Featherweight
Fanatics
Archives
April 1996
Sunday, April 28 - Saturday, May 4
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Date: Sat, 27 Apr 1996 23:28:18 -0400
Subject: Mystery of the green 301 has been solved!!
My husband and I have been on vacation and so the mystery of the green 301
has taken longer to solve than it should have.
I sent my MIL copies of the email messages I received from Millie M
and Linda E and I told her that it wasn't very likely that it was a 301
if is were green. I also asked her to send me the serial number on the
machine. (By the way, it begins with NA, she says, but I haven't gotten a
chance to call Singer yet.) She called the other evening to report that she
was wrong, that the machine is not green but tan and eggshell. She was
laughing at herself because she doesn't know why she thought it was green.
She even was trying to remember if she had had her sunglasses on when she
looked at it!! Another possibility is that she doesn't like the color green
and she didn't think the machine was very good looking at all and, perhaps,
she concluded that something that ugly must be green. She says it has lots
of bobbins, instructions, and attachments. It sounds like it was well cared
for.
So, thank you Millie, Linda, and Shirley S who also responded. Sorry
for the "waste" of time on this. But, what if it had been a GREEN 301. That
would have been interesting.
Evie P
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Date: Sun, 28 Apr 1996 10:23:25 +0000
Subject: Not Singer 301C-- 290C
I am so sorry. I hope I have not caused any difficulty for anyone
with my previous post. I included a reference to the wrong model
number. My Singer is a 290C, NOT a 301C. Perhaps I could try to
blame it on the "Errant Finger" syndrome. Except I did it twice!
Brain glitch... If anyone happens to know anything
about the 290C and would care to clue me in about it, I would be very
grateful.
Again, very sorry.
Best Wishes,
Taunya
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Date: Sun, 28 Apr 1996 10:56:38 -0500 (CDT)
Subject: Things I saw and found out
I stopped yesterday at a sewing machine shop close by, to see if
I could find any pieces I'm missing for my "new" Frister &Rossmann.
There in the window was a fiddle base Singer hand crank -- and (aside
from the fiddle base, and being a little less embellished than my
F&R) it was quite similar in size and appearance. What a pretty
machine! The guy at the shop owns the machine, and recently lent it
to a film crew in Houston for the sequel to Terms of Endearment (with
Shirley MacLaine.) So if you want to see what a Singer fiddle-base
machine looks like, you can go to the movie when it comes out!
I found one piece I needed (a rubber thing for the bobbin winder)
-- he didn't have any needles or any advice for finding them (other
than frequenting places that have ancient sewing supplies.) When
I asked him about featherweights, he told me that on those infrequent
occasions he actually gets one in the store, he keeps it. (Aha! a
real collector!)
To Stuart (and anyone else interested in free-arm FWs):
This guy also mentioned a shop in Clear Lake (where NASA's Johnson
Space Center is located) that carries some of the rarer FWs --
including a couple of free-arm machines. They are priced in the
$800 price range, according to this guy, but I haven't checked it
out personally. They might be bargains!
I haven't been neglecting my old Singer, though -- looking at Sincere's
service book, I figured out that my old ex-treadle is a model 66-1
instead of the model 15 Singer labeled it. I'm going to call them
next week, and see if they have a manual for it. (I have a xeroxed
copy of the manual for the 15, in case anyone is interested!)
Terri
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Date: Sun, 28 Apr 1996 11:27:40 -0700
Subject: 2 used machines
In the store where I'm now working [part time] there are two machines
1) A green Singer - Model 338
Has a Manual
Has 10 black, plastic cams
Foot control
No carrying case
Anyone interested before we put it out for sale?
2) A Dressmaker brand machine VERY, VERY CLEAN
It's a bullet shaped head, in carrying case.....Ser# 00147315
Has no manual...does have foot pedal. I cannot believe what great condition
this machine is...anyone interested before we put it out for sale?
-=Bobbie=-
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Date: 28 Apr 96 15:07:06 EDT
Subject: Contribution
True stories number nine
It was around two in the morning when the phone rang The caller was a great
friend from Pa who knowing my unconventional hours doesn't hesitate to call
even
when most are asleep.
We chatted sewing machines for around half an hour when she suddenly changed
tack and announced that a police car had arrived at the front drive.
Now, this friend's nearest neighbour lives some miles distant and the car was
obviously targeted at their address. She left her husband to deal with the law
and we chatted on. A couple of minutes later another police car turned up and
he
husband shouted up the stairs for her to come to the door.
We terminated the call with me saying I'd get the next plane and post bail if
necessary.
It was all quite simple really. The code for international calls from the USA
is
011. My fried dialed this but then decided she might have missdialed and hung
up and started again. She had miss-dialed. Using an old-fashioned rotary dial
(all my friends are like this) she had failed to drag the dial around all the
way for the first digit. Instead of a zero she got a nine and thus dialed
911.
The emergency services noted the attempted call and then when they traced the
number and found it engaged thought that the phone might have been ripped out
of
the wall by a burglar, drunken husband or worse.
The police went into action and surrounded the house. My fiend's husband had to
display her, in one piece and not bleeding before they accepted that the whole
deal had been a mistake.
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Date: 28 Apr 96 15:07:17 EDT
Subject: Contribution
To Stuart
I guess I'm well behind the times when it comes to free-arm FW 222 prices.
Well, there's one sitting here in London at 550 pounds sterling -- that's about
$900. It looks an 8 or 9 condition thru the window. Not sure what comes with
it
but if anyone is interested I'll go look.
Graham F
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Date: Sun, 28 Apr 1996 16:34:04 -0700
Subject: old machine story
A man came into the shop Friday and put an old ugly green Elna on the
table, I figured he wanted it serviced. Nope he wanted to sell it, for
$10.00!!!! I now have an old, ugly green, 42 year old Elna to display in
the shop. We are Elna dealers so thats why he brought it to us. Jim is
going to service it and it should be humming along this week.
We had a 128 Singer? in the shop this week also. In a table with a
knee lift for the presser foot and you stepped on the treadle for power.
Beautiful machine, probably rated a 7 on Grahams scale.
Debbie
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Date: Sun, 28 Apr 1996 17:45:21 -0400
Subject: Old Singer
I need information and advice concerning an old Singer Sewing Machine that
a friend inherited and would like to sell. It is a No. 27 Vibrating
shuttle No. 2 with manual and a total of nine long skinny bobbins. Bullet
shuttle that goes back and forth. This is electric in working condition
and has a lot of gold all over. The gold looks sort of Egyption with a
head of a man with a wing etc. It has Singer written out on both sides and
on top.
The machine is sitting in a case without a top. They do not know what
happened to the top of the case. It has a foot control. If this machine
of any value? In reading the digests I have not found any references to
this particular machine. It's birth year is 1919. The gold is all there
the black paint is worn. It is quite heavy. Definitely not a FW.
I have 2 FW's a 37 and a 45 with table. (not for sale)
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Date: Sun, 28 Apr 1996 18:37:51 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: more stuff
To Glenn W: I really apologize for going blank on your name
yesterday. Would you consider re-posting your address to the Digest
again? I'd like to keep it for future reference, and there seems to be a
lot of chatter about keys again.
I went to a large area antique show today. Came home with two
screwdrivers (large Simanco and smaller unnumbered), and a lead on one of
the shuttle/bobbin display cases (I have to wait a month and see if the
guy really brings it next time). Apparently I missed most of the FWs.
This show runs monthly in the central Ohio area ("Scott's Antique Mall"),
and they usually have it in one of the larger buildings at the Ohio
Expositions Center (i.e., the State Fairgrounds). For some reason this
month they had to split it between two buildings, and I never tot to the
second building. Anyway, all the black FWs were gone by the time I got there.
HOWEVER, for those of you who are looking for a TAN FW to complete your
collection: A dealer there had a tan 221J FW, serial #JE157150 which I
think puts it around 1960. Tan and creme case in good condition. Cord
and 4 or 5 bobbins, but no attachments. I would rate it about 7 on
Graham's scale. Some of the tan paint has rubbed off on the front edge of
the base. Her asking price is $425.00, and I think that's firm. She did
NOT want to be posted on the net, for whatever reason. Anyone who's
interested in this machine can e-mail me privately, with your name,
address, and phone number. I will forward it on to this woman, who will
get in touch with you. BTW, this is pure information only, I am not
getting a cut of any of this.
Yes, the Necchi has stopped snickering, but only because she knows she's
the one who gets to quilt the quilt. I assume she figures that she who
sitches last, stitches best.
I also saw another Model 128 in a bentwood case, this one WITH its knee
lever. She came down from $89.95 to $60.00, but I passed. This machine
is basically the same as one I already have, and it's not as ornate as
mine. Also, I need to save my pennies for the above-mentioned
shuttle/needle case. But I must admit that I was sorely tempted. Joyce,
you wrote last month about the take-me-home-and-fix-me-up syndrome. I'll
tell you, today I came close.
If anyone out there is salivating for a Model 128, let me know. I'll look
for her next month.
Also say a Betsy Ross with case, in what looked to me like fair condition,
for $225.00.
Lydia
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Date: Mon, 29 Apr 1996 01:45:22 -0400
Subject: first ever oval oil can!!!
I went to visit a lady who called with a Featherweight model 222 which was
almost never used. Of course I couldn't contain myself as I had never ever
seen a rea l live 222! So went to her home and pulled the machine out of
the case - a model 221! What a disappointment! And though the gold was
intact, someone had scratched a long number, like a license number, into the
body of the machine as it faces you! So crude. Really destroyed the
machine. I passed on it. I did check through all the goodies and held in
my hand my first ever oval oil can! I wanted so desperately to own it, but
felt the dear oil can would be lonely after living all those years in that
black box with the other accessories, so I left empty handed
However, the weekend was not a bust! I visited a small town with about 8
antique shops all within shouting distance from each other. Asked at each if
they had any sewing machines. Finally at one Joe said, no. Only a little
Singer in a small black box. But it is in the front of the truck outside
and I don't know if I can get to it. I nonchalantly said, I'll wait. Turns
out that they had 'cleaned' out a house the day before and were just
starting to unload the stuff. And the shop is so tiny and already was so
jammed! He brought the case in and we examined it together and made a deal.
It is a beauty. Can't wait to give her a spin!
Almost forgot, one of the shops was chuck full of stuff, mostly glassware.
On the bottom shelf in one aisle were 4 toy sewing machines sitting side by
side. I picked up each and put each quickly down. They were all in sad
shape. As I recall they were each about $55. I don't collect toys and was
not tempted to begin with those pitiful things.
It is one am, but I just had to check my email and send this note out to you
all! The weather at Cape Cod was typical Spring, warm with winds blowing
strong. The local flea market was a dud as all the merchandise that wasn't
nailed down was flying around. I will spend a good bit of time on the Cape
this summer, so let me know if you are in the area and want to get together
to do some searching around!
Millie
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Date: Sun, 28 Apr 1996 23:17:36 -0500
Subject: FW Tables
The reproduction FW tables are made by Andy Fields, 742 Shawnee Rd. Pomona,
KS 66076, phone 913 566-3788. Very nicely made and designed from original
Singer FW table Model 312. All wood, natural birch top, black enamel frame
and legs. Insert locks into top when machine is removed. Hinged legs fold
like a card table. Measures 31" x 31" x 27 1/2" high. Specify if for black
or colored model 221 machine. He also makes a very nice black wood
replacement case for FWs for $55. The table sold at Paducah for $198. The
table is a really nice addition to your FW and fun to use. Nice man,
excellent accessories.
I really like this group and took printouts to Paducah to show others. In
fact, I could hardly wait to get home and read my mail. Drove all day, read
all evening.
Carol A
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Date: Sun, 28 Apr 1996 22:22:07 -0500
Subject: Quarter Inch Foot for FW
Elizabeth, My friends tell me the Little Foot (trade name) does a good job
on the FW. I don't have the address but they advertise under that name in
the quilt magazines. Someone else might have the address. I also was told
yesterday in Paducah that there is an attachment foot with a rod through the
top and you can remove it and the foot is a perfect 1/4 inch. I just looked
and I don't have it and I don't know what the name of it is. Saw a Gary
Wacks at a booth in Paducah downtown who has a card: Collector of Antique
Sewing Machines Noted by Smithsonian Institution. He had a wonderful
collection. He told me the pink FW was a white that had faded through to
the undercoat? Anyone else heard that?
Carol A
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Subject: Attention 301 owners
Date: Sun, 28 Apr 1996 22:56:16 -0500
Sue M., Sheila, Al and others: I called Singer last Thursday to see
what they would say about the 301-301A question. The gal I talked to
seemed willing to help. She said that she really didn't have info about
the difference, but usually such letter designations indicated either
the plant of manufacture or a later version of a model. I commented my
301A was supposedly a 1951, even earlier than the manufacture period I
had heard beginning in 1953. She seemed interested in that point,
double-checked my SN, and confirmed the 5-29-51 dob. Then she said,
"Hmm... it looks like the Blue Book is incorrect (did she say
INCORRECT?) on that 1953-1959 manufacture." She explained that just
like a car blue book, Singer quotes the dates of manufacturing for a
given model from that book, even though it's NOT A SINGER PUBLICATION. I
was amazed that they don't just have their own in-house records to use.
Seems it would be more accurate. Anyway, she also confirmed that it was
made in Anderson, S.C., and said it was likely that the "A" stood for
Anderson. Mystery solved???
Proposal : Now any of you with 301s or 301As can test out this theory.
Graham once posted the key to serial number prefixes and said that
prefixes of NA or NB were manufactured at the Anderson plant. So all of
you with 301As should have NA or NB and the 301s should have different
ones, if that is in fact the difference. I would like to do a
mini-survey of 301s to confirm or refute this information (even if it
comes from a *helpful* person at Singer :)) I figure then we can lay
this to rest once and for all, or at least have a good answer for the
next person who asks. It will be short and simple, but so it doesn't get
lost in this longer post, I will post it separately today or tomorrow.
If I hear about ten or more machines, I'll post the results to the list.
If I get fewer than ten responses, I'll respond to the individual
parties privately. The more 301s we hear from, the more likely we are
to discover if this is the final word or not. Please note, this is not
intended to compete with or detract from the treadle-to-301 survey just
posted. Please read the disclaimer with the 301 mini-survey.
Check those prefixes!
Joy
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Subject: 301 and 301A Mini-Survey
Date: Sun, 28 Apr 1996 22:42:57 -0500
Disclaimer: As posted earlier, this mini-survey is not intended to
compete with or detract from the treadle-to-301 survey just posted. I
honestly had hoped to get this posted last Friday, but had a wild day,
never got online, and then went out of town for the weekend. Even
though I just saw the treadle to 301 survey when I got back, I decided
to post this anyway, since this is limited to determining the difference
between a 301 and a 301A, and especially if it is simply the plant of
manufacture. This is a small-scale and separate question, and
respondents should feel free to also respond to the treadle to 301
survey. Clear enough?
301 and 301A owners, please e-mail me with the following information:
MODEL #
SERIAL # (include letter prefix)20
DATE AND PLACE OF MANUFACTURE ACCORDING TO SINGER (try to get it if you
don't have it)
DOUBLE or SINGLE plug configuration
SHORT or LONG fold-down extension
CABINET,TABLE or CARRYING CASE
BLACK, TAN, or TWO-TONE color20
That's it. You can just list your answers in order given-I'll be able
to sort it out. I will take responses until May 10, 1996, then share
the results. If there are fewer than ten responses, I'll respond to the
interested parties privately. If there's ten or more, I'll put it on
the list. This is not scientific or anything, but if we get enough
responses, we should be able to see what model goes consistently with
what, and especially where the two models were manufactured.20
Thanks for your help!
Joy
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Date: 29 Apr 1996 11:17:09 +0000
Subject: RE: FW Fanatics 4/23/96
Dear Caryl: let me know how the sinus surgery works out; I'm supposed to
have it in a few months...yuk! But I've had a persistent cough for a long
time now (really nasty) and after a lot of tests, the consensus is
surgery...
Your collection sounds like it grew like mine...it might be crazy to some,
but it's such FUN...and just think of some of the really stupid things you
could waste money on and have nothhhhhhing to show for it...Have Fun,
Enjoy...She/He who dies with the most Sewing Machines Wins!
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Date: Mon, 29 Apr 1996 09:57:38 EDT
Subject: Info needed
Does anyone know anything about a Singer model 66-16? This is a cabinet model
that my husband spotted in a shop the other day with a reasonable (?) price.
If anyone has knowledge of this model to share I would appreciate it.
Many thanks
Carol K
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Date: Mon, 29 Apr 1996 09:57:29 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 4/28/96
Hi FWFs,
Just a quick note. I have a couple of questions. Graham: I have a
friend who bought a very old Singer at an estate sale. From all the
listings, I have been having trouble with the model. I have tried
Singer, but have been getting busy signals, although I'll keep trying.
The serial number is 11577161. It is a shuttle machine with gold work,
but not much of it. It is in a case, but not bentwood. The last serial
number on the throatplate is l865, but I know that doesn't necessarily
mean anything. I am quite sure the first #1 was not an L, which would
have placed it about 1901. Any ideas?
I found a griest zigzagger this weekend. It is a funny little thing. It
fits my featherweight and my 99K. Instead of cams, it has flat silver
round disks that fit on the side of the zigzagger. It is quite
a kick to work. The box is in real good shape and the attachments and
booklet are with it. If anyone wants it, it is $15 plus postage. The box
says style #1.
I also found a kenmore zigzagger. I didn't try it as I don't have a
machine it will fit. It looks like it would fit machines that have the
feet that slide on from the front with the flat shank. It looks like the
other griest attachments that don't fit the featherweight. Actually it
looks a lot like the griest zigzagger without the additional cam things.
It says it will edgestitch, thread braiding, shirring, etc. It is $10
plus postage. It has the instructions, but the small pasteboard box is
in awful shape.
I also have two buttonholers left. One is the old style with no cams,
but the adjustable side piece. It is $10 plus postage. I also have one
of the rocketeer ones (green) withthe manual for $10 also. Let me know
if you are interested.
I am still on the lookout for an old featherweight case, preferably
structurally sound, but doesn't need the black paper etc. Please e-mail
me if you have such an item.
By the way, I was reading the November archives and a person named Anne
had an article about the mousepads. I would really appreciate it if you
would e-mail me if you are still on this list. I have several friends
that would be interested. It would make great Xmas gifts.
Better go, using up too much space.
Betty
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Date: Mon, 29 Apr 1996 14:09:21 -0400
Subject: Brought home another one
Good Afternoon to all my fellow Fanatics,
Yesterday, I answered an ad in the paper about a Singer in a Cherry table for
$65. It was a nice day for a drive so I approached my family. My husband
just gave me that 'Another sewing machine? How many do you need?' look but
humored me and off we went into Southern Maryland.
Arrived at our destination and entered a dark house full of old cigarette
smoke that I knew would trigger my allergies. In the dimness, against the
wall was an old Singer in the most beautiful Cherry veneer cabinet. A little
drawer swivels out of the left side and on top were three pieces of wood,
hinged together, which covered the machine when folded. A very elegant
looking table. The woman plugged in the machine and showed me it ran. She
had never used it. She had only refinished the cabinet. Most of the gold
was on the machine and it looked alright. What I really loved was the
cabinet so I bought it.
I got no history on the machine as I had to limit my time exposed to the
smoke. After I got it home we took it out onto the deck to let it air a so I
could get a good look at it. All the chrome had a veneer of brown gunk on
it. The paint on the bed is dull and crackled. I went to work with
toothbrush, rags, and WD-40. Most of the brown gunk cleaned off well.
Today I called Singer. It's a 66 made May 22, 1928. I need a copy of the
manual. Can anyone on the list help me? It doesn't have a stich regulator,
just a large knob where a stitch regulator usually is. It also has the
unmarked tension knob.
The bobbin winder didn't budge until I used the WD-40 and let it sit. The
rubber ring on the winder is cracking. Does anyone know a good source for a
replacement?
I oiled it last night and you could almost hear it sucking the oil in. I
also took out the bobbin case and cleaned out a lot of gunk! I used the
manual that came with my almost pristine 99. Compared to the 66 my 99 (circa
1942) looks like it just came off of the factory assembly line.
Today I've been trying to get it to stitch. The bobbin appears to not be
hooking the thread coming from the needle. I changed needles to no avail.
Any one have a similar problem? Can I solve this? Now that I've cleaned
her up and she moves smoothly I'd like to try to save her.
Another question. What can I use to restore the shine to the paint? Most of
the gold is preserved with only a little roughness to it.
I hope someone can help! BTW I've decided the next time I go to look at a
machine I need to bring a flashlight, thread, and a piece of fabric to stitch
on!!!
-Helen
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Subject: RE: My find
Date: Mon, 29 Apr 1996 12:24:42 -0600
Hi! I went to Denver to visit my sister and see the Rockies beat the
Expos on Saturday - and mentioned that I was looking for a Singer table
for my FW. She said, well I think I have one in the garage, which our
Mother had given her - sure enough - and it's mine now! Shall I
refinish it or leave it alone? It's in pretty good shape, but the rust
colored stain is not my favorite color - Susie
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Date: 29 Apr 96 16:15:03 EDT
Subject: Contributions
True story 11
Did I tell you about the time I bought a sewing machine from a dead woman?
Well, that's almost true.
I'd called at a house deep in the French countryside to inspect a Peugeot
treadle from the 1870s and was met at the door by a young man in black who
showed me the machine in the hallway. We dickered price for a while and he
asked to to wait. He disappeared into the front room and returned moments later to say the price was ok.
He then asked me about a grandfather clock by the door, I agreed a price and
again he went through the front-room routine.
The next thing he asked was whether I bought furniture. I said yes and
followed him into that front room to inspect a set of chairs that were on offer.
There were about 20 people sitting around and, as I checked out the chairs, I
noticed that the guy who had answered the door was going to each sharing out
the money I had given him. I mentioned the price I was willing to pay for the
chairs ( a good bit less than he had suggested) and a vote was held, the bid accepted and again the money shared out.
It was only then that I noticed that one guest, an old lady sitting in a
rocking chair in the corner of the room, was not getting a share.
I guess it took a couple of minutes and a glass of the profered booze before I
realised where I was and just what was going on.
I was at a wake, the relatives, with no need for wills or lawyers were sharing
out the estate under the watchfull eye of the recently departed in the corner
rocking chair.
Graham F
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Date: Mon, 29 Apr 96 15:28:56 CDT
Subject: FW For Sale
Serial AM (1956), an 8 appearance, all gold and black fine, some clear-coat
marring near motor; good case; boxed accy's; sews like a 10, all cleaned,
oiled, lubed...$350 ppd. to USA-48.
Tom and Jessie
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Date: 29 Apr 96 16:15:20 EDT
Subject: Contribution
To Terri re models 15 and 66.
These are easy to tell apart. 15 has lever stitch adjustment and tension on the
side of the face plate ( spindle is in line with the length of the machine)
whilst the 66 has a screw-in thread adjuster and the tension knob in the FW
position.
To Viv re Model 27
No great value. I'm afraid. This was one of the most popular Singers ever made
-- production started around 1885 -- and there are probably still a few hundred
thousand out there.
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Date: Mon, 29 Apr 1996 16:16:20 -0500 (CDT)
Subject: Black Headed Sewing Machine
Hi all:
I have a "sewing yarn" to share...
The weekend before last, during my search for a machine for my friend's
daughter, I saw, and passed on a cabinet model "Commander" sewing machine.
It was priced at $30, had a "new" motor that was ugly silver, and the belt
was broken. The cabinet was 1960's laminate and was also unsightly. The
following weekend my daughter's pre-school was to hold their bi-annual
garage sale, and on Monday my friend was sorting donations and called me to
tell me there was a black headed sewing machine, and I should come and get
it. I was unpleasantly surprised when the machine turned out the be the
ugly Commander from the previous weekend. I suggested they ask $20.00 for it.
On Tuesday I was helping with priceing and sorting and happened to
notice someone had taped over my pricetag with one that read "very old:
$100.00". I talked with the person in charge, explained that I didn't think
the machine would sell for that etc.etc., she agreed, and we put the price
back to $20.00. On Thursday I was working again and overheard some ladies
saying "Oh look, someone changed the price, my mother sold her Singer for
$150.00, that machine should be at least $100, it's an ANTIQUE! I chose to
remain silent, and noticed on Saturday morning that it had been marked back
to $20.00. I overheard several people ask during the course of the morning
"I heard you have a black headed sewing machine for sale." I began to think
I'd made a mistake in pricing it so low. I checked at noon and it was still
there. Rumor has it we ended up donating it to the mission.
-Phyllis
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Date: Mon, 29 Apr 1996 19:07:18 -0400
Subject: hardware
I have a Singer bentwood case for my 1950 model 128. The lock was pryed open
and the lock hardware needs replacement. Does anyone have a lock that would
work. The base hardware measures about 2 5/16. The lock which mounts to the
top of the case measures 2 14/16. I also would need a key. Thank you.
I saw a beautiful pack of sewing needles at an antique store. They were
Martha Washington needles with ornate decoration and Victorian lettering.
The man was selling them for $23 which I thought was outrageous. He said
they were probably from 1850-60. Does anyone know better? --Mari
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Date: Mon, 29 Apr 1996 21:32:48 -0400
Subject: Featherweight Case Keys
To Mari &Lydia ??? (Oh I forgot her name already) Pratt,
Just kidding! I wanted to make everyone aware that I have the FW case keys
which fit about 95% of the Singer FW American made cases. These keys are
shipped in the small penny envelope just like Singer enclosed in each FW case
they sold. I sell them for $3 each or 2/$5. You can place your order by
sending me a check for the amount of keys you wish to purchase and I'll pay
the postage. My address is:
Glenn Williams
1111 N. Riverhills Drive
Temple Terrace, Florida 33617-4215
In addition, I can furnish the exact locks used on the cases....unfortunely
not the hasp. I've sold out of the hasps and no more are available except an
alternative one which has a flat top as oppose to the rounded top of most
cases. These flat top hasps are nickel plated, look good, fit the locks
perfectly and line up with the existing rivet holes. I sell the alternative
hasp for $5 each + 60 cents for 2 rivets. The hasp is the part which springs
up when you unlock your case and usually has a broken spring. If you can
remove your hasp, I can replace the broken spring if you mail it to me. I'll
install a new spring and furnish the new split end rivets for $6.50 (shipping
included).
I have new hinges which are similiar in style but only a little smaller in
size, but line up with the existing holes. I have Singer bobbins 4/card,
original belts, lamps, silicone button for the face plate screw which gets
hit everytime you fold-up the bed extension to place machine in case. I have
the tube of white (non-parafin) oil with the long brass spout to get to the
hard to reach areas, the original receptacle on the FW for where the foot
controller cord attaches, AC cords for the machine &foot controller, new
rubber feet for the bottom of machine in order to stop the scratching or
marring of the tables, and many more hard to find items for the FW's. Let me
know of your needs and I'll probably be able to assist you. Thanks! Glenn
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Date: Mon, 29 Apr 1996 23:51:44, -0600
Subject: Paducah
Hi All,
We had a good time in Paducah - show seemed much better than last year.
Hit the antique shops but didn't find much of great interest. Singer
treadle belt in its green box which looks new (part number is 25134) and is
much better quality than what we can buy today, instruction books for 99-13
and 127/128.
Was looking through a book called "Sewing Tips and Trade Secrets" by
Tauton Press published in 1996 and it shows how to make a pin cushion that
you can attach to the arm of your machine with a velcro strap so I guess
that concept isnot yet dead. Wonder how a 1+ or a 1630 or a Memory Craft
9000 will look all marked up with pin scratches. Perhaps it won't matter
much since you can hardly get one out of its box before it's obsolete and
none of them will be running 50 years from now.
Had the chance to talk to Andy Fields a little. He is a very nice man
and does real quality work. He makes those Featherweight card tables 18 at
a time and with all the drying time for glue and finishes, that is about
all he can make in a month. He's a perfectionist and won't hire anyone to
help him. By Sat. afternoon there was a four month wait to get one but
that didn't seem to be stopping people. He also makes Featherweight cases
from the wood left over from the tables. You can only get two tables from
a 4 ft by 8 ft sheet of that high-quality plywood he uses so there's a lot
of waste and the cases help keep the cost of the tables down. I bought one
and it's very well made, especially for $55.00. I talked to him about
making a couple of 301 cases for me since the original cases are so poorly
constructed and he agreed but it will be at least a year before I see one
of them. I think it will be worth the wait.
There were Featherweights all over the place, several dealers had
brought 8 or 10 and they were very pricy - mostly $450.00 to $525.00. I
don't think too many were sold because the dealers seemed to still have
most of them left Sun. afternoon. Andy Fields had 8 and I think he was the
only one who was sold out by Sun noon. He was a little higher than most
dealers but he had really worked them over and it was obvious he knew what
he was doing. Some of the dealers machines acted as if they had come
straight from an estate sale with nothing more than a little oiling.
Perhaps people are getting a little smarter and will pay for a really good
machine.
There were also a lot of toy machines including a Singer Model 24 with a
little electric motor - I had never seen one before and wanted it but not
for $300.00. There appeared to be only an on/off switch and no speed
controller.
Getting home was fun - hard rain and an hour delay due to an accident.
When we finally did get home there was no electricity and 2" of water in
the basement.
Time to go back to the basement I guess.
Al
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Date: Mon, 29 Apr 1996 22:19:16 -0500
Subject: Query
I really enjoy this list and appreciate Sue's hard work. Hope your basement
is drier by the minute. How do you know what the different models are,
such as the 301? Is there a book? What is the Sincere book and where can I
see one? I have to admit that after two weeks of reading FWF I am hooked
and intend on looking this weekend at garage sales and flea markets.
I have my mother's Singer AJ510509, Cat.#BA 3-8, SS Aug52-17-1. Do I call
Singer and ask them what model this is and if they have an available manual?
She also had an AF518017. Can anyone give me some guidance on finding out
more of these two machines? And how do you recognize a 201? Sorry to be
so dim but guess I have to start somewhere. Thanks.
Carol A
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Subject: Re:FW Fanatics 4/25/96
Date: Mon, 29 Apr 96 22:36:43 PDT
Can anyone tell me if there is an evenfeed or walking foot that will work
on a FW? I have one for a low shank machine, but it was a dismal failure
on my FW.
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Subject: Re:FW Fanatics 4/25/96
Date: Mon, 29 Apr 96 22:39:09 PDT
Does anyone happen to know where I may find a knee lever for my 99-13? I
mean the knee lever for the bentwood case, and it is the type with the
smaller diameter. the machine is from 1939 if that helps.
Thanks
talkatyasoon! Fran
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Subject: Re:FW Fanatics 4/22/96 Part 2 of 2
Date: Mon, 29 Apr 96 23:40:34 PDT
Gene B....
I heard a rumour that you have some bentwood case keys available for sale.
Is this true? Please tell me how to purchase them from you!
thanks!!
talkatyasoon! Fran
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Date: Tue, 30 Apr 1996 09:36:52 -0400
Subject: white fw
Hi everyone,
I got really lucky yesterday, I located an origional manual for my
new model 15.I'd never tried to but a manual before and didn't realize how
expensive they were. Singer told me to call their service center in N.J. so
I did. They wanted $19.90 for it, comming to $26.95 for shipping etc.Is
this the norm?
I didn't go for that and instead tried my repair people who had
one also. I went there to chat and decided to pick their brains for awhile.
It seems they have a basement full of machines so anyone looking for
origional parts might want to try them if having no luck in their area.
When I mentioned I'd post them here if they wanted to do mail order they
were really excited.They have other origional manuals for other models too.
I do use them for all my repairs that are beyond me, and they are very
reasonable.Nice to deal with also. When I mentioned I'd never see a white
fw she said she had one in for repair and showed it to me.It was probably a
9 on the scale and really nice in its green and tan box. Pays to open your
mouth sometimes.They have a waiting list for fws, they price them at
$350.00and up.
If you decide to call mention you saw them here cause they just
about gave me the manual, I guess to return the favor.They are
Terri and Anthony Marotta 718-667-7424
Staten Island Sewing Center
1692 Richmond Rd.
S.I.N.Y. 10306
I'd sure love to get a peek in that basement!Maybe I'll just outright ask.
Maggie
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Date: Tue, 30 Apr 1996 09:58:41 -0400
Subject: Re:Old Machine Story
Hey don't ignore that ole elna.....My mom has a 1957 Green Beast that was top
of the line once.....Zillions of cams for all kinds of stitches. She has had
the motor replaced twice and re-upolstered a Ford Van with it.....
Recently she "sprung" for a new elnita and hates it but she's afraid the old
elna is on it's last legs (or motor :0). I took her out machine shopping on
spring break and she has now layawayed a "new" Bernina 830. I hope to get my
sisters to gang up with me and buy out her ticket so we can give it to her
for Mother's Day.
It seems like most of those old machines were worth their weight in gold....
Pam
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Date: Tue, 30 Apr 1996 11:35:21 -0400
Subject: Skipped Stitches!
Hi, fellow fanatics:
I haven't posted much lately, but now that my exams are over I have lots
more time to play with my Singer 128. I hope that someone out there has
had a problem similar to mine and can help me out. I photocopied a bit
of the Sincere's manual, but it hasn't been much help.
My machine is skipping stitches. I notice that when the needle bar goes
down, and the needle enters the fabric, the needle does a bit of a "hop".
It goes into the fabric, then comes back up a bit (1/4 inch or so) and then
goes back down before coming straight back up again. Is this what is causing
the skipped stitches? What adjustment do I need to make? I'd really like to
be able to fix this myself, rather than taking it to a repair service.
Dawn (hoping that I will find a FW, now that garage sale season
has begun)
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Date: Tue, 30 Apr 1996 13:50:19 -0500
Subject: Read carfully
I do not know exactly where your cut off point is so am posting this
seperately. I want to be sure you see this for possible edit. I am a
quilt dealer and carry FW's for resale. Currently out of stock. I know
for shame on me but they are hard to find. Anyway..... Do you know what
the difference between an FW and a jogger? Notice that gender of jogger is
not mentioned but was told to me as a female by a female. The difference
is that the FW has only one bobbin. This was at the AQS in Paducah. I
think it is cute and non offensive but then everyone has their own
feelings. I will leave it up to your discression.
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Date: Tue, 30 Apr 1996 13:50:23 -0500
Subject: Quilt Show in Springfield, Massachusetts
Come to a quilt show and sale being held at the Springfield, Massachusetts
Convention Center May 12-14, 1996. Vendors from all over such as me. I'm
from Illinois and have midwest prices. I never know what will be for sale
in other booths but there will be gooodies for Featherweight Fanatics along
with quilt lovers. I started buying FW's for resale about 1989 because of
the interest that quilters had in the machines. As time has moved along
the interest has grown. When I started selling FW's it was simply to
satisfy the demands of my customers. After using a FW myself I understood
why the popularity. They are really great.
If anyone comes to the show stop and say hi. We can always tell war
stories of acquiring these little gems.
Pat
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Date: Tue, 30 Apr 1996 13:53:45 -0800
Subject: WTB White Featherweight
I would like to buy a white Featherweight in good condition. Please e-mail
direct to me a description and price information.
Thanks,
Ellene
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Date: Tue, 30 Apr 1996 16:52:39 -0400
Subject: More details on FW's for sale
I am offering the following FW's for sale. All machines fully operational,
cleaned, oiled, polished, etc. Shipping (packing, insurance) runs according
to state. Figure $27 to $35 for most contiguous states.
AE212602 7/13/36. Case w/top tray; manual fair and front cover missing; 5
bobbins, square oil can; 1 screwdriver; 9 attachments. Case condition good;
handle replaced. Machine very good. Scrolled face plate. Rating: 8. $450
plus shipping.
AF875757 Born 4/1/41. Has manual, key, 8 attachments in box, 4 bobbins, 1
screwdriver, lube tube, black felt circle. Case condition very good, but top
shelf missing, handle worn. Machine condition very good; Scrolled face
plate. Bobbin winder, hooded light, numeric dial for tension, numeric lever
for stitch length, foot control, wiring very good. Condition of machine is
very good, except for some scratches starting at gold in center of bed
running to the back about 3 to 4 inches. Stitches nicely. Rating: 7. $450
plus shipping.
AL901358 1/17/55. Has case w/side tray; blue manual; 5 bobbins, Singer oil
in plastic tube; black felt circle; 2 screwdrivers; 9 attachments w/box.
Case condition good; machine very good except gold trim shows wear.
Striated face plate. Rating: 7. $400 plus shipping.
AM174221 6/10/55. Case w/side tray; blue manual fair; 5 bobbins, square oil
can; lube tube; screwdriver; 8 attachments. Case condition good; machine
excellent. Striated face plate. Rating: 9. $450 plus shipping.
AM393478 2/27/56. Case w/side tray; excellent manual; 6 bobbins, lube tube;
small oval oil can; 2 screwdrivers; 8 attachments, gold brush. Case
condition very good; machine excellent. Striated face plate. Has original
paper w/serial no. Rating: 9. $550 plus shipping.
AM693805 1/29/57 Case has side shelf and lid foot control holder. Has blue
manual, key, 9 attachments, bobbins. Condition of case is excellent.
Condition of machine is very good, with only one wear mark in gold paint.
Striated face plate. Rating: 8. $475 plus shipping.
Millie M
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Date: Tue, 30 Apr 1996 13:42:27 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Re: FW's For Sale
Here is the new list of featherweights.
AE BD 11-5-36 This machine is in very good condition, has the scrolled
faceplate, copy manual, no attachments, case needs one latch fixed. $395.
AE BD 10-10-38 Mint condition scrolledface machine, copy manual,
attachments, case, $525.
AG Case, Manual, some attachments, even wear $375.
AJ Case, Manual, attachments, even wear $375.
AL Same as above $450.
AM Great condtion, case is mint, manual, attachments. $510.
An Assortment of AJ's and AL's for $450. Thirty for shipping,
handling, tracking and insurance for the machine. And if you have a
particular machine that you are interested in I can put you on a request
list. Zsux
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Date: 30 Apr 96 17:55:59 EDT
Subject: Contribution
True story 12
The pawn shop was about the only building standing in the vast demolition site
to the north of Dublin. The area was being cleared in a new housing project and
I'd been called in to help the owner of the shop clear out his final goods
before the bulldozers moved in.
First thing I saw when I got in the door was a magnificient horn phonograph --
minus the horn. It was a fantastic piece of furniture, floor standing and in
rich red mahogony which, unlike in America, is more highly regarded in Europe
than oak.
I obviously asked about the machine and, having no horn it was cheap. It went
to
the top of a list which over the next two hours grew and grew as the owner dug
items from his back room. Many still had pledge tickets from the 1920s and his
price structure seemed to contain a formula depending on the original cash he
had allowed, multiplied by just how many of his seven cats were on the stained
marble counter at the time.
To an antique dealer like me this was a trip to heaven. Just about everything I
asked for was met with a "Just a moment, sor" and a trip to the back room . He
'd return, blowing dust and cobwebs from the very item I'd mentioned with a
"Was
this what you had in mind, sor?"
The counter began to fill with my purchases. Music boxes, microscopes,
typewriters, many sewing machines from the 1880s, early woodworking tools,
cameras, all left when money was tight in the 1920s and never redeemed.
At last we were through. I'd never got to see in the back room but I'd asked
about everything I could think of.
Maggie and I loaded the lot onto the truck we had hired. As we set the last
item, that magnificient phonograph, carefully aboard it suddenly occured to me
that there was one more question I could ask.
I wandered back in and said: I don't suppose you've got any phonograph horns?"
He disappeaed into that Aladin's cave of a back room again and returned with a
wonderful phonograph horn, craftsman made in a deep rich, red mahogony. He said
: "Just the one, sor, but it's cheap as there is no phonograph to go with it."
Maggie and I didn't say I word about it all the way home. Back in London we
unloaded the truck took the phonograph up to her apartment and re-united it,
after half a century, with its horn.
Note from GF. If some of these little recollections are a bit too general for a
sewing-machine listing please let me know.
Graham F
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Date: Tue, 30 Apr 1996 03:10:47 -0700
Subject: Old machines
I was over at my youngest daughter's house yesterday. She had been living
in England for 3 years and is still getting her stuff unpacked.We've always
had antiques around our house, so she got the bug before she ever went to
England.
She had 2 sewing machines in cases sitting on her diningroom floor. My eyes
popped out of my head! The cases were beautiful. One was a Singer with a
bent wood top. I've forgotten the name of the other, since it wasn't
familiar to me.
When I took the top off the Singer, I found a beautiful hand crank machine
with all the gold still on it. there was piece of cloth under the needle
with a row of stitching on it. To show it was still working, I suppose.
Great stitching.
The other machine case had wood inlaid in a pattern on the top of it. It
was very beautiful. I wasn't able to get the top off the machine, and I was
very disappointed. Daughter said that it has to be pried off. It appears
to be locked and she doesn't have a key. She also said she has seen the
machine and it is prettier than the Singer.
I didn't have time to stay any longer as we were just dropping off the
lawnmower for her to use and were on the way over to my cousins for dinner.
She isn't home today, or I would have her give me the serial numbers and the
name of the other machine.
This is the best part.....She paid 5 pounds for each machine. that is
somewhere around $7.00 each.
When I get more details, I'll post them.
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Date: Tue, 30 Apr 1996 15:13:14 -0700
Subject: GRAND OPENING
(In a way this announcement is definately related to FWFanatics - Every Doll
that I have designed, now over 1400 have all been sewn on one of my (3) 221
Machines and I would have it no other way)
* * * * ANNOUNCEMENT * * * *
The Official GRAND OPENING of Gail's Doll House will start at 12:00 a.m.
(tomorrow) May 1, 1996 at http://www.netport.com/pennyluv/
The 221's have all been put away for the day and now I will relax and visit
with all of my friends. Coffee, Tea and Cookies will be served all day, and
please feel free to just browse around and join everyone in the "Happy
Celebration Day"
Gail's Doll House has become extremely long and detailed, so many of my
featured guests, artists and favorite topics will not be available for
viewing at the Grand Opening. PLEASE bookmark this site and stop by the
Doll House for a regular visit.
I want to personally thank all of my many, many wonderful Doll, Bear and
Sewing friends for all of your "support" and "overwhelming" requests for my
LUVable LUV Dolls.
Please enjoy your visit into The Doll House and drop by from time to time
and meet many of my "very special friends" - Don't forget to also check out
the SUMMER and WINTER HOUSE.
"What the world needs now is LUV sweet LUV"
NOW OPEN....Gail's DOLL HOUSE
http://www.netport.com/pennyluv/
Gail - The Doll Lady
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Date: Tue, 30 Apr 1996 18:30:06 -0700
Subject: Featherweight Repair
Excuse me for butting in, but I've got a friend with a 1947 Featherweight
with a loose socket for the light fixture. She tried to have it repaired
locally and the repairman said there was nothing he could do. It's a
nice machine except that the light doesn't always work. Has anyone else
had this problem and had it repaired? I would be pleased to find out.
Kathie (A Bernina fan, but with a soft place in my heart for
featherweights too!)
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Date: Tue, 30 Apr 96 23:53:14 -0500 (CDT)
Subject: Singer 24
Hi ya'll!!!! I bought a Singer24 a couple of weeks ago. Called Singer and
they said it was made 1907 and that they would send me a copy of the manual.
They sent me a copy of the manual and listed is 17 different model 24. Each
one has a number after it. But, the manual doesn't tell me exactly which
one I have. Mine is a single thread chain stitch. I not sure but it seems
if maybe these machine were used for commercial use.Depending on the number
after the 24 they were used for light weight fabric to making caps, lining
for ladies hats, draperies, parasols and lining for caskets. You also order
the needles by the 100's from the Singer company. Regulating the tenision
also depended on the number after the 24. The machine itself is about 6 by
11 and little gold and red flowers with gold leaves and vines. The cabinet
has 6 drawers and is excellent shape, not a mark on it. The machine is
maybe a 6. I need to buy a belt for the treadle, if anyone knows where I
could fine one. Does anyone know anything more about this machine. Maybe
Graham !!! Thanks Sheila
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Date: Wed, 1 May 1996 00:32:58 -0600
Subject: FW feedogs cover
I enjoy this list so much and look forward to my 'fix' each day.
I have been watching for info on a little cover plate that came with an EH
black FW because I have never seen this little think before. The original
wrapping (a small clear paper bag, folded around the plate), had never been
opened. The plate is about 1-1/8 x 3/4" and has little hooks to hold it in
the opening to cover the feedogs. Are all the FW's supposed to have these
little things?
Kathy
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Date: Wed, 1 May 1996 02:42:14 -0400
Subject: FW Replicas
I'm curious - what do any of you know about the FW replicas that Singer is
marketing. I saw an advertisment for them for under $100.00. Ad says
regularly priced at $198.00. I've never seen one. Are they plastic? Guess
I'll have to go look at one sometime. I saw a similar replica in a Texas -
can't remember the name but I was told from the locals there that they were
junk. Also heard Sams Club sold a FW version and there were so many
complaints they took it off the market.
Also, have any of you ever heard of a Singer Starlet? I have one of those
machines. I think it was made in the mid 70's. Its a cute little portable
that I purchased when I lived in Germany. One time on a trip back to the US
I went to the Singer distributor here in So. CA for a manual in English and I
was told it was a Christmas Promotional machine. There are lots of them in
Europe and 10 years ago they were going for around $200.00 second hand.
Never seen one in the US. Graham do you know anything about them?
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Date: Wed, 1 May 1996 07:46:48 +0000
Subject: This and That
Hi All,
Just a few musings on recent posts.
Millie: How do you find all this stuff? It is amazing!
Carol: I don't have a FW yet, but knowing it is possible to get a
case sure makes the search a bit easier. Thanks for posting the info.
Joy:I'll try to get to your mini survey today.
Helen: The best thing I have found to shine the paint is a thin coat
of machine oil right on the surface. Let it set for a day or two and
wipe off the excess.
Susie: I dream that my relatives not only have these things but that
I will actually find out they have them! Congrats on a great find.
Graham: Your stories are a riot. Ever consider a book? My DH gets a
great kick out of them too.
Phyllis: Another great story. I just saw the sorriest looking 66 for
$125. People think old is valuable regardless of the condition.
Mari: My dad picked up an old machine in a bentwood case but said the case
was totally trashed. E-mail me in a month and I'll let you know if it
has locks worth saving.
Now for my litle story. Saturday morning I went to an estate sale.
They were giving numbers, I was a pitiful 68 but I stuck it out
because I knew they had sewing machines. I waited and waited
and waited. Finally my girls and I left, went to a few other sales
and came back. It was getting close to my turn! Except...that I had
lost the number in my pocket at one of the other sales...accckkkkk!
Couldn't get in. Went back at 6:00 that evening. No longer taking
numbers, we go in and I ask about machines. Oh yes there was one in
a small case in the bedroom but it is probably gone now. I look
anyway and there she was, the ugliest green portable Elna in a little
metal case that I ever saw. I swore I would never go to another
estate sale again. There is one listed in the paper
today....hmmmm....
Have a great day, Katy
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Date: Wed, 1 May 1996 06:14:23 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 4/30/96
Gail-Thanks for the Doll House Grand Opening Site, have wanted to do
something similiar since I sew the clothes for the Annette Himsteadt and
18" dolls. The FW is great for sewing doll clothes and so portable so
you can take it with you if your going on vacation and just want to sew.
I will visit your sight and see what it's all about.
Graham-I have to laugh at some of your stories they are so funny. I
really like the one about not one lost on the museum trip. Also find all
the information that you proffer is just amazing and a real source of
knowledge. Haven't seen to much interesting except a Wilcox and Gibbs at
Knotts Berry Farm in one of thier repo cabins. I have a real passion for
the machine with xint gold grapes still present. Thanks for all your
great stories and information. Zsuxxa
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Date: Wed, 1 May 1996 05:23:48 -0800
Subject: hand crank sewing machine
I am looking for an old hand-crank sewing machine,preferably a Singer but
will consider others. I've been looking for some time with no luck so far.
I even have a few of the members looking for me. It seems like I hear about
people finding them more often these days unfortunately I live in a town
that has no roads out so that possibility is null. So, if any of you should
run across one, please let me know.
thanks,
Linda
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Date: Wed, 01 May 1996 08:42:32 -0600
Subject: FW Fanatics 4/30/96 -Reply
Graham, I love your stories as I love all antiques. Keep
it up. And I love your style for telling the stories. The
British just have a way of telling stories. Wish we
could actually hear your voice with the British accent
telling the stories!
Darlene
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Date: Wed, 01 May 1996 08:45:00 -0600
Subject: Need Parts
HELP!! A friend just sent me a FW for my mom's birthday and the box was
damaged during shipping. The bobbin winder was broken and the thing that
holds the spool of thread was bent. I can probably straighten the thread
thing (after UPS inspects) but I very quickly need to order from somewhere
the bobbin winder. Would someone please e-mail me with a name, phone number
and/or e-mail address of anywhere I might could find this particular part.
Thanks soooooo much!
Judy H
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Date: Wed, 1 May 96 10:16:22 EDT
Subject: My latest purchase
Reading this list everyday has really given me the antique sewing machine
bug. My latest purchase is a Jones' Family C. S. hand crank portable with a
shuttle bobbin. It came in a lovely wooden case. It's an English machine, which
I'm guessing was made between 1901 and 1910 (it says "As Supplied to Her
Majesty Queen Alexandra"). It has very ornate gold decoration, and is in
really good shape - a 7 on the GF scale. I cleaned it up with WD-40, and
figured out how to get it working; it sews great. Does anyone have any more
information on this machine? I'd like to get a copy of the instruction
booklet if possible. The serial number is 93353. I bought it from a man
with a barn full of antiques and paid $90.
Graham - Don't even think of depriving us of your true stories.
They're really wonderful. Please don't make us beg for more. We missed
you while you were away at the ISMACS convention. Welcome back.
Betsy S
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Date: Tue, 30 Apr 1996 22:55:41 -0600
Subject: Get Well Present- a FW!!!!
Well, troops, it finally happened. DH has been cruising the garage sales
and auctions- I recently posted the "collection" that has started all by
itself. Well last night, DH was at an auction (he's into coin collecting
these days) and has heard the FW stories so often and read enough
posts that he felt prepared. Needless to say, he decided I needed a get
well present and..... (drum roll.......)
I am now the proud owner of a AL (DOB- 1/17/55) Featherweight- my
first! I would say it isn't quite an 8- it does have a few scratches but
otherwise is in an intact, GOOD condition case. Included many bobbins,
two attachments, original BLUE manual - intact but oil soaked. It is very
clean, looks well cared for and maintained. I must confess that I haven't
even plugged it in yet! My husband did not get a gangbuster of a
bargain, but he certainly didn't pay nearly as much as the market seems
to be based on what Ive seen on our list.
I had the splints out of my nose today and have had a pretty tiring day. In
case I ran into any problems with my FW, I want it to be early in the day
while I still have a bit of energy to deal with stuff. And I can't find my
FW book that I loaned to my husband to prep- him for the hunt. We'll see
in the morning.
asked about my surgery. I'm still
healing, so I can't tell you about the long term, but they did my nose
(deviated septum) and roto-rootered my sinuses to restore blocked
drainage. I really didn't think I would need the estimated 2 weeks off
work. Now I'm not sure that will be quite enough. Mostly I'm just
exhausted between the discomfortand the healing. Enough said. E-mail
me direct with specifics and I'll do my best to answer.
Does anyone have a list of Greist attachments and what machines they
fit? My husband keeps finding them, and now I have a featherweight to
play with as well. Please send to me if you have this.
Also, while the "new" FW appears to have been both maintained and
possibly recently serviced, if I need to oil it, what oil do I use? I still
haven't found my FW book which I think goes into all of this stuff, and
don't want to wait until I find or replace it!!
And of course, with a 1951 birthyear, at some point I would really like to
make a trade for a '51 FW........
Caryl
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Date: Wed, 1 May 1996 12:22:09 -0400
Subject: Old Singer #2 Vibrating Shuttle
Hi:
Up to this point in time I've only collected FW's and a few toy sewing
machines, however, with all the discussions on other antique machines, I'm
afraid I'm going to blame all of you for my latest purchase. ( Just kidding,
that was for the benefit of my DW who thinks I'm nuts about these machines -
although she does like the looks of this one.)
I called the singer company, gave the serial number 9247609 and they very
nicely told me that I had a #2 Vibrating Shuttle, born Dec. 3, 1889. It's
in a condition 5+ or 6. The domed cased needs cleaning; the outside decal
is rubbed off considerably and a small ribbed piece of oak needs
relaminating (repairable). The machine however (with a little bit of love
and cleaning) is spectacular in my humble opinion. The gold decoration is
bright; about 98% intact (there is a little bit rubbed off on the leading
edge); The hand crank mechanism works well, however the feed dogs do not
always move (something is out of adjustment or a part is missing somewhere,
I'm looking at it carefully).
The only sad note is that, although I inspected the machine and it seemed
complete, when I opened the case at home I noticed that the small ( 1/2" x
2" front throat plate had been stolen). I know it was there when I first
inspected the machine. Present at the auction was a notorious dealer who
often is present and frequently steals parts off machines. ( usually FW
bobbin cases). I got called away from the machine to where a toy machine
was being sold (I didn't buy it) and the part must have been taken during my
absence.
Is anyone (Graham ???) familiar with this machine? , some ideas on value (I
didn't pay much ... and it's oh so pretty), also anyone know where I can
find a source for the missing (stolen!) throat plate. Also, I usually use
armorall and WD-40 on my FW's -- are any of you aware of any problems using
these on this machine -- I don't want anything happening to the great gold
trim on my #2.
Cleaned up, this beauty will look great on the cover of a quilt magazine.
P.S. The Singer Co. offered to mail me a copy of the original manual, which
I thought was very good on their part. The several times I've called Singer
they have always been very helpful and easy to deal with -- and it only took
about 6 redials to get through to them!
Thanks for listening and hope to hear from you soon!!
Bob C
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Date: Wed, 1 May 1996 12:50:42 -0400
Subject: Bell Portable
Hi All,
Just lugged my 'new' 66 up to sewing machine repair man to work on the
timing. Thanks to everyone who dropped me a line to identify the possible
causes of the problem I've been having with it. I threaded it correctly to
no avail so it must be the timing.
Doug always has something neat at his shop to look at so I jump at a chance
to have to make a trip there. I saw the most interesting little machine
there. It's called a Bell Portable. It's a tiny (1/4 the size of a FW)
little tan machine that comes in it's own briefcase. Yes, I said a
briefcase! The case is lined with wooden partitions which are covered by a
piece of metal forming a little table top to work on. The manual was with
the machine but I had two little ones (kids, not machines) with me so I
didn't get the time I would like to peruse it. It came with a card on which
someone had written information about the manufacturer, a J. Moritt Corp.
It's a Model MB. Serial # 0003057.
Doug wants $100. The rubber covering on the cord has hardened and broken in
several places and the cord would need to be replaced. E-mail me if you
would like to contact Doug and I'll get the Phone # to you. His shop is
located in Crofton, Maryland.
I love this group! I have learned so much from all of your postings. The
only bad thing is reading it has turned me into a Fanatic! I already had a
FW but since signing onto this group I now own a pristine 99 (circa 1942),
and a 66 (circa 1928). DH thinks I've lost it! Why would anyone want to
have more than 2 sewing machines? I always point out how much my Kenmore
(circa 1979) makes me miserable. All these wonderful Singers are needed to
make up for it!
In June I expect to have an addition to my Singer family. My late
Grandmother's machine. I remember seeing it in 1974 when I was in High
school and visited her in Nebraska. All I remember was it was beautiful,
black with lovely paint work. My mom is travelling to her house and said
she's going to bring the cabinet and the machine back for me! I can't wait!
Hope all have a wonderful spring day.
-Helen
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Date: Wed, 1 May 1996 12:59:44 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: List of Singer Models?
Hi, I'm still feeling like a newbie but I am catching the FW bug, now if
I could just find one that is inexpensive (basically that someone sells
without knowing what it is!! I can't afford $300+ for another machine)
Does anyone have a list of the models that Singer has made? Including
the 201s, etc. I've got two machines in bentwood cases and one in a
sewing table (a 201 birthdate: 12/5/40). Or could someone point me to a
source for this info?
I've also been seeing postings about buttonhole and zigzag feet for the
FW, would these fit my 201s? (I'm assuming the two in the bentwood cases
are also 201s but I'll have to confirm that when I get home or I get a
hold of Singer...) I would be very interested in either or both of these
feet if they would work! I just finished sewing a dress on my singer and
the zigzag and buttonhole would have been very handy!
Fran: on the knee bar, you have to be careful, they are all different!!
(or at least some of them are!) That's how I aquired my second kneebar
singer! The first one had no kneebar and then I saw one not a week later
(for like $10! It sews beautifully!) and I bought it thinking the kneebar
would work...WRONG! The one with a missing kneebar, when you look into
the hole looks like this: (well, aproximately, only so much you can do
with ascii art!)
---
|o|
---
The other one is just a straight verticle slot, so I am also looking for
a kneebar, if anyone has any leads!
Thanks for any help!!
Sheri
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Date: Wed, 1 May 1996 11:55:38 -0600
Subject:
To Graham,
Please keep the true stories coming. I love, love, love them! They
brighten my day, and I really look forward to them.
To Dick D ,
The other day you asked what a Centennial FW looked like. I own a
Centennial (I feel very lucky), and the only difference I can see is that
there is no model number printed on the machine and the medallion(?) or
plate on the front of the machine is blue and gold with the words around the
outside in the blue part "A Century of Sewing Service" on the top and "1851
- 1951" on the bottom. In the center in the gold part is "The Singer Manfg.
Co." The striated plate in the front is the same as is the gold paint on the
bed that all the later models have. Hope this helps.
Mary Sue
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Date: 01 May 96 14:17:18 EDT
Subject: Manuals...
*****************************************************************************
* Available Singer Manuals *
* Model 221 Service Manual, includes parts charts $8 *
* Model 27, 28, 127, 128 Service Manual, w/ parts charts $8 *
* Model 301 Adjuster's Manual, w/ parts charts $8 *
* Series 15- Service Manual w/ parts charts $8 *
* Model 201 - 1200 Service Manual w/ parts charts $8 *
* Series 66, 99, &185 Service Manual w/ parts charts $6 *
* Add $1 for SH for 1st manual, $0.50 each addl' manual *
* Chris @ Stepping Stones Quilts, PO Box 21811, St. Simons Is., GA 31522 *
* We carry parts for these machines... *
******************************************************************************
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Subject: Lubricant
So far, the only (usable, new, fluid) lubricant I have found is the teeny
white Singer tube that squirts a line of lubricant about the size of two
needles. When I was cleaning and oiling my 201, I noticed the tubes for
lubricant were considerably larger than the FW's (natually) little ones. In
fact they were large enough for me to find sqeezing the blasted little teeny
tube into the chamber a real pain (after removing the gunk). Not to mention
the tube has so little lubricant and I have so-o-o many machines and like to
keep up on the maintenance. I haven't seen anyone else complaining about
this, so perhaps I'm approaching this from an improper angle, as regards the
correct amount of lubricant?
Millie: re: oval can; I have one at least...I'll have to check. It's not
real big, but it is oval.
Does anyone have the Sincere book for sale or a copy or a way to get one? I
haven't been able to come up with anything so far, and I would like to have
it.
Bye for now....
Mary
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Date: Wed, 1 May 1996 17:14:46 -0400
Subject: she's here - 99-31
Dear dear Millie I'm so happy and excited I don't think I can tell you how
much this means to me! I went to Mom's for supper last night and the carton
had just arrived - so I opened it then and there to see if Mom would remember
what it looked like too. She didn't but the MOMENT I saw that maroon case
with the saddle-stitching it was 100% memory recall for me!! I honestly feel
like a kid again! I feel all those feelings that I felt when this was given
to me, (1955 - 7th grade - it was very expensive at the time - I think $100?
- which may be why my Mom hadn't gotten me one) but Granny saw what I wanted
and gave it to me for my very own. What a thrill! That Granny was my Mom's
mother, so Mom enjoyed seeing this too and we both got a little teary.
It is sitting right where I can see it this minute and every time I see
the case I feel that little bit of excitement again! Thank you so much. What
special treat would you like? This goes way beyond mere money! Thank you
again! So much thanks to Sue too of FWF for without her I never would have
found you and this wonderful machine from my youth. PS It is in such
beautiful conditon, hardly a scratch anywhere and sews like a pro. (It does
not seem to lift off its back hinges though, but I wasn't sure about that
detail anyway, that might have been the next machine I had.) Also, their
idea of *portable* is not mine! But then, it's not going anywhere. ;-> It
does have that little round cross-hatched button that you push down on to pop
out the bobbin - I totally remembered that the minute I saw it!! And the
throat-plate cover so I can use the button-holer!! I am so happy and for
another bonus the sun is shining and my little Angelica tulips bloomed today
and I delivered a 10 pound baby boy this noon - a fine day! Henrietta
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Date: Wed, 1 May 1996 18:37:39 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Skipped Stitched
To Dawn:
My Model 127 treadle (the full size version of the Model 127) also does
that little "hiccup" thing with the needle, although not to the extent of
1/4 inch. Double check to see if you have the machine threaded properly:
the thread: make sure the thread is going through the loop in the wire
spring, and that the thread AND the spring stay above the little metal
prong that sticks out just below the spring. Also, through the needle is
left to right. My manual also says to thread the needle with the take-up
lever raised to its highest point. When you insert the bobbin into the
shuttle, "Place the bobbin into the shuttle with the thread drawing toward
the right from the side of the bobbin nearest you."
Try all this and let me know what happens.
Lydia
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Date: Wed, 01 May 1996 19:57:06 -0400
Subject: SM ID's;Re:FWFanatics 4/30/96
For Carol:
Isn't it frustrating not to know how to identify
the machines that you see for sale? I have been toying with the
idea of putting pictures of my machines and their identifing
characteristics on a web page. Would this be of interest to the
group? These would include Model 20, 15-91, 27, 66, 99-13,
128-23, 201-2, 221, 222K, 301a and any others I come across.
Please let me know if this would be worth the trouble. . .just
lugging some of these machines to be photographed would be my
exercise for the week. . .month?
In answer to your question re: the 301, It has a
folding extension of the machine bed on the left of the needle
bar and has to be lifted in order to access the bobbin case
(very much like a FW). In fact, the Bobbin case and bobbin are
interchangable with the FW. There is also a fold up handle on
the top of the machine for carring purposes. The model number
is on the right side under the Singer seal. Light is under the
horizontal arm with a rotating knob as on/off switch.
re:201 This is a gear
driven machine, no belt. Light on the face of the horizontal
arm, stitch length indicator moves north and south, on the right
side in a raised circular area. Hope this helps.
Claudette
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Date: Tue, 30 Apr 1996 20:42:46 -0400
Subject: featherweight for sale!!!
hi all,
i have a featherweight for sale. it is an AM672888, 221K (according to the
original manual included but musty smelling), striated face plate, condition
9+ (small scratch on front of bed, some uneven black paint on back of bed
which is obviously original to the machine, i.e., it was done at the
factory). all gold paint intact.
the machine appears to have hardly ever, if that, used. Has the green
cardboard box with many attachments including ruffler, edgestitcher, binder,
adjustable hemmer, gatherer, singer needles in needle packet, extra felts,
four bobbins, two different size screwdrivers. there is also a cardboard box
with motor lubricant tube (although it doesn't look usable). and also, a
clear plastic with red cap tube, empty, which once contained singer sewing
machine oil. clearly that's just for the collector. case is almost perfect,
except for musty smell, and has plastic handle and one key. this machine is
available for $500.00 plus shipping; the machine is in massachusetts.
first come, first served. this machine deserves to go to a good home!
ellen b.
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Date: Wed, 01 May 1996 19:50:27 -0700
Subject: old Elna
Don't worry the ugly, green beast is sitting in a place of honor in the
shop. We had her humming yesterday. She looks a heck of allot better
now that Jim has cleaned her up, even considering the color!!! VBG
I sold a Featherweight to a lady two weekends ago and got the nicest
thank you note from her today saying how much she loved her FW. Neat
lady.
Debbie
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Subject: RE: Skipped Stitches
Date: Wed, 1 May 1996 21:08:36 -0500
> My machine is skipping stitches. I notice that when the needle bar goes
> down, and the needle enters the fabric, the needle does a bit of a "hop".
> It goes into the fabric, then comes back up a bit (1/4 inch or so) and then
> goes back down before coming straight back up again. Is this what is causing
> the skipped stitches?
Hi, Dawn. I've been getting the same thing with my 127. I assumed that the
extra little "hop" was something to do with the vibrating shuttle-that the
stitches formed differently somehow. I don't have any problem with the stitches
skipping now that I finally have a manual and have the needle inserted facing
the right way and machine threaded correctly (!)
Also went garage-saling/antiquing today. Found a model15 treadle ( I think) in
VG condition, probably an 8. The same cabinet as my 127, just in much nicer
condition. Looked in the drawers and found all sorts of attachments and spare
parts. Price was $85.00.
Also found a "Little Princess" toy sewing machine with green case in like-new
condition for $225.00. I don't know much about toys-is that a good price?
Laurie
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Subject: RE: questions
Date: Wed, 1 May 1996 20:28:14 -0600
Hello
I have some questions about the difference between Greist attachments
and Singer. They appear to be the exact same thing, so I'm wondering if
there is a difference that I'm not seeing. I know that many of my
Greist attachments will not fit a low shank, they have the flat forked
slide in from the front kind of thing. So what kind of machines will
these fit? I got a box of them at a flea market for .50 cents, who can
pass up a deal like that. I figure some day I might find a machine that
I can use them on. I also have a box full of Greist attachments that
have that little foot where most of the other things slide on to it, any
way they all look very well made, so I was curious about the company,
were they in direct competition with Singer for the attachment business,
are they still in business, where were they located. Can any one help
me out on my need to know? TIA
I also have a buttonholer that will fit a Touch &Sew, or a
Slant-O-Matic, it has 19 different cams, and a manual. I'm offering it
for sale for $10.00 plus shipping. e-mail if you're interested.
Last saturday I found a Famous Buttonholer with the side adjustments for
width and length, it looks like a torture device, does anyone have any
info on this brand of buttonholer? I also found a wonderful 99-k with
the bentwood case, a box of attachments, original manual, original
maintenance manual, born 6-27-23, under the machine we found the
directions for the back mounted light, how to put it on, dated March
1923. The tension is a little messed up, but very fixable. I felt very
pleased with my self.
Graham, I love your stories, whether they include sewing machine details
or not, they're wonderful. Keep them coming.
I hope someone can fill me in on the Greist questions, for as many of
the Greist things that I find, they must have been some company.
Mary
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Date: Wed, 01 May 1996 20:00:17 -0700
Subject: Loose bulb socket
Dear FWF thanks for the response to my friend's plea for info. I'll pass
the info along to Sonja
Again thanks, Kathie :)
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Date: Thu, 2 May 1996 01:38:04 -0600
Subject: Old buttonholer
I acquired today a Singer Buttonhole Attachment NO. 121795 for Singer Lock
Stitch Family Sewing Machines .. for Light Manufacturing and Home Use. I
doesn't look like any other that I have seen, but fits the FW. The
difference is that there are no cams -- only a lot of different things to
adjust. It came in the original cardboard box with lots of bits and pieces,
but no manual. Does anyone have this buttonholer who would be willing to
make me a copy of the manual? I would like to be able to figure this thing
out. Of course, I am happy to make a suitable reward.
Thanks
Kathy
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Date: Mon, 29 Apr 1996 06:36:28 -0400
Subject: chip in enamel
Somehow my machine enamel has been chipped. I noticed two small places in
the front where the majority of the wear has been. It has just made me
sick. I don't know if they had been covered up and I uncovered them when I
polished it,(I used baby oil) or when I was out of town one of my family
members played with it. I love my machine, it sews a wonderful stitch
with lots of beauty and style.
Heres my questions:
1. Do I need to do something to prevent it from getting any larger? (most
important question)
2. How does that fit into the rating of my machine?
3. Can I do something so that it doesnt show so bad? Or should I even care?
4. Since the only thing wrong with my case is the cloth is slightly
separated from the box, can I do something to glue it back, then it would
seem like new, or would that hurt the value.
If I don't ever have intentions of selling my machine what does it really
matter?
I heard of one women stripping her case down to the wood and refinishing it,
said it looked beautiful, has anyone else ever done that?
My daughter and I are learning to quilt together, She loves playing with my
sewing machines. I sup@ose until she learns I will have some mishaps, I
will try and teach her well and accept any problems. I have some very old
dishes stored in the attic that I didn't want broke, I won't do that with my
toys. :-).
Sue, I would like to be on your quilting list also.....
Have a nice day,
Ann Marie.
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Date: Thu, 2 May 1996 09:16:56 -0400
Subject: FW light
I also have a FW with a light problem. The bulb doesn't seem to "latch"
into the socket. My repairman said that if he took it off, he might make a
bigger mess. He is really good with FW's and helped me, before and even
didn't charge. Any ideas? Jean
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Subject: International Singer Mystery - Help?
Date: Thu, 02 May 1996 14:50:42 GMT
Hi,
I've just recently joined this mailing list, and am hoping you can
help me. I have an old electric Singer that I am looking for
information on. I have contacted Singer's (Canadian) 800 number and
was told that they no longer maintain their serial number index as it
was of no benefit to the company :-( . I then contacted the American
800 number, and they said that they did not have model numbers for my
particular series, but (big surprise ;-) ) they thought it was
manufactured in Canada. The serial number on the machine is JC161342,
and on the motor 6411545. The motor says St. Johns, P.Q., and Made in
Canada. I received a manual with the machine that is for a Singer
Electric Sewing Machine 128-13, in which the latest copyright date is
1939, and it was printed in the U.S.A. Mine looks substantially the
same as the one illustrated in the manual except for the fact that it
does not have nearly as much decorative gold paint work. The only
decorative paint on mine is on the bed of the machine and on the part
that partially overhangs the balance wheel. Unfortunately, the centre
of the manual (pp. 15-22) is missing.The machine has a wooden case
with a curved top. Can anyone help identify a model number for this
machine? I suppose it's possible that the Canadian and American models
differed in their decorative paint, and that this is a 128. I would
like to be able to obtain a complete manual and a list of available
attachments. By the way, this machine is in great order and right now,
I'm using it to piece a double wedding ring quilt for my brother :-)
TIA for any help. It's much appreciated.
Amber
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Date: Thu, 02 May 1996 10:53:00 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: This list is addicting!!
There really should be a warning on the this list!! "Caution - can be
addicting" ;) I have only been on this list about three weeks and have
already bought three machines - one a week!! This has to stop or my house
will be over run with sewing machines!! Sunday we bought another 66 treadle
(I already have two 66 treadles and one 66 electric) Actually my SO bought
the 66 - he has caught the bug too!! Even though we already had 3 66's this
one was too beautiful to pass up - it is in a wonderful oak stand and has
the manual and attachments. Saturday I bought a folding sewing table from
an antique shop and one of the owners said she had a singer she had been
trying to sell but someone had borrowed it. Last night she called and I
went to see it - well of course I came home with it. I called Singer today
and found out it is a 99 (whew -thank god not another 66!!) It has a knee
control and at the moment is running on a rubberband because the belt is
broken! It is in a bentwood case and in pretty good shape. I hope I find a
FW before I adopt too many more of these machines!! ;)
Melodie
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Date: Thu, 2 May 1996 11:00:11 -0500
Subject: Model 15-91 Centenial
Wow, I'm so excited and I needed to share with people who would understand.
Saturday my DH and I stop in at a new used furniture store where my DH
noticed an older sewing machine with a bentwood case. It was a Model 15-91
Centennial in really good condition for $20. It had the manual,
attachments in the green box and a buttonhooler in a green case. Today I
called Singer and got right through to a very nice lady who told me the
date of manufacture was July 26, 1951, my birthday. I could not believe
the coincidence, this made my day. I also checked on my Model 128 Godzilla
in a bentwood case that I purchased for $20. This machine was born on Jan.
22, 1948. Both machines run beautifully, but as portables they are really
heavy. I'm still looking for my featherweight. Ingrid
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Date: Thu, 2 May 1996 11:46:08 -0400
Subject: Singer hand crank
I got a set of videos from the library; six volumes of A&E's production of
HOUSE OF ELIOT. It is about 2 sisters in the fashion industry. At the end
of volume 2 a Singer hand crank is brought in in a wooden case and revealed.
Then in later scenes we see it being used. Really neat! Millie
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Date: 02 May 96 10:04:00 EDT
Subject: German Singer and Greyhound
My parents came to visit last weekend for the opening of my art/quilt show
and while they were here we visited my 128-35 down at the repair shop and I
took them to the antique shop where I had bought the machine. Also showed
them the two treadle heads in my garage awaiting restoration. Well, they
must have been bitten by the SM bug, because they had no sooner arrived home
in Prescott AZ than they attended a QUILTERS Sale featuring antique sewing
machines. Here's an excerpt from Mom's letter with a description of two
machines...
" A Singer with case $95. Made in Germany with SN G6462639. This had
very ornate decor with much red and green, all in quite good color and
condition. The case was in two colors brown, and top was rectangular.
Gal said definitely pre WW1."
" Greyhound R, $75, with ornate decor in colors, good, and even color on
the end plate. Mfg. by New Home, MA. This had the rounded plywood case,
in fair condition. The hand wheel was well worn, no paint left. At the
right of the case was a cavity with sliding top."
" Just in case you think any of those are worthy of checking into, from
there, her name is Mary Wilson, 12 Smoki Trail, Dewey, AZ 86327 and phone
is 602-632-7422."
" She tells us that it is difficult to find much written about old
machines. However, she finds that those before WW1 are the most
elaborately decorated. Later on decals were used. Do you know of books
about old sewing machines? I am sure she would be interested if you know
of them."
Anyone know anything about this Greyhound? Mom seemed quite taken with that
machine. How about the German Singer?
BTW, I send Mom all of Graham's great stories. She got a big chuckle out of
the dead lady supervising distribution of her assets. I'm really proud of
my mother for her energy in going out shopping for me and then writing to me
via e-mail. She'll be 80 in July. Last year she gave me her FW and this
year she's giving me the table. What a great Mom!
Happy stitchin', Betty
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Subject: Problems with my presser foot lever!
Date: Thu, 2 May 1996 08:34:17 -0500
My Featherweight (and this was the expensive one!) has a problem with the
presser foot lever!
Help! On the presser foot lever, (now take the side plate off), when you raise
it, it is very stiff. When I looked, it looks
like it is supposed to ride above a small metal button. Mine is not going
above this button, but the button is pushing against
the lever. Does this make sense? Is there anything I can do about this?
sherrie
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Date: 02 May 96 13:10:25 EDT
Subject: Contribution
To Carol; re Singer 66
This is a full size, 14 1/2 inch bed model with side drop-in bobbin. Was
available in hand, treadle or add-on electric motor forms. Screw-in stitch
regulator rather than lever. Made 1907 to 1920
To Betty; re mystery Singer
I'd guess a 27 or 28. Assuming your SN is correct the machines dates 1892
To Mari; re expensive needles
You could add a quarter of a Century onto the date the dealer was quoting
To all; a frivilous question
Noting the little weather reports that follow many postings, why doesn't
everyone in the USA move to California?
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Subject: Red FWs
Unless it also an figment of my imagination, I saw a red featherweight several
years ago at a quilt show. I think it was in a red case. It was priced around
$440. That was when I still thought $200 was way too much. So I really didn't
look at the red one very well but I am quite sure it was not sprayed painted.
Of course I have slept a few nights since I saw it.
Ann
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Date: Thu, 2 May 1996 12:43:19 -0700
Subject: Singer 99
Hello fellow fanatics,
I have been given my husbands aunt's old 99.(AE399981-Born 2-24-37). Aunt
Lauretta bought this machine in 1949 for $25.00 so she could sew for her
grandchildren. She's 88 now and no longer sews. Wooden box is really in
need of TLC and the machine needs some serious cleaning. The gold scroll
work in great condition. Runs fine. She was using it up until a few years
ago. I am hunting for a set of 99 Attachments and a manual and a KEY for
the box. Luckily the knee bar isn't missing. Can a locksmith duplicate
these old keys? Original key would be great but I just want to be able to
use the carry case safely.
I would be most grateful for any info on this model.
Susan M. M
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Date: Thu, 02 May 1996 16:40:22 -0600
Subject: Value of machine
Hopefully some of you dealers can help me -- I had mentioned earlier that
UPS damaged a FW being shipped to me. They will send me the replacement
value but -- we bought it at a flea market and did not get a receipt. I
need *anything* that will show the value -- he said preferably an appraisal
from a dealer and all it has to say is that a Featherweight (that I'm going
to describe below) would have a value of _______ in your opinion. I
certainly appreciate any help.
Description:
Serial No. AK768618, black with striated plate, the throat plate has no
numbers, nothing on the machine was missing. The gold is in excellent shape
and the black paint is probably not the very best, but very close. You have
to look very close at the machine with the light on it to see any scratches
at all -- and they don't look like pin scrapes -- more like little
scratches. We paid $450 for it and of the three I have, it looks the best.
I'd never really gotten a chance to sew on it but of course, it worked fine.
It had the oil can and lube tube (both of which UPS managed to crush!) and
the buttonholer (which isn't ruined but they want everything in exchange for
payment of the value of the machine.) The manual was ok before all the lube
got mushed onto it -- so now the manual is worthless!
Anyway, in defense of UPS, they've been very helpful and are very sorry
about the machine. It couldn't have happened to something that can be
replaced -- just think -- a Featherweight ruined! Makes me want to cry!
Please, please if any of you can send me something that would look official
enough for UPS, I'd be forever grateful.
Also, I need a machine *quick*. This was supposed to be a birthday/Mother's
Day present for my mom and her birthday is tomorrow (May 3). I know, it
will have to be late but the sooner, the better!
Thanks all!
Judy H
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Date: Thu, 2 May 1996 14:47:53 -0600 (MDT)
Subject: lost FW (2:30pm 5/2/96)
Oh woe is my friend that tradedin her FW for a new machine back in
the mid-60's. She would like to buy it back. If you happen to see a 1951
model with the monogram "DC" or "DJC" stamped in gold between the latches of
the case, please contact me. She recieved the FW in 1951 as a graduation
gift and traded it in Phoenix, AZ circa 1964-69. Thanks everybody for your
help.
Audrey W
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Date: Fri, 3 May 1996 00:01:48 -0400
Subject: selling prices
Thanks to (Bob C) for detailing the time, money and
efforts which go into find a single machine for resale. Additional
comments: when we purchase them, often it is without plugging them in and
verifying that they do run (motor not burned out, etc.) - especially at a
auction. So we take chances too and hope not to get burned too often.
Puchasing 'ad' papers in order to peruse the sewing machine sections,
telephoning long distance (often multiple calls for one machine) - all these
all to the expense. Plus, I will probably never find a $25 machine at a
yardsale. Most of mine come from antique dealers who know values in my
area, so they are never inexpensive. Thanks for listening!
I have a neat-o little Singer booklet for sale. It is No. 115 in the Singer
Sewing Series, 1961 vintage. A two-tone tan Sewhandy is featured on the
cover. Instructions for making pincushion, dusting gloves, place mats,
napkins, collars, lamp shade covers, pillow, ribbon bow belt, gingham apron,
pot holder, hot dish pad. Email me if interested.
Before I sell it though, I think I'll make some of those 'dusting gloves'.
Oh, not for me - Shirley might appreciate them...
I wonder what her FW would have auctioned for if Jackie-O had owned one? A
quarter million at least. Who was it said that an item is worth whatever
someone will pay for it! This auction sure proves that.
I have for sale a bag of old wooden clothpins in a cloth bag mad to house
them - the fabric is red tan clothespins printed on it. There are 18 of the
'flat' clothes pins with rounded tops; and 47 of the 'round' pins with round
tops. I remember my Mom hanging clothes outdoors with these when I was a kid.
Also:
- a Singer skirt marker
- a 1983 booklet by Marjorie Puckett entitled 'Lighter Shades of Pale -
Shadow Quilting'
- set of attachments for Singer class 403 machines
- a box of Greist attachments (forked neck approaches machine from front)
- buttonholer # 121795 (no cams)
- Singer skirt marker
- a rubber stamp depicting a treadle machine.
I have a Singer oil can This one is copper coloring and dome-shaped and
stands 6 inches from base to tip of spout. Diameter is 3.5 inches.
Condition is a bit dirty looking and spout is crooked in spots. Price
includes shipping - $30.
If any of the above seem redundant, I apologize. I went over the maile I
have sent to FWF asnd these seemed to never had made it, so I am resubmitting!
Email for details. Thanks. Millie
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Date: Thu, 2 May 1996 22:40:06 +0000
Subject: My own FW
Hello,
I have decided to stop lurking because I am so excited!!!!! My
mother-in-law just gave me the FW. She gave it to me instead of her
daughter because she knew that I would appreciate it. What is really neat
is that I have owned the FW sewing table for over 16 years but never had
the machine to adorn the table. I can't believe that she gave it to me.
She used it a lot when her kids were small. It is probably rated an 8 but
in my eyes it is rated a 10 because she gave it to me with love!
Just had to tell sombody.
Amy
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Date: Thu, 2 May 1996 23:17:43 -0700
Subject: Greist &attachments
General attachments
Available for:
High Shank
Narrow hemmer - slotted foot for sewing over cord - Straight sewing
foot for zig azg sewing - Buttonhole feet with adjustment guide for manual
zig zag - shirring foot - button sew foot - shirring guide - rickk rack
guide - double zipper foot - Cording feef to left needle position zig zag -
hinged sewing foot for zig zag - and cording foot for manual zig zag (3
needle position)
-------------------------------
Low Shank
Narrow hemmers - slotted cord foot, left needle zig zag - Straight sew
feet for zig zag machine - grooved feet for braid or cord - hinged sewing foot
for zig zag machine - button sew foot - double zipper foot and hinged groove
foot.
------------------------------
Straight sewing machine
Attachment holder for hemmer series [for the feet that have the thin,
side mount] - hemmers of different widths [used with holder] - shirring foot -
straight sew guide - double zipper foot - automatic darner.
These are listed in Sincere's Sewing Machine book.
----------------------------------------
Information about the Famous or Model C Buttonhole Attachment:
The Model C works on th same principle as the Greist, except each
adjustment must be manually made.
The depth of stitch and cutting space setting are made by hand, and care must
be exercised to insure uniformity.
The Model C is also made for indistrial use. It's a special heavy duty model,
however the adjustments are made in the same manner.
To service this buttonholer, put a drop of oil in all oil holes.
---------------------------------------------------
Greist was te frontrunner in the attachment field, and most sewing machine
distributors used Greist attachments.
Greist made a these models:
#1 (2301-ABR) low square bar center position
#2 (1701-AGR) Greist, White Rotary
#3 (190-1-AG) Greist, Free &New Home
#4 (2001-AG) Greist, National
#5 (2301-301A) Greist, Slant Needle
#6 (2301-AL93) Low left position
#7 (2301-HBAL45) High left position
#8 (2601-APF-60G) Greist, Pfaff (excluding Model #139 &239)
#9 (2401-AG) Greist, Necchi, low center position
#10 (2301-HBA) High Bar, center position (includes Pfaff Models #139 &239
-----------------------------------
A little more information:
The 66 class sewing machine is a top bobbin oscillator with horizontal shuttle.
Singer mfg. the 66 series and when the patents expiredm several
Japenese mfgrs. produced te machine under a variety of names
[i.e., Bel-Air 600, Sewmor 303, Morse, Brother and Universal, to
name a few]
Singer made a three-quarter version of the 66 class, known as the 99-13
or 99K, if mfgd. in their England Plant.
The Singer 99 was primarily a portable, and never sold on a level with the
66, due to its sizze. It was used mainly for leader advertising and selling.
Basically, the Class 66 is smoother, easier running of the oscillator type.
In fact there were thousands of 66-1 machines in operation and many
were mfgd. before 1900.
-------------------------------------------------
Oscillating Hook Sewing Machine, Class 15
Class 15 machines had a mechanism, no doubt the most popular
ever mfgd. From the Singer 15-30 through the 15-91 series, to Japenese
HA-1 and contemporary models, both conventional and streamlined, the class
15 remained a popular item.
Early power machines for factory use were beefed-up versions of the 15-30,
and the old 31-51 was strong going in many areas.
Class 15 machines mfgd. in Japan and marketed in the US include Atlas,
Brother, Brewer, Classic, Morse, Nelco, Kenmore, New Home, Domestic (new
series), Penncraft, Aldens, Speigel, Fleetwood, Imperial, Modern Home,
Premier, Remington, Riccar, Sewmor, Sincere, Signature (Wards), Western
Auto's wizard and White (since about 1953)
A class 15 mechanism can be identified by the shuttle-race assembly .
----------------------------------------------
The Rotary:
The rotary ...so called because the sewing hook makes a complete
revolution each time a sstith is formed.
There are many types of rotary mechanisms. The White, most famous and
certainly the finest example of a simple rotary mechanism, employes a
slide block and bearing arrangement to drive the shuttle.
Singer Models 101, 201, later slant needle models, and the automatic models
use a gear driver rotary mechanism.
The rotary is generally a smoother operating machine, although a few later
day American made White owners may disagree.
The White Rotary was mfg. by the White Sewing Machine company of Cleveland,
Ohio. Their machines were always top quality and ranked behind Singer until
the early 1950's when imported machines began to dominate the market.
Other brand names made by white include Domestic, Franklin, Kenmore
[American made], the wilson, Mason, Majestic and Dressmaster.
----------------------------------
Long Shuttle Machine
All lockstitch sewing machines operate in the same general manner.
There are three basic sewing mechanisms in the lockstitch category.
First and simplest, is the vibrator [long shuttle]
Second is the Oscillating Hook
Third is the rotary Shuttle.
I've posted this bit of information to help those who have the questions.
If it's something you're interested in, I've helped; if not, I've kept you busy
reading for a couple of minutes.
-=bobbie=-
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Date: Fri, 3 May 1996 08:40:06 -0400
Subject: New Victory
Hi to all,
Yesterday I brought home whats called a New Victory treadle in a
drawing room cabinet.The machine is in very good shape, lots of pretty
flowers and luckily all parts as far as I know are intact.Cabinet was
painted over once so I'll be refinishing that. Graham was kind enough to
find some info about my new find and it was made in Dayton Ohio by the
Davis Company somewhere between 1889 and 1924.Thats when the co. closed
down.
I'd love to hear from anyone with a simular machine because I
have no clue how to thread or set up the bobbin. Its what I hear people
call a bullet shape and it swings back and forth under the needle
plate.Luckly there is still a wound bobbin inside the case.Could I be lucky
enough to find some written instructions on this somewhere?
The head measures 14 1/2. bed- 14 1/2 , simple tension disk on front
of arm, elaborate bobbin-winder very low on front right, a large nut- screw
in the bed right in front where you sew-whats this for?
I'd really like to try sewing with this, so please if anyone
has a clue - even a guess I'd welcome all responses.
Graham: Don't know what we'd do without you !
. Maggie
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Date: Fri, 03 May 1996 09:10:43 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 5/1/96
What a great group!
I have two FW's right now, a black 1938 model and a 1950's white model,
which my 13 year old has claimed as hers. Am hoping to get a beige FW
sometime this summer, not sure yet when that will come around.
We give one away at a quilting seminar each year, so I always put my name
on lists at antique shops, etc. Last week I heard from a shop that I
visited THREE years ago. They have a Singer Genie. I really don't know
anything about those machines--have just heard that they exist. Should I be
interested? I haven't had time to look into it, and it may be gone by now
anyway. They are asking $150. That's what I paid for the last FW I bought,
the give-away, and it was in nearly perfect condition--except that I had to
buy a bobbin case and a motor mount screw. That one was hard to part with,
but the recipient was in heaven, so that made up for the loss :)
Janet
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Date: Fri, 03 May 1996 09:26:41 -0400
Subject: Update and Thanks
Well, my 128 is still skipping stitches, but I at least have a
little more insight into how this little beauty works. Thanks to
Lydia Pratt and Laurie Engle for telling me that their vibrating
shuttle machines do the same little needlebar "hop" that mine does.
I carefully re-threaded my machine according to Lydia's instructions.
Sewed a few nice stitches and then started skipping again. Now I think
that this may be caused by a too-loosely wound bobbin. The stitches are
skipping because the shuttle gets stuck. The shuttle sticks because
a loop of thread from the bobbin gets caught while the stitches are
forming. I'm using some cheap thread in the machine (shame on me), so
I'm going to wind another bobbin with some Mettler thread and see if the
problem is solved.
Thanks also to Mike H and Chris V for their assistance.
This list is such a great resource!
Dawn
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Date: Fri, 03 May 1996 09:10:43 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 5/1/96
What a great group!
I have two FW's right now, a black 1938 model and a 1950's white model,
which my 13 year old has claimed as hers. Am hoping to get a beige FW
sometime this summer, not sure yet when that will come around.
We give one away at a quilting seminar each year, so I always put my name
on lists at antique shops, etc. Last week I heard from a shop that I
visited THREE years ago. They have a Singer Genie. I really don't know
anything about those machines--have just heard that they exist. Should I be
interested? I haven't had time to look into it, and it may be gone by now
anyway. They are asking $150. That's what I paid for the last FW I bought,
the give-away, and it was in nearly perfect condition--except that I had to
buy a bobbin case and a motor mount screw. That one was hard to part with,
but the recipient was in heaven, so that made up for the loss :)
Janet
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Date: Fri, 3 May 1996 09:56:19, -0500
Subject: FW Light
Jean,
I have had good luck solving your light socket problem by using a very
high quality European-made bulb that is Brewers part number 669. It costs
about $3.00 which is much more than the standard bulbs and was made for
Singer by Phillips. The base is ever so slightly larger. I don't think
most dealers carry it but you could probably get Stepping Stones Quilts on
St. Simons Island, GA to order one for you.
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Date: Fri, 3 May 1996 10:03:35 -0400
Subject: Green Machine
Around Christmas I became interested in learning to piece quilts. I'd been
quilting for a while but my Mother made all the tops. She felt sorry for
me because all I had was a terrible cheap sewing maching. So, she gave me
one of hers that she got from her Aunts estate. It was in a really beautiful
cabinet but when I opened it up it was mint green. I'd never seen a machine
this color. I thought it was kind of cool and it look just like something
that came out of the 70's. Later I bought a FW and jumped on this mail alias.
That's where I found out about the Singer 1-800 number. So I called them up.
According to them the FW was born 4-20-1947. It's AH... I also have asked
about the Green Machine. On the machine it say's "Made in Great Britain",
Model 337. SN EX586885. The lady told me that their records didn't go back
that far but it that series of machines was made aroud 10-10-1935. I find
that really hard to believe. The manual with it (assuming it's the original)
was copyrighted in 1965. Does anyone know anything about this machine?
Also, my boyfriend was out shopping one day and picked up a Household portable
machine. It was practically free but really beautiful. It's metallic green
with not a scratch on it. It's shaped like the FW but larger. Anyone know
about this one?
Thanks in advance,
Julie M
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Date: 03 May 96 09:15:00 EDT
Subject: Keep those cards and letters coming Graham
To Graham,
Don't you dare stop sending your true stories. I'm absolutely addicted and
I forward them all to my mother and sewing friends.
To Kathie,
My mother's FW had a light which her repair person said couldn't be fixed.
But I brought it home to my guru and he had no problem getting it to work
again. Look for a better repairman. I'm really convinced there's nothing
that can't be repaired or replaced on a FW by a dedicated repairman. These
babies will still be running in 2196.
--Betty
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Date: Fri, 03 May 1996 09:21:03 MST
Subject: RE: FWFanatics 5/2/96
Good morning...I got a new machine last night..and managed to get through to
Singer on a single call this a.m. My new machine is a Singer Handcrank...in
beautiful condition...a few minor signs of wear and tear...on Graham's scale,
I would rate it a -7...
The interesting thing here though is singer...I have been doubtful about their
record keeping in the past and now am more convinced.
For this machine, they said that it was a Model 27 'born' on Sept 7, 1912...but
she said you must have a nice treadle there...so I explained that it is a
handcrank...according to the rep. all serial numbers beginning with G are model
27 treadles...Does anyone have better info than this....I don't doubt the date
but would like to know of there is a specific model number for handcranks. This
one came in a lovely bentwood case...Price $100 (Canadian)...approx $70 (U.S.)
and I got it through one of my friends at work. Her aunt was selling out and
moving...this machine belonged the aunt's mother-in-law.
Sandra M
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Date: Fri, 03 May 1996 11:57:03 -0400
Subject: Graham-Thanks
Hi all
Just mostly lurking to get up to spped with all you experts!
Have a 49 Black FW and and white 1964 ( Primo condition)
Both Sew GREAT!
Thanks to Sue for all her hard work.
Kristi: Can we have another total on the FWs? So interesting
Graham: you have missed your calling. You should be on TV.
Please write more stories. They are wonderful - People ARE funny!
Loved the Gramaphone story!
Jeanann
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Date: Fri, 03 May 1996 10:08:14 MST
Subject: HAND CRANK
Further to my original posting about dating my new handcrank...Singer says 1912... I just talked to my local dealership...there's a neat woman there who is very
interested in old machines...she looked the serial number up in her book and
according to her reference material...a "G" is 1910...so, go figure....at least
I have a general idea of the age of this wonderful machine...after I brought it
home last night I spent 2 hours cleaning and shining her...she is lovely!
Sandra
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Date: Fri, 3 May 1996 09:44:06 -0700
To Claudette ,
Isn't it frustrating not to know how to identify
the machines that you see for sale? I have been toying with the
idea of putting pictures of my machines and their identifing
characteristics on a web page. Would this be of interest to the
group? These would include Model 20, 15-91, 27, 66, 99-13,
128-23, 201-2, 221, 222K, 301a and any others I come across.
Please let me know if this would be worth the trouble. . .just
lugging some of these machines to be photographed would be my
exercise for the week. . .month?>
I just read your note and I would love to see those photos on a WEB page -
it would be of great benefit to all the readers of the FW newsletter
especially. I love the old machines but only identify very few with
certainty. I do not have any reference books and many of the ones people
mention in the newletter are out of print ect....
You might also consider copying (scanning) the best illustration out of the
machine manuals for more detailed information to go along with the photo of
each machine.
Susan M. M
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Date: Fri, 03 May 1996 10:22:12 -0600
Subject: FW Tension, new machine, etc....
DH is out of control!! He bought another machine yesterday! It is still in
my van, apparently a White rotary in a nice cabinet with several more
boxes of Greist attachments. For $5, he decided it was worth it for the
attachements alone! Help, is there a FWF Anonymous meeting anytime
soooon!!????
Actually, if it weren't for the fact that I have no place for this stuff, we
could have fun! I am pretty mechanically literate (although I usually do
computers) but I need to learn more about these machines to get them
cleaned, oiled, and working.
I have a specific problem with my FW he got me a few days ago. Top
tension is WAY to tight. I have done the usual of playing with the tension
dial and bobbin tension, and it is not correcting things. I seem to
remember multiple posts about the whole tension disc assembly
frequently being mis-reassembled. Before I take it apart, (following the
manual directions CAREFULLY) can anyone please give me some ideas,
clues, etc? Or should I just go to my dealer and ask him to deal with it?
Other thoughts-Graham- Please keep up the anecdotes, and yes, you
must do a book with these. Otherwise, I will start stealling them and
make $500/month off of Reader's Digest by submitting them!!
Claudette: I would love it if you would put stuff on a web page. Us
neophytes with adventuresome husbands are out of our depth and don't
know where to turn to identify the stuff that keeps coming inthe door.
Thanks all. This "collecting" binge of my husband's is getting a bit scary.
And the garage/rummage sale season has only just begun!!
Caryl
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Date: Fri, 03 May 1996 11:24:32 -0600
Subject: Husband is out of control!!
Well fellow FWFanatics,
I've been listing the odyssey of my DH as he has gotten the bug for old
sewing machines. He has bought 5 or more in as many weeks, including
this week's get well present of my first FW. He called me 5 minutes ago
from a garage sale to ask about a few things and to tell me of a sale he
is returning to tomorrow.
He spotted a FW table being used at the sale. Asked the lady if she
would sell it, as he had just gotten me a FW and had a house full of
quilters (all three kids are into in now!) She hasn't decided, but is
bringing the "little black sewing machine" that goes with it to the sale
tomorrow. She told my husband that she had heard that they are
somewhat collectible ; no decision to sell has been made or prices
discussed yet, but.....?! My husband said he would like to go back
tomorrow. Like I'm going to argue? And it is only noon and he is going
"sailing" all day. Lord know what I'm going to need to make room for!
Who is it who was giving classes on the "Care and Feeding of your
Featherweight"? I need to learn sewing machine repair and maintenance
real soon now... or should I just beg my dealer (an older gentleman who
KNOWS how on the old ones) to take me on as an apprentice. In my
spare time. Right..... LIke if I have another hobby I'll have even less time
to sew....AAAAAARGH! Opportunity overload....
Caryl
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Date: Fri, 3 May 1996 13:56:52 -0400
Subject: cleaning up
-I just wanted to share my experience in usesg murphy's oil soap to clean
my old machine.I tried using the wd40 and found it very time consuming and
expensive and smelly. I like to be able to clean up my machine indoors in
the evening when I can finally sit down and relax. The oil is definately
not much fun to use in the house as I found out.Then I remembered how
murphy's cleaned up an old table I'd had. Well.......... I'll never use the
wd40 again, murphy's brought up more gunk in half the time, no unpleasant
sme ll and easy to use right on the kitchen table. It works just as well on
the wood cabinets so you don't have to be afraid to get it on that when
cleaning the head itself.Last night I had great results and being gentle on
the decals it took none of the paint off. Also great on the hands, no
gloves necessary and I have really sensitive skin.I used it straight out of
the bottle and applied with a damp cloth. The stuff just started to
dissolve immediately and I kept going in circles-rinsing and reapplying.
Very inexpensive to use.Smells good.
To Lydia,
Your right about those layers I think. Underneath that varnish is a
wonderful shine.Getting around those decals is a bit tricky though.
They will scratch off, I tested in a small spot.What did you use if
anything yet to protect and shine?Someone wrote future floor polish, I
wonder.
Has anybody ever thought about chroming the metalwork for a finishing
touch. Mine is quite dull on 2 older machines and my DH said maybe we'd try
it and see.Let you know if I do!
To all: Can anyone describe to me a Mission Style Cabinet please?
I've never seen one. Thanks,
Maggie
My 3 1/2 yr. old son wants to sew real bad. He thinks one of these machines
I've been bringing home has just got to be for him.Can't believe their all
mine.
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Date: Fri, 3 May 1996 11:18:31 -0400
Subject: Re: FWFanatics 5/2/96
Hello, everyone !
Back from Paducah and inspired to quilt, collect and do all other many of
crazy things!
Saw a wonderful antique machine exhibit and drooled over one with
mother-of-pearl inlays - saw lots of FW's with HIGH prices, many of which
were still there when I left.
Bought a singer 201 with cabinet and bench -at below my personal limit for
any machine other than a FW - I thought the bus driver and the quilters on
the bus were going to leave me stranded on the sidewalk, but they finally
came back around and picked me up. Funny Story - a week or so before leaving
for Paducah I saw a post from a gal needing a ride from Paducah to Memphis-I
replied, giving her the name of the travel agency with whom I was going ( the
agency owner is also a quilt guild member). As I didn't hear from the gal, I
forgot about it, until we boarded the bus. The guide told us that someone had
contacted her about a ride - I confessed it was probably due to my replying
to that post. Now the funny part - last year many of our group took classes,
which wreaked havoc with our departure time, but this year it seemed that no
one had, so we were going to be able to leave Paducah a few hours earlier
than originally scheduled - the problem was this gal - the guide had told her
to meet us at the bag drop ( for some strange, twisted reason I thought that
was hilarious!) at the convention center at 3p.m. Saturday - we all were in
agreement that noon would be a much better time. Our guide, unfortunately,
had not found out where this gal was staying, so had no way to reach her she
posted notes at all the bulletin/message boards she could find, made us all
wear our name tags and carry our totes with the travel agency logo on them,
AND, for about a half dozen of us put signs on our backs which read, "
SEARCHING FOR _____________". For those of you who were in Paducah, yes,that
was our group pretending to be human billboards whom you saw all over town,
including yours truly on Saturday. Happy ending- she found one of the group
from our name tags ( after those of us wearing SIGNS had answered umpteen
questions from curious people, and had quite a few laughs to boot!), and we
were able to leave a bit sooner than originally planned.
A very brave soul, to my way of thinking, to travel from San Diego to
Paducah, with no way to get to Memphis other than by chance - but she made it
and had a wonderful parking lot reunion with her elderly parents.
To Graham - in answer to your frivilous question re the weather reports and
moving to California -first of all, California has earthquakes and mudslides
- not exactly condusive to stress-free living, and second, if you haven't
priced property there, well, let's just say, there aren't too many other
places in the states that have higher property values - not condusive to
having extra spending money for purchasing old machines! But the weather
there is wonderful year round, and the flora is stunning!
WANTED TO BUY, STILL - A 1948 FW - doesn't have to be beautiful or have lots
of attachments, just in good mechanical condition. 1948 is my birth year,and
I'm still looking for one to match! Can't pay a fortune, but will consider
whatever anyone has - maybe even a trade for some of the other Singer models
I have acquired lately. Please e-mail privately if you have one to unload.
I've taken more than my allotted space - just wanted to relay the Paducah
News, and post my WTB.
Piecefully,
Becky S
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Date: Fri, 3 May 1996 14:40:20 -0500
Subject: Lightbulbs, toys, grease tube, shipping a FW
Good afternoon everybody,
Regarding questions on the FW lightbulbs not staying lit or sitting loose
in the socket, I had this problem and my dear friend Pierre's Dad fixed it
by soldering a little bit more metal onto the base of a light bulb for me
so it would make better contact. That was a year ago and it's still going
strong.
Regarding lubing FW's - my singer guy says NO - don't do it. Doesn't need
it and can only make things worse. I have had mine since 93 and it gets
daily use and have NEVER put lube in the lube tubes.
Regarding shipping a FW. I tried unsuccessfully to ship a FW with UPS
yesterday. I wrapped up everything in the case with batting, extra careful
like and set the case on its side in a box and padded it with a little
newspaper. As soon as the clerk saw that I had listed sewing machine,
value $500, she insists on opening the box. I am told she will not accept
it unless I put it in a bigger box and make sure it has two inches of
padding all the way around. Now I recall it is probably a good thing
because I just realized that the oil can IS on it's SIDE in there AND I
didn't wrap it with plastic. Guess I'll slink away to repack now.
The tale of a new toy machine ....
I spent a little time at the yard sales this a.m. but no luck except for a
new roll of Heat n Bond Vinyl I picked up for a $1.
At the last sale, everyone was standing around talking about what this
dealer guy, Bob, got at a sale in my little town. One says, it was one of
those featherweight machines, no, says another, it was a little tiny thing.
Sounds like a toy, I chimed in. It was black, says another. Meanwhile it
is 8:55AM and that little old lady running this sale, for sure, is not
going to open that garage door til 9 AM on the dot. Why am I hanging
around?, I think. Just then "Bob" the dealer pulls in. Everyone knows him
and say hello.
By now there are 20 of us standing in front of this garage door reviewing
the peeling paint. Someone asks Bob about the sewing machine. A toy he
says. No more. I stick my head up, Hey Bob, I say, Got anything for me?
Yeah, he says, a toy sewing machine, and nods toward his van for later.
After the rush and the realization that there is nothing there for me, I
catch Bob as he is leaving. Here ya go, he says, drop me a check when you
get a chance. He hands me the nicest little Singer toy machine. No clamp
but in extra nice shape. Thanks were in order, but his van was gone in the
dust, on it's way to another chance encounter, hopefully with some old
sewing items for yours truly.
The point of this tale for me anyway is, why should I waste my time at
these sales when I can let the dealers know what I want and what I will pay
and just wait for them to do all the leg work. I think it was Bob Campbell
on the list last week, that was talking about the price of machines and how
much time, energy, expense goes into tracking them down. Now if I could
just make friends with some of the other dealers in town, I would have it
made. So far, (my) Bob has come through for me over and over again. And I
am most appreciative of that and tell him so. Everytime he calls me with a
new item, I say, Oh Bob, I love you truly, what do you have for me today?!
A little appreciation and a big smile and he is already to fight that
battle for me - bringing me treasures I could never have enough time to
hunt down myself.
Have a happy hunting weekend everyone
Regards
Shelley
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Date: Fri, 3 May 1996 14:41:48 -0500
Subject: various and sundry
Hello all,
Now I am all excited. I read Graham's posting regarding the Demorest machine...
"What you have is a machine made by the Demorest Mfg Co, an engineering company
which used the famous Demorest name to promote the product.
Machines were made from 1882 in NYC but the campany then moved to Plattsburgh
NY and continued in production until 1908."
I was born and live in Plattsburgh NY and NEVER had heard about this. I
would love to have more info.
And Graham....how about finding ME one of those FREE ARMS!!!!
In other news, I bought a nice looking machine today. It is huge and looks
like an early 99 with the tension mechanism on the front of the machine
above the needle housing. It is black and silver with gold trim and very
ornate metal work including a silver (chrome) hand wheel. It says "The
Dynamic Sewing Machine Company" - the front medallion says in a gold
metallic circle "Deluxe 1955 model" and down below it - made in Japan. It
is certainly a pretty machine and has all the attachments and the manual.
Looks well taken care of. Any info would be appreciated. It also looks
like the feed dogs drop. Maybe this will be my new machine quilting
machine!
For those interested... I still have copies of the Cornel booklet "Care and
Adjustment of the Sewing Machine" dated February 1953. I am asking $3 to
cover cost
Guess that's it for now
Shelley
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Subject:
Date: Fri, 3 May 1996 12:36:29 -0600
Does anyone need a Centennial industrial type Singer for $45? It's big,
electric, with minimal gold trim, and the tag on it says good for sewing
leather. E-mail me if interested - Susie
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Date: 03 May 96 14:43:03 EDT
Subject: Contribution
Sheila re Singer 24
This was one of only two chain-stitch domestic machines that Singer made (we
discount the various model 20 toys). Yours was more usually called the
Automatic. The other weas a very plain, virtually bare of any decoration model
30 which had claw feet integral with its base.
The machine you have is very desirable, was only sold in hand-crank form outside
the USA. As an indication a hand-crank version in 8 condition sold for 380
English pounds (around $600) at the recent ISMACS auction although it must be
said that hand-crank versions of machines are more fovoured in Europe than
treadle varieties.
You should be able to get a belt at any decent sewing-machine outlet. You need
3/16 or 1/4 inch round belting. Measure the length you need with a piece of
string addd a couple of inches for safety and then get the shopkeeper to cut you
the length and show you how to clip the ends together. Shouldn't cost more than
5 bucks.
To Robin re replica FWs
I've not seen one in the flesh but a few dealers in the States have sent me the
advertising flyers and reports that the machines, made somewheres in the far
East are shoddy. I did not know that Singer was handling them but I suppose that
with the company now owned by the Chinesse we will get a lot more badge
marketing from them.
To Mark and Katy
Thanks for the kind comments on my silly true stories. As to a book, that would
have to stand in line with three others I'm currently work on (nothing to do
with sewing machines).
To Darlene
Thanks also for the comments. I've just shepherded 20 Americans around European
sewing machine museums. They came from Nashville, New York, California, Texas
etc ------ and you talk about British accents!
To Betsy re Jones Family
Sorry I can't date this accurately from the SN. When Brother took over the
company they simply dumped all the paperwork and archives in the incinerator.
However can provide a copy of a handbook and the odd advert etc. E-mail me your
snail address.
To Bob re Singer No 2
Further to my private e-mail re your new Singer, I might be able to help from
the spares bin but I need to know just what machine the Singer company is now
calling a number two. Does it have a fiddle-back-shaped base. If so let's all
call it the Family which was Singer's name for it at the time. I just can't
understand where they get the number 2 designation from -- there were at least
five models made previously to this and the true number two is a gigantic
industrial machine.
To Mary Sue
Thanks for the kind comments -- no shortage of stories ( 25 years in the
collecting business) just a shortage of time. Isn't it tragic, when one is young
there's all the time in the world to enjoy hobbies but a big absence of the
necessary money. When one gets older, money isn't the same problem but there's
never enough time. There must have been a day or two back somewheres when the
two balanced but I can't remember when.
To Carol re Singer identification.
Guess I could photocopy the Singer factory identification manual but it runs to
around 80 pages. Includes pix and brief details of all Singers sold in the UK
from 1870 to 1982. Such a job is beyond my home-model machine and copy work here
is expensive -- runs at 5p ( 8 to 9 cents ) a page and postage would be horrific
-- sending the 40-page ISMACS magazine to the States costs 1.61 English pounds
so something twice the size will probably run $6. I make that a total of close
to $14 a time -- that's if they can copy double sided from the book -- if not it
would be double the postage again making $20.
I'm game to do it but it would only be worthwhile if enough FWFs liked the idea.
BTW I've written to Singer USA a couple of times requesting information and the
letters have been ignored
To Ann re chipped paintwork
There's no need to wory about the chip getting any larger. Even if it is down to
bare metal, the alluminium won't rust.
The problem with touching in the chip is the thickness of the original
paintwork. I think I'd get a can of auto touch up paint -- the one that come in
the tube with the little paint brish in the cap aim at repairing sone-chipped
paint on cars. You can then slowly build up the thickness day by day until you
get a near-level surface. I'm suggesting that particular method as the paint
comes pretty thick which is ideal for what you want and black is not a colour
you should have any trouble matching..
To Jean and others with light bulb problems
Got a problem here as I'm not sure if the bulb on American FWs is a bayonet
fitting or an Edison screw as used on domestic light fittings in the States. If
it's the bayonet type I've found that rattly bulbs are often caused by the small
springs behind the plungers that make contact with the bulb becoming weak with
age and the heat generated. If you remove the fitting and stretch the screws a
little , the problem should be cured.
To Amber re Singer 128
This was a smaller vesion of yhe 127 havining a 12 1/2 inch bed. First
introduced as a hand-crank in 1912. Decoration often changed especially for
long-running production models.
To Betty re books on old sewing machines
Will e-mail you a list in next couple of days
To Judy re damaged FW
If you don't get something more local than the UK,I can send you appraisal as
Research Editor of ISMACS -- that's always worked here and my appraisals have
been accepted by American insurance companies. E-mail me if you get desperate.
Best wishes to all from rainy old London
Graham F
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Subject: Re Karen's white FW, &Frister &R
Date: 30 Apr 1996 19:40:32 GMT
On the 25th April 96 Karen P wrote about her
white featherweight which provoked much conversation,
when seen by other sewers. Please Karen, for those
of us unable to see it,-- describe a little fuller ! Does it
have a black carring case ? Does it have the ornate gold
decals familiar to black fw owners ? Does it have a black
or white foot control ? Do you have a birth place &date
for it ? I find myself fanatically intrigued ! ! No hope I'm
sure of finding one in Canada.
For Steve &Terri C . I have the identical Frister &Rossman
machine to the one you have just aquired. I did post about
it some many months ago. I agree, they are beautiful, but
heavy for the amount of metal. The marquetry on the wood is
incrediable You have revived my interest in the old girl, but don't
think I could do any serious sewing on her. This was brought
over by my ML in mid 50's from England, and she did a lot of
wonderful sewing. The very sound of the hand crank sends my
DH off into bouts of nostalgia,(sewing as she did way after his bedtime).
It was this machine that kept the wolf from their door in the Depression,
in London in 1920's
Love this crazy list. Greta
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Date: Fri, 3 May 1996 12:14:31 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Quilting Today Article (long)
I just had to comment about a distressing article I read this week in
QUILTING TODAY, issue #54 (says display until 6/10/96). It is titled "A
match made in Quilter's Heaven! Grandma's cabinet unites with today's
sewing machine!" by Danielle Toussaint. It begins "Few quilters would
piece their creations on the cranky old machines their mothers and
grandmothers used (I take exception right here!), but the cabinets that
housed them can be lovely." (parenthesis are mine)
It goes on to describe how the author spent several months searching for
"an antique cabinet in which to mount my modern machine" and finds a
White treadle machine and cabinet. "Although it was marked $250, when I
offered him $125 it was mine! Not very many people are interested in old
treadles, and this one needed refinishing badly." The author insists on
having her DH remove the old machine (no mention is made any further of
the machine head), widen the hole to accomodate her modern machine and
refinish the cabinet. In the photo is shown a lovely smiling young woman
with her "new" cabinet complete with machine, quilt top and a cat on top.
In a shaded box is "Tips on Remodeling a Cabinet" which include:
-"The old machines tend to be very short and narrow. Your machine
probably is larger, but you can widen the opening by sawing the wood.
-If the new machine is too tall for the cabinet to fold down, keep the
cabinet open. You won't have to pump the treadle plus you'll have nice
tension control and fancy stitches. It seems a fair trade! If you
prefer, remove your machine and set it on top of the cabinet after
folding it up. Then set it back in when it's time to sew.
- Look for a cabinet that needs to be refinished. One that is already
refinished will be more expensive and that new finish will be ruined when
you adapt the cabinet to fit your machine.
- Use a jigsaw to enlarge the hole to fit your machine, " etc. etc. on
refinishing techniques.
Few things set me off enough to get really upset, but this is one of
them (it ranks right up there with cutting up antique quilts to make
"decorator" items). My husband tells me not to get my panties in a
wad about things I can't change and I really do try to stay cool about many
things, but this really did bother me. The last thing I would like to
see is MORE antique sewing machine cabinets going the way of end tables
and plant stands. No mention is made of the condition of the head and
what she did with it. I can't help but think it was just tossed out.
I need some feedback from fellow FWF'ers - what is your reaction? How
can I articulate to the editor/author what a bad idea this is? Is there
ever an occasion when it would be a GOOD idea? I'd like to collect your
postings and include them in my letter to the editor. Thanks.
Kolleen
BTW - I usually like this magazine and purchased this issue because it
had some really good articles (visual texture of fabric by Judy Dales)
and patterns. Also a REALLY thought provoking article by Joe Cunningham
on "Being a Man in the Quilt World."
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Date: Fri, 3 May 1996 15:22:44 -0400
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 5/1/96
To Claudette,
How wonderful to be able to see each machine and be able to identify them .
I am always searching for machines at swap meets and of course the dealer
never knows anything about the machine. I recently bought a 201 and had no
idea what I had bought until I got it home and did some research.. I am
really pleased with that purchase for I love the machine almost as much as a
featherweight. Laura
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Date: Fri, 3 May 1996 12:34:12 -0700
Subject: eclectica
Hi everyone. I offered to send Spartan instructions to Mary and several
others responded which was fine except for my own lack of record keeping.
I'm not sure I sent it to those who requested it. Email me again w/ your
snail address and I'll try to do better .
Caryl...Use only "sewing machine" oil. Singer will say use only theirs but
any is ok. No three-in-one oil, WD-40 or "household" oil. These may
(probably) will gum up the works.....in time.
Bob...Having lots of experience with mechanical things (cars machinery etc.)
it seems to me the long term effects of oil, WD-40, grease, vaselene etc. on
decals is bad news. How often I've cleaned an old grease/oil saturated air
cleaner on a car and had the decals disintegrate. As I mentioned in another
posting FWs have a clearcoat so that may not be a problem. I don't know
about other machines. Let me ask this though....Would you spray, wipe or
otherwise apply any of these things to the finish of your fine automobile to
make it shine better? That's what I thought.
Wooden cases...FWs have nicely dovetailed wooden cases that can look
beautiful if damaged covering is removed. I wouldn't do it to a case in
nice shape. The black covering was glued on with a very sticky animal glue
and it is not easy to get off, but I've found that using hot water and a
wood scraper helps after the covering has been torn off. Be careful not to
use too much hot water as the dovetailing of the box itself may become
unglued. A fixable but avoidable problem. These boxes were not meant to show
the wood so quite a bit of sanding will be necessary to make them look fine.
They can then be stained, varnished or whatever.
Sherrie....I'm not sure I understand your presser foot problem, but do
realize that the foot's secondary action is to release tension on the
tensioner, via an arm which operates from the knob or button on the side of
the presser foot lever. I suspect the problem may be just a gummed up
mechanism. Wrong oil use over time, perhaps. Maybe a good cleaning in this
area with a solvent, like paint thinner (NOT remover!). Some like to use
WD-40 for everything. I dunno about that.
Pink or red FWs....Someone asked if it is possible for a red primer to come
through the white on a FW and make it look pink or red. I dunno about that
on Singers, but that sort of thing happens with certain uncared for paint on
cars.
We've all seen cars that were once bright red but now look dull and more
pink than red. I'm not talking about oxidization, but an actual change in
color.
This is the grey primer coming up through non-waxed paint. On FWs????????
Remember to give Jackie, of Homegroan in Nevada City, CA a call if you are
interested in sewing machine stamps, FW pins, FW manuals or othe sewing
collectibles. (916) 265-2924.
Stan
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Date: Fri, 3 May 1996 17:17:44 -0400
Subject: Treadle to 301 Survey
Thanks to those that sent me their survey results (Laurie E,Louise S, Betty
R, David W. and JoAnn G) but I have only gotten 5 reponses to the treadle to
301 survey I sent out last week. I'm hoping to use the info to put together
detailed descriptions of each Singer model that I get responses on. If
anyone has info about different Singer models I would be interested in that
too (like the different 127 and 128 models info that was on the digest
several months ago) Also interested in the info sheets that Singer has sent
to some people. All collected info will be compiled for FWF Digest so it
would help us all. Thanks.
Survey for Singer Sewing Machines
For treadles, hand cranks and electrics up to 301s not including 221 (see FW
Survey on the WWW at http://quilt.com/FWF. Goal: to create a more detailed
descriptions of each model for distribution to FWFs. Select more than one
answer per question where appropriate. Call Singer customer service for info
by serial # at 1-800-877-7762.
1. Serial #:
2. Date/Year of Manufacture:
3. Model #:
4. Manual: a) yes b) no
5. Power: a)treadle b)hand crank c)electric, knee lever d) electric, foot
pedal
e) electric, knee and foot
6. Bobbin: a)shuttle b)round, side load c) round, top load d) no
bobbin/chain stitch
7. Bobbin winder: a) shuttle, high mounted b) shuttle, low mounted
c) round bobbin, thread goes through cleat on right of machine
d) round bobbin, thread goes through tension disks on right side
e) other (describe) f) round bobbin, nothing on right side of bed
8. Balance wheel: a) spoked b) solid c) chrome edge d) same color as
machine
9. Color of machine: a) black b) tan/beige c) white/green d)
other____________
10. Finish of machine: a) shiny b) matte/crinkle/godzilla
11. Face plate: a) flat b) not flat
12. Face plate design: a) grapes b) floral/leaves c)
lined d)other____________
13. Plate on back right side of machine: a) none b) round c) upside
down pear d) other__________
14. Design on rear plate: a) grapes b)floral c)lined d) no design
e) other (describe)
15. Stitch length adjuster: a)unmarked knob b) unmarked knob in short slot
c) flat lever in numbered slot d) thumb screw in numbered slot
e) thumb screw in slot next to numbered slot with indicator
f) other (please describe or draw if mailing) _____________________________
16. Reverse stitch: a) yes b) no
17. Zigzag built in: a) yes b) no
18. Upper thread tension: a) unmarked in front b) unmarked on left side
c)numbered in front d) numbered on left
19. Decals: a)Sphinx b)mother of pearl c) design with shells d)
delicate floral e) heavy floral f) red/green/gold g) other (describe
design and color)
20. Medallion: a) small (1 1/4 high) b) large (1 5/8 high)
c) commemorative (describe) d) anniversary (describe)
21. Head size: measured from face plate to far end of balance wheel
length in inches _________
22. Bed size: length _______ width _______ depth _______
23. Fold down extension bed: a) none b) short 5” 5/8in c) long ____in
24. Needle: a) straight b) slant
25. Shank: a) low b) high
26. Light mounted: a) front b) back c) none
Container:
27. Treadle cabinet:
a) # of total side drawers: _______
center drawer: b)tilt out c)slide out d) none
e)box covers machine on top of cabinet f) machine folds down into table
extension table: g)full size folds over top h)small that folds down to
side
i) box top that unfolds into table extension to sides and back
j) closed cabinet (drawing room cabinet)
k) machine goes straight down into cabinet
28. Portable: (provide height, length, width of case)
a) bentwood/dome top/breadbox case
b) fabric covered case (color ________)
c) case detaches from base of machine and pulls off
d) side opening case (like suitcase)
e) other
29. Built in electric cabinet:
a) knee lever b)foot pedal c)both
d) one piece table extension to one side e)split extension half to each
side
30. Folding Card table a) measurement of top and height b)
measurement of cut out c) metal legs d) wooden legs
31. Your name and E-mail address
32. City and State
33. Add anything here that was not covered in the questions above.
Thanks.
P.S. I would be interested in collecting information sheets sent out by
Singer if you would not mind snail mailing to me. Thanks again.
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Date: 03 May 96 14:43:14 EDT
Subject: Contribution
True story number 13
One of the most desirable machines ever produced was the Scottish Kimball and
Morton model made in the shape of a Lion.
For years we had known of one in terror-torn Belfast but the owner steadfastly
refused to sell although he had promised us first refusal.
Then out of the blue he phoned and revealed that he had been made a very high
offer by a Dutchman. This tempted him but, if we wanted to match the offer, the
machine was ours.
I arranged for him to be on the dock at Belf
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Date: Fri, 3 May 1996 18:15:07 -0400
Subject: Bobbin case
I have also been bitten by the SM bug. We now have 4 treadles (Franklin, New
Home, White, and a Minnesota model A )and 2 FW's. I have had my "White"
treadle for about 2 yrs now and do all of my quilting on it. I just love it.
The cabinet is walnut and full length to the floor (no iron legs) it has
burled inlay walnut on the two side doors and inside has birds eye maple
drore fronts. The Minnesota cabinet has goat head drore pulls. Very
beautiful. It will be my next refinishing project as the finish is very
crazed and dark now.
Someone said the Franklin treadles are collectable. I can't seem to find a
book on collecting sewing machines. Any available?
Anyhow, I need a bobbin case for a New Home cira:1904. It is in wonderful
condition. The cabinet is oak and when all closed up looks like a cuboard.
I recently was able to get my first FW at an antique sale for $200. I did'nt
get a case or any attachments but it runs very good. Quite fast in fact.
Then a lady called me that saw a posting I had up for FW's. She had one to
sell w/make me an offer type of deal. It was rusty and was missing the
throat plate. The case is in very bad conditon. The black (Paper stuff) is
coming off. I checked to see if the bobbin case was there and offered her
$100. She gladly excepted. I was excited too until I found out the bobbin
case was broken. The little tab thing had been pulled off. Wow, exspensive!
I took it to my local quilt store and got it all fixed up for $130. They
had a used face plate but the bobbin case costs $73. I'm so glad parts are
still available. I'm not sure yet what to do about the case, as far as
fixing it up. Any suggestions?
Sorry to carry on so long but I have never found a group that enjoys
collecting sewing machines. I'm glad I am not the only one as I was starting
to feel like I had "lost it" when people came over an saw them all. :)
Terri J
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Subject: RE: FW Fanatics 5/1/96
Date: Thu, 2 May 1996 22:29:19 -0500
>
> I'm curious - what do any of you know about the FW replicas that Singer
is
> marketing. I saw an advertisment for them for under $100.00. Ad says
> regularly priced at $198.00. I've never seen one. Are they plastic?
Guess
I got to see one at a home&garden showthree weeks ago. Seems like a nice
enough little machine, although the lady selling them was horrified to
learn that I was looking for an ...an....dare I say it?...an OLD
Featherweight when I could have a Brand-new machine that zigzags!!! And
yes, they are plastic.
> I have been toying with the
> idea of putting pictures of my machines and their identifing
> characteristics on a web page. Would this be of interest to the
> group? These would include Model 20, 15-91, 27, 66, 99-13,
> 128-23, 201-2, 221, 222K, 301a and any others I come across.
> Please let me know if this would be worth the trouble. . .just
Please, please do. I'd love to see photographs of all the different types!
--
Laurie
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Date: Fri, 3 May 1996 19:07:28, -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 4/30/96
Hi Fanatics- I am still searching for an original manual for my 222K
free-arm featherweight. If you can help me locate one, please E-mail to
frxv68a@prodigy.com or hurray@GSN.NET
Thank you, Joe
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Date: Fri, 03 May 1996 03:02:46 -0700
Subject: old machines
I posted the other day about my daughter buying two antique machines while
she was living in England. She just called me with info on them.
The Singer is a hand crank model #y8034266. It had a manual with it that
had a date of 1930 and said it was a 66. The hand crank was made of wood.
It i in beautiful condition and sews fine.
The other one is more interesting to me. It is a Premier. The case has
different colors of wood inlaid in a pattern on the top of the case. My
daughter got the lid off with a small screw driver. It has a lot of gold on
it in a Greek Key design with half suns in the design somehow. On the bed
it has inlaid mother of pearl in a snowflake pattern. It has a hand crank
that is made of ceramic. It says made by WJ Harris Co. LTD. London Mfg.
It has a number 942 on machine. It came with 2 pamphlets. It says "awarded
Sydney 1879". Daughter tells me it is about half the size of the Singer,
but still very heavy.
Any one ever see one of these?
Viola
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Subject: Singer Great Britain
Date: Fri, 3 May 1996 20:30:08 -0000
Hi! I hope I'm talking to the right people, if not, I'm truly sorry. I
have a friend who just aquired a VERY VERY old sewing machine in what I
would call 7 condition. It was made be Singer of Great Britain, it's
black, it's heavy and it still works. I told her I would find out if it
is worth anything, how would I go about doing that?
Kevin L
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Date: 03 May 96 22:09:48 EDT
Subject: FWFanatics 5/2/96
Hope someone can help me with information on an antique machine I recently
purchased. It is a medium size hand crank machine. The name on it is "Lady
Washington". I cannot find it listed in my book about antique machines. Anyone
know anything about the brand and about how old it is? I cannot located a
serial # on it.
Karen
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Date: Fri, 3 May 1996 22:20:58 -0400
Hi:
I'm interested in trading one (or more) of my FW's in exchange for some
toy sewing machines. I'm interested in any of the following toy machines:
"Little Mother" by Artcraft Metal Products
Older Casige models in good shape including #6; Sunflowers; Little Red
Riding Hood; Sew-O-Matic; various Art Deco models.
Made in England "Comet E.M.C."
English "Palitoy"
Gateway "Rotar Model NP-8"
Genero Machine Works "Gurlee"
Hoge Mfg. Co. "No 325 - Popular Model-Little Princess"
Made in Japan "Little Sister"
Made in Germany - Vielfach Geschutz "Liliputian"
Lindstrom Tool &Toy Co. "Little Miss Shirley Temple"
F.W. Muller - any models pre WWII. (including toy treadles, Models 16, 18, 21)
Schurhoff and Co. "Gold Rain'
Sears Roebuck Kenmore by National Sewing Machine Co. "bright red" 1930"s and
1940"s
Singer Sewhandy 1950's in Red or Blue
Singer Sewhandy 1951 Black 100th Anniversary
Sotoy "Martha Washington"
If you have any of these toys or know any serious collectors please let me know.
Thanks
Bob C
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Date: Sat, 4 May 1996 00:23:04, -0500
Subject: FW Fanatics 4/30/96
Greetings everyone!
I coudn't resist purchasing a copy of SIMPLICITY'S 1954 Fall/Winter
Pattern book from a magazine collector. Read on . . . I'm saving the
best for last . . . Several ads include the ADLERmatic, MORSE 200,
600,310, SuperDial and FotoMatic, NECCHI with the "wonder wheel",
ELNA automatic free-arm and BERNINA "the jewel of Switzerland". One
of our beloved SINGER Featherweights is featured in an ad for
products (belts, buckles, etc.) from BAC-A-BRAND,INC. making things
every "so easy". But like I said, I've saved the best for last .
You 301 admirer's are gonna love this. There is a FULL PAGE, (and
you know how large the pages are from pattern books) COLOR ad for
SINGER'S 301. The soft beige model is featured. Absolutely,
positively gorgeous!
Corinne
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Date: Fri, 3 May 96 20:04:29 EDT
Subject: Re: FWFanatics 5/2/96
Greetings FWFanatics.
Many have sent checks and requests for "Bentwood" keys and have not included an
SASE. This may not seem like a big thing, but when you are providing keys
at cost as a favor to all you fanatics out there who need keys the postage
can mount up quickly.
If you sent a request for keys and failed to include an SASE, your key(s)
are waiting.
We now can privide keys, not only for the "Bentwood" cases, but also for the
"Featherweight" Black Case and the "Featherweight" Green Case. Same price:
$5.00
per key AND AN SASE, PLEASE.
We are not "dealers," jsut fellow "Fanatics" who happen to know someone who
is good at making keys.
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Date: 03 May 96 14:43:28 EDT
Subject: Contribution
True story no 15
Regular readers here will know that I have a particular hate for those
collectors who claim to have museums and have nothing of the kind. The ploy of
course is to get you to part with something they want at much less than the
market price because you think it is going to be displayed for posterity.
Last month I had a rare chance to get my own back on one of these charlatans
and
was able to use the ISMACS convention to do so.
Advertisements had started appearing in collecting ma
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Date: 03 May 96 14:43:21 EDT
Subject: Contribution
True story number 14
We'd called at the little New England antique barn miles off the beaten track
and over the cup of coffee with the charming senion-citizen couple who owned
the
store (I think callers were pretty rare) we went through the speil about the
type of sewing machines were were looking for.
The lady revealed she had a machine which sounded interesting but it was at
her
home and we couldn't get at it for a couple of days. As we were going home the
next day we took the address and promised to write.
Here is where I hang my head in shame. We lost the notebook with the address
and
had many pangs thinking about the couple and what they must think of the
Englishman who didn't keep his word.
For the next couple of years we tried to find the barn again but with no
address
and only a hazy recollection of the area we never located it.
Eight years went by and I hang my head again to report that we had forgotten
completely about the deal.
Then one Fall, when chasing a lead about an old typewriter in New Hampshire, we
passed a barn that looked familier. There was no "antiques sign" but we both
felt we had been there before.
I parked the car near the rusty plough and the barn door opened and a couple
appeared. Then it all came back. Resisting the urge to flee in shame, we got
out
of the car and walked over, ready for almost any rebuke.
It was the woman who spoke first.
"Hello", she said, "we've got your sewing machine in the back room ready for
you".
How can you not love people like that?
Graham F
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Date: Thu, 2 May 96 19:44:14 EDT
Subject: parts
Just wanted to let everyone know the following parts are available for the
221's.
terminal blocks,bobbin winders,light sockets,bed cushions,power cords and
wooden cases with leather coated outside,clothed covered inside.
Also fot15 class machine owners there is a hand crank available as well as
the bobbin winder.
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Date: Sat, 4 May 1996 13:59:41 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: FWFanatics
Hi all! Graham wrote, "Why doesn't everyone move to California"?
Here are a few of MY reasons:
1. Earthquakes.
2. Wild fires.
3. Mud slides.
4. Smog.
5. Traffic jams.
I live in southern Vermont and other than long, snowy, cold winters, I
wouldn't give up Vermont life to move to California. About the worst we get
here is mud season (about two weeks of the year) and black fly season
(announcing spring has arrived)!
Carol
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Date: Wed, 01 May 1996 19:57:06 -0400
Subject: SM ID's;Re:FWFanatics 4/30/96
For Carol:
Isn't it frustrating not to know how to identify
the machines that you see for sale? I have been toying with the
idea of putting pictures of my machines and their identifing
characteristics on a web page. Would this be of interest to the
group? These would include Model 20, 15-91, 27, 66, 99-13,
128-23, 201-2, 221, 222K, 301a and any others I come across.
Please let me know if this would be worth the trouble. . .just
lugging some of these machines to be photographed would be my
exercise for the week. . .month?
In answer to your question re: the 301, It has a
folding extension of the machine bed on the left of the needle
bar and has to be lifted in order to access the bobbin case
(very much like a FW). In fact, the Bobbin case and bobbin are
interchangable with the FW. There is also a fold up handle on
the top of the machine for carring purposes. The model number
is on the right side under the Singer seal. Light is under the
horizontal arm with a rotating knob as on/off switch.
re:201 This is a gear
driven machine, no belt. Light on the face of the horizontal
arm, stitch length indicator moves north and south, on the right
side in a raised circular area. Hope this helps.
Claudette
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Subject: Hemstitcher
Date: Sat, 4 May 1996 17:22:52 -0400
I got it, I got it! The hemstitcher (with the correct stitch plate) for
my featherweight. I had pretty much convinced myself that finding the
hemstitcher for the featherweight was a needle in a haystack
proposition. My DH and I went to a flea/antique show at the county
fairgrounds today. Found a couple of irons (yes, into collecting those
too) but nothing else. The vendors outside were pretty spread out and I
was getting tired and anxious to head home. When my DH was heading down
an isle, I told him there was nothing down that way. He lingered
looking just long enough for me to take another look. That was when I
spotted "the black box". Sure enough a featherweight! Of course I had
to go check it out. The machine and box (no oil can) was not in the
best of shape. We started talking featherweights and he said he has 18
(and my DH thought I was nuts having 2). The man says he collects buts
mostly sells. He wasn't computer literate, so I couldn't turn him on to
you all. Anyway, at the end of the table he had some boxes of sewing
accessories for various machines. All were in really sad shape. Then I
spotted the little green box with hemsitcher written on it. Opened it
and it was all there including the screw to attach it. I quickly
checked the stitch plate number and bingo!!
I've tried it out already. I am really pleased with the look I got with
it. The holes punched are much bigger than those you get with the
modern day wing needle (just as I suspected). I've found that it will
take practice to get the punch in the same holes when you sew the second
side of the hemstitch row.
If you can't tell, I'm sew excited about my new toy! Thanks to everyone
who was keeping an eye out for one for me.
Lovina B
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Date: Sat, 04 May 1996 17:01:53 -0600
Subject: Found a Bargain
I read all the messages on here of everyone finding wonderful bargains and I
*never* have -- until today. Was just driving and noticed a "flea market"
sign -- pretty dismal looking place but I decided to stop in. Was almost
finished looking when I spotted that little black case but . . . it was
empty. It is a FW case and it is great shape except the handle has that
silver tape all around it. One of my machines had a case but the bottom
fell out -- so now I change handles and have a good case! The price was $6
and the man said he'd take $4. I was about to explode! He asked what I was
going to do with the case and I told him it was for a Featherweight. He
said he didn't want to miss a sale but he didn't think there was a machine
that small. I began to wonder but opened it up and saw the spot for the oil
can and the lid has the place for the foot so I said -- oh well, I'll take
it anyway and we can use it for marbles or Legos! Walked outside and was
able to breathe again!
I'm not sure my heart could take it if I ever stumbled across a machine for
$40 or even $150 like some of you manage to do.
Judy H
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Date: Sat, 4 May 1996 18:49:35 -0400
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 4/30/96
GRAHAM........Your stories are always the highlight of FWF. Please don't even
THINK of omiting them.
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Date: Sat, 4 May 1996 21:55:55 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: etceteras
Hi All!
We did the traditional first-of-the-year bike ride at the Columbus Zoo
today, and it's nice to be sitting down on something that isn't moving!
To Maggie: If you can, get a copy of a manual for a 127 or 128. They are
both shuttle machines. I'm afraid some barbarian kid scribbled all over
mine and although I can read it it's no good to photocopy. I know your
machine isn't a Singer, but at least this will give you some information
on the mechanism. IF I hook up with the dealer I talked to at the next
Scott Antique market, and IF I spring the big bucks for the needle/shuttle
case, I might end up with a shuttle which fits your machine.
Also to Maggie: No, I haven't gotten to the protect-and-shine stage yet.
I'm only working on it one day a week, and I do make progress but VERY
slowly. When I get to replacing the discolored coat I'm removing now, I'm
thinking about using old fashoned shellac. Reason number one: I know what
it is. Reason number two: I can do little touch-ups without too much
trouble. Reason number three: If (heaven forbid!!) I have to remove what
I put on, I can take the shellac off by dissolving it with alcohol and I
can dance around the decals if necessary. If I use a varnish, I either
have to manually scrape the coat off, or use some form of chemical paint
remover. And thanks so much for the tip about the Murphy Oil Soap. The
treadle has to go down to the basement eventually (DH and I agree it's not
the best thing to be working on over the wool rug in the living room) and
I'm apprehensive about using WD-40 in a not-too-well ventilated area.
NO, I do not intend to keep the treadle in the basement. Eventually it
comes up to our bedroom (sewing room is the smallest bedroom in the house,
and has piles of fabric all over the floor -- are we surprised??!!)
To Viola: I mailed your copy of the attachment illustrations yesterday
evening (Friday, 3rd). You should have it in a couple of days.
To those who inquired about the tan FW: I'll be mailing the names to the
dealer Monday am on the way to work. Sorry for the delay, but I've been
so terribly tired in the evenings I can do about one mental thing per day.
She won't have sold it yet. She told me she only does this one show, and
that the machine will simply sit in the back of her van until the May show.
To Kolleen: Here's my suggestion about the magazine article: Compose a
reply and post it to this list. THose of us who agree with you can e-mail
short messages to you referencing your letter. Then send the letter AND
the messages to the editor of "QUILTING TODAY". Columbus Metropolitan
Quilters did something similar when some charlitan ran a full-page ad in
the local paper advertising $$$ for "old quilts" on the grounds that "kids
today want new things..." and similar phrases. Several members of our
group who are knowledgeable collectors could tell right off from his
pricing structure that he was a scalper, plain and simple. Anyway, one of
our members wrote a letter, and thirty or more of us signed it at one of
our meetings. The letter was printed in the paper, and it also made
Bonnie Leman's comment column in an issue of QN. NUMBERS talk. Also, any
of you out there who subscribe to the magazine can write and threaten to
cancel your subscription.
Lydia
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Date: Sat, 4 May 1996 22:11:28 +0000
Subject: Singer ID Manual
Graham:
I'd be glad to send $20 for a copy of that Singer book!Count me in
and let me know! Katy
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