Featherweight Fanatics Archives

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Sat, 6 Apr 1996 16:43:31 -0600
Subject: and "if only"

Well, I talked to my mother this morning. We were talking about my itch to
collect all things Singer, and she was telling me that she's going to go
through my grandmother's postcard collection to see if there are any trade
cards in the bunch.  And then she said, "I should have kept that sewing
machine I had before I bought my Vigorelli... it was a converted treadle, a
Singer."  Aiiiiieeeeee!  Water over the dam now, of course.  40 years ago
how could she have known it would be worth hanging on to?  But
still........ 

Lisa
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Sun, 7 Apr 1996 19:32:19 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: A Discovery!

The six side drawers on my treadle cabinet have small, circular locking
mechanisms but there was no key with the cabinet.  "Be thankful for what
you got" I thought. Then my friend gave me the 128 Bentwood last week, and
guess what??!! The key for the bentwood case fits the drawer locks!

Now, since I only have one key, anyone know where I can get a couple of
spares???

Lydia 
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Subject: RE: FW Fanatics 4/7/96
Date: Sun, 7 Apr 1996 19:37:30 -0500

Eileen - my 66 (according to singer) has a base measurement of 14 1/2 by =
7 inches - this is the painted black part with gold trim around it.  my =
128 is about 2 inches longer than my FW, when I place the FW in front of =
it.  of course, the identification of my machines comes from Singer, and =
I'm sure that you've read enough letters to realize how accurate that =
is....

Sherrie
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Sun, 7 Apr 1996 19:48:24 -0700
Subject: I AM OVERJOYED!!!!

On Saturday, I met a man ........who, as he puts it, "dabbles in Old 
machines".  Without going into all the details, let me tell ya......I was 
invited to his home; he has over 50 Featherweights - ALL IN PRISTINE or 
NEAR-PRISTINE condition; he has
some of the most GORGEOUS old Treadles;

 and now let me tell you the BEST
PART OF SATURDAY!!!!!!!!   I came home with an Anniversary Model - made in 
1951 ....in BETTER THAN PRISTINE condition [if that's possible],
which he said he found in  an old barn, covered in probably 5" of Pigeon dung!

 I got another machine from him.....won't know model, age etc until Monday 
when I call  Singer, but Ser.# is AG 799395....it is larger both in length 
and in head
than the Anniversary Model........I'm just bubbling with Joy!!!!!!!  He's 
got what I think he called "an Egyptian Treadle" in it's original condition 
{extra fine} with a beautiful 7-drawer cabinet, original and in X-tra fine 
condition.  It's mine for $200!!!!!  PLUS....he gave me .....Yes...GAVE me a 
small machine cabinet
for the anniversary mode.  Said to me that I needed something to put it in, so I
could sew....mind you, i had the curved-top portable case...

Then he GAVE me an old sock darner, complete in original box, with manual.
I swear, it has never been used...it's a shiny black and looks BRAND NEW!

He couldn't understand why I didn't want a Featherweight....It isn't that I 
don't
want one, it was just so overwhelming to see so many machines in one place,
I was in total SHOCK!

He was such a funny guy, said that as he watched me touch each machine,
he knew immediately, "by the look on your face" which ones I wanted!

Now I've got to get the $200 together to go and get that Treadle!!!

He said he NEVER sells to collectors, and only to those who will buy his
machines and USE them......

I just can't begin to tell you all......how overwhelmed I've been the past 
24 hours!
I feel as tho I've died and gone to heaven!

-=Bobbie=-
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Sun, 7 Apr 1996 21:34:58 -0700
Subject: Eldridge E &Spartan

Has anyone ever heard of a machine called the Eldridge E?  I think it may be
made by the American Sewing Company; not sure about that or ever heard of
them.  I have found one that is in a portable case and looks like it was
used very little.  All of the intricate designs show absolutely no signs of
wear.  It has a domed wooden case and the detail on the machine is
absolutely beautiful.              My mom wants to know if anyone knows
anything about a machine called a Spartan.  Seems to be a portable that she
saw at a flea market for $35, but she had no idea if this was a good deal or
not.  She doesn't think that it sold and would like to go back Saturday if
it's something worth having.  
Thanks in Advance
	Judy	
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Mon, 8 Apr 1996 01:57:36 -0400
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 4/7/96

For......Judy

Since I know Graham is out of touch during the convention and I have been
talking to him about Willcox &Gibbs, I'll try to help 'till he gets back.
 Graham also has a copy of the book that goes with these.  He was so kind as
to send me a copy.

Don't forget that the DATE of the machine is NOT the last patent date.  Case
in point, my W&G was dated 1883 by the person I bought it from.  But the
serial number places it's manufacture as 1913.

The following are excerpts from my correspondence with Graham.  I hope it
helps.  

Willcox &Gibbs is from a very famous factory. The company was the largest
and most successful producer of chain-stitch machines.   Formed in 1857, the
company was the first in the industry to use the "American System" of
manufacture in which parts were made to such fine limits as to be completely
interchangeable between machines.

First models had two pieces of molded glass for tension but in 1875 the
Automatic was introduced and continued virtually unchanged until the company
ceased production in the 1950s.

If your machine has a number below 650,000 I can date it for you but I have
not figures after that date (1916). Most American-sold models were on
treadles although a few hand-crank geared machines were sold in the USA. W&G
exported heads only to the UK where they were fitted with hand cranks and
mahogany bases.>>

The W&G that I have is #B587035, Graham dated it as early 1913.  The # can be
found, as you are looking at the front of the machine, on the left side,
under the chrome table.  On the little "foot" that rests on the table top.
 Just next to the round pedestal.  This machine is just the head.  The gold
decals are just a shadow.  You can see where they were and that's about it.
 I paid $160.  I now feel that it  was to much.

 -- this is one I saw in an antique mall---
A Willcox &Gibbs complete with W&G treadle, 3 drawer, maple cabinet with
"bread box" top and some attachments.  The serial # on it is A367446.  Now
they're asking $285.00, but I haven't tried to dicker the price down yet.

The W&G is around 1882 but the actual number is in a black hole that I do
not have accurate data for.  But I'm going to be correct within a couple of
years.  It would have had its gold leaf decoration. W&G  black jappaning was
especially good and it's not unusual for them to turn up looking all black
and original despite having lost the decor in the past 100+ years.   The $285
isn't silly expensive but go dicker.>>

Remember that the $285 is an retail price NOT an auction price.

I have also seen Electric version priced at around $75/$85.

hope this helps.

BTW if you can find the James Slaten book (Use it only for the pictures!!)
the W&G/cabinet I saw in the store is on page #93.

Judy
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Subject: RE: FW Fanatics 4/5/96
Date: Sun, 7 Apr 1996 13:28:40 -0500

Al - Arg! I'm so humiliated!  I called everyone to find out - the local 
singerguy, my mom (who services and has restored FW)!  Everyone told me 
that nothing belonged in there!  I wouldn't have even looked for 
anything, except that there was DIRT packed in the top.  Now what?  Can 
you put new in? 20
	I also, now, have an explanation to the odd scratches on the arm of my 
128 - pin marks!  I'd never heard of that one!

	DH and I also saw one of those neat treadle singers with the Sphinxes 
and "egyptian" scrollwork.  The machine was about a 3 on appearance 
(Forsdyke scale, of course), and the cabinet equally rough, and it was 
labeled "NFS", but we drooled a bit anyway.

DH does not understand (quite) the attraction of old machines.  Does 
anyone else feel, like I do, that you're somehow connected with the 
original owners, and that you know them?   And I think that FW cases 
smell like my grandmother's attic, and that is one of my favorite 
smells.20

I haven't named my FW yet, but my Pfaff is named Gertrude.  It is a 
nicely behaved machine, but much too heavy to get a nice name!

Sherrie
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: 08 Apr 96 05:50:49 EDT
Subject: Contribution

Hi all,

I'm not supposed to be here, but working on the ISMACS Convention paperwork but
I had to answer the point about the Wilcox and Gibbs machine.
It may have the date 1879 on it but this simply refers to a patent taken out by
the company that year. The machine could be, and probably is, much later. They
were being produced in the same form from 1875 right up until the 1950s The
machines are common being the most popular chain-stitch model ever made. 

Price will depend on condition and type of cabinet.If fully-enclosed cabinet
with doors $400 to $500 is not out of order. A simple treadle with a few
drawers, $250 to $350. Plain treadle with wooden top, $200 to $250. You
mentioned a wooden cover: if this has o compartment for cottons, accessories
etc, add $75.
The above for an average condition machine.
If you buy it tell me the SN (it's under the stitch plate near the
stitch-adjuster lever) and I will date it for you. If you have no handbook a
copy is available.

To Kitty
Your Zenith was made by either the National of the Free SM Co. Both companies
produced models under this name in the 1920 to 30 period.
There is no book dealing with machines from the 1900 period on. I doubt there
ever will be. A conservative estimate suggests that in the USA alone there were
at least 4,000 different machines being made in the 1910 to 1930 period. With a
picture and a couple of hundred words on each you'd finish up with something to
rival Britanica 

To Judy
See above for Wilcox and Gibbs information. Also I posted something about the
factory and history of the company a while back -- should be archived.
I can provide copy of handbook, spares lists etc if required but not for a
couple of weeks.

There's no where else on the Net for discussing old machines but you can check
out ISMACS's Home pages for England and Australia. Can't remember the address
but think there is a link from FWF home page. See foot of this posting

To Eileen

OK here's the 66, 99, 128 indentification pointers.

66 drop-in side bobbin, made (and looks it) from 1907 to 1920. 14 1/2 inch bed.
Stitch adjustment via screwed knob (in and out, no up-dawn  lever)

99  drop in side bobbin made 1921 to 1955. 12 1/2 inch bed. Lever stitch
adjustment

128  long bobbin front to back, 12 1/2 inch bed , screwed stitch adjuster as in
99  made 1912 onwards.


Now I really must get back to that paper work


Graham F
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Mon, 8 Apr 1996 03:34:29 -0700
Subject: Willcox and Gibbs

        I read your post dated 1/15/96 to Kim M about the Willcox &
Gibbs machine.  I just got one this week-end; unfortunately it doesn't have
a manual.  The hand-wheel was bound pretty tight and would hardly move.  A
little cleaning, and now it runs so nice.  I think it would sew if I only
knew how to thread it.  It is a treadle model and came with many
attachments, some I've never seen before and have no idea what they are for.
The serial # is A347082.
        Do you know where I can get any information about this machine?
Could you also please send me a photo copy of the threading instructions?     
       I found another machine that is an Eldridge E (portable with a wooden
lid) that is just beautiful.  The designs on it are multi-colored and have
no wear at all.  The asking price is $119 but it looks as though the dealer
may have had it awhile because there are cobwebs in the lid.  I have gone
back to look at this machine twice--don't really need another machine but am
just really drawn to this one (like I was to the W&G).  Do you know anything
about this machine and is it worth the price being asked?
        This week-end was the first time that I went looking for antique
machines and I brought home two.  There were two others (besides the
Eldridge E) that I has a hard time walking away from.  Also brought home the
head of a Franklin treadle (serial # 1Q8290) in beautiful shape for $4.
Someone must of needed a cabinet more than it did.  All I know about this
machine is that is was made for Sears (I think by White).  Any info on this one?
Thanks in Advance
	Judy
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Mon, 8 Apr 1996 08:35:38 -0500 (CDT)
Subject: Special Foot

"Desperately Seeking"...   Does anyone have a "special purpose foot" as 
Singer calls it, that is for satin stitching to fit the slant-needle 
machines?   This foot is pictured and described in several machine 
manuals, but I don't have one (have about everything else :-)  and none 
of my "local sewing gurus" seem to have ever run across one.

The illustrations show a rather wide foot that should easily slide over 
embroidery and satin stitching, and it is distinguishable by a small 
eyelet on the front (nearest the sewer) of the foot.  the eyelet is used 
for feeding cord for corded embroidery stitches.   I would sure 
appreciate hering from anyone that has one to sell.

Editorial Note:
I, too am disgusted when I see the scars from the wrap-around pin cushion 
strips (especially on my beautiful 201).  But in my moments as a sewing 
machine "purist" I have to remember that this is a sign that these were 
*machines* that were used by our forebears to really crank out the work, 
clothe the family, etc.  As pretty as they were/are, most of these 
machines were born to be utilitarian necessities in the home.  We are 
lucky to get them in as good shape as they are!

Thanks  Much,

Daryl
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Sun, 07 Apr 1996 12:21:31 -0400
Subject: Many New Finds!

This is my first communication, although I have been lurking and 
enjoying for 2 or 3 weeks.  My DH went "online" in mid-March.  I was not 
overly enthusiastic until I found the World Wide Quilting Page and FFWs! 
 In 20+ years of "antiquing," I had never seen or heard of FWs until I 
recently began quilting and saw one on the cover of Miniature Quilts 
magazine.  I had to find one (but how?)  Thanks to all of your 
information, searching ideas, etc., I now have added 5 FWs, a Model 99, 
and a Free to the Damascus treadle (formerly my mother's and the machine 
on which I learned to sew), 2 toy machines, and New Home 9000 I already 
owned.

My best find to date took place last weekend when DH and I found a 
Centennial model FW in a booth at an antique mall about 30 miles away 
for $150.00.  Great condition, great case, attachments, even a key.  A 
note on the tag from the owner said he had 2 more.  After some sleuthing 
(they didn't want to give me his phone number), I tracked him down and 
we visited the next day and purchased an AH in very good condition 
(great case) and an AF that is missing its face plate.  (How could that 
happen?)  Although our idea was to use the AF for spare parts should the 
need arise, it sews a great stitch and I would really like to "save" it. 
 Any ideas on obtaining a face plate?  My DH could make a 
plain-looking one (he has many talents!), but an original would 
definitely be preferable.  Also, the gold on the AH is absolutely 
perfect, but the black has some rough spots.  They are similar to how 
rust forming under paint on a car would feel, but of course the aluminum 
on a FW can't rust, so what is it?  Incidentally, the man who owned them 
had originally purchased them on speculation for a friend in another 
state's quilt guild.  The friend had a massive heart attack and died 
before he could deliver them, and they spent the last decade in his 
closet.  He was aware of their value, but didn't have any inclination to 
jack up his prices.  A great guy!

Judy -- What a coincidence!  During our 4 day Easter 
"vacation" we spotted a Free (bird motif, Mission oak cabinet) in a 
different antique mall, thought about it all the way home, then read 
your posting.  I am sure it is the same model.  We picked it up 
yesterday.  Beside the fact that I think it is absolutely gorgeous, we 
are originally from (southern) Illinois and I have relatives in 
Rockford, which made it of special interest to me.  Don't think mine is 
in quite as good shape as yours and it didn't come with a manual.  
Please e-mail me if you want to compare notes.  I would love to have a 
photocopy of the manual if you are willing and I would gladly pay costs.

Three days scouring antique shops, pawn shops, thrift shops, etc. also 
yielded several other additions to my other collections.  (Wish there 
was--is there?--a similar bulletin board for antiques/collectibles.)  A 
sewing-related find was a "Clarks O.N.T. Boilfast" spool display 
cabinet.  Tin painted black with gold lettering and a slanted front with 
a glass window behind which you can see the spools.  Came with several 
wooden spools of thread.  I thought it would look nice displayed near 
the FWs.

Our local Singer sales/repair shop (in business over 44 years) told me 
that new motors for FWs are no longer available, so having a spare might 
not be a bad idea.  Is there another source?

Julia and DH Denne
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

Date: Sun, 7 Apr 1996 08:00:29 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Re: THANKS!

Mary-Thanks so much for your kind words regarding purchased machines. I 
really try to hone in on the best, but am not opposed to picking up 
machines that are workhorses for good prices. RE: Packing and Joe can 
attest to the fact that if Hercules had hurled his package to the great 
state of New Hampshire that package would of bounced acrosses America 
without a knick. He also advises that all buy stock in Mailing Tape. 
 I really enjoy my work and have been so bless this past two years 
to move into antique machines. I won't lie and say I still do run fast 
and dirty on my computer machines because of their capability of 
programmed embroidery, BUT the Featherweight stitch is better than the 
top of the line pricey machines. Now for my questions. Did the tan 
featherweights come in a tan case. I have located one and haven't seen it 
yet but want to know ahead of time what to expect. Another question is I 
found a Wilcox and Gibbs 1894, with Gold Deco grapes and grape vines. No 
needles a little rusty, but otherwise in good condition. Have the Wilcox 
and Gibbs fans every run across this one? Also what might a complete set 
of world Singer cards cost in the box. A dealer has saved a set for me 
but I have not idea what is a good price. Thanks for all your wonderful 
support in the Biz. Zsux
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Mon, 8 Apr 1996 15:10:35 -0400
Subject: Re: Old Phaffs

I found an old Phaff model 130 in a thrift store for $10-  It didn't have a
power cord but looked to be in fairly good shape.  Don't know anything about
these machines and wondered if anyone out there did.  What is it worth and
can you get cords for them.  It weighed a ton.  Also wondering what year it
was made.  Thanks, Laura 
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Mon, 8 Apr 1996 15:23:31 -0500
Subject: Wilcox, Gibbs, and Texas Centinial

Sorry don't have spell check on my mail client!  There is a "little" bit
of Wilcox and Gibbs information on my web page.  http://www.icsi.net/~pickens

The $375 or so price paid for the 100 anniversary and table is a great catch.
I've got one that is about the same (100 anniversary) with all the original
manuals, accessories, and oil can, that is valued at $550-$600.  The wooden
table is valued at $75-$125, so yes I would say that you got a bargain.

I do not think that my dad, Dale Phas a Texas anniversary special,
but he has a "special" order service that he does.  Several people have
called him to be on the "look" out for certain kinds of featherweights.  If
you call him and tell him you are looking for this one, he finds it for you,
and it turns out that you allready acquired one, then I'll take the Texas
one he finds (now that I live in Texas!)  Give him a call! 
Cheers!    Gail P
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Mon, 08 Apr 96 16:38:09 -0700
Subject: Model 15-91

I just traded with my sister to get my mom's old sewing machine back  
(the trade was a 1980 Singer Creative Touch Model 1036 for mom's 
machine).

I called Singer this morning and found out that it is a model 15-91
manufactured March 8, 1956.  Did these machines have a name (other than
15-91)?  Did they have cases?  When my dad bought it, it was mounted in
a maple cabinet and he never got a case for it.  I'd be interested in
purchasing an orphan case if anyone has one for this machine.

I've really enjoyed this mailing list as I also have a Model 27 
Vibrating Shuttle (BD: 12/8/08).  Working on cleaning up this one.

Any info on my machines would be great.  Thanks, thanks, thanks!
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Mon, 8 Apr 1996 20:27:33 -0400
Subject: Green 30ls???

Well, the 301 I have been waiting for friends to bring me from Kansas didn't
make it all the way back to California.  They picked it up at their
relative's home in Kansas, but because it was so heavy and they were in a
rental car and airplanes during this trip, they felt it was too cumbersome to
bring back.  So, they visited my MIL, also in Kansas and it is now there.
 So, I'm not sure when I will get it.  We go back about once a year by plane;
I guess we will have to go the scenic route soon by car soon.

My MIL described it to me on the phone as being green.  She also didn't like
the looks of it--style-wise that is, not the condition.  The only 301 that I
have ever seen was black although I hear some of you mention tan ones.  Is
there a green one?  I think I will ask my MIL to get the serial number of it
and I will call Singer go see if it is really a 301.

Please let me know if you think there are green 301s.  Thanks in advance.

Evie
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Mon, 8 Apr 1996 20:35:36 -0400
Subject: Attachments

Two nice coups to report.  The local So-Fro closed this week.  Last week, I
drifted in just to look at what was left.  Someone had taken all the small
stray attachments, tossed them in a plastic baggie and marked them at $5.
 There was also an evenfeed foot which was not in its original bag.  That was
marked at 21.  (The two in original packing-absolutely identical-were marked
at 31.)  By the time I got to So-Fro everything was marked down by 70%.
 Total cost-seven dollars and change.  Of course, I have a few strange
attachments which are useless, but I also picked up bobbins for my old White,
screwdrivers and so on.

Today, I dropped into my Bernina dealer to admire a FW that I knew he had.
 At 450, much too rich for my taste.  I can probably justify a third FW to my
dh, but not at that price.  It is however, in excellent condition, in the
case-but no attachments.  If anyone is interested, e-mail me and I'll get you
a tele #.  Having admired the FW, I asked about Singer attachments.  I got a
zigzagger for $15-so now I have one for each FW.  They also brought out a
large box of bits and pieces.  I pulled out 15 items:screwdrivers, stilettos,
bias gauges etc.    There was even a Singer Craft Guide-with a different #
than the one on Terry's list.  This one is 120936.  Anyhow, I paid five
dollars for the entire pile of items.

All of this booty finally made me sit down and figure out what I had that I
do not need.  I have a set-or nearly so-of Griest attachments which are low
shank and do fit the FW..  There is a Griest attachment foot, a slotted
binder, 1/4" hemmer foot, 5/8" hemmer foot, 7/8" hemmer foot .  All of these
use the attachment foot.  I also have a Griest ruffler.  If anyone is
interested in this set, I am asking 7.50 plus postage.  E-mail me privately.

I also have another Griest attachment foot with 1/4"hemmer and 5/8" hemmer.
 Anyone who wants, can have that for 2 plus postage.

I have two additional 1/4" hemmer to use with the attachment foot.   If you
need these, cost is postage only.  I also have a Singer slotted binder
160359.  Again cost is postage only.

I still haven't found a 301 that works, but one of these days, I guess I'll
stumble on it .

Flo
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date:        Sun, 07 Apr 1996 09:26:28 CST
Subject: Singer 319????

Happy Easter/Chanukah everyone.
Yesterday DH and I were browsing in an antique store when we sawa
machine we'd never seen before.  It was a Singer 319.  Body looks like
my 301 except thre is no folding extension bed and the bobbin case in
underneath in front.  Very awkward to reach as the machine has to be
tilted up and back to get to the bobbin.  THe machine ws a rougn
black/gray finish and sat in a wodden base.  There was no manual, no
case, but several feet stored in the botton of the wooden base.  The
neat thing about this machine is that there were several levers (5?)
onthe top right (next to the spool holder) that could be pushed down for
different zigzag stitches.It was very dirty and rather noisy.  The clerk
plugged it ina nd iy did sew, but it was loud and noisy.  It needed a
lot of TLC.
Does anyone have one of these machines?  In the same store I saw a white
fw (no case, no attachments) for $275.  It looked tobe inok, but not
great condition.  Dh was ready to buy it for me, untilI reminded him I
already had one.  He told me that I had too many machines for him to
keep track of!  Earlier in the day I found a machine I think is a 99-13.
3/4 size head, gold scrolling pretty much intact, grape leabe embossing
on the end plate, nice curved wooden box with a knobby wooden handle,
sone attachments, lots of bobbins.  It is in great shape--no rust and
very little wear. The best part is that it came with a knee lever and a
foot pedal.  The original cord must have been replaced by the fw style
foot pedal, but the knee lever (stored in the top of the case) is in
great shape and it works.  What fun it was.  My 16-year old son had fun
sewing with
the knee pedal,tho I suspect that was the first and last time he will
want to use it.  I'm going to call singer on MOnday to find out what
kind of machine it is, tho with the contradictory info they've been
giving out, who knows?  It does look just like the centennial edition DH
got me for our annniversary.  That one says "Made in Great Britian" on
the body,but the new one does not.  The older one also has a swing out
metal lid on the box to store attachmetns and no knee lever.  The one I
bought yesterday has a place in the curved lid where a box of
attachments could fit and the metal lid loooks to be fixed shut.  Same
style of gold paint and embossing on both machines however.  Michele
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Mon, 8 Apr 1996 20:09:32 -0400
Subject: Repair to FW

My daughter lives in the Metro Atlanta area and her FW won't run.  It seems
to be fine until you feed material through it and it just sort of dies.
Any ideas? Does anyone know someone in the Atlanta area that repairs these.
Thanks from snowy Vermont where we got 8 inches overnight and more on the
way.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Subject: 
Date: Mon, 8 Apr 1996 23:19:37 -0400

I am very interested in aquiring a Featherweight Sewing machine, as well as 
the hemstitching attachment, and obtaining more information about it. 
 Please forward any information that might be useful to me.  Thank you for 
your help.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Tue, 9 Apr 1996 02:03:40 -0400
Subject: Dear Abby

I read Dear Abby tonight - a letter about a dh who flew to CA to meet his
online honey.  Cyberspace relationship I think it is called.  Anyways, it
made me remember that I did not report on my own recent venture....

Sue is a FWF from New York state.  I live in CT. She and I started to email
last fall when we both owned up to sewing on Singer GENIE machines.  Anyway,
we decided to meet in MASS for a day of antiquing last week.  First
Springfield, then Brimfield/Sturbridge area.  Had a great day!  How much
more fun it is to shop with someone with the same passions!

Anyway, before that day came one daughter asked 'What if you both want to
buy the same things?'  Well, Sue and I decided that as mature adults we
could deal with that when the situation arose.  But it never did.  She
bought a toy machine (I don't collect) and I bought a manual and other paper
stuff (she wasn't interested).

My other daughter asked 'What if you decide you don't like each other in
person?' Well, I am happy to write that I have had several emails from Sue
since then and I still faithfully write to her every day.  No problem there
either!

Oh, we both wore our 'sewing machine pins' as positive identification in
Springfield.  It was a fun venture.  Has anyone else done anything similar?
How about meeting at quilt shows?  Does FWF have a booth yet??


If anyone in interested in quilting patterns cut from newspapers in 1932, I
have a stack of about 30 of them for you.  They are from NANCY PAGE QUILT
CLUB by Florence LaGanke. Email me please if interested. $5 included postage.

Also have a COLUMBIA BOOK OF YARNS, missing cover and no date, but here are
some of the daring things it has patterns for:  hot water bottle cover,
ladies crocketed petticoat, misses' outing tam, misses' middy blouse,
steamer blanket. My guess 1920's.  Over 200 pages of great patterns. $5
includes postage.

Oh, I bought a 301 last week, with a manual.  There were no attachments and
the gal working the Singer store said she would put together a set in the
back room. So she finds an old Singer cardboard box and starts going through
tiny drawers in this giant revolving display case.  Each drawer nicely
labeled.  After a while she invited me back to help her look.  Can you
believe, I had such a GOOD TIME rummaging through those drawers looking for
slant shank attachments!!  We ended up filling the box. Also found a
buttonholer and a walking foot for it. Now that the holiday is past, I need
to give it a thorough cleaning and do some quilting with it.

This past weekend I went to 2 tag sales and came back empty handed.  Not
even another buttonholer!

All for now.  Gotta go check the window to see if it has started to snow
yet.  Millie 
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Sun, 7 Apr 1996 07:39:43 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: white fw

I have a good news/bad news fw story to tell you all. I saw an ad in the
local paper for a portable sewing machine so of course called. The woman
said she had been given the machine by her mother and didn't even know what
kind it was. She had her husband look and said it was a Singer, white in a
small case like 45rpm records came in. My heart was beating wildly,
especailly when she said she was asking $15 for it! She lives 45 minutes
away and as I drove, I kept hoping I hadn't spent all that time to see
another Touch and Sew! When I got there, I saw the little green case and
tried to restrain myself as she got it out, plugged it in, and showed me how
it ran. I thought I had the find of the century because it looked almost
unused, including its case, attachments and manual. Couldn't wait to get it
home and play with it, but when I did and looked in the attachment box, I
saw a piece of metal. The bobbin case holder had been broken off right where
the screw attaches the swing out arm to the rest of the holder - must have
really taken some effort to do that. I know you can get these and don't
think I can do the repairs myself (although I, too, would love to know how
to remove this part so I can clean thread out from back there), but it makes
my great purchase far less exciting. I've been wanting a white fw, and had
never even seen one, so I'm very happy to have it, but very disappointed
with its condition. Now I know why it's in such great shape - probably been
broken for years. Oh well, I'll get it fixed and go on to my next one. You
never know what you'll find out there. Sue M.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Tue, 09 Apr 1996 23:02:21 +1000
Subject: knee levers

Jeanann asked about a machine with a knee lever, actually the lever was
missing, the place on these type of machines where you would expect to find
the accessory box is actually the control box on the motor.  This is why you
can't open it.
I have a 201k, and when I don't feel like using the knee lever I just plug
in my Featherweight foot control and power cord.  This bypasses the control
on the machine.  I learnt this from my friendly Singer man.  He also told me
that if the knee control begins to run on, that is the machine doesn't stop
immediately, open the box (after disconnecting the power of course)and put a
few drops of machine oil on the spring and lever inside near the front.  I
haven't had to do this yet.

If you would like to see my machines they are now on my web page "Doing the
Block" at http://edx1.educ.monash.edu.au/~dtb/

Jeanette
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Tue, 9 Apr 1996 05:57:55 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Re: FW For SALE

	I've been off awhile, medical problems galore, but not to stand 
in the way of more featherweights.

  The following is list for sale.

AF  Attachments, Case, Manual, even wear, good condition, $375.
AG  Same as above
AH  Attachments Case, copy of manual, great stitch, worn on black and gold
    but great starter machine $275.
AE  Scrolled Face Plate, wear on black and gold, also blemish in front of 
throat plate assuming it is tape that was pulled off. Stitch great, case, 
attachments, copy of manual.  $375.
AJ  Attachments, case, manual even wear $375.
AM  Attachments, case, manual, excellent condtion, later edition gold 
scroolwork, case great, $510.
AL  Attachments, case, manual good condition $450.
AL  Attachments, case, copy of manual, good condition $450
AJ  Case, copy of manual, attachments, good condition

There is a $25. charge of shipping, handling, and insurance for the 
amount of sale. E for further details. Zsux
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Tue, 9 Apr 1996 08:55:34 -0600 (MDT)
Subject: Antique places in Indianapolis IN

I will be visiting Indianapolis late next week and would like to look for a
featherweight Singer.  Does anyone know of antique stores or shops either
in Indianapolis or Kokomo Indiana?
Linda 
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Subject: First Find/Encouragement
Date: Tue, 9 Apr 1996 10:44:48 -0500

Count me among the many who have passed from total disinterest in old 
things to tromping antique shops, yard sales and auctions in fervent 
pursuit of the machineofmydreams.  I enjoy reading all the various 
"victory stories", though a week or so ago I must admit I was getting 
more than a little discouraged that, in contrast, I was expending a 
whole lot of energy in my quest and had nothing to show for it.  Perhaps 
I should return to my old ways and try keeping up with my housework 
again?   Then I decided to swing by a midweek yard sale on my way to do 
other errands.  The ad listed everything BUT a sewing machine, so I 
didn't expect much.  I actually did a double-take as I approached the 
porch and there sat a black 301 with its case (I had only seen a tan one 
before, but I can spot that case a mile away).  This machine had seen 
some use, maybe some misuse, as well as some years in a hot attic 
(MELTED rubber feet and a thin coat of baked-on oil on some parts), but 
it hummed nicely despite its messed-up tension.  So for $20 (!) I have 
my first :)  301, including a box of attachments and a manual.  It 
cleaned up/adjusted nicely and I've enjoyed "bonding" with it in the 
process.  It's not a mint machine, but it's a beauty to me.

To those of you still waiting for your First Find, hang in there.  I'm 
still pinching myself a little bit.  Your day is coming, too, maybe when 
you least expect it!  Happy hunting!

Joy

P.S.  When my DH saw how thrilled I was with this machine, he declared 
that it was such a bargain, surely I could afford and should buy another 
machine if (IF???) I found one I liked!
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: 09 Apr 96 14:56:03 EDT
Subject: Hi there

Just want to say hi to everybody.  I've been lurking through these
pages for a couple of weeks now.  I'm  purchasing my first FW-baby
from Glenn which he had listed...I had only subscribed to the
newsletter for two days so my DH was worried.  

The  various antique machine conversation caused me to unbury my
 treadle given to me by a family friend.   Turns out it's a model 66 with
attachments and the manual.  I keep it for nostolgia, but really enjoy the
added info.  I've gleaned.  I might actually try it out one of these days.

Does anyone else miss Glenn's stories as much as me?  Next time he
takes off he'd better stock up a supply with Sue to keep us going.

To Linda re. your 4/4/96 posting about naming the mother/daughter
combination:  how about Judy (Garland)/Liza (Minnelli) ?  It sounds like
a very handsome duo.

To Sue:  I'm amazed at how lucky you are in finding these
old machines.  I'm from Syracuse and haven't had (nor any other FW
fanatic I know around here) the kind of luck you've had.  The search
continues... I got some funny looks from the flea market vendors last
week when I kept peeking underneath the tablecoverings (looking for
a cardtable). 

'Bye for now---Heather
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Subject: 301 Questions,  Armorall
Date: Tue, 9 Apr 1996 14:55:02 -0500

Maybe someone familiar with 301s could help me with the following 
questions?   

Oil wicks:  Sherrie  pulled wicking out of her motor lube tubes.  After 
seeing the reply to her, can I assume that the folded wicks in the three 
oil holes to the right of the 301's handle are supposed to be there?   
They don't look like they touch anything inside or would adequately oil 
anything.  How far below the metal holes are they supposed to extend? 
(Like Sherrie, I started to pull them out before I saw her posting...I'd 
never seen oil wicks before...)

Mystery foot:  Simanco #160690.  Came in my box of 301 attachments, but 
is not shown in the manual.  The foot is approx. 1/2" square with a 
square cut out in the front.  A small wire/bar crosses over the cut out, 
attached only on the right side.  There's a dark piece of a thin metal 
screwed to the flat upright of the foot.  The upright has a small slot 
in it with 5/32 engraved above it.  Can anybody tell me what this foot 
is?

 And for anyone who's used Armorall:  Can Armorall ever harm the black 
finish on these machines?  I'm using it for the first time (a little 
leery about the 'not for use on paint'  statement on the bottle).  I 
thought the machine was "clean" after using my WD-40, yet I got brown 
stains on my cheesecloth as I polished---possibly nicotine stains 
someone referred to? Or (horrors) paint? Much of the machine looks good, 
but I also have a few cloudy areas, don't know whether I've polished too 
little there or too much.  I wouldn't have thought of Armorall except 
that a number here seem to really like it---can any of you successful 
users lend advice?   I'm afraid to experiment any more....

Thanks to all---I really appreciate having a place to ask my questions!
Joy 
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Mon, 8 Apr 1996 18:37:34 -0600
Subject: a good one??

Saturday while wandering the antique shops I found (but did not buy) a model
127-13 (vibrating shuttle). I'm pretty sure that's the right model.   The
attachments and original manual are included, with 3 or 4 bobbins.  The
clerk didn't know whether the machine works, BUT half of the throat plate
is missing (looks to me as though it's a two-piece throat plate?) and there
is no bobbin case.  The date in the manual is 1948, and the machine is a
pebbly matte finish, no gold.  It was marked $75.... is this even close to
reasonable, if the machine is in working order.  Cosmetically it seems to
be at least a 7 or 8, though I couldn't see the front.... the back was
facing the traffic area of the shop, and there was so much other stuff in
the way of the table it was on, and ON the table, that I didn't want to try
to turn the machine around to get a better look at it.

I'd appreciate any info or suggestions.....

Lisa
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Wed, 10 Apr 1996 01:34:22 -0400
Subject: My new Free Treadle

I've had 2 request for pictures of my Mission Oak Treadle.  Anyone else
interested??, Speak now. ; )  

I was ( very carefully ) looking at the instruction book that came with.
 According to it, I have all the  attachments that originally came with,
 only missing 2 screw drivers.  The only thing I need is a belt.  I have the
old broken one, but where do I find a replacement??  

Judy
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Tue, 09 Apr 1996 12:31:55 -0700
Subject: FWF

>Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 4/5/96
>
>>
>>   On another note.  The daughter of one of my wifes quilting buddies
>>brought me a Featherweight that someone had given her and asked me to clean
>>it.  It appeared to be a garden-variety 1950 black machine but I noticed
>>that the serial number began with EG rather than A-something.  While
>>disassembling I noticed that all the numbered parts were marked SIMANCO USA
>>rather than Great Britain.  In fact, nowhere on the machine is there any
>>indication that it was made in GB.  It is like all the parts were
>>manufactured here and shipped to GB for assembly.  Anyone else ever heard
>>of something like this?  I guess I'll try to call Singer tomorrow.
>>    
>                          Al
>
>
Al, I have a machine exactly like the one you described.  The serial number
starts with EG, the motor says made in St. John's, Canada, and under the
folding extension table it says "Simanco, USA".


Someone commenting on the scratches on their Featherweight reminded me of my
husband's comment when I first showed him my new toy.  "you've been had!
Someone sold you a used machine!"   It has a few faint pin scratches on the
base, but they certainly don't show up much, and the gold paint is perfect
and so is the black.  I paid $200 for my F/W and was delighted to get it at
such a good price.  Since then I have educated my DH to the value of the
cute little machines, so now he keeps his eyes out for them.

>Viola, new member of FWF, and glad I found this place.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Tue, 9 Apr 1996 22:21:42 -0500 (CDT)
Subject: Old Singers

Thanks to everyone who sent me notes about buttonholers!  The thing is,
looking carefully at the Singer Model 15 and the copy of the manual
Singer sent me, I realized that the machine in the manual is a different
machine!  (Or at least a different version of the machine!)

Singer told me mine was originally a treadle machine, which makes sense
because the motor was obviously added on later.  (The motor is toast,
by the way, which doesn't really matter because I'm going to convert 
it back as soon as I get one of the empty treadle tables I've seen
around!)  But my machine has the tension disks on the front, and the
screw for the presser foot attaches at the back rather than at the 
side, like the manual shows.  Did the model 15 change partway through
production?  (Singer says its birthday was June 10, 1910, and there's
no date on the copy of the manual they sent.)  Or is this another
machine altogether, and Singer made a mistake? The serial number, by
the way, is G4796805.  Now I'm really confused!

I also have another question -- I ran across a Singer treadle that
had been dated 1865 by the dealer.  It was very plain -- had only the
gold tulip border design.  I lost the card I wrote the serial number on,
so I haven't checked it out with Singer yet, but the machine was in
reasonable condition -- a little battered, but not bad for a machine
that old that was used well.  The treadle belt was broken, but the
action was beautifully smooth, and all it was missing was the plate
over the bobbin.  My question is, if this machine really is c. 1865,
what is it worth?  The asking price was $495, which seemed reasonable
to me.  Is it?

As always, I enjoy reading about other people's finds and Graham's
stories.  

Thanks,
Terri 
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date:          Tue, 9 Apr 1996 14:20:50 +0000
Subject:       Help?

Hi Folks,

 I have a few questions and was wondering if anyone can help 
me out (if anyone can, you people can :). My dad called me this 
weekend and said he picked up an old Singer in a bentwood case. He 
said it is pretty beat up and only for parts but he only paid $5 for 
it. He said the motor is missing. I called Singer today and turns 
out it is a model 28 made in 1903. Perhaps it never had a motor? Is 
this anything like a model 27? I have a manual for one of those. 
 I can't wait to see this machine but it will be a while before I get to Wisconsin 
to bring it home. I'm sure you can guess how crazy this makes me. 

Now I forgot my other question. Ohe well, I'll post when it comes to 
me. Thanks for any help. Have a great day, Katy
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date:        Wed, 10 Apr 1996 07:59:55 CST
Subject: Redfaced in MIssouri

Hi all.  Hope everyone had a nice Easter and/or Passover (knew I typed
inthe wrong holiday right after I sent it.  And I was so happy because I
thought I'd typed the other holiday correctly!)

   Called Singer yesterday.  My new machine is a 99 made on Feb 12, l928
while the anniv model is a 99K made in l951.  It is odd to me that these
machines were made so far apart (supposedly) and yet have exactly the
same type of gold paint, scrolling on the face plate, and tension and
stitch length mechanisms.  Oh welll.

      Does anyone know where to get a value and identificationquide for
machines?  Sorta like a blue book with pictures?  Michele
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: 10 Apr 96 08:11:00 EDT
Subject: Need 128-35 advice

Over the weekend I went SM shopping in Truth or Consequences, NM (really) 
and found two interesting old Singers.  The machines look pretty much the 
same but the condition was drastically different.  Both came in the "bread 
box" cases.  The one in good condition has a manual marked 128-35.  I didn't 
plug it in and run it, but it looked in excellent condition.  They are 
asking $85.  The other one needs a lot of cleanup and repair and they are 
asking $40.

My real question is this:  The good machine has a metal foot  pedal which 
somehow does not look like it belongs with this machine.  I've seen a 
similar foot pedal on a 1970's era Pfaff.  The battered machine has a foot 
pedal which is identical to my 1939 FW.  Could someone who owns a 128-35 
tell me what your foot pedal looks like?

Any thoughts on these prices also?  I may offer less, but the prices looked 
pretty good from what I have seen in our area.

Thanks, Betty
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Wed, 10 Apr 1996 12:36:17 EDT
Subject: 301 Oil Wicks

   Those oil wicks in the top of the 301 don't seem to be the best idea
Singer ever had.  They just extended a little ways and the oil won't
necessarily drip to where it's supposed to.  It's better to just remove the
top and oil directly
                              Al
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: 10 Apr 96 10:56:00 EDT
Subject: Mother/daughter machine names

To Linda re. your 4/4/96 posting about naming the mother/daughter
combination:  how about  Naomi (MIL) and Ruth?  A nice warmhearted
family story from the Judeo-Christian tradition.
--Betty
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Wed, 10 Apr 1996 12:34:59 -0600
Subject: Re:  Sue's White FW

Likewise, I just purchased a Centennial model for $150.  Looked brand new
but would not sew once I got it home.  It had the original oil can, a grease
tube of some sort, a set of  six Singer lesson plans for learning to sew and
use the feet (including neat little printed pieces of fabric), none of which
had ever been used.  The same little arm was broken off but lucky for me,
the guy I date had just bought a rather beat up FW because he thought he
could clean it up and I'd have an extra but it was really in bad shape.  He
disassembled both of them and switched out the broken part.  He called a
shop at St. Simons Island, GA today (I got the name off here) and I believe
they told him that part runs about $190.

You might be able to find an abused machine that is fairly inexpensive and
switch the part out yourself.  It only took him a minute to do the actual
repairs.

Judy
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Wed, 10 Apr 1996 14:54:48 -0400
Subject: Singer Repairmen

Hi All,
I live in the Cleveland, Ohio area and would like to know if anyone out there
knows of a good Singer machine repairman in the area. I'm actually on the
west side of Cleveland but I could travel east if necessary. At the moment I
don't need a repairman but I'm planning ahead just in case.
There is so much information available thru all of you. The first thing I do
when I get home from work is check my online mail. When there wasn't any on
Monday I started to get a little neverous - I thought something was wrong
with my email. I'm glad everything is ok and we're back on track. 
Thanks to all of you for sharing and especially to Sue for putting it all
together.

Jean
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Wed, 10 Apr 1996 00:45:00 -0700
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 4/9/96

Millie, you asked:

>Oh, we both wore our 'sewing machine pins' as positive identification in
>Springfield.  It was a fun venture.  Has anyone else done anything similar?
>How about meeting at quilt shows?  

I have moved many times during the past 15 years, due to job needs, and it
is hard to keep track of people by snail mail.  Also I lost my 2 best
friends due to death.  Since became an ON-Line quilter 5 1/2 yrs ago I have
made many wonderful friends.  I live in Western Washington and have traveled
back to Ohio to stay with an On-line friend, and met many more in Indiana. I
have been to California and met several people there who have become very
close to me.  One of them now lives in Spokane and she has come over and
stayed with me several times. Another came out from Kentucky and came up to
visit me here.  She now lives in Oregon and came up and
spent last Christmas with us. Another friend from Santa Monica comes up
twice a year.  I have also met quite a few from the Seattle area.  Many if
not all of these ladies own featherweights.  It is just like meeting and old
friend that you have known for years and share confidences with, because
that is just what it is.  We just never had a face to put with the words before.


We just bought an RV today and I expect to meet many more computer friends.  :)

Viola
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Subject: RE: FW Fanatics 4/9/96
Date: Wed, 10 Apr 1996 14:55:25 -0500

To  Suzy - if the repair I had done (bobbin case and hook raceway) for 
$60 bucks is the same as needs to be done to your white FW, sounds like 
a great deal to me! (the only other white FW I know of is much more than 
you have invested...).

To all - took a Pfaff class at my local dealer this week, the educator 
was Karen Blakney (she works for Pfaff, and Is really great fun).  Turns 
out she works with (or worked) movie studios doing historical costuming 
and is into heirloom clothing and machines.  She has three FW, and 
swears that two of them have personality disorders (Karen, if you read 
this, pardon my paraphrase).  How can that be?  Does anyone out there 
have a FW with problems?  I didn't think there was anything you couldn't 
fix on a FW. She also has (or will have) a 1920 era Pfaff, so I assume 
that they are collectible too, probably not as many in this country...
	By the way, one of the things Karen demonstrated for us was a "new" 
Pfaff  bias binder foot, looks exactly like the one which came with my 
FW...

Sherrie
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: 10 Apr 96 16:11:42 EDT
Subject: For Al

For Al... RE: Great Britain machine w/ USA parts. Al, the FW
we have here in the shop (ES653040 5/15/61) has SIMANCO stampings
with Great Britain, most notibly on the Bobbin Case holder (hook?)
where it attaches to the drive shaft...
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: 10 Apr 96 16:19:30 EDT
Subject: To Buy or Not To Buy

Hello,
              Today I happened into a local antique and found hidden under a
table in the back of the shop a domed wooden case with Singer written across it.
The case was in fair to good shape so I decided to take a look at it. Now you
must know that  before I started reading this newletter I had not taken to
looking for old machines. My only concern was finding a working FW.To make a
short story long,The woman who runs the shop had gone to the post office and
left in a charge her companion who knew nothing.Well I had to wait for the woman
to get back because the case was locked.When she returned she found the key and
I was able to take a look at the machine.I had no idea what I was looking at but
I got the serial # off it and called Singer.First they told me it was a 221,well
I knew that was wrong.I repeated the #'s back to the lady and with some carefull
looking at her book she determined it is a 128 born 2-2-48.To make a short story
even longer,will someone please respond to me as to weather or not I should buy
this machine.I plugged it in and it does work. It is in pretty good shape,I
would say a 7.The lady quoted me $69.00.I would need a manual for it, and I
think a new belt and a good cleaning.
                                                                                 
Thanks ! Beth
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Wed, 10 Apr 1996 19:39:05 -0400
Subject: Singer part

Greetings,  A couple of weeks ago when I picked up my 301a it came with a few
attachments.  All of the attachments can fit my FW.  I assumed they will also
fit the 301a although I have not yet had a chance to try them.  After reading
a few recent postings some a referring to slant needle feet to fit the 301.
 Are their special feet that should be used on a slant needle?  Also, in this
bag of goodies is a Singer part that I cannot identify.  It is some sort of
sewing aid rather than an attachment. It is approx. 2 1/2 to 3 inches long.
 It is flat with a large oval opening on one end and on the other is a
configuration resembling a dachsund (?).  There is a small removable hook
attached to this end.  Stamped Singer NO. 36806.  One lady guessed it to be
some kind of needle threader but we couldn't figure out how to use it.  Does
anybody know what this is?  Thanks for any/all help.  Jacque
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Wed, 10 Apr 1996 19:59:29 -0400
Subject: "Free No. 5" Treadle

Reading about  Judy find of a treadle machine made by The Free
Sewing Machine Co. inspired me to open and clean my Grandmother's machine
that I have had for almost 20 years! She must have been a very neat lady
because there was not a speck of lint in it! (Only dust that I allowed to get
there!) The serial # is C54228 and my mother thinks it was bought in 1916
(she was 3). My manual was in such bad shape after being curled into a drawer
for so long that I did my best to tape it together and then made a photocopy
of each page that I could read. I followed all of the directions for oiling,
threading and installing the shuttle (I have 5 bobbins already wound by my
Grandmother) and it sewed a wonderful stitch immediately. I had never tried
it before.

Then Easter Sunday I was bragging to my Mom and MIL and when I went to show
them the underside I broke the leather belt because I forgot the "belt must
be thrown over the hand wheel before head can be tipped back." So now what do
I do?? My DH (?) wanted to put super glue on it (I refused). Do I "staple" it
like the original break or do I need a new one? I would appreciate anyone's
help and if anyone needs a copy of my copy, just let me know. Thanks for all
the information, Kennalee.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Wed, 10 Apr 1996 18:14:05 -0600
Subject: Buttonholer

Hello,

Was it just a few days ago that I was moaning about never finding 
anything when I'm out searching for neat stuff?

Today I made my usual Wed. sweep of 3 thrift shops on my way to and from 
work.  In the second one, I noticed they had 2 new sewing machines in 
cabinets, both were real junk, but I thought maybe they had come in with 
attachments, so I beat feet over to the sewing section, and there was a 
Singer box that said buttonhole attachment.  But it's not like any 
buttonholer I've ever seen.  It's a model number 121795, It has no cams, 
and is manually adjusted with screws on the left side for width and 
length.  It weighs a ton, and the manual has a copyright of 1946.  Has 
anyone ever seen one of these?  What machine would this have been made 
for?  It says it's for light manufacturing and home use.  I can't wait 
to try it out, it seems to have a low shank mount.  The same shop had a 
Mary Brooks Picken Singer Sewing book copyright 1946.  I guess it pays 
off to grumble a little.

Mary 
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Wed, 10 Apr 1996 23:18:56 -0400
Subject: oil cans, etc.

I cannot tell you how many requests I had for the oil can 'that comes in the
Featherweight case'.  With all the machines I have seen this past year, I
have never even seen ONE of those oval cans!  Funny how in the East they all
seen to me to be missing. (Of course, I assume this means that Easterners
oiled their machines regularly and used up the supply, then threw the can
away - never dreaming that those Fanatics would give their eye teeth for
them 50 years later!)

Also had a stampede on the 1932 newspaper quilt patterns!  This surprised me.

What do you think, if a gal write to FWF with messages from her DH or a guy
writes to FWF with messages from his dw, should we ignore them and insist
that they get their spouses technically-up-to-speed by coming online with us
themselves????  Do we need middlemen/women online?

I have an order in for keys to fit the Featherweights.  I had to order 10 of
them as it is a special order. If you would like to partake with me in this
purchase, I will accept emails to that effect.  I will sell only sets of 2
at a price of $4 for 2 keys. This will cover my costs only.  I will collect
$$$ only after I get the keys, which will anywhere from 2 weeks to 2 months.
If there is an overwhelming response, I can still increase the quantity with
no problem.  Let me know by Monday 4/15 please.  I believe the keys fit both
black and white/green cases.  Please someone tell me if I am wrong here.
Thanks.

MIllie
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Wed, 10 Apr 1996 23:34:30 -0400
Subject: Wanted to Buy Misc.

I'm looking for a case, an original foot pedal w/cord, oil can and basic
attachments for a Featherweight. If you have any or all for sale, please drop
me a line - Thanks !
Piecefully,
Becky S
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Wed, 10 Apr 1996 23:39:54 -0400
Subject: 1932 quilt patterns

Since I sent my queued post, I got another half dozen requests for these
patterns.  So what I think I'll do (for the greater good) is make copies of
the clippings for all who requested them.  Linda will still get the
originals.  Hope this makes everyone happy!  Millie
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Wed, 10 Apr 1996 22:53:16 -0600
Subject: Re: FW "Stuff"

  I'm fairly new on here and saw a note where someone had an "I Love my FW"
pin, address labels, etc.

Would someone be kind enough to post where those can be purchased?

Thanks!

Judy H
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: 11 Apr 96 08:04:44 EDT
Subject: Singers and Their Brothers

Hi again, FWF Friends,

Last week-end I took a serious left turn in the middle of my usual Singer
hunting road when a pristine (probably early 1960's) Brother Select-O-Matic
caught my eye.  It is in such GOOD condition, I couldn't just leave him (a
Brother must be a "him") sitting there alone any longer.  So, I bought the big
boy home--all 50 portable pounds of him!  What a nice machine, and while he came
home with all his attachments, he lacked his owner's manual.  I called Brother,
but they told me he was obsolete and no manual was available.  So, would any of
you nice FWF's have a copy of one I might buy--even a manual copy for a Brother
Model 1630 would be pretty close.  Please e-mail me privately, if you do, and
I'll gladly reimburse your copying and mailing costs.  Thanks very much!

To Bobbie K--last week-end you said you were confused as how to identify the
many Singer model numbers people keep discussing.  Since your sign-off says you
are in Arizona, as am I, please e-mail me privately if you would like for me to
help you unravel this model number mystery.  I'd be happy to help, and may I say
I love your sewing machine graphic--what a lot of work!

To Evie--you asked if there could be a green 301.  I think there might be.  A
few months ago one of my localsewingmachinegrurus did mention that a green 301
model was made in England.  I had all but forgotten that comment until your
recent question about the color.  Does anyone here have a green 301 to clear up
this green-mystery?

To Michele--Re the Singer 319--Yes,  I have one, and I posted a request a couple
of weeks ago asking if any one else did and would they like to discuss them.
Mine is in pretty good shape.  You are exactly right that the top levers are
built-in decorative stitches, and there's also insertable cams for more stitches
I was told this model was the first time Singer made a machine with built-in
decorative stitches, and before that only the basic zigzag and cam machines were
built.  Did you buy it? It is kind of 301 looking, even to the top folding
handle, and it is light green in color....hum, wonder if that's where the green
301 idea came from? 

To Joyce R--Yes, the tan FW did come in a 2-tone tan case, much like the
2-tone green cases for the white/green FWs.  Actually, you'd describe it as
beige and milk chocolate brown.  

Recently a couple people have discussed the Model 99-13 and Model 128 that have
what looks to be a metal lid over an attachment storage compartment (balance
wheel end of machine), but it's screwed shut and will not open.  Don't try too
hard to open it, because it's not for attachments.  Beneath that metal lid are
the electrical contacts for the knee controller.  One way to make sure that is
what this metal lid is covering is to then look directly beneath it on the face
of the wood base, and if you see a small round port where a knee lever should
attach, then the knee contacts are housed beneath that lid--not attachments.
Some time ago I just had to know what was hidden beneath so I very gingerly took
one apart to see, and there are a lot of complex electrical components going on
in there that are best left alone unless you are a real mechanic.  (I am not!)

Thanks for all the good notes, everyone--it's such fun to share information and
be able to find things we are seeking ourselves.  What a great, helpful group.

Shirley
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Subject: RE: FW Fanatics 4/10/96
Date: Thu, 11 Apr 1996 10:11:45 -0500

Kennalee - my DH got a belt made at a local shoe repair shop a couple of 
years back.  It set him back two whole dollars.  He took in the old one 
for size.

Judy - the FW pin can be purchased from Little Foot LTD, 605 Bledsoe 
N.W., Albuquerque, NM 87107.  Telephone (505)345-7647  Fax 
(505)345-4348.  The pin is $5.00 and is really nice!  They also sell 
"Little Foot" (1/4 inch foot for FW),  "Big Foot"(for free-motion 
quilting - don't think it is recommended for FW), paper piecing 
patterns, and have a newsletter filled with stories of how people find 
their FW that will make you cry because yours cost so much...

sherrie
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: 11 Apr 96 09:15:00 EDT
Subject: treadle belts, 128's, and FW pin

To Judy and Kennalee both in need of treadle 
belts:
I would ask your local sewing machine repair folks first.  They often keep 
them in stock or can get them for you.  Last one I bought locally was $6.00. 
 To mail order, try A Stitch Back in Time  in Lubbock, TX.  Call for a 
catalog at
1-800-352-1174
I don't think you could staple back a broken belt and the fact that it broke 
means it was old and dry and needed replacing anyway.

To Beth who found a 128:
Sounds like we were looking at pretty much the same machine.  The one I 
might buy for $85 is in better condition than your $69 one.  Sounds like the 
prices are right in line.  What did your foot pedal look like?  Mine comes 
with a manual, so LMK if you buy yours and whether you need a copy of my 
manual.  I'm pretty sure I'm going to buy this one on Sat.

To Judy and anyone else wanting to know about the FW pin:
It's available from Little Foot, Ltd in Albuquerque, NM.  I just called to 
check the price--$5.00 plus 75 cents shipping for one pin, $1.50 for two.  
Send a check to
Little Foot, Ltd
605 Bledsoe NW
Albuquerque, NM  87107
505-345-7647, in case you want to call for bulk order price and/or wholesale

She told me they are already into their second batch of 2000 pins and 
they've only been available for two months.  Just think how many FWFanatics 
there are out there who don't know about this group 

--Betty
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Thu, 11 Apr 1996 10:52:00 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Help for a new member

Hi!  I am new to this list and am learning alot from all of you.  I am a 
quilter and have never seen a FW in person but have seen them mentioned in 
quilting magazines and became curious about them.  I am starting a search 
for one in my area.  I do own two Singer treadle machines and an old 
electric singer.  I have no information or manuals for any of them.  I 
originally wanted the treadle machines only because I like antiques and 
liked the looks of them in my house and the electric Singer belonged to my 
SO's grandmother..  Now after reading all of your postings you are inspiring 
me to find out more about them and try to see if I can actually use them - I 
know the treadle machines both need belts but that is as much as I know.  I 
have read alot about calling Singer. I assume all you need to do is call 
them with the serial numbers and they can give you information?  Although 
from the posts I have read it doesn't sound like they are very realiable. 
 Are there any other sources for information on old Singers?  I was also 
thrilled to see there is someone on this list from Syracuse, New York.  I am 
from Horseheads, NY.  Although I was disappointed to read that she hasn't 
had much luck in finding  any FW in her area.  I would be grateful for any 
information she can give me on quilt stores or sewing stores in the Syracuse 
area.

Melodie,
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date:          Thu, 11 Apr 1996 11:09:08 +0000
Subject:       For Sale

Hi Folks, 

I still have the following for sale:

A Capitolist Romance: Singer and His Sewing Machine by Ruth Brandon. 
An interesting account of the life of Isaac Singer, scoundrel that he 
was. Hardcover with dust jacket.  $15

Black metal box of Greist attachments, excellent condition. includes 
tuckeer, ruffler, 4 hemmers, binder, and a few other goodies I 
cannot identify.  $17

Prices do not include shipping. E-mail if interested. Thanks, Katy
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date:          Thu, 11 Apr 1996 11:09:08 +0000
Subject:       Terri C's Machine

Hi All, 

Terry, I found your note interesting. It sparked an idea in my head 
and checked it out in the Sincere's sewing machine repair book. 
According to this, the model 66's all had the side screw attached 
presser foot EXCEPT the model 66-1. This one had a back attached 
presser foot (i.e. the screw should be in the back). According to 
this book, the 66-1 also had a slightly different hook and bobbin 
arrangement.  So perhaps your 
machine is a 66-1 in which case it is very likely that the date 
Singer gave you was correct if not the model number. 66's have a side 
drop in bobbin and the tension is on the front of the machine. Many 
66s were converted to electric. 

This may make it difficult to find attachments for it. Perhaps the 
old attachments in the folding oak boxes would work?

Best of luck, Katy
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Thu, 11 Apr 1996 12:54:50 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Try again...(mail problems)

For Bobbie, re 66K vs 99K -- compare the size of the machine head (if you
can), or measure the length x width of the machine bed and post it to this
list.  As I understand it, a Model 66 case would be 20 inches long,
whereas the Model 99 case would be only 14 inches long (99 is a 3/4 size
head).

Your new "domed" machine sounds very similar to my new (old) 128, even
down to the scrolling in red and gold.  The AA serial number puts you
machine in the 1924-1926 range, which is ok for that model.  Bullet-style
bobbin and the three bed slides you describe also match up for Model 128.

For Betsy, re Favorite:  The Grace Rogers Cooper book (which I am
desparate NOT to give back to the library -- ever!) lists "Favorite" as a
model made by four companies: Davis, New Home, Standard, and White, but
gives no further information beyond that.  You really need Graham for this
one.

Question: can anyone tell me the difference between a Model 27 (which
we've been reading about recently) and my Model 127?  There seem to be a
lot of similarities.  (Evelyn, my 127 also has the Egyptian sphynx
decorations).

To Judy:  Where did you get your copy of the Slaten book?  I know it's not
reliable as a price guide, but I'm beginning to think lots of us could use
the pictures (espcially since the Cooper book is out-of-print).

Lydia
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Thu, 11 Apr 1996 12:59:23 -0400
Subject: Hard cover books 

In addition to finding Featherweights without oil cans, I can also report
that a large percentage of my cases have what appears to be white paint
drops on them, in varying locations and amounts...Curious!

I have reduced the prices on most of the books as described below.  Postage
included in all prices.  Thanks.  Millie

H1-White: Schools of Costume Art -$12 1931 copyright. 5X8 with 184 pages.
Intended for home sewer and commercial sewer.  Includes tailoring. 				
H2-Singer: Home Decorations Sewing Book	- $12 1961. 8x11. 128 pages.
Contains many photos and illustrations.  
				
H3-Singer Sewing Book	- $25 1969.  By Gladys Cunningham. 8X11. 428 pages.
Condition excellent. 
		
H4-Singer Sewing Book	- $20	1961.  By Mary Brooks Picken. 8X11. 260 pages.
Condition excellent. Hardcover; loose-leaf.	
			
H5-The Mary Brooks Picken Method of Modern Dressmaking	-$20 1925.  By Mary
Brooks Picken, Dressmaking Editor, Pictorial Review Company. 8X11. 96 pages.
Many sketches and photos. Condition very good; cover shows some wear. 
			
H6-McCall's Decorating Book	- $10	1964. 9X12. 305 pages.  Full of color
photos.				

H7-Fabric Painting	- $10	By Melanie Williams.  1994. 11X11, 48 pages.
Hardcover.  Many color photos.  Folk-art samples.
				
H8-BH&G Creative Crafts and Stitchery	- $8  1976. 146 projects for
embroidery, weaving, crochet, knitting, needlepoint, applique, framing,
woodworking.				
H9-Crochet and Creative Design	- $8	1973. By Annette Feldman.  8X10, 177
pages.				

H10-Afghans, Traditional and Modern	-$8  1977 by Bobbie Bray for Spinnerin
Yarn Company. 9X11.  96 pages. Full page color photos of afghans.		 
				
H12a-Sewing for the Home	-$15	1946 copyright/1958 printing.  By Mary Brooks
Picken. 8X11. 212 pages. Many sketches and photos. Condition very good. 			
H12b-Sewing for the Home	- $15 	Copyright page is missing.  Looks to be
early 1970's  printing.  By Mary Brooks Picken. 8X11. 204 pages. Many
sketches and photos. Condition very good. 
				
H13-1895 Montgomery Ward &CO  - unabridged facsimile catalog	-$12  8 X 11,
625 pages.  Of special interest: 5 full pages of ads for Singer and
Montgomery Ward sewing machines, parts.
				
H15a-Singer Sewing Book	-$20 -	1959 copyright of 1949 book.  By Mary Brooks
Picken. 8X11. 260 pages. Condition very good.		

H15b-Singer Sewing Book	- $25  	1972.  By Gladys Cunningham/Jessie Hutton.
8X11. 500 pages. Condition excellent. 
				
H15c-Singer Sewing Book	- $20 -	1949 copyright of 1949 book.  By Mary Brooks
Picken. 8X11. 244 pages. Condition very good. 
				
H16-Dressmaking by Singer	- $12  1958.   8X11. 83 pages. Many illustrations.
Condition very good. 
				
H17-1974 Time/Life book titled THE PERSONAL TOUCH.  $8 - 200 pages
hardcover/bound. Chapters sre: Proclaining Yourself, Bright Ideas in Fabric,
Mixing Patterns to Match Your Style, Freshness from Restyling, Needlework
Signatures and Fanciful ways with Wool. 

H18-1974 Time/Life book titled EXOTIC STYLING.  $8 - 192 pages.  Chapters
are: Faraway Fashions, Fabulout flights in Fabric, Exuberant Eastern Looks,
Variations on an Exotic Silhouette, Needlework's Golden AGe, Provocative
Look in Crochet. 

H19-Woman's Institute Library of  Dressmaking - CARE of CLOTHING- $6  	1925
- chapters include home laundering, dry cleaning, dyeing, remodeling, the
upkeep of clothing, the budget. Numerous illustrations. Hard cover; bound.
262  pages.				
H20-The Complete Book of Sewing	- $8  by Constance Talbot. 1943, Hard cover;
bound. 320 pages. Numerous illustrations and pictures.	
			
H21-Columbia Book of Yarns	- $5 -238 pages, no cover, est. 1920's.  Full of
knit/crocket patterns for all kinds of near stuff.

Also inquire on Singer sewing series booklets.				
Millie M
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Thu, 11 Apr 1996 09:00:02 -0800
Subject: 128 manual

Does anybody have the manual for a Singer model 128?  I would like to get my
128 cleaned up and in working order.  A manual or copy of one would sure
come in handy.

thanks,
Linda
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Thu, 11 Apr 96 13:13:09 -0500 (CDT)
Subject: 301

Does anyone know what the difference is between a 301 and 301a?  Does anyone
know what the attachments numbers are for a 301?  Thanks Sheila
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Thu, 11 Apr 96 15:07 EDT
Subject: 

Please put me on the Featherweight list . My children went togather and gave
me my first Featherweight for Christmas 1995! I was thrilled!

I also purchased an "old" Wilcox &Gibbs treadle machine at a "junk" shop.
It needs some repair... a spring on the tension bar seems to be missing,
also the top of the cabinet is in poor shape, and the folding top is
missing. Would like a source for more info on this machine if anyone knows
anything. I want to set it up as a display in a new sewing room at home!
Thanks.
Phyllis G
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Thu, 11 Apr 1996 17:16:40 -0400
Subject: FW Stuff

I had read the post from Judy H about wanting to know where to find the
"I LOVE FW" pins and tried to respond to her E-mail address. It was returned
because of no known user. Did I have it right ?
Judy, I have them if you want the pins. I sell them for $5 + 75 cents
shipping for the 1st one, then all others ordered at the same time are $5 &
will not require the additional postage.  Glenn W
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Thu, 11 Apr 1996 18:12:56 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: pins

When I was young (back in the dark ages), every sewing machine in every
home I was in had a piece of fabric wrapped around the arm for pins.  I
remember my grandmother had a scrap of beautiful panne velvet.  

I'm going to get out a magazine tonight and order the FW pin.  Wouldn't
mind having a FW stamp, too.

Have been lurking lately, enjoying reading about the finds.  I notice
there are a lot of questions about what should a person pay.  I think you
pay according to how much you want it.  What its worth to you.  All of our
machines other than the FWs were thrift shop finds costing $30 or less.  If
I found one of those treadles in the beautiful cabinet, I think it would
be hard to pass up at any price.  

Going to 2 garage sales this weekend.  Both advertise old sewing machines.
Wish me luck.

Marilyn
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Thu, 11 Apr 1996 15:30:22 -0700
Subject: Re: 99 - Cleaning, Foot

I asked a few weeks ago if anyone could help me regarding what to clean the oil 
that has got all over the wheel and base of the machine after it had been 
repaired and oiled by a sewing machine person.  I am afraid to sew with it and 
ruin the material but am also afraid of taking off the gold print with the wrong 
kind of cleaner.  Any advice would be appreciated.

I also would love to hear from anyone that would know what foot would be good to 
buy for the 99 to used as a 1/4" foot for quilting articles.  Is the little foot 
good or I hear that there is a foot out now that has been developed that is the 
perfect 1/4 inch for matching with the omnigrid rulers.  I don't know the name 
of this or where to buy it but have tried a few quilt shops and sewing machine 
shops in the Toronto area and have not found it yet.  

Thank you, Elizabeth
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Wed, 10 Apr 1996 01:34:22 -0400
Subject: My new Free Treadle

I've had 2 request for pictures of my Mission Oak Treadle.  Anyone else
interested??, Speak now. ; )

I was ( very carefully ) looking at the instruction book that came with.
 According to it, I have all the  attachments that originally came with,
 only missing 2 screw drivers.  The only thing I need is a belt.  I have the
old broken one, but where do I find a replacement??

Judy
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Thu, 11 Apr 1996 23:05:53 -0400
Subject: News and Notes

      I recently found a black 301 (1951) in very good condition with
buttonholer, attachments, manual and case.  I'm so excited because I can drop
my feed dogs and machine quilt now.  It's my most modern machine, but my
first love will always be my FWs.

      My 1948 (Canadian) FW came from my DHs great aunt who just found and
sent down to me her FW table.  My MIL, who delivered it, could not believe
how excited I was to be getting an old wooden card table.  It's in good
shape,  paint a little worn on the edges.  The SN is J006657 with square
wooden legs and wooden top and edges.

Viola in Whidbey - You probably already know but there is an antique store in
a strip of shops in Port Townsend right next to where the Ferry docks.  The
guy had 7 or 8 nice treadles and a beautiful Singer hand crank, all made in
Great Britain.  He ships all his stuff over from England and Scotland.
 Reasonable prices too.

Katy re Model 28 - I have a Model 28-K made in 1923.  It is a hand crank in a
dome top/breadbox/bent wood case.  I don't have a Model 27 to compare it to,
sorry.

Betty re Model 128 foot pedals - I have a 128-13 (G6719200, 1919) with a
metal foot pedal and a 128 - ?  (AE514628, 1937) with a plastic foot pedal
(just like my FW pedal).  I don't know if either foot pedal is original to
either machine.  Good luck.

Mary - I have the buttonholer #121795.  I haven't tried it yet but I
do believe it is for the FW.  The latest copyright in the manual is 1946 and
it suggests trying "the new "Featherweight" portable with its luggage-type
carrying case and its special folding utility table."  There is also an all
metal adjustable zigzag attachment #121706 (circa 1939).  These were it
before the plastic buttonhole and zigzag attachments with cams.

Many thanks to Sue for giving us a place to talk when others don't understand
our excitement.   Courtney
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Sat, 13 Apr 96 19:47:23 -0500
Subject: FW Fanatics 4/12/96

Subject: cute storey
Date: Fri, 12 Apr 96 00:07:53 PDT

Well, I guess cute isn't a good word...but....

Anyway, I was at my favorite thrift store on my way to work the other day, 
and a woman had just found a model 15 in a cabinet there.  All of their 
cabinet machines are 20 bucks, unless they go to auction as something super 
special, so she was getting a good deal.  I asked to look at it, out of 
curiosity, and noticed the bobbin case was missing.  I told her she would 
need to find a bobbin case for it, and I didn't know how much that would 
cost.  Anyway, she decided to get it anyway, and I told her how to clean it 
up, and to stop by mylocalsewingmachineguru's shop to see if he had a 
bobbin case for it. Then I wandered off to do some more hunting.  I found a 
green plastic Singer case with a buttonholer in it.  It was a square case, 
which I had never seen before.  I needed another buttonholer like I need a 
hole in the head, but hey, for 75 cents I figured I couldn't pass it up. So 
I head up to the cash register to pay for my find, and the abovementioned 
lady is up there, and asks me some more questions about her new model 15.  
For some reason it occured to me to dig through the buttonholer box more, 
and lo and behold, the model 15's bobbin case was in there.  I guess this 
woman was destined to have this machine, and to have it work for her!  What 
a coincidence!  Anyway, I decided she should have the buttonholer too, 
since it obviously went with her machine.  

Maybe this is silly, but that experience of helping a woman become 
acquanted with her "new" old sewing machine, and finding it's missing part 
made my day!  I was smiling all day because of that experience!

Just had to share!
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Fri, 12 Apr 1996 09:55:56 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: featherweight question

Hi Sue,

I'm a subscriber to the BFC list. But I had a question about
featherweights and since you also run the featherweight newsgroup
I thought you might be able to help me. 

My mother, who lives in India, has a featherweight from the 1950s.
She was wondering about getting a new motor for it. The motor she
currently has runs on 110-120 V but the Indian system is a 220V system.
She's been running off a transformer all these years but I think it
died on her. Is there a number I could call where I could maybe
order a new (220V) motor for her? Any info would be useful. 

If you dont have an answer for me, could you post this on the FF list?
Anyone with info can reply directly to me at preethi@fcrao1.phast.umass.edu
(its a 'one' in the address not an 'el').  

TIA for your help and thanks for the great job you're doing on the BFC
list! I really learn a lot!!

Preethi
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Fri, 12 Apr 1996 08:20:52 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Re: FW For Sale

	I need to update this list because a some have sold and like to 
keep it all updated. New machines are on there way so hope I have more to 
offer soon. But first, yesterday I went to view a White Family Rotary 
similiar to breadbox machine with intense art deco in green, gold and 
red. The man wants $50 for this machine that has been put into a case. 
Shipping could be just the machine or case to whatever the buyer wants. I 
had it sewing but then lost the bobbin thread and don't even know if I 
have threaded it properly. YIKES! This is about a 1936 and I do have the 
serial numbers.  The man is disabled and a whole life story was shared 
with me over this machine. I told him about the list and said I would 
post and see if there is someone out there who by chance wants the 
machine for reasons unknow. But I do know I get buyers that want machines 
that there mothers had etc. It is electric he was a mechanic so the motor 
is fine tuned and as soon as we can find a manual we will get it threaded 
and running again, I am in for the long count on this machine, because I 
feel so strongly about helping the disabled and giving them a little 
inspiration. I have been blessed in my life and have a Down's (Trisomy 
21) daughter, and just know that if I get to the gates before she does, I 
hope and pray she will be maximized to her potential in life. Thanks for 
hearing me out on that count.

FOR SALE

AF  Attachments, Case, Manual, even wear, good condition $375.
AG  Same
AM  Beautiful later edition scrollwork, this is one of my collectors 
machines and I'm in love with it. Case is wonderful, manual, attachments, 
also attachments on the above two. $510
AL  Case, Attachments, manual, good condition $450.
AJ  Same but copy of manual $450.
AL  Same

White motor new and in box- $100
1 buttonholer pre WWII  35. includes shipping.

  Shipping is $25 including insurance, handling and packing. If you are 
interested in a machine I will detail it for you and be specific about 
the good points as well as the bad. I do like my buyers to know exactly 
what they are getting by description. Zsux
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Fri, 12 Apr 1996 12:46:10 -0500 (CDT)
Subject: Rocketeer &401

Hello All,

While shopping around this week I have found a dealer that has several of 
the "Rocketeer" 500 series Singers and a couple of the 401 series that 
several of us have called "Cadillacs".  I think he will price them 
"affordably" (I really don't like that term, but can't think of a boeeter 
one right now).

Please email me if you are interested.  These are very clean machines in 
great condition and just serviced by a Singer dealer, and cams are 
available for the decorative/applique stitches.  It would be great if 
several were interested and I could negotiate a qty. price??

Thanks,

Daryl
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date:          Fri, 12 Apr 1996 13:44:45 +0000
Subject:       301 Attachment numbers

I have a 301 and recently picked up some attachments. Here are the 
part numbers. Remember, this is a slant shank machine. 

161174  Multi slotted binder
160629  ruffler
160627 foot hemmer
160626 adj. hemmer
160628  gathering foot
160625 edge stitcher

Hope this helps. Also, I have never heard of a green 301 but mine is 
definitely not that heavy, only 16 pounds. If this machine is heavier 
than that, it might be something else. Katy
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Fri, 12 Apr 1996 15:26:25 -0400

 the feeling that some machines are just made
for you?  You are supposed to have them.

A "new" old machine is sitting in my living room with all
its accessories and a manual.  They didn't come as a
package.

A friend of mine picked up a White Rotary machine in a
scratched, but sturdy cabinet at a moving sale a week ago. 
He said he bought it thinking of me.  I gave him the $50
that he had paid and did some preliminary cleaning.  Then, I
remembered a manual I had tucked away in a drawer of a
Wheeler Wilson treadle.  Sure enough the manual was for a
White Rotary. (I had offered the manual for sale on FWF,
but, thank heavens, no one bought it.)  Then, I remembered a
bashed box of Greist attachments I'd seen at a local
antique/collectable store.  The attachments were the kind
that have the horizontal flat fork, not the ones for
Singers.  I drove to the store and they still had the beat
up black metal box full of attachments and two bobbins for
the White, and an extra White Rotary bobbin case too.

I love it when things like this happen.

Christine
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Fri, 12 Apr 96 15:46:04 EDT
Subject: 127's, 128's, 99K's and folding oak boxes

Hello!  I'm a new member to this list.  It's nice to know there are others
out there who are attached to the older machines as well.  As a quilter,
I've often heard of the merits of the FW's (still looking for one for me-as
much as I love my 99K, it's a real pain to lug to quilt classes.), but
hadn't heard anyone talk about even older models before.  

I have a model 127 (1918 treadle with shuttle bobbin &Egyptian scroll
work), a 128 (1919 with oak leaf plate, shuttle bobbin, &red/green &gold
paintwork), and a 99K  (1922 with fluer d'lis plate, drop in/modern bobbin
and knee treadle).

I'm also interested in doing more machine quilting with these machines.
Does any one have any advice about quilting attachments that would be
compatable with the 99K or 128?

In the last digest Katy mentioned folding oak boxes with sewing machine
attachments.  I picked up one of those a couple of years ago at an antique
fair, but no one I've run into before knew much about them.  Do you have any
more information?  Are they specific to 128's?  You can privately email

Thanks!  
Karen
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Fri, 12 Apr 96 14:31:26 CDT
Subject: FS: Extra TEMPLATES for Singer Buttonholer

Singer part 160668 - set of 4 templates for 160506 and 160743 Buttonholer,
                     as new, in original box.

These are the metal cams that fit into the buttonholer to define the length
and type of buttonhole.  Sizes 3/8"-straight, 1/2"-straight, 5/8"-keyhole,
and 15/16"-straight.

Did your buttonholer come missing cams?  Or, want to augment the ones it did
come with?

Offers?  (No, the buttonholer itself is not FS.)

Tom
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Fri, 12 Apr 1996 20:21:29 -0400
Subject: The bad news about FW prices.

I spent today at the Lancaster Quilt Show.  Last year I saw exactly one FW
for sale-price was 395.  This year I saw 8-prices not so good.
One FW with table-no price, but the condition of the FW was VERY bad.  The
front section of the machine looked like it had been worked over by a lot of
energetic beavers.  Sad little machine.

The best of the lot was a 1950 FW with a few attachments, original oil can
and case.  No manual.  $450.  The vendor who had this one also had :
1941-$425, 1948-$425, 1950-$425.  All of these had cases-but I did not see
any attachments or manual for any of these..  He also had one 1936 FW at
$350.  Price was lower because that one had not been serviced or cleaned up.

I saw two other FW's with no year identity-but both had to be after 48 as
they had the newer face plate.  One without a case was 395, the other was
500.

I did see, and bought, a set of templates for the  buttonholer and an
instruction booklet for the buttonholer.  I also got a Singer marking
wheel-on its little green card.  That was the real buy-$2.

Of course, the quilts were beautiful, too.

Flo
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Fri, 12 Apr 1996 20:22:05 -0400
Subject: FOREIGN LANGUAGES

I cannot seem to resist these foreign language sewing machine manuals!  The
last one was Swedish.  I am guessing that this one is Italian - but would
appreciate it if someone would email me as to right/wrong.

This one has a beige cover which says only: INSTRUCCIONES.  The inside is
not so much pages as a sheet of paper folded to look like 8 pages. There are
verbiage and also black/white pictures.  No name is visible on the machine,
but it is the antique black machine with round bobbin, fancy face plate,
take-up lever on back side of machine and tension control on face plate. 

Sample captions say: Para devanar una canilla, Para quitar la canilla y su
caja, para enhebrar la lanzadera, para enhebrar la maquina, para regular la
tension.

So please let me know the language and if you wish to purchase it, $6 will
cover my costs.  Thanks. Millie
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Fri, 12 Apr 1996 21:35:47 -0400
Subject: measurements

I just measured the lengths on 4 popular Singer machines and here they are.
Note, I do not have a case for the 301.  Also, bed length on FW and 301 was
taken with the extension in the DOWN position. I  hope this helps. Millie

Lengths:
		FW	66	99	301
-------------------------------------------
body		10	15	12	14
-------------------------------------------
bed		15	18	16	16
-------------------------------------------
case		13	20	17	?
	
Millie 
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Fri, 12 Apr 1996 18:35:45 -0800
Subject: Jones machines &more

Hi everyone!,

     The other day someone talked about a little game she played. She would
find a SM she wanted and then let time go by &then return to the shop to
see if it is still there. That means the machine was just meant for you if
it is still there.I did that very thing my self. I talked about the lovely
JONES treadle sewing machine and our last name is Jones. I just couldn't
decide! I made  my oldest married daughter happy by giving her one of my
two Singer treadles and purchased the Jones machine. Graham said if I took
a picture of it he would date it for me (please send me snail mail
address).I think maybe 1920"s!?!?What slowed down the purchase is the
cabnet is in very good shape but not very fancy.The machine has 99% of its
very fancy decal on it and the black is very shinny.I payed for it but
wanted my DH to pick it up for me so our car will not get any damage.Very
anxious to bring it home.

Courtney in Vienna, VA, wrote to Viola in Whidbey about a shop in Port
Townsend that had treadles and a beautiful Singer hand crank. I believe you
are talking about Bergstrom's Sewing center &European Gifts. Steve
Bergstrom had his shop in the back of the quilt shop called Quilters Cove.
He is no longer there. The girls that own the shop for what ever reason
don't seem to want to share with customers where he has moved to. Perhaps
because it is in the back of another fabric store. Steve is the place to
take your FW for repair, look for a toy machine, or just talk sewing
machines.I'm not sure of the address but it is just as you come into town
and not walking distance from the ferry dock.Steve's # is 360-385-5050

I also have found a card table like  for the FW only it is for the 301.I
don't have a 301 yet but several people are looking for me. I want a black
one.
Thank you to Graham, everyone eles that posts, and to Sue. It makes my day!
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Sat, 13 Apr 1996 08:15:37 -0400
Subject: Treadle Belts

I recently purchased a treadle belt from Newark Dressmaker Supply, because
they have a toll free number and accept credit cards...1-800-736-6783,
  Item# N12,  Cost $3.80 plus $3.25 S&H.  I had it in about three days and
now my 66 sings like my FW!  I got the reference from someone else in this
nice group.  ;D

And yes, you will have to cut it to fit and use pliers to staple the belt
closed.

Ricki
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date:          Fri, 12 Apr 1996 13:44:45 +0000
Subject:       New member

Melody:   Call Singer with the serial number. The phone number is 
listed at the end of the digest. We are all hooked on old Singers and 
I can't wait to find out the identity of this old electric Singer! 
You are fortunate indeed to have it. I have found that all old black 
Singers are worth a second look. I still haven't found my FW but can 
honestly say I am glad I didn't find it right away. If I had I would 
have missed out on all the fun of these other deserving models. I now 
have seven old machines and number eight may be on the way. 

Courteny:   Once I actually have this machine(28) in my posession, I may 
e-mail you to compare notes. Do you have a manual? I would love a 
copy and would be happy to pay for it if you do. Let me know. Also, 
you will love your new 301. It is terrific for free motion machine 
quilting. I took my first class with it and it held its own along 
side all the Berninas there :). 

Elizabeth:  I have a 99 and a little foot. I have never been all that 
happy with the two together. The Dr. Scholl's worked better for me 
althought the ultimate would be to find a marked throatplate. 

Have a great day, Katy
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Sat, 13 Apr 1996 13:00:36 -0400
Subject: FOR SALE

Hi:

I've got a white FW in a green and white case for sale.  I'd say both the
case and FW are in an 8 condition.(Excellent shape !! )  Have manual and a
few accessories.
$395.00 plus shipping and insurance.


Thanks 

Bob C
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Sat, 13 Apr 1996 14:30:22 -0400
Subject: purchase a featherweight

I just found this online and I'm interested in purchasing a 
featherweight machine. Please advise as to where i might find this 
information.  Thanks so much.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Sat, 13 Apr 1996 13:37:29 -0700 (PDT)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 4/11/96

Hi everyone,

It's been sometime since I last posted, but I need some help.  I just 
replaced a belt for my treadle and it seems to be dry.  The repairman 
said to soak it in oil, but I'm afraid if I do, it will slip.  This 
treadle story has another ending however.   I called singer earlier in 
the week (got through on the first try), gave them the serial number and 
they said it was a 27.  Well, one of our FWF was nice enough to send the 
manual, but it was for a shuttle machine, which is not what mine is.  
Yesterday I took it to a service repair and the guy looked at 
it and said, you have a 15-30.  He didn't have a manual, but he did say 
that if I had a manual for a 15-90, it was basically the same machine.  
My mom has one of those so it's no big deal.  Singer did say that it was 
made January l6, l902, which I had just about figured out because of the 
serial number.  I just don't understand Singer sometimes.

While I was at the repair shop, I asked to see any attachments they might 
have for the Singer machines.  I picked up a zigzagger for a 301 for #35 
and some extra boxes of cams.  Some of these cams in the boxes are the 
same ones that were with the zigzagger that I bought, but some aren't.  
If anyone is interested, the boxes (4 cams each) are $7.50 each.  If 
anyone is interested, e-mail me.  Also, I picked up a monogrammer for the 
slant needle zig zag machines with all the cams for the alphabet.  It 
looks practically brand new.  This cost $45.00.  I probably paid too 
much, but if anyone is interested, let me know.  I can also ask for other 
parts if you are interested.  I perused the place for a while, but they 
are mostly into industrial machines.  These prices do not include postage 
or tax now that I think of it.

I am looking for a featherweight case 
(original) and it can be in 
the worst shape (except structurally sound).  If anyone is interested in 
selling me one, I would be grateful.  I'm not going to be picky, believe me.
I need it for a project I am working on.

I picked up a 201-2 machine and cabinet at a garage sale a couple of 
weeks ago.  It is in a beautiful cabinet.  I has the two doors that swing 
open in the front with storage in the back of the cabinet.  There are 
threee swinging drawers on the inside of the right front door.  I got it 
all for $50.  The machine sews really well but it doesn't shine or 
anything.  It was pretty used.  The lady said she bought it in l938 and 
sewed for all her kids and grandkids.  I just refinished the cabinet and 
now I am going to put my 401a in it and refinish the treadle cabinet so I 
can get the treadle going.  I don't know, my back is killing me--I think 
I turned every which way taking this cabinet and then stripping it.

I know there was something else I was going to ask, but I just can't 
think of it.  Don't worry, as soon as I sign off, I will think of it.  

Have a beautiful day.

Betty
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Sat, 13 Apr 1996 21:36:50 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: keys, pedals, and threader

Hi All!

I stopped at my local Singer Center today and showed the guy the
bentwood/drawer key.  He said that they don't make them any more (which is
about what I would expect him to say -- he really wants to sell Vikings),
BUT he did say that if you take the blade of the smaller screwdriver that
generally comes with attachment sets, you can insert it and twist, and the
lock will open.  I haven't tried that yet, and I doubt I would want to do
that with the treadle drawers.  However, for those of you who actively prowl
flea markets and antique shops... it wouldn't hurt to tuck a small
screwdriver at least in your glove compartment (if not in your purse,
fanny pack, whatever) in case you run into a heavy bentwood case that has
lost its key and your are dying to know what's inside.  Also, I'm sending
photocopies of the key to a couple of other FWFs who have sources...so
we're working on it.  If we strike paydirt, I'll/we'll let you know.

For Betty:  My Model 128 originally had the knee lever, as evidenced by
the hole in the right front of the case.  However, it was re-wired
(probably in the 60s when the motor was replaced) to take a foot pedal. 
Your machine may have undergone a similar experience, which would explain
why the foot pedal looks more modern than the machine itself.  Personally,
I'm happier with the foot pedal.  My mother's old Free Westinghouse
cabinet had a pull-down knee lever, and it was sometimes tricky to get
yourself positioned so that you could a) control what was happening under
the presser foot and b) manipulate the knee lever at the same time.

For Lisa:

Given that the Model 127-13 is in such good condition, I think the $75
very reasonable provided the machine is in working order.  The throat
plate can be replaced ($10.00), and the shuttle case also ($33.90). 
That's another $44.00, BUT it's probably worth it if you don't have to do
a major cleanup job.  You can get both of these parts from A Stitch Back
in Time in Lubbock, Tx (1-800-352-1174), or from a place that is (I think)
in Georgia, who has posted to the list before (if I come across the name
I'll send it to you).

To Jacque:
I believe I have the same "accessory" you described, and I do use it as a
needle threader.  Here's how I do it: I insert the tiny (and I do mean
TINY, as in
if-you-are-in-the-bifocal-stage-of-life-you-may-have-trouble-deciding-
it's-actually-a-hook TINY) hook through the eye of the needle, then I
carefully loop the upper thread around the little hook.  Then I gently
but firmly pull back through the needle, and maybe I brace the tip of the
needle with my fingernail so as not to bend the needle.  What usually
happens is I get maybe a 1/4" loop of thread through the needle eye before
the tiny hook pops off the thread.  I then insert the narrow tab (the
"dachshund" part) through this loop, and draw the end of the upper thread
completely through the needle.  Not exactly elegant, but it works!

Lydia
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Sat, 13 Apr 1996 07:14:17 -0700
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 4/12/96



>I just measured the lengths on 4 popular Singer machines and here they are.
>Note, I do not have a case for the 301.  Also, bed length on FW and 301 was
>taken with the extension in the DOWN position. I  hope this helps. Millie
>
>Lengths:
>		FW	66	99	301
>-------------------------------------------
>body		10	15	12	14
>-------------------------------------------
>bed		15	18	16	16
>-------------------------------------------
>case		13	20	17	?


After reading the above message, I went out to the barn armed with a
measuring tape and the bathroom scale.   I have a Singer stored out there
that I inherited a few years ago. Since I have a Bernina 1630, and FW, a
Riccar, and 2 old Kenmores I never gave it another thought until I started
reading this list. 

I couln't find any model numbers on it.  It is tan and yellow.  The case is
yellow and tan.  It is a straight stitch only machine.  It has a lever on
the front that raises the throat plate, (instead of lowering the feed dogs),
and a drop in bobbin.  I measured the base of the bed and it is 16 inches.
I forgot to measure the body, and it is now too dark out there to see it
very well.  The case is quite a bit wider than the machine since there is
room enough for the foot pedal to fit in it.  It is a very nice looking
machine, but very heavy.  IN the case it weighs about 30 lbs, and with the
top of the case off it weighs about 23 lbs.  Does this sound familiar to 
anyone?


The bobbin cover is missing from the throat plate.  Does anyone know if
these are hard to come by?
......

>machines.I'm not sure of the address but it is just as you come into town
>and not walking distance from the ferry dock.Steve's # is 360-385-5050


I really appreciate the info.  I can do a "walk-on" at the ferry to Pt.
Townsend.  It sounds like a nice little outing.  :)

..........

Millie, your instruction book is written in Spanish.

Thanks,

Viola
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Sat, 13 Apr 1996 21:53:26 -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 4/12/96

to Millie M - 
	my DH thinks your manual is Spanish - he certainly made it sound logical!  
(I just love it when he 
 whispers those soft sounds!)  anyhow, all the words/phrases make sense in 
Spanish.  he says it may
be Italian for all he knows, he doesn't speak it.  he also is not up on the 
Spanish sewing vocabulary, so 
a couple of words were unknown.  he learned his spanish in San Salvador when he 
was 10-15...

sherrie
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Sat, 13 Apr 1996 23:30:16 -0400

ore 301 attachments for you

160624   multi-slotted binder
161166   adj zipper foot
160626   adj hemmer
160743   buttonholer

   I believe the 301 is black and the 301a is tan.

Yvonne - The antique shop in Port Townsend right by the ferry dock was not a
sewing shop but an antique furniture shop.  It was spring 1994 when I was
there and I don't remember the name.  He specialized in English furniture and
had many English sewing machines (Singers and others).

Phillis - Wilcox &Gibbs,  I have a manual for the W&G if you need it e-mail
me with your snail mail address.