like the loose things that came with
trade-ins or machines brought in for repair and never claimed.
They also collected all sorts of machines in the basement (they
own the building) &they have a mini-museum of antiques ¬ so
antiques. This is being long-winded, he pulled out a drawer with
oil cans. Yes, he had 2 Elna Oilers from the 50's, a wonderful
chrome-plated one from England and a short oval Singer oil can.
These people love Elnas, and didn't sell new Singers, so he just
GAVE me the oval can, and I bought one Elna (he is keeping the other
for his museum because the design is neat) and I also bought the
English one.
He has a late white Featherweight for sale that looks as if it has
never been used, instructions &attachment set, in the 50's/60's
case that looks like it has never been out of the plastic bag.
We were discussing things that could go wrong with the Elna Supermatic.
On the top of the motor, there is a rubber thing that is like a plumbing
washer. It is called a motor pully. It wears, or gets hard &slick
and doesn't make proper contact with the fly wheel. The running machine
may sound loud. Also as this wears, stress gets put on the motor
bearings (top &bottom), which are brass, but are in plastic housings,
which can crack. When they do, there is a chattering sound when the
machine runs. If the machine doesn't stitch, there is a gear under
the bobbin area that may be broken. Also, there is a spring mechanism
around the bobbin case area that may be missing or sprung. Elnas
are very durable and don't need fixing often, but the parts are
rather expensive when they do. The rubber pulley is about $28 (but
think of it this way, it won't need changing for another 40 years!)
Other notes: this guy said until about 2 years ago, he saw only
about 2 free-arm featherweights. Recently, quite a few have been
coming in for repairs. Question: have people been noticing what
they have in the closet, or has there been a lot of changing hands
of these machines &the new owners have them tuned up?
Sylvia
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Date: Wed, 11 Sep 1996 17:39:08 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: 101, 431G bed piece
> To TR: (I hope you have become One of Us...you certainly have the
> credentials and you don't even need any! I love my 201..I'm on the lookout
for one, along with a Lotus or Stella
> and 101....
glad to be here among friends. pardon me while i wax rhapsodic about the 101!
101s in any kind of working condition are pretty rare, around here, anyway. the
101 was the first sewing machine designed entirely for electric operation. most
machines at that point could be run as treadles OR electrics, but the 101's
tiny
handwheel with no belt-groove, built-in geardrive motor and totally enclosed
bottom (for cleanliness of the operator's dress) marked it as a truly MODERN
machine! the first time i worked on one i had a bear of a time getting to the
lower mechanisms until i realize you lift off the bed of the machine and get at
the stuff from the TOP! (it has a neat oil reservoir/wick system for the lower
components that's very cool)
i got my 101-2 last july for $5 at a yard sale, complete with its original
library cabinet, attachments and even the manual. it's missing the electric
cord
that connects the cabinet's terminal block to the *electric light socket* (says
the manual) Wow, the 1920's! pre-wall-outlet days! i haven't had time to
fabricate a regular cord for it to see if it works. i'd get it out and exactly
date it right now but it's all folded up and holding up one corner of my work
table...project for another day i guess. a well made machine, the 101.
then I have to QUIT You wouldn't have the flip up part
> for a 431G would you?It's almost exactly the same size as the 301, but a
slight
> difference...maybe it would work...I'm not sure. If anyone has a "spare"
> flip up piece,
i have a "short bed" flip up piece from a 301. solid black, no decals. $6 and
it's yours.
T.R.
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Subject: RE: FW shirt
Hello,
A real quick note to let you know that I received my FW shirt today and it
is just great. I can't remember who posted about these shirts, but they're
available in polo styles and shirts. The FW monogram is absolutely
fantastic! Whoever you are, be sure to post again for Saturdays
for sale digest, these are really the cutest things. Can't wait to wear
mine next week to my quilt guild meeting.
Mary
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Date: Wed, 11 Sep 1996 19:11:38 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: strange request re: floral decals on 127
ok,i am going to show my true sewing machine Fanatic colors here....you're all
familiar with the nice scrollwork on the faceplate of the older 221 and 201? i
have it tattooed on the back of my neck! (quite pretty!) please don't think
i'm
an antisocial punk or anything! i just love to be permanently decorated.
With that out of the way, here is my request of the list: does anyone have a
27/127 like the picture on page 178 (fig 2-191) of Carter Bays' antique sewing
machine book? if so i would gladly pay for a nice color photo of that
particular
floral decal work on the arm of the machine. you can probably guess what for!
private replies, don't bore the list with this semi-off-topic stuff.
(it's getting cool and blustery in western oregon! the fall rains are on the
way! yay!)
T.R.
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Date: Thu, 12 Sep 1996 00:36:04 -0700
Subject: wanted
Wanted:I need the oval disk below the spool pin and spool pin for FW,also
does anyone remember who sells hinges for FW cases? TIA, Melva C
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Date: Thu, 12 Sep 1996 00:44:34 -0400
Subject: National Sewing Month
Looks like someone declared September to be National Sewing Month.
Pretty cool. There's a web page of info about it at:
http://www.vikinghusqvarna.com/sewmonth.html. It goes into why people
sew as well as the various benefits of sewing as a hobby.
Clay &Shelly
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Date: Wed, 11 Sep 1996 22:09:25 -0700 (MST)
Subject: "The Electric Priscilla" sewing mschine
Dear Fanatics
Would like any info on the following sewing machine that I saw
in an ad in an old magazine called "MODERN PRISCILLA",
dated December 1927. The ad says:
"The Electric Priscilla is the machine you want if you
have electricity in your home. Light weight. Easily
carried from place to place. Does every kind of sewing
just the same as a foot power machine. No pedaling.
A sturdy little motor does all the work. A slight pressure of
your foot starts or stops the machine, and regulates the
speed. LIFE TIME GUARANTEE. Beautiful Quartered
Oak Woodwork- Glossy Black Enamaled Ironwork."
The price listed is $54.00 (1927 money!) and the machine is
made by the Priscilla Company, 470 Atlantic Ave., Boston, Mass.
Has anyone ever heard of this machine? Would love
any info on this.
Also I would like to collect these old Modern Priscilla Magazines
and would like to buy more. I only have this Dec 1927 issue and the
October 1912 Issue. They have many sewing tips and pictures of other
sewing machines for sale. Such a wealth of sewing history.
Please email or post any info. Thanks much,
Priscilla H
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Date: Thu, 12 Sep 1996 08:33:54 -0400
Subject: new fw to me
I just got my aunt's(she's in her 80's) featherweight. No one in her familt
wanted it. The sm was born on May 24, 1934 and has had a lot of use and very
little care but she runs like a champ. She's having R&R at the sm hospital
and should come back all spiffed up. I'm very excited about having a family
related machine and the price is certainly right. Aunt Annie loves pansies so
I've made her a pansy quilt and am now quilting it. I was forced to drive to
Rutland,VT to Country Calicos to buy the fabric. I also met up with my
quilting penpal there for some serious fabric shopping, quilt talk and boy
talk. She has 3 yuong sons and I have 1. Isn't featherweighting fun?
Well, off to quilt!!!!
Nancy
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Date: Thu, 12 Sep 1996 11:47:52 -0400
Subject: Bell Portable Machines
To Sue M and Kennalee an other Bell owners/admirers:
We should form a Bell subgroup. I have a Bell with serial number
0023154. I don't have its age, but I think it is an earlier one,
because it just has the Bell Corp on it. It changed names to
Bell-Morritt Corp &the New York HQ moved from Liberty Street to
the Chrysler Bldg. I think it then faded away.
Sylvia
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Date: Thu, 12 Sep 1996 13:47:38 -0400
Subject: Wooden attachment cases
I know that there has been questions about the folding wooden attachment
boxes in the past few weeks. Since someone was so kind to supply me with the
booklet for the attachments for a #27 treadle I thought that I would pass on
some of the information here. The attachments are style No. 11 and come in
one of the folding wooden boxes. Unfortunately the book does not indicate
what color the lining should be. When the box is unfolded the following are
found:
In the bottom section:
ruffler 25158 with shirring plate 25603, a VS2 Cloth, A rack with 5 bobbins
In the second section:
underbraider foot 25542, hemmer foot 25533, quilter 25534, tucker 26513
In the third section:
3/16 in. hemmer 25528, 1/4 in. hemmer 25529, 3/8 in. hemmer 25530, 5/8 in.
hemmer 25531, 7/8 in. hemmer 25532,binder 25526
In the fourth or top section:
bias gauge 25525, cloth guide 25527b, shuttle tension screw driver 25538,
machine
screw driver 25537, stiletto 25539, underbraider 25547
The part number for the complete set is 26157. The part number for the empty
box with racks is 25597.
This set of attachments is low shank side clamping.
Selma
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Date: Thu, 12 Sep 1996 11:05:37 PDT
Subject: Bought the 301 and the 401!
Well no super bargains but I did go back and buy the $89 301 yesterday
afternoon . It has its case which was not as rough as I had thought
and its in okay condition for a tan machine! For those of you who do
not know what the case looks like - it looks exactly like a 50's
suitcase and I am sure that's why they got separated so often. It is
that linen looking cover with leather around the edges, bigger at the
bottom than at the top. Then I actually went back this morning and
bought the 401 which is in superb condition with manual, cams and
"danish modern" cabinet. It is all sitting in the back of my car now
and somehow I have to get it into the house tonight. Hum.......
The later was $149 and definitely worth it for the condition of the
machine. The manual is dated 1958 but I don't know anything else yet.
Now I am for sure going to have to donate the White to local charity.
I also have this driving desire to go to local Elna dealer and see
what is there. Then again, maybe I had better not. This is like
potato chips.....
I do like to know what the machines cost around the country and what
bargains people are finding. The guy that sold me the 401 said that
he had just sold a fw yesterday for $379 to a woman who had told him
she could get it for $300 somewhere else. Well she called "somewhere
else" and he wanted $500. And if you have read my posts, you know how
plentiful sewing machines are in this part of the world -- but not
featherweights evidently! I love my fw but I am afraid that I
couldn't justify that much for a 50 year old sewing machine whose
parentage I don't know.
Like Mary, this digest perks up a rather stress filled busy day. (My
DH does complain that I ignore him when I am reading the digests though!)
Beth
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Date: Thu, 12 Sep 1996 12:32:28, -0500
Subject: Todays finds...
Boy, it would be nice to have a LOT of money. g.
Stopped by my favorite Treasure Barn today. They had a REALLY nice
treadle. I tried not to walk over to it too quickly. There's a better
chance of it being a gem and a bargain, if you walk slowly, y'know.
WELL, it was a Singer, and in beautiful shape. A 9+. There's beautiful
raised 'stuff' on the sides. 3 drawers down each side and a tilt out tray
in the center. I look at the price sticker. $275. OUCH! I ask my
daughter to look and see if there's a machine inside, since I'm holding the
baby. Yep! There is. We remove the stuff that's sitting on top, and open
it. Well, there's a Singer inside but not the original. This one fits
depth wise, but leaves a gap on the right a couple inches wide. (Looked
like a 66 maybe? Had a foot pedal).
WELL, the lady that owns the shop sees me looking and comes to chat.
Tells me that all the old Singers will fit in there and I say what a shame
it is that the original isn't still with the cabinet. She says, "well,
most people buy them for the cabinet, and just throw out the machines".
OH! Don't say that! Anyway, she proceeds to tell me that I could hook it
up to that machine so it can be used as a treadle. (Is that true?)
It was waaaaaaay out of my ball park, but if the original machine was
still inside, I just might have been sorely tempted, because it was really
in great shape. That's still about twice, at least!, more than I wanted to
pay......but I'd still be tempted. I REALLY think I need one. g.
Eventually.....I can wait for a better bargain.
As I'm walking away from that machine, I say, "Is that the only machine
you have today?"
"Well, I have that little Singer there by your daughter's foot".
My heart went pitty-pat!
sigh...it was only a SewHandy. First one this amateur fanatic has seen.
In a tan and orange case. Cute, but are they really worth 65 dollars???
She had a Holly Hobbie toy machine--all plastic, don't know if it worked
as she didn't have any batteries for it---it had a foot pedal, and was
missing the battery cover---said made by Durham Industries---for $20.
The thrift type store next door was selling a newer Singer--the guy said
it is his wifes and she prefers her older, 60's made Singer. So, he's
selling it. Said it's about a year old and he's asking $150. Said he just
saw it in the Sears Catalog for $200. Don't know the model number but I'm
not too sure about the newer Singers anyway. Seemed kind of plastic-y,
even though the main body looked to be metal.
Came home empty handed... still searching for deals.....
...c
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Date: Thu, 12 Sep 1996 15:11:27 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Elnas
Speaking of Elnas, which a lot of you are these days, my son bought one at
a garage sale years ago and he uses it to make costumes. He wasn't living
at home and I never got to see it, just got descriptions of how it looks
and how well it works. Now I know he has a Lotus. He has a friend who
has one too. What about the Elnita? Is this a decent machine? When the
DH and I were looking for FWs last summer, we found one in a second hand
store. The DH fell in love with it. It looks like it was never used but
it needed a foot. We bought it an ankle and foot and it seems to sew just
fine.
To Steve S. The Spartan isn't like a FW. It is much heavier for one
thing. A three quarter size machine. It is almost exactly like a 99, but it
has no decorations. I can't tell you what they are worth. We got one for
$2.88 because it was rusted. I mean rusted! Got another one for $30 I
think. Our Spartans sew just as well as a 99, so you just pay what its
worth to you, whether for sewing or just collecting.
To Susan - I think sunshine is the best thing for your smelly magazines,
but other suggestions that have been offered here are cat litter in a
closed box (cat litter removes moisture and your smell is due to
dampness), or a car deoderizer (the little pine tree that dangles). We
know that you use Clorox for mildew but don't know whether you could wipe
the magazines without ruining them.
Marilyn
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Date: Thu, 12 Sep 1996 16:32:27 -0400
Subject: 99k
Hi Everyone
I have been lurking for a few months and become totally obssesed with finding a
featherweight. My DH and DS thank you. I drove them crazy on vacation looking
for those fw's. I don't feel I know enough about them to spend a great deal of
money yet, but I am getting closer. I have seen 4 in the past 2 months.
I did however buy a 99k this past Sunday at a flea market. It was $85 is that
too much? It came in a plastic case. The machine itself is in great shape no
scratches or wear marks. I didn't get a manual with it or any attachments. I
am wondering if I can purchase a manual somewhere?
I did call Singer and it was born in 1952.
Marquita
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Date: Thu, 12 Sep 1996 16:47:14 -0500 (EST)
Subject: WANTED
Hi all,
I tried to pretend that my search among old sewing machines was an
attempt to find a FW for my sister. Last week I found a 301a at the
Goodwill and carried it home, for ME. It's a gem, but has no manual. I
need to know how to thread it and how to lubricate the motor. (Actually,
common sense helped me thread it and it makes a lovely stitch, but I like to
be certain.)
Can someone point me to a copy of a 301a manual?
Also, I called Singer and they just said the machine was made between
1953 and 1959. Then I read here that a number NE was made in 1952. My
gem's number is NA276729. Can some kind soul give me a more reliable date?
I love this machine, and even DH was pleased when he found out it only
cost me $38.24. My sister will have to wait.
Thanks for your guidance and help, past and future.
Sharon
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Date: Thu, 12 Sep 1996 17:42:56 -0400
Subject: Misc. stuff
Hi all--
Thanks to Sue for making this work for all of us--I've only been reading
for a few months but my daily mailing is a highlight of my day.
Now to business--
re: 329K--I've found one of these for sale for $20--a woman getting rid of
her grandmother's machine. Does anyone know anything about these
machines--it's tan with brown SINGER lettering, bobbin winder like 301....
re: Elna Supermatics--The Elna Supermatic I got at a recent auction had a
note taped to the front of it which said "Release hand wheel when storing to
avoid denting the rubber drive pulley". I've noticed to postings about
things that can go wrong--I wonder if this note was put on after someone had
to have one of those repairs made?
to T.R. re 101-- I have a working 101 (made in 1921) that I found at a flea
market recently. It was in a beautiful walnut cabinet which is in the
refinishing process. I really like the styling of the machine--my husband
and sons think it is the most masculine machine they have seen. Until the
cabinet is finished, I won't be doing much sewing on it but will put it
through its paces soon. Couple problems I need to solve though--the lamp
socket was broken when I got it and need to find a replacement, and the
bobbin winder wheel is leather instead of rubber and has worn down. Any
suggestions on how to replace/repair these? (I've removed the broken parts
of the lamp and put wire nuts on the bare wires for the time being--it will
work like that)
Bye for now---Cyndi
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Date: Thu, 12 Sep 1996 15:02:48 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: found a 401A!
today's find! a 401A in great condition, complete with attachments, cams,
manual, controller &cords, in a really hideous wobbly chipboard cabinet (which
i immediately discarded) the whole shebang was $20 at goodwill. it's missing
the
slide plate but i think i have one in my Box o' Parts ( box? heheheh..it's
actually a five-drawer fabric-store pattern cabinet full of old SM parts) the
mechanisms are stiff from old oil and disuse, but a few hours with it and it'll
be fine. i think the 401A is one of the best machines Singer ever made, but for
sheer style points the 500 Slant-o-matic has it beat. lots of old import
pot-metal junk at goodwill as well. i was glad i decided to open the cruddy old
cabinet and see what was inside. i would have never guessed a top of the line
Singer! and yes, always go through all the drawers of the cabinets.
T.R.
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Date: Thu, 12 Sep 96 14:59:28 0000
Subject: Is it worth it??
I was out looking around town today and I found a 99k in an ugly cabinet
for $59.50 at a new Salvation Army. It is in pretty good shape, I'd say
about a 7 and it was made in Great Britian. It did not have any
bobbins, attatchments or a manual, but the hand wheel turned nicely. It
has a striated face plate and art deco gold decorations. I shouldv'e
written down the serial # and called Singer, but i didn't think of it
'till now. I'd appreciate hearing from anybody whether or not you think
it's worth the price, and if anyone has any comments about this model.
TIA, Treece
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Date: Thu, 12 Sep 1996 15:05:17 -0400
Subject: Wanted
Hello everyone: I hope someone can help me find a manual (copy is fine) for
my father's green 185K. He's 89 years young and is sewing a quilt for my
son's wedding. We can't seem to get the stitch just right. Probably not
threaded correctly but the bobbin case seems to "wiggle." Is it supposed to?
My mother has been allowing him to sew on her featherweights, but I think he
wants to get his machine working. Thanks for any help you can give us.
Kennalee
PS - Where is the serial number located on this model?
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Date: 12 Sep 96 14:09:28 EDT
Subject: post
Hi All...
For Sue re: Spartan. Well, the Spartan is no 'Featherweight' as it is made
from cast iron and weighs a good 30 pounds (vs. 11). The Spartan model no. is
192K and was built in Clydebank, Scotland. The Spartan is a stripped, basic
model '99' with an elemental bobbin winder and no light. My Spartan happens
to have the straightest stitch of all the machines in the house (12 and
counting). Worth? well, I suppose one in excellent condition might be worth
$100 to some one who 'really' wants one. I think I paid $30 for mine...
Bye for Now, Chris
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Subject: Christine T article
Date: Thu, 12 Sep 1996 19:09:00 -0500
On Tues Sept 10, Marilyn R wrote
>Subject: We have a celebrity
>Maybe I'm the last one to know this. I was looking at a quilt magazine
>that I bought a few weeks ago, and instead of looking at the pictures,
I
>read the article about the library block. It was designed by our own
>Christine T
One of the staffers at my where I am a board member, genealogist and
avid user, brought this article to my attention with the wish that I
would make the library one of these quilts! We do have a number of
lovely quilts made especially for the library, on display. If I ever
get my life in order, I just may do it. It is a super design for book
lovers.
I have not had time to read all the digests lately, and (sniff) have had
to delete them unread to save space. But I think about y'all all the
time!
Barbara
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Date: Thu, 12 Sep 1996 20:14:18 -0400
Subject: "Preserving The Past"
Hello To All.For those of you that subscribe to Threads Magazine be sure to
read the L last page of the current issue.For Those of you who do not
subscribe get a copy,will all laugh
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Date: Thu, 12 Sep 1996 18:18:56 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/11/96
Hi everyone,
I just got home from work and listened to the messages on my answering
machine. I friend had called to say she was in Seattle at the dentist
and wondered if she had made a good purchase. She has bought a black 301
in a cabinet with all the attachments. It was marked $10, but it was
half price day so she got it for $4.98! She is just into this sewing
machine thing and is afraid to purchase anything without asking me.
Fortunately, she took the bull buy the horns and made her own decisioon.
I think I better start following her around!
Well, my quilting mini-group will be here shortly so I better sign off.
Happy machine hunting!
Betty
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Date: Thu, 12 Sep 1996 22:52:34 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Threads magazine
Thanks to Mary 9/4 for pointing me to Threads magazine. I had seen past
issues in Joann Fabric shops but never thought it would interest me. But
there are some great quilting techniques in the November issue (pg 31, 35).
The coat on the cover is to die for!
I also loved the Preserving the Past article on page 98 and sent an email to
T.R.Kelley thanking her for the article.
Another article (Oldies with Goodies, pg 52) is also of interest to FWF's.
Mentioned are Elna Lotus SP, Necchi Suprema IV and Singer Futura 900.
Page 55 article is all about hemstitching. With the popularity of old
Singer hemstitchers high, I think there should be lots of interest in this one.
Finally, I need to see my Singer dealer on Monday and I think I will ask for
a demo of the new Singer Embroidery Unlimited (see ad pg 81). Does anyone
out there have any exposure to this machine???
Just what I need, another magazine to subscribe to (THANKS, MARY)!! If all
the issues are as good as this one, I may be hooked....
Millie
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Subject: I need everyone's help
SOMEONE on the digest, sent me mail, saying they wanted
a manual for a Necchi machine, but didn't know what model
it was.
I can't figure out how (little smirk here) but I've 'lost' that original
request....and as Mary V. will tell ya....I scanned in all the model
pictures I had in Necchi manuals, sent them erroneously to her....
WRONG PERSON....of course, the person WAITING for this information,
probably assumes I'm suffering from Alzheimers!!
I'm not....just overworked now and again.....so whomever it was wanting
to find out what model Necchi they had .....please email me again.
Thanks to all
bobbie
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Date: 12 Sep 96 22:42:03 -0700
Subject: Happy Anniversary, FWF!
I've finally decided to come out of the woodwork and speak up. I have
been reading all your posts forever, it seems, and feel I do know you all.
Surely there are others like myself? And you deserve the right to decide
whether you want to know me, LOL. I have been trying to send this for
several days, but it keeps bouncing back to me from that Mailer "Demon"...
I don't know why.
I'd like to relate a little story, though definitely not as entertaining as
one of Graham's. It's the tale of how I got my first FW. I'd been
searching forever, and never finding one that I could afford (I'm sure all
of you can relate!). FINALLY, at an antique show, I spotted one... and she
only wanted $250! THEN, the bad news: no bobbin case, and the machine looks
like it has been in a very WET barn for several years... No available
electricity to check out the motor. The owner assures me I can find a
bobbin case, "there's nothing wrong with the motor", and the "little bit
of rust" is to be expected in such a collectible machine. "Besides, if it
were perfect, I'd be asking $600". I was afraid of making a big mistake,
so I passed on it.
A few weeks later, my aunt was visiting, and I was telling her all about
it. She asked me what a featherweight looked like, then said, "Oh. Mother
had one of those. I've got it in the winter house in Florida; I use it to
do mending." I was so excited. My grandmother died when I was 7, so I
didn't really have any opportunity to learn much about her. My aunt said
that the last time she'd taken it to be serviced, the repairman had tried
to purchase it from her, but that she'd kept it because it had been her
mother's machine.
I asked her to please let me know if she'd ever let it go to another family
member.
About 6 months later, we were preparing to move out here to Oregon, and she
pulled up in her car and said, "there's something in the trunk for your
trip." Lo and behold, it was the FW case! I about fainted from excitement!
My aunt explained that, since she only has a son, who has no interest in
sewing machines, she thought I should have it, as the eldest granddaughter
of my grandmother. It is the first machine that I will grab in case of an
emergency.
That one is an AF series, with the scrollwork faceplate and the chrome
flywheel. I have since acquired another AF, and an AH, which has a
striated faceplate and black flywheel.
I recently purchased a 99k in a little table-like cabinet. It has a manual
with it, but the manual is for the wrong model 99, a 99-13 portable, with
knee control. Maybe the machine originally was in a portable box, and the
box and knee control got lost; or somehow the last owner got a replacement
owner's manual and this was all that was available, I am guessing.
I also have a Centennial model 201, in cabinet, with knee control. It was
evidently well-loved, as it came complete with needle insertion directions
carefully written in beautiful script, taped on the bed of the machine. I
rescued it from the Goodwill for $75.
There are two treadles: the one which I learned to sew on (still at my
mother's, but mine someday. I think it could be a 127?), and one which I
tenatively think may be a model 27? Where would I find the model number?
The serial number is B1101064, it has a very elaborate floral pattern in
gold, green and red, the bobbin is the long shuttle kind, with a different
sort of cradle than the other treadle, the bobbin winder is low, there is a
slide cover over the bobbin area which says PATENTED Dec 5-1882, Sep
22-1885, July 19-1887, Aug 21-1888, Jan 13-1891. The face plate is very
elaborate, with berries, leaves and vines, as is the round cover on the
back. The cabinet is elaborate, oak?, with 3 drawers either side, and one
in the middle, the design is floral. Does anyone else have a machine
similar to this?
I am now searching for a 301! I found an old New Home in a case with all
accessories, very fancy, at the Goodwill this week, but they were asking
$299, which seems rediculously high. There was another 201, in a nice
cabinet, this one sans manual, or even the basic foot, screws gone! no
needle, no foot pedal, and they wanted $100. I don't think it's worth it,
but if one of you do, let me know, and I'll go back and see if they still
have it. Someone there has decided to overprice their machines, at least
for now.
I have been looking for an Elna Lotus, without results. Can anyone tell me
what sort of price I might expect to reasonably pay, should I find one?
I thank all of you who post regularly, for all the stories and wonderful
information. I think I have prattled on far too long now, and will
retreat...
--Elaine
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Date: Fri, 13 Sep 1996 01:19:26 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: misc
I have a friend who has a canvas business and owns 5 sewing machine. He has
one 'walking foot machine' and is looking for another. I told him I would
ask around. Please email me if you can help out here...
I had my nose pressed against the plate glass window on the Singer store.
It was closed and I could see a white FW sitting on the counter next to its
carry case! So I went around a few days later and purchased the machine.
Marty, who sold it to me, said she also has a few black ones which she could
sell to me, but privately since she only works at the store.
Well, all the other customers had left so she began to tell me about her 30+
machines. One is an early treadle with pewter drawer pulls. It lived on
Nantucket island most of its life and Marty bought it for $50. She also
knows the gentleman who designed the 222 freearm and got the first 5 off the
production line. He sold her one of the five for $50 and she now has it
insured for $3500. Nice lady. I think I will be visiting her soon!!
I saw a 1920's Singer toy at an antique shop in Hyannis MA, but alas did not
have the coin to purchase it. Returned a few days later and it was gone. I
knew I should have scooped it up and put it on plastic, but those bills have
a way of boomeranging back on me!! I would feel much better about my loss
if I knew that another FWF had purchased it???
I am having a tough time getting my ads to the new email id set up for ads.
i submit an email and about 3 days later it returns to me as undeliverable.
Is anyone else having the same problem? Sue, any suggestions???
Thanks. And a belated Happy Birthday to 1,00 of us FWF's!!
Millie,
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Date: Wed, 11 Sep 1996 14:32:42 -0400
Subject: Re: White Rotary
Hi everyone,
Just brought home a portable White Rotary (the only ID is 77MG-39884). It
came in a black case similar to a 221 case and has the 'godzilla' finish. I
think this one is from the 40's or 50's. It came with a lot of attachments,
but no manual and I am not sure how to thread this machine. If anyone has a
manual or a copy of a manual I could buy, I would be very grateful.
Also, for those pinker enthusiasts, found a Boker Florian pinker at an
antique store and it actually works well. I think they still make them since
I've seen them at several quilting shows. They are very recognizable since I
think they look like a whale's head with handles! Happy featherweighting!
Claire F
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Date: 13 Sep 96 07:03:15 EDT
Subject: Re: Singer Biography
Hi ---
I'm assuming that most of you know the book, but since I am so new myself and
have to have everyone tell me everything I'll post the following
information:
the biography on Issac Singer is: "Singer and the Sewing Machine: A
Capitalist
Romance" by Ruth Brandon.
My copy is paperback, published by Kodansha America, Inc c1977, but published
in
1996 in the US.
Maryjo
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Date: 13 Sep 96 07:03:12 EDT
Subject: Re: How to find things?
Greetings, all
I've justs read the post of Rachael Mikkelson of 9/10 and covet her "oak
folding
box of attachments" for the antique 27 Singer .... I can't buy any more
machines
myself because of our weight allowance here overseas, but I can buy "toys" --
Then I saw another mention of one of those ... eek -- I am getting
hysterical now!
My question: can someone here steer to me the right postings/dealers/etc so I
can get someone looking for me for one of those boxes? My box of attachments
is
made of cardboard, and is held together by string. While it may have some
"historical" value, it doesn't do "anything" for me .
Also, I might be interesting in some of those "trading cards." Since I am new
to all of this, I assume that dealing w/dealers, etc, esp. with me being
overseas (but have a US address) is all a matter of faith, goodwill, etc. I am
a quilter, and we usually trust people -- I've never been "burned."
Thanks,
Maryjo
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Date: Fri, 13 Sep 1996 04:07:18 PST
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/11/96
To Sue regarding Spartan-
The Spartan is not like the featherweights. The Spartan was a "price
leader" machine produced to compete with Japanese models . Kept plain
to hold down price. ( not light) but is mechanically identical to the 99
K. It is an excellent machine and is in no way mechanically inferior. Has
oscillating vertical shuttle ( as the 99K) where the Featherweight has a
rotary horizontal shuttle.
The Spartan ( and the 99K) are 3/4 head machines , of cast iron
construction and are much heavier than the featherweights. They are good
user machines if you are not going to lug them around much.
As to comments regarding the 201. These are great machines. They are my
personal favorities of everything that I have worked on for my wife (
Marilyn in Westerville, O. ).
They are powerful, quiet and smooth and with any kind of care will
probably last several lifetimes.
Regards
Gordon ( Marilyns DH) ( Meaning can vary from time to time !)
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Date: Thu, 12 Sep 1996 21:30:37 -0700
Subject: 301 wish list
Hi, Its been a great crop of Sewing machines this summer! What fun!
I don't know where the lady found a $400. treadle, but i'm very glad I
dont
live there! The most expensive one I've ever seen was $100 and it was
perfect.
My Wheeler and wilson, about a 6, was $5.and $50. will buy alot here in
Michigan.
This is a hobby, the fun is in the hunt!!! :) And in trading!
Katy, Thank you for selling me the super 301. I don't know how you knew
I wanted a
tan 301, but its now my very favorite machine. :) I love that you
cleaned it up, and
tuned it so finely. Its a very very good stich.
It is as smooth and quiet as my Phaff 1471. It for some reason
reminds me of my Mother,
quiet, strong,and works very well. She was also a shapely blond.
I call her Ruthie. And she is my absolute dream machine!
Al, you know how to sweet talk a girl, I had just broke down and bought
a Wheeler and Wilson attachment box, very similar to the carved one you
described, I thought
I paid way tooo much, $19.99, and now I feel much better :) If I see
another one in
that price range I will get it for you if you like. I find the oddest
things in my
travels.
Bobbie, Welcome, that was a great article about sewing machine
collecting, I
expect to see more in the future from you!
I found an old "new home" in a bentwood case, and wondered if anyone
has a
book, or attachments for it. I don't think I have the "footpedal part,
if there is
one. Its very pretty, and has a lovely greyhound logo on both the bed
and motor.
I think it must have been an attic machine as oposed to a basement
machine as its
crackled on the finish instead of rusted! Any information about it
would be
greatly appreciated.
Charles, i've lost your url with the great pictures, I lost everyones
and
my best SM bookmarks. If anyone has a chance could you send me some of
these
urls. I love to surf them when I can.
Cheryl B, Thank you for the Sewing machine grease, I cannot buy it here
in mid michigan right now. I hope its a temporary shortage, its an
essential tool
for my SM collection. Thank you again.
In Flint Michigan, Sept 20, 21, 22, is the annual Flint Arts
Council-Crossroads
village, Michigan quilt network- Quilt show. It will be large, and in
several Flint
area locations. My favorite spot is Crossroads village, a mini verson
of the Henery
Ford Village in Dearborn. Anyway, Is anone else planning on going? I
will try to
go at least 2 days.
Katy, I wonder if its possible to arrange thru the village or Flint
arts council a sewing machine display? (perhaps a year or 2 from now)
I suspect as this is a new thing for FAC that they would be interested.
I refuse to move any treadles tho :) I could ask if they would allow
us to
have a gathering at the village ? Just one Idea for a mini fw
gathering!
Thank you all for the great sharing of information, Huggs,
Cheryl H
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Date: 13 Sep 96 09:55:24 EDT
Subject: Re: Contribution
Hi all
Just back from a fantastic trip around the USA. Lotsa old and new friends. Will
report later but at the moment there's 171 e-mails in the box and I plan to
work thru them cronologically. Please bear with me.
Thanks to everyone who sent birthday greeting -- I spent most of the day in a
transit lounge at JFK but the messages were waiting when I got home
To Sharon re White
They do not need to be White needles. Try Simple Machine at (508) 248 6632.
To Clay re FW prices
You are quite right about the high price of FWs. Prices are always subject to
supply and demand but in the case of FWs I'm not sure that supply doesn't
exceed
demand which makes the prices even more difficult to understand.
I've just toured around quite a few states and saw probably a score of FWs --
all at the same $400 to $500 price regardless of condition.
The big antique show at the Tacoma Dome in Washington State was typical. Eight
FWs all at $450 or $475 . Including one c9 example with all atachments, oil can
book etc for $460 and a real dog with rust on it at $475.
This universal price structure can only be a result of price guides and word of
mouth amongst antique dealers. If that's what people will pay -- that's what
we'll charge them. That's why a gallon of gas in Europe is over $5.
to Lance re white FWs
The white/green/pink (depends on how you look at it) FW certainly had some
minor
cosmetic money-saving changes when it was introduced but there is no mechanical
reson why it should not sew as well as the black version.
To Marilyn for Michele re two spool machine.
In the first quarter of this century quite a few manufacturers tried two spool
machines where a normal spool of cotton replaced the bobbin. Of course there
were mechanical problems over take up to be countered and only one size of
spool
could be accomodated.
The machine is not particulary rare but is collectable and has novelty value.
To Betty re Necchi toy
This is probably too late but the Necchi is from the 1950s and is well worth
the
$45 .
To Terri J re silver decals on FW
My suspicion is that this machine has been over cleaned at some time with a
solvent and the silver decals were originally gold.
To Phyllis re modern model 15
You are right. Quality doesn't compare with the old machines. The modern
machine
was made to sell in underdeveloped countries without regular electricty supply.
For a time many older machines were sent to such countries by charities but the
problems over spares and maintenance have caused this plan to stop.
Just what these modern treadles are doing in American shops amazes me.
Mary L re birthdays
Quite a few people have pointed out that Bill Clinton and I share the same
birthday. When I look at the supposed qualities of a Leo, it strikes me that
they are better suited to an antique dealer than a president.
Thanks for your kind wishes.
To Helen re oil cans
Spout is located at one side to allow the last remaining drops of oil to exit
easier. Not weighted, it's just the impression the spout gives.
To Krisi re Egyptian design.
There was an Egyptian fad in the western world in the early 1880s following the
siting of the two Cleopatra Needles in Central Park NYC and London. BTW each
weighs 200 tons and was towed in a specially-bui;t enclosed raft from
Alexandria. They were gifts from Egypt to the UK and USA
To Jean re box paper
Your local arts/crafts shop should have an identical match for the black paper
found in Singer boxes
To Lance re preserving paint
The original protective finish on a FW was very good and I would not expect it
to wear dramatically with normal use. Usually damage is caused by buttons, zips
etc being dragged across the machine. Don't think the plastic sheet and magnets
would be very effective, especially on a FW which being alluminium would not
attract a magnet. Maggie and I ner\ver worrk too much about a little normal
wear
-- it's all part of a machine's history after all.
This is getting rather long. Will continue catching up tomorrow.
Grham F
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Date: Fri, 13 Sep 1996 10:48:00 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/11/96
Al: Hate to burst your bubble, but the Singer book banks came in a dark
yellow in addition to the blue, red and green that you have. But think
of yourself as lucky since part of the fun is the quest, and if your
collection was complete, what would you spend your money on? (bills don't
count)
Happy Featherweighting,
Krisi
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Date: Fri, 13 Sep 1996 13:59:46 -0700
Subject: Cathy's treadle
Hi Cathy,
The space at the side of the machine in the treadle cabinet you saw is
where a large spring goes to aid in lowering and raising the machine head
into and out of the cabinet. On my treadles, this same piece has holes
for the leather belt to go through. Even my 201 has this spring in it's
cabinet. An empty space to the right of the head does not mean the
machine is not original, it means this spring is missing. It may also be
broken and didn't come up with the head as it should.
The price seems high to me but then I keep finding cheap treadles. I only
wish I had more room.....
Katy
I have a cabinet like this. The drawers on mine are wonderful but the top
needs a lot of work. Mine came with a 66 head in it.
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Date: Fri, 13 Sep 1996 14:25:25 -0400
Subject: 301-A
Hello, I saw a Singer 301-A for sale with a tan case and the instruction
manual. Can anyone tell me about this machine? Thanks.
Lisa
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Date: Fri, 13 Sep 1996 12:26:36 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Beginning my search....
Well, after reading about all of your treasure hunts for several months,
I decided to start out on my own...and just look and learn for now. What
I would love to find is a 201 or a 301 since I've been "hearing" from all
of you how wonderful they are and maybe a great looking Singer treadle to
sew on and for display . I am a sewer and beginning quilter and
want one which is not only beautiful to look at but great and smooth to
sew on and also for my 13 yr-old daughter to work and learn on. (I have a
Bernina 1030, non-computerized, for regular sewing and a wonderful FW
scrollface (?), around 1939, I think----when I called it in to Singer's
800#, they told me it was not a 221 but a 301!!! which it is NOT)
Anyway, I went to the local used furniture thrift shop and found several
cabinets with machines in them. The guy told me they sell them as
aquarium stands (this is a college town) and the machines add stability to
the cabinets--esp. the smaller ones. You buy the cabinet and the machine
is free....One tiny cabinet had a black Singer with goldwork on it, but I
couldn't figure out what model it was...it was so heavy that I was afraid
to tip over the cabinet to bring the machine all the way up. ($49.00).
Then there was a Pfaff Industrial treadle which seemed to run really
smoothly. He said it was a workhorse. ($70.00) Does anyone know about
Pfaff industrial treadles? I haven't heard anyone talk about them.
I passed them up since this was a "learning and seeing" excursion. But
it was fun and I thank all of you for inspiring me!!!
Have a good weekend!!!!! And thanks for "listening."
Diana
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Date: 13 Sep 96 16:44:53 EDT
Subject: Re: Contributions 1
To Shelley re FWs in France
FWs were exported in large numbers from the UK to France in the 1950s and 60s.
You are unlikely to find them in antique stores but try sewing machine dealers
and junk stores. If you get near Paris try the flea markbet at Cliangcourt
(sp?)
-- it's on the metro -- or the street market at Lyon.
FWs should cost no more than 1000 francs ($75).
Maggie re Hudson
Hudson was a popular name for machines in the first quarter of this century. My
records show it being used by White SMCo, Standard SMCo and New Home.
Don't know a Greybar. Could we mean a Greyhound -- this was made by New Home
which used a Greyhound as its trademark.
Re machines for sale
I've noticed, with regret, that a couple of advertisements have recently
appeared selling machines and asking for offers. This is a very sad way to
sell
anything and simply helps to hike prices generally and I suggest that we do not
respond to them. Let's have honest adverts with prices.
To Tracy re collecting disease
There is a cure and a paliative.
The Cure. Pack all your machines and send to me in London. Then go cold turkey.
The Paliative. Take a regular injection of a new machine. Maggie and I could
help you here also (g).
To Charles re W&W 9
This was never sold as an electrified machine. The motor on the one you had was
an after market add on. After Singer took over the Wheeler and Wilson Compnay
in
1905 the 9 was produced for some years after that.
To Ann-Marie re New Century
This was made by the AG Mason Mfg Co in the 1920s and was sold under many
names
by department stores . Think the Bluie Bird is Australian. Brenda Dean may be
able to help you brenda@ismacs.com.au
The Ismacs book will soon be available from ISMACS Australasia ( Brenda) or if
you can't wait from Bobbie Kopf bkoph@rtd.com
To Kathy B re Boye case
If not too late, it's cheap, go for it.
Cathy re Naumann treadle
Made by Seidle and Naumann in Dresden . Company started in 1872 and survid\ved
into the 1960s. Many were exported to the USA in the 1930s. At $129, incomplete
it sounds expensive to me.
Judy re Singer Toy
The machine you have is the later Model 20. Can't remember which way the needle
threads but I think it's left to right. Really no reason why it shouldnt sew --
simple chain stitch --but I've seen these where the stitch hook has been
located
wrongly in the lower shaft -- worth a look.
To Rita re Minnesota
Made by Davis SM Co for Sears R .1920s or 30s The paint problem sounds like
surface rust under the paint work. No real cure. Sounds like a walk away to me.
To Laura re 301
Glad you have found your "last and final machine".
Look forward to reading about the next one.
This is all getting rather long again will catch up more tomorrow
Graham F
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Date: Fri, 13 Sep 1996 17:35:58 -0700
Subject: elnitas
Hi all, Elnitas were to elnas what Bernettes are to Berninas, produced
by the company but not really the quality of the elnas. Elna stopped
doing them awhile ago, not sure but know its been at least 5 years.
I am still waiting for the manuals from elna, hopefully there are
pictures and I can get all the old ones straight in my mind.
Jim has been on a tear lately, fixed my 301 so she hums now, haven't
tried her but he says she stitches better than either of the FWs and he
has almost finished restoring the 201 a friend gave us.
Debbie
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Date: Fri, 13 Sep 1996 18:21:20, -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/8/96
I have a GE portable sewing machine but don't know anything about it. I do
have the manual but the first 4 pages of it are missing. Lots of
attachments are with it too. Can someone tell me about this machine? TIA
lisa
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Date: Fri, 13 Sep 1996 18:21:21, -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/5/96
Julie F. Yes, there is a zig zagger attachment for the featherweight. The
part number is 160985. It comes with 3 cams. There is also a box of extra
cams for the featherweight the number for that is 161008. That box contains
4 cams.
lisa
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Date: Fri, 13 Sep 1996 18:21:17, -0500
Today I saw a toy Singer. Tan color with a tan case. The case has the
original styrofoam to hold it in. No manual or accessories. Its price is
$75 and I thought I ought to check and see what you all thought on that
before I bought it. I really liked it and wanted to just scoop it up. But I
was not familiar with what the going $ was for it.
Well, I wrote this note yesterday but had the FWF address wrong. Today I
went back and got the Toy Singer. This is the metal one made in GB. There
was one problem with it. It is missing the stem that the spool of thread
sits on. Does anyone know where I could try to find this part? BTW I got
10% off of the price. It gave the extra incentive.
lisa
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Date: Fri, 13 Sep 1996 20:49:13 -0400
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/12/96
The dealer who had the toy machines also had a really neat old looking
machine that looked alot like a FW. It had beautiful and colorful
scrollwork. The name "Cinerella" was on the top part of the machine. I'm
going to pick up my other singer tomorrow from him. I will ask again about
that other machine made in 1864. It was "sew" neat and had all the
attachments and everything.
Marci
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Date: Fri, 13 Sep 1996 21:44:58 -0400
Subject: New kid on the block!
Hi! all you fwf peoples, (including myself). Been doing my homework by
reading all the FWF stories, so I can learn some of the language that you
all use. Now I will attempt to tell you about my new addition to my family.
Over Labor Day weekend, I had two choices to pick from, one was to go see our
parade or go to a antique shop, that I hadn't been in for a while. Well you
can possibly guess which one I pick. Yes! to the antique shop I want. Believe
me I was not going to really buy anything. Got in there and wandering around
and in a corner was a Singer that the cover was laying next to it. It was
like a lighted Christmas tree all lite up. Ask the shop owner to bring it
out, so I could really look at it. ( I didn't let on that my mind was all
ready make up to buy it) o.k. i will try to describe it.
It in a Brentwood case ( that a wooden round dome case, right) You can't put
it on because the key lock is down and no key. Now the machine is black with
red, green and gold scroll work. The bobbin case is like a cylinder shape.
also the bobbin it self is like small metal skools. Hope I'm not confusing
anybody yet. Please if I'm not saying these things right feel free to correct
me. I did call singer and talked to a very nice lady and gave her the serial
no. AA662663. and was told that it's "B" day was Sept 22,1928. Now she asked
me if the balance wheel was solid or if it had spokes in it. Well I wasn't
sure so when I got home, it does have spokes in it. She said if it did then
it was conversion over. But I don't think so. Maybe I'm wrong. The face plate
had like a grapes vine design on it. Also the other thing that I didn't get
with it is a foot petal, so I don't know if it runs and no manaul.
I would appreciate any help out there about this. Oh! I pay $55.00 for it,
and got some attached with it that were in a metal lid compartment on the
right side. I can't describle them because otherwise I will never get this
letter sent out.
I do want to thanks Kristina Sfor the great part list I recieve from
her. Very helpful for a beginner like me.
Thank for having this FWF club.
Quilting Frenzy Sandy
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Date: Fri, 13 Sep 1996 19:57:03 -0600 (MDT)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/12/96
Greetings fellow fanatics! I found a fellow with several fw's for sale
for 200 dollars each regardless of condition, I bought 2, a EH in good
condition (8) and a AH in OK condition (about a 6) so I told a friend who
told a friend who bought also. I also got a fw table. Went back for another
and the price went up to 300, talked him down to 225 for a beautiful EK
that sews better than the others. This one has different gold paint- an
angular pattern, no curved lines at all. Looks sort of art deco-ish. Do
you think these are good prices? I havn't a clue. (canadian dollars) Hes
also got a free arm and a centenial fw and a white one that he won't
sell. rats. Oh well, my moneys all spent anyhow. Are the tables quite
common? Are the differences between gold paint designs indicitive of age
difference? Thanks for making me not the only fanatic around
Kathleen.
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Date: Fri, 13 Sep 1996 22:28:10 -0500 (CDT)
Subject: Continuing adventures...
I went looking today on Galveston Island ... I'm working there during
the week now, and took my lunch hour today to do some hunting. The
first place I went was a sew and vac sales &repair place on Broadway.
The place was unbelievably cluttered when I went in, and half of it
was dark; I thought, ahah! I've found one of those great places with
all sorts of goodies tucked away in the corner.
When the guy came out and asked what I wanted, I asked for a bobbin
winder o-ring and asked his permission to look at the machines for
sale. He had a bunch piled on the floor in the lighted part of the
store, but those were all in for repair, as were about half of the
ones in the other room, when he turned on the lights (including a
Singer I wanted to get a closer look at, and a later-model treadle
cabinet.) He showed me four White machines, all new or recent,
sitting on a table, and told me that one of them was on sale for
half price. I explained that I wasn't really interested in
recent model White's; I wasn't pleased with the one I had. He said,
"Well, that's all we sell," and turned around to leave.
I turned to follow him out, but caught sight of an old treadle cabinet in
a corner -- looked pretty old: no drawers, small coffin-box top... and
next to it, a 128 with the really florid decal set, and some other old
machines... he saw what I was looking at, and before I could say a word,
he said, "Those AREN'T for sale!" I said thank you and left. What else
could I say?
Maybe I shouldn't have insulted his Whites.
I saw an Elna Grasshopper today, too -- I'd seen it before, at Sew
Contempo, in the Clear Lake area, sitting on a top shelf in the window. I
just didn't know what I was looking at. It's a pretty shade of green, and
it's tiny -- when I saw that clamp sticking out from the side of the
shelf, I knew what it was.
I asked if it was for sale, and (as I expected, because it's been there
for a while) it wasn't. Nobody wants to sell me interesting machines.
(Whine mode on.) Maybe I should take a charm school course, or something.
I didn't even insult any machines in the second shop!
I guess the two best sewing machine guys I've found so far are in
Houston -- the closet FW fanatic (whose Singer New Family machine
is a movie star now) across from Meyerland, and the guy up in the
Heights who let me look at all his machines in the glass case. I
shouldn't complain -- two good ones within pretty easy driving
distance is a good thing!
I've gotten a few more responses from people who are coming to the
International Quilt Festival in Houston at the beginning of NOvember.
If anyone else is interested in meeting other Fanatics and is coming
to the Festival, let me know! I'm keeping a list, and when everyone
knows their festival schedules a little better, we'll figure out when/
where to meet. (If you've already sent me your name, you don't have
to again -- although I never mind hearing from anyone!)
Happy hunting!
Terri
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Subject: Wanted
Date: Fri, 13 Sep 1996 23:56:01 -0400
Need manual for mini Kenmore portable, Model #158-10400 that does
zigzag, stretch, blindhem, buttonhole stitches and was made in the early
1970's. Would like to purchase the manual or a photocopy of one. Terri
described the machine in her 11 Sep 96 msg. Terri, can you
or anyone else on the list help me out with this? TIA, Kathy C
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Sent: Friday, September 13, 1996 11:56 PM
Subject: Wanted
Need manual for mini Kenmore portable, Model #158-10400 that does =
zigzag, stretch, blindhem, buttonhole stitches and was made in the early =
1970's. Would like to purchase the manual or a photocopy of one. Terri =
Santa Coloma described the machine in her 11 Sep 96 msg. Terri, can you =
or anyone else on the list help me out with this? TIA, Kathy Connor
e-mail address: connorw@earthlink.com
Date: Sat, 14 Sep 1996 00:39:32, -0500
Subject: GREIST BUTTONHOLER
saw a greist buttonholer in my travels today. I don't think I want it for
myself, but if anyone else is interested, I'll go back and see if it's
still there.
hmmm...is this a 'for sale' note for the special digest, or just a
regular one?
...c
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Date: Fri, 13 Sep 1996 21:56:25 PST
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/12/96
It is great reading about the good finds of sm by people. Sometimes we
may have a good find and not know it.
I called about an ad for a sm tonight and it was a Singer 5102 in a
cabinet with all attachments for $50. I really don't have room for more
cabinets but it sounded interesting and then I remembered someone telling
of Singer's later machines not as good as the earlier ones. I passed it
by.
A week ago at an estate sale I went for the Singer mini sm advertised and
found them already sold when I arrived. They were FW's and someone knew what
they were getting. I was told they both sold for $250. Together.
The other machine at the sale was a 401 in 9+ condition with a beautiful
cabinet, not a scratch on it, going for $60.
I too passed this by but keep wondering if I should have taken it.
I have been promised a FW from a friend but it is in AZ and I in MI and
don't know when we will meet.
Thanks for the good reading and lots of info.
Ev
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Date: 14 Sep 96 03:51:42 EDT
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics posts
Hi All --
I feel like a bona fide member now that Graham has replied to me -- I'll
have to get moving on tracking down Russia information soon--I'm tooooo busy
until the end of the month, unfortunately.
Mary L - EEK!!! Now I am REALLY excited --
- you're the first person to mention where this mysterious factory in Russia
was
-- in Podolsk.
Podolsk is very near Moscow so ..... I'm going to get someone moving on getting
me an address, and by that time I won't be so busy (my next two weeks are
booked
with official functions), and we'll go out and look at the factory, take a
picture, etc. Hopefully we can get inside. I'll take my copy of the Singer
bio
to charm my way in...
We did this with a factory here that had been managed by a British family
before
the Revolution and eventually got into the factory's museum to see old photos,
etc etc. The "charm" that worked for that one was an admiration of our car (a
US Mercury Villager van, very uncommon here in Russia) and then we mentioned we
were looking at the building because of an old book written about the family
that built the factory. Maybe it will work again?
Rachael M- I tried to reply to you via e-mail but it was bounced back. We
sometimes have problems here.
Anyway, you were so lucky to find all those machines, and I am so jealous about
your wooden attachment box!!
I need one!! I want one! I'll have to do a proper posting!
Maryjo
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Date: 14 Sep 96 04:52:49 EDT
Subject: Russian Singer logo
For those of you who have not been on the www lately, Charles L has
downloaded
the back page of my Russian manual so you can see the Russian Singer logo (the
cursive Z is for Zinger) .... his www page is:
www2.hawaii.edu/-claw/sew
Maryjo
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Date: 13 Sep 96 17:12:22 EDT
Subject: post
Hi All...
Well, I picked up two FWs this week. Both are 'AJ's - one made in Jan. of
'50, the other in June of that year. Interesting that both were purchased
from the same person; one started life in Boston, the other on Sapello
Island, a barrier island off the coast of Georgia. (Two islands up from me.
Inhabited by descendants of Ivory Coast slaves, brought there in the late
1700's to work in the rice fields and indigo plantations. Only reachable by
boat. Neat place.) Both are '5's, cases are '6's. Now they're in "process" -
strip, clean, oil, lube, baby oil treatment, scratch remover, wax. This will
bring them up to a solid 7... Cases were smudged, but structurally solid and
not scuffed. Used 'Tacky Glue' to glue the seams down inside. Cleaned the
cases inside and out with vinyl cleaner. And (thanks to a FWF here, who I
can't remember, sorry) spray painted the cases inside and out with black
Ultra Vinyl (get it at an auto parts store). Boy, that stuff works GREAT!
I'll wax them tomorrow with shoe polish and hit the latches with Simichrome
polish. These cases will be '9's, easy!!! The one from Boston - $65. The one
from Sapello - $35, 'cause it "didn't work" => bobbin case base 'finger' was
not between the needle plate 'ears'...
Also picked up an 'AL' the week before - $75. It's case didn't come out as
well as the ones above, but the machine sure perked up! It has the new style
case, so I made a simple draw string bag out of some bright paisley to hold
the cord and plugs to keep them from re-scratching the bed of the machine.
It's amazing how the color of the bag brightens the inside of the box when
you open it!
That brings my current stock up to 4 FWs. The three above are for sale, but
spoken for, as I now maintain a FW waiting list here at the shop. "Provide a
decent product at a fair price with good service and after sale support -
they will come!" Bye for now, Chris...
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Date: Sat, 14 Sep 1996 09:32:13 -0500 (CDT)
Subject: Model 15
Hi all!
I'm new to the list, but not new to sewing. I started when I was about 6 on
my mom's Monkey Ward's machine. She was tired of making doll clothes for me
and made me learn how. I've been sewing ever since. I'm doing lots of
quilting now. Well, I would if I had more time! ;-)
I was told this was the best place for me to learn about my new "baby." Two
weekends ago I spotted an ad in our weekly paper that said "sewing machine"
so I thought I'd check it out. I have a Kenmore Sensor Sew 1000 and a Baby
Lock but have been half looking for a FW. So, off to the address which
turned out to be about 8 block down our cross street. Looked around the sale
area for a few minutes but didn't spot any obvious sewing machine. Asked the
couple if it had been sold. No, it's in the house -- would you like to see
it. Absolutely. As we were walking in, the woman said something to her
husband in Spanish (we're 90 miles from the border, so we have a large
Hispanic population) and he said, _very_ apologetically, "It's not an
electric machine." My heart started thumping as I said (as casually as
possible) that it was OK. We went into a dark bedroom and there was a
treadle! I was supposed to get my grandmothers machine from Iowa, but think
my aunt sold it at a garage sale.
A new leather belt was draped over the machine and the man said they hadn't
been able to sell the machine because the belt was missing and they'd just
gotten one. I tried the wheel and it turned easily. The treadle worked
effortlessly. How much? $100. I'll take it. My dh brought it home for me
and now I can't wait to start working with it. I guess I got a good deal. I
was so excited I didn't even want to haggle! While I was waiting for my dh
to get there, 3 other people wanted it! :-))
I called Singer and it's a Model 15, born on January 9, 1923! The year of
the first electrics. It's in a cherry cabinet, with a tilt out drawer in
front w/3 compartments and three drawers down each side. The legs are
scrolled wrought iron. There's quite a bit of wear on the decals, but
everything else looks pretty good. The cabinet only has a very few small
scratches.
Can anyone help me find a manual and parts supplier? There are several
things I'll need before I can start working with it. I started to order the
Antique American Sewing Machine something or other, but had several people
from Quiltnet tell me the guy really didn't have a clue. They all said this
was the list where I could really find out about my baby.
I got my first digest yesterday and really enjoyed hearing about your finds
and hope you can help me with mine!
Vaya con Dios!
Maggie M
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Date: Sat, 14 Sep 1996 13:12:12 -0400
Subject: The Adventures of Graham &Maggie! True story #1
Hello all FWFanactics:
I have been watching the reports &sightings of Graham &Maggie while they're
traveling across the USA. It was my pleasure to report sighting them last in
Kent, Washington on Saturday Sept. 7th at a dinner &slide presentation of
antique sewing machines Graham
was so gracious to provide to about 14 people. It was so interesting &
inspiring, that Sylvia Jacobus (LogCabin45) &I joined ISMACS on the spot. We
were so fortunate that Graham &Maggie happened to have a couple of
applications for ISMACS available.
Seriously, it was a fine evening enjoyed by everyone &of course we had a
chance to ask them a million questions. Graham was presented a I LOVE FW PIN
&a Starbucks coffee mug with a box of fine English Breakfast Tea by
Starbucks &Maggie likewise a Starbucks coffee mug. Maggie did indicate she
prefers coffee over tea and was pleased with our small token of appreciation.
Graham &Maggie, when you read this back home.....please accept our sincere
thanks for your time &troubles for making a few FWFanactics &sewing machine
collectors in the Seattle area a happier &a more informed group of people.
Even though I'm not a resident of the area, my wife &I personally wish to
thank you two for making it a more pleasureable trip while visiting from
Tampa, Florida. Thanks! Glenn W
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Date: Sat, 14 Sep 1996 14:10:09 -0400
Subject: MACHINES SIGHTED
I had occasion to be in Escanaba, Michigan recently and wandered into the a
sewing machine shop owned by Robert Tebear. It turned out that Robert has
more antique machines in his shop than new ones. I have never see so many
antique machines in one place in my life. If any of you ever get to the
Escanaba area, stop in to see Robert and his machines. Escanaba is located
in the upper peninsula of Michigan, along the north shore of Lake Michigan.
While wandering through Bob's shop I happened to see an Elna on the scrap
heap in the basement. I mentioned that some of the FWF love Elnas. He said
that he usually throws them away when they come in. If any of you are
looking for an Elna, call Robert (1-906-786/6431) and ask him to find one for
you.
Paul
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Date: Sat, 14 Sep 1996 14:12:16 -0500 (CDT)
Subject: Monogrammers, class 339 (Frister &Rossmann) needles, and bobbins
I found a Singer monogrammer today -- with no cams! If anyone knows where
I can get them, I'd love to hear. Also, does anyone have instructions for
these things? (Yes, all I got was a monogrammer and an otherwise empty
box. Still couldn't pass it up.)
For anyone looking for class 339 needles for Frister &Rossmann machines:
I've got two possible sources, one in London and one here in Houston. I
don't have the e-mail address for the person in the UK who was looking
for those needles (my computer is dead in the water for the moment --
I'm borrowing the DH's computer to read e-mail, and it's not a pretty
picture! The secret to our happy marriage is separate computers, I
think.) but if you'll e-mail me, whoever you are, I'll send you the
name &e-mail address of the person in London.
The other place that is finding them for me is a Singer repair shop --
interestingly, some of the new Singers they carry are the new model 15's,
in a handcrank model and a treadle. I don't think they're American made,
but apparently they're made using the original castings. They're black,
with the Sphinx design (although the decals are not very good -- they're
blurry and the colors are all too gaudy) and they have the Singer name on
them -- on the arm of the machine, and on the gold seal. I ran the
treadle a little bit, and it moves as smoothly and nicely as the old
machines do. The hand crank version is in a case that looks like the old
bentwood cases, but it's in a cherrywood-colored finish that looks
plastic. (It's pretty -- just not very real.) The treadle cabinet is
particle board, but it looks very much like other treadle cabinets from
the 40's and 50's that are real wood. The treadle is selling for $299,
and the hand crank for $200, I think. (Makes some of the old ones look
even more like bargains, huh?)
It's kind of interesting that they picked the model 15 to remanufacture.
(It's not my favorite of the older models.)
By the way, if you're looking for new bobbins for a model 27/28/127/128,
this guy carries them, too. (Okay, he usually carries them -- I bought
all the ones he had in stock today.) They're a little more expensive
than other kinds of bobbins (about $1 apiece) but it's so nice to have
some new, shiny ones to use!
Got to go -- we're going shopping for computer parts to get me up &
running again. (I can't wait!)
Terri
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Date: Sat, 14 Sep 1996 15:24:18 -0400
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/5/96
Julie was asking about a zigzagger for the FW. I'm behind on
my email so this question may have been answered, but I'm also excited about
my "find". I found a Singer aoutomatic zigzagger in the original box with
the original instruction book. Also, there was a separate box - Singer
Stitch patterns for automatic zigzagger which contains the original paper
work.
The Zigzagger instruction book says that part number 160985 works on Singer
15, 201, 221 and 1200 machines and part number 160986 works on 301 machines.
The zigzagger I bought was part 160985. Each of the four cams has a part
number:
161000, 161001, 161002 and 161003. The separate box containing four more
cams has part number 161008 on the box and the four cams in the box have part
numbers: 161004, 161005, 161006, and 161007. The instruction book is Form
20766, Rev. (155) which indicates it was revised in January 1955 (I believe).
The instruction fold-out that came with the cams is Form 20768, Rev. (155).
Ellen I
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Date: Sat, 14 Sep 1996 14:33:19 -0700
Subject: Holiday Greetings
From one of those who does not celebrate,
I am happy to share in, and extend New
Year's Greetings and Good Wishes.
The world can use some positive feelings all around.
Bobbie
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Date: 14 Sep 96 17:49:00 EDT
Subject: Re: Contribution 2
To Sarah
The ISMACS manual refers to dates machines were sold in the UK. Could well be
that the first 222s were export only -- we had a lost of this in the decade
following the war.
To Barb re Frister and Rossmann
Up-market German machine made in Berlin. Company started with clones of Wheeler
and Wilson machines in the 1860s and then went on to produce Singer-type
models.
Can't date from sn but could give you an idea of age from a photo.
To Maggie re W&G
Prices of these are going up all the time as collectors appreciate the
craftsmanship in them Figure to pay up to $150 to $350 for a c8 treadle, even
more for a full-cabinet model same price for a electric "hand crank". Make sure
the spool holder has not gone walkabout. Avoid "heads only". Also avoid
industrial versions.
The one Lary was offering sounds like a bargain
To Mary L re Pancho's ride
Don't remember how much I was charged but it wasn't exhorbitant or I would have
remembered.
I do recall getting a cab from Grand Central to the Paramount Hotel on 46th --
about a 5 minute ride -- one time at about 1 am and the guy wanting $100. This,
it seems, was the minimum after-midnight rate in NYC. I simply said that if he
chose to follow me into the hotel we could phone the police from there and
walked off. Needless to say he drove away and that was the only free trip I
ever
got in NYC.
You suggest not to do it again but it's difficult for the traveler in stange
climes. What more reasonable than to ask the car hire company to call you a
cab?
Not another Deadhead?
To Bob re 1776
Thanks Bob for reporting on the Baltimore meeting at Zach's place. It was great
fun to meet with you and others who had simply been names before.
I suppose the 1776 date you mention refers to Edward Gibbon publishing the
Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire.
I once spent a July 4 evening watching the Macey's fireworks display in NYC
from
the riverbank with about one million Americans and just me from England. If I
can take that sort of ribbing, I can take anything.
To all
I have just replied to a Fanatic whose treadle Wilcox and Gibbs was totaly
destroyed whilst shipping.
Please do not try to ship complete treadles. Heavy flywheels need only one
decent jolt to rip away from the mounting lug. The only answer is to stip them
first, wrap each part individually and then pack the whole lot with lotsa
packing in a decent crate.
If anyone out there knows of a good W&G treadle , there's a grieving Fanatic
that I could put you in touch with.
To Shaun re F&R needles
Try Alan Sheen at 0606 593 554. That's Cheshire but about as close as you are
going to get
To JP re Victor
The Victor was made by the Davis SM Co in Dayton Ohio. Nothing special and
sounds very expensive to me.
Sherry re Singer Sewhandy
Your guess was correct. $250 is more than twice the going rate.
Sandra re W&W 9
If this didn't come with a manual I can provide a copy. I cant date W&W after
1880 but the 9 was produced until 1905
To Richard re books on antique sewing machines
Will e-mail you with list available from ISMACS
To Susan
Get hold of a copy of the ISMACS Singer recognition manual from Bobbie Kopf at
bkopf@rtd.com Not everything in there but a good start
To all re Singer Sex Saga
Will post this is two parts as soon as I've caught up with FWF and other mail
Maryjo re Singer magazines
The Singers mags were in-house publications and each major factory had its
own.They wre produced monthly In the UK ity was called Red S and I am currently
negotiating to buy a complete set but, as yet, the asking price is far too
high.
Graham F
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Date: Sat, 14 Sep 1996 19:07:46 -0700
Subject: Singer 95-10
Hi all, anyone know anything about a Singer 95-10 industrial? A friend
just gave us one that was in her garage, she didn't want it, she wants a
new Bernina, which I just can't understand. Good thing some people do
want new machines tho, so I can sell them to them and have money to look
for old ones!!!! VBG Anyway, the serial # on this is AC. No manual,
Bobbie, was there any in your box for a 95-10?
Thanks, Debbie
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Date: Sat, 14 Sep 1996 14:16:26 -1000
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 9/13/96
The URL of the site is: http://www2.hawaii.edu/~claw/sew/ -- The site
will probably be down on Sunday mornings (Hawaii time) since the
university does maintenance on the server.
To: Graham F
Thanks for the info on the W&W 9 machine. By any chance, do you know if
replacement decal sets are available for Singer machines? I know
(theoretically) how to make decals, but it would be easier to duplicate an
original set than to have to design some from scratch. -- Thanks.
To: All
Someone on the net has a Wheeler &Wilson 9 machine for sale at $180 +
$100 shipping. The machine is pretty worn, the cabinet has large chunks
of wood missing, and half of the cabinet is missing (the drawers on one
side are gone). It's also missing the bobbin cover plate and I think all
of the decals are rubbed off the base. Personally I think $180 is way too
much, especially since it'd take another $100 to ship it here to Hawaii.
How much should I offer for it (if any?). -- Thanks, Charles.
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Date: Sat, 14 Sep 1996 17:23:38 -0700
Subject: Dressmaker Sewing Machine
Help, I'm looking to all you expert fanatics for help with information
regarding a Dressmaker machine. Daughter #2 brought one over to see if I
can make it work. Was able to get it working with a faily good stitch, BUT
I can't seem to get the needle to align with the middle of the pressure foot
when it does a straight stitch; it stitches on the far left side instead of
the center. There is a place for cams to go on the top of the machine, but
of course there are no cams, attachments, or manual.
All I know about this machine is that it was made in Japan for
Standard Sewing Machine Company. Anyone have and words of wisdom,
attachments and/or copy of a manual for sale?
Thanks in Advance
Judy
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Date: Sat, 14 Sep 1996 21:53:32 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Boxes
To Maryjo: Beware, all fold-out boxes are not created equal! There seem
to be several styles floating around. I own one with a purple lining, but
the attachments which came with my treadle (which, according to the
manual, are the correct set for the machine) do NOT fit in this box. There
are descriptions for three or four attachment sets floating around, but as
far as I know no one's been successful in matching up box styles to
attachment sets so far. When I retire (April 15, 2008) I intend to
become the guru of attachment sets, but for now it's still a puzzle.
Boy-Am-I-Dense-Sometimes Department: I stopped at my local sewing center
today and asked it they ever got old attachment sets for a singer 401.
His reply was that "they don't trade them in". OK, no luck that way. So
then I asked about a zipper foot for a slant needle machine. I know that
I will eventually need one of these for normal sewing. He lets me know
that these days Singer attachments are detachable and that I will need to
by an ankle and a foot. The "foot" part that he holds up looks
suspiciously like the one that came with my MILs Golden Touch 'N Sew.
So I ask him about this, and he says, yes, I can use any Singer attachment
that's made that way as long as I have the proper ankle for the slant
needle machine. (This is NOT the punch line...) So I invest my $8 and go
home with a new ankle. I put the ankle on the 401 and get out the box
from the GTS and experiment. Sure enough, everything fits nicely.....too
nicely....so I crawl under the table (which is where the GTS lives these
days) and unscrew the ankle from the GTS. Guess what, twins! It
seems that although I sewed for probably 5+ years on that machine, I never
realized it was a slant needle model! (This IS the punch line.) I am, of
course, happy to know that most of these goodies will work just fine.
Note: the throat plates are NOT interchangeable, nor are the cams. But
I'm happy to have the special purpose foot. HOWEVER, the manual I have
shows an edgestitcher. If anyone out there stumbles across one of these
for a slant needle machine, I'd be interested.
Thanks to those of you who responded to my problem with the tension
control. I think I had basically screwed the thumb nut on too far before
I set the 0 point on the numbered knob. I backed the thumb nut out a
little and things loosened up. I'd be tempted to back it out a little
more, but the tension seems to be nicely balanced and it's sewing fine and I
think at this point it "ain't broke" so I will quit trying to fix it.
Lydia
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Subject: little hand crank
thursdays must be my day. this time it was an antigue shop in granger in. a
toy (?) hand crank singer dh spotted it first and of course he had
to play with it first. it was missing a spool pin but that was easy to replace.
its in 9 1/2 condition if thats possible and it does a
beautiful chain stitch.couldn't find any numbers on it. there is a green felt
protective pad on the bottom but could have been put there later,
although it does looks original. perhaps it was a promotional item? the price
was a little steep at $125, but even dh couldn't resist. am
taking up the gauntlet to find a white fw, freearm fw and perhaps if luck would
have it a beigh fw...we'll see what happens. best to all you
fwf. nancy
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