Featherweight Fanatics Archives

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Subject: Japanese 15 knock offs
Date: Mon, 25 Mar 96 03:05:00 PDT

You know it's funny...I have 2 of those knock off Japanese machines, and
they both sew beautifully.  I got one of them for $1.00, and the other
one for $4.00.  One had a burnt up motor, which I replaced, and the
other had a loose screw, which I tightened up.  I gave one to my mother,
and managed to fight it into a cabinet, though it was a portable model
and the wiring wasn't quite right for the cabinet.  We managed to work
it out.  She loves it.  The other one is in my basement patiently
waiting for me to find the right home for it.  I figure I will run into
a sewingmachineless person some day to give it to.

Since I have been working full time I haven't had as much time to devote
to my workshop...in fact, truth be told, I haven't had any time for my
workshop.  I have several machines awaiting restoration down there, but
I just haven't made it down there yet.  I will though...the weather is
getting a bit warmer, which makes the job not quite so chilly.

Haven't found any new sewing machines lately, though I did pick up a
little hand held "Miracle Stitcher" in it's original box with
instruction manual.  It holds a spool of thread inside and fits into the
palm of your hand to "make beautiful hemstitching".  It appears to be
from the 40's era.  I really like these old sewing related things.
Probably not too valuable now, but certainly rather neat, and they may
be eventually.

I still haven't found the time to try any of my buttonholers out, and
really need to play with some of my attachments that I keep collecting.
I don't know why I keep buying them....

Oh well, there are much worse vices....

Fran
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Date: Sat, 23 Mar 1996 09:54:34 -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 3/21/96

To Betty:

I have a Boyle shuttle and needle dispenser and the number 9 shuttle can be
used in the following machines:

Ajax                 
Alliance
Ben Hur
Boston
Burdick
C. &C.
Century New
Conover
Davis New
Daytona
Dayton
Gold Hibbard
Grant
Hibbard
Honeymoon
Lexington
Liberty
Marcy Special
Minnesota B. C. D. F. S.
Minnesota K. L..
Netzow
Ohio Farmer
Orient 
Princess

I hope this helps you.

Also, just a thought about calling Singer to date your babies.
I have 2 little ones so I can't wait on hold for very long, so what I do is
fax singer the serial number of my machine along with any questions I have.
 It takes a couple of weeks for them to get back to me, but I get all the
info I asked for in my snalil mail.  Their fax number is 908-417-1718.

Marie 
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Date: Sun, 24 Mar 1996 06:56:01 -0500 (EST)
Subject: New machines

I'm proud to announce the addition of the two newest members of the McClure
family of sewing machines! The first is a tan/cream model 301a with case,
manual, attachments, and buttonholer (in a MAROON case??) which I found at a
yard sale (after MANY wasted stops) for $20. I really love this model -
although it was dirty and noisy when I bought it, after cleaning and oiling,
now it runs like a dream. Baby number two is yet another fw, but she has a
neat story. The auction I attended advertised a gem sewing machine (which
was the fw) and I was only going to pay $100, since I already have 3, but
then they brought out her card table, so I paid $200 for it all! So now I
have 4 301s and 4 fws and NO ROOM in my house! I guess I'm going to have to
start selling some of these, but it's so hard for me to part with my
children (that's really what they feel like to me). And there's another
auction today with sewing machines listed!! Sue M.
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Subject: New Finds !!!

Shirley !
  I've just got to tell you about my "finds" yesterday !! 

 I had gone into a big flea market in town on Friday, looking for feedsacks (
and I found 8 of them for $26 - I was happy with that !). But I got to
talking with one vendor about old sewing stuff, and she collects Singer
stuff,( she said). Anyway, she told me she had an old singer in a black case(
my heart skipped a beat) that she would sell me for $15.
I went back on Saturday, and sure enough, she had the machine. No, it's not a
FW, but about the same size. It has an open bottom so you can see the "works"
and there's a bullet shaped bobbin in it.Has a Universal motor on it, no
light(it's missing, I think)the Singer logo on the front with the "bullet"
emblem, and on the inside another emblem, round, which says" rebuilt by and
with of SEWING MACHINE EXCHANGE Birmingham, Ala."  It is missing a belt, too.
The serial # is  ?660107 - the first number is either 2 or 8 - really hard to
tell. I haven't a clue as to what I've got here, maybe only a $15 piece of junk,
but I'm going to clean it up, take it to a local service guy and see if I
can't get her running. I'm also going to call Singer and see if I can get any
info from them, and possibly a manual ( that would be an enormous help, since
I don't have the foggiest about how to do the bobbin, etc.).
Then , on the way home, I saw a little sign that said" Flea Market" with an
arrow pointing up a little street - that's where I found the next one.
The other is a model AB113401. Is this a model 401? Again, no attachments, no
manual, and the four-legged cabinet is in sad shape - one leg needs to be
re-bolted onto it and it needs refinishing, but I think the machine is
salvagable (sp?). I have managed to get it out of the cabinet to clean it up.
Some of the wiring will need to be replaced, but DH says that won't be a
problem.  It has the knee lever on it ( or it did until I took it off)
I'll ask Singer for a manual and birthday on this one,too. I have never tried
to restore an old machine before, but I've got the bug now after finding
these two, especially at $15 each ! If I can't get either to work, I won't be
out much dough, but I'm sure to learn something about how these babies are
put together.
 Both are really dirty. If you have any suggestions as to how to go about my
task at hand, I would be most appreciative.
Piecefully,
Becky S.
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Date: Sat, 23 Mar 1996 14:11:13 EST
Subject: Quilt Show

I just came back from a quilt show put on by Southern Comforters in 
Bowie, MD.  They had a
terrific show of a dozen older sewing machines displayed as accents 
among the hanging quilts.
The machines were all owned by members.  I thought the high-light was 
a "white" Featherweight
in pristine condition.  You could see that its paint is actually a 
light mint green.  There were also a
model 201, a black 301, a 99K with ornate gold-work, a handsome model 
15 in a wooden dome
case, 2 model 66's (one a treadle), a black FW with scrollwork, and 
several other older machines. 
It was a good opportunity to see the differences among the different 
Singers. Thanks to Kim , and the members!  I hope some other quilt guilds will be able to use this idea to educate
people who love the older machines.
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Date: 24 Mar 96 15:50:13 EST
Subject: Contribution

Here's my two cents on Armorall. This stuff works great at producing a shine and
protects the surface. What it's not so good at is cleaning but the same company
make a cleaner which I'm about to try -- will report back.

A Martha Washington is a black toy sewing machine made from sheet steel. It was
produced in around 1920 and carries a picture of Martha W.

It was produced by the Metalograph Corp of NY. Not uncommon, but sought after by
collectors because of the MW picture.

to Becky

There is no realistic or comprehensive guide with prices. Even if someone were
to produce such a thing and manage to sidestep the pressure from publishers to
inflate prices and other temptations, the book would be out of date before the
print run had finished.
As to FWs, you should be able to get a guide to what people are paying from
reading FWF.
For the older machines I am happy to help. I will not tell you what they are
worth but if you are offered a machine I will tell you if the asking price is in
line with current trends.

You mentioned looking for old printing blocks. Beware: most old printing blocks
are new printing blocks.

Graham F
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Date: Sun, 24 Mar 1996 16:32:51 -0600=
Subject: another item bought

Well, it seems that I can't go to a flea market or antique show lately
without finding *something* related to Singer.  Yesterday I came upon a
1917 Singer Almanac. It's about the size of the Farmer's Almanac, though
nowhere as many pages as today's editions.  Every other page contains a
half-page ad for Singer products. The cover is green with the red S emblem.
Naturally it cried out for me to buy it.  I did manage to get the price
lowered a bit, though.

And here's a "you shoulda seen the one that got away".... Went to an estate
sale yesterday that had advertised a child's sewing machine.  Yes indeed,
there it was, a 1950's (early) SewHandy. Practically mint.  Asking price
was $120.  I didn't want to spend that much, but they wouldn't entertain
bargaining. Instead, bids were taken. There was already one bid, from a
local collector (I saw his name when the clerk took mine), at the minimum
bid level ($5 over half the marked price).  I bid and additional $10.
Today at 4 was the time to wander over and find out if people got their
items.  No such luck. Someone had come along and paid full price, but I was
informed that there'd been close to a dozen bids by then, so in all
likelihood I wouldn't have been the lucky buyer.  And it's okay, because I
didn't really want to spend the money right now, but thought I couldn't
pass up an opportunity.

You should have seen it. I don't think it was ever used.  The instruction
book looked like it hadn't ever been opened.  I don't think the clamp was
there, but other than that everything was intact.

Lisa,
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Subject: FW sighted in NJ!
Date: Sun, 24 Mar 1996 16:41:43 -0600

HI again, y'all!
I went up to Princeton, NJ on a weekend trip away from my kids, and did 
stop in at a sewing store  in Princeton.  They had a FW there - AM 
something, for $450 or $495.  The owner/shop man said he had several 
ranging in price from $495 to $295, and had just sold a case for a beige 
one with a black (caseless) machine.  I wasn't impressed with the one 
that was there, it was about a 7, I would think, with a replacement 
thread guide for the bobbin winder, I think a replacement bobbin winder, 
and the stitch length lever looked new ( and kind of cheap).   I saw at 
least one more case, hiding in a corner under a bunch of other sewing 
machines.  They appeared very dusty, (I could definitely draw pictures 
in the dust and my fingers were icky), so maybe a better woman/man than 
I could talk him down!
	He also had a machine, a Singer, called a "Mini Classic" which appeared 
to be a good cosmetic copy of a FW, and he said that it was made to be 
one.  It had the same striated face plate as my FW (AL and AK), and the 
gold decoration of the even later ones.  I didn't like it : the motor 
was attached to the back of the machine, rather than attached to the 
base of the machine, and the light was very gingerly bolted to the MOTOR 
- in the BACK.  It was also interesting that while I was examining it, 
the other salesman walked by and told me that it was a piece of "c-p" 
and did not sew well.  I did not see its case.  This little jewel was 
priced at $250.  It was not a zig-zag machine, which I had heard that 
Singer was going to produce under the featherweight name.  The mini 
classic had an inspection sticker on the right hand end of the base with 
1988 - 1989 on it.
	Just letting y'all know incase some one up there is having a FW attack 
and needs to buy one now!
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Date: Sat, 23 Mar 1996 20:13:48 EST
Subject: Buttonholer Cams

   I have a bunch of free buttonholer cams as follows if anyone wants any
of them:
Straight:  3 - 1 1/16, 5 - 13/16, 3 - 5/8, 1 - 1/2, 1 - 3/8, 4 - 5/16.
Eyelet type:  4 - 1 1/16, 1 - 5/8.
                            Al
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Date: Sun, 24 Mar 96 22:23:41 -0500
Subject: How I got my FW

Hi to all,

I have been getting the digest for about 2 weeks now and I thought that I would 
relate the story of how I got my FW.  FW were getting quite popular in our Guild 
and after seeing a few and hearing people rave about them, I decided to try to 
find one of my own.  Since I couldn't afford to pay the $325-550 that most of 
the gals were paying I decided I would have to find one of those rare jewels 
that pop up once in a while.  Some of the gals here had found them in garage 
sales and in ads for $5-100, so I decided to set a price and put out all my 
feelers.  This involved writing to all my friends and relatives in other states 
(that hopefully hadn't caught the FW virus).  I included my Mom &Dad who I know 
go to the thrift shops on a regular basis.  The day my Mother got my letter she 
called and talked to my granddaughter, told her to tell me that she thought she 
had that sewing machine I wanted but wasn't sure.  As soon as I got home from 
work, Rachel gave me the message, I think I was dialing the phone before she 
finished talking.  Mom proceeded to tell me that after she read the letter, she 
told my Dad that I think this sounds like the sewing machine that is down in the 
basement.  The confusion being that the case was a bright blue, not black.  They 
read off all the dimensions of the machine and described it, and I kept saying 
"that's it", with Mom asking if I was sure.  She told me that I could have it 
for what she paid for it, if I paid for the shipping.  The sewing machine 
arrived 5 days later and my FW was in near perfect condition, in a bright blue 
case, that must have been recovered by an expert.  There is very little wear on 
the gold, so why the case was recovered is anyone's guess.  My FW was born May 
10,1951 and cost me a total of $43. Mom had bought it in a thrift shop 2 years 
before and couldn't get it to sew without breaking the thread (she had it 
threaded backwards).  

I also have a Singer treadle S/N G5961457 that I will call about the birthday 
tomorrow.  I didn't know that you could get the birthday for them as well.  
She's in fairly good shape, the only wear is to the trim on the side (pits in 
the black enamel, too) and the back.  She was used fairly well and shows it, but 
most of the gold and painted trim is in great shape.  The manual with it is a 
copy of the original, in the cabinet was also a Domestic Magic Key Buttonholer, 
in a green box with the original manual and a complete set of White attatchments 
in a red box.  There was also a manual for a White Series 77 sewing machine, 
which someone had written May 19, 1952 in the front cover.  The cabinet is in 
good shape except for a water ring on the lid.  It has two drawers on each side 
and a pull out tray in the center.   I got this one by trading an old radio that 
was left in the house we bought 6 years ago for the treadle from a guy that 
collects sewing machines. 

Guess that's all for now.......just wanted to add my story to the 
rest.......Lynn
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Date: Mon, 25 Mar 1996 06:02:16 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: FW 's For Sale

  I've added a few machines to the For Sale list so will post the new update.

AG  Attachments, Case, Manual, good condition, even wear $375.
AF  "                                                  " $375.
AH  Attachments, Case, Copy of Manual, wear on black, gold and throat
    plate $275.
AJ  Attachments, Case, Manual, even wear $375.
AE  Scrolled FacePlate, good stitch, case, wear on gold and black and 
    blemish on black in front of throat plate appears to be dried tape.
    Copy of manual. $375.
AM  Later Edition Scrollwork, very good condition, attachments, manual, 
    great case $510.
AJ  Anniversary Edition  Case, manual, attachments, gold great, a few 
    scratches on the black. $495.
AL  Case, copy of manual, attachments, even wear $450.
AJ  Case, copy of manual, attachments, even wear $450
EV  Case, original manual, no attachments but does have buttonholer,
    cosmetically very appealing, great stitch. $450.

   There is a $25. charge for shipping, handling, and insurance for the 
amount of sale. Feel free to email me for further details or call 
evenings or early a.m.'s  Zsuxxa
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Date: Mon, 25 Mar 1996 09:48:30 -0600 (CST)
Subject: Buttonholers, Etc.

Hello all,

I have an extra Buttonholer to sell, Singer part #4895XXX complete with the 
original manual, pink "bullet" shaped box and 5 cams.  This is a tan 
color buttonholer that matches the 301 and 401 machines.  It will fit 
most Singers that have a slant needle.  I have cleaned and oiled this and 
it runs nicely.

I also have a couple of extra "cloth guides" or seam guides.  I don't 
like to scratch the bed of my machines, but I also don't get along too 
well with the moleskin sticking on the needle plate that some of us use, 
so I found these guides that have a soft plastic pad to prevent 
scratching the machine.  
These are a little different from the "T-slot" seam guides that tend to 
scratch the machines. They are "genuine" Singer parts but I neglected to 
write down the number this morning.  I had to buy several to get one for
myself,  so I would like to sell the rest (cheap!!)

Please email if you are interested.

Thanks,

Daryl
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Date: Mon, 25 Mar 1996 11:59:52 -0500
Subject: Re: FW

Hello everyone, 
 
                 I had an interesting encounter with a local antique dealer
yesterday that I thought I'd share. After brousing a local antique shop I
asked the owner if he had anything related to sewing hidden where I
couldn't see it. He'd just sold 2 treadles the day before so I never got to
see them.One was in an Mission Cabinet in what he said was great shape for
200.00.When I asked if he ever got any FW in he said yes and advised me to
never pay any more than 35.00 - 40.00 for them because they weren't really
worth collecting. He advised only buying the hand cranks. Have I struck
gold with this man or what! I tried not to appear too excited and left my
name so he could contact me if he got any new ones in. Just goes to show
how one mans trash is anothers treasure! 
 
                    Maggie patiently waiting. 
ps : his dad worked for Singer all his life making the needles, of course
he didn't have any, I can't get that lucky.
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Date: Mon, 25 Mar 1996 09:50:48 -0800
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 3/24/96


This was posted in todays FWFanatics.......
>	He also had a machine, a Singer, called a "Mini Classic" which appeared 
>to be a good cosmetic copy of a FW, and he said that it was made to be 
>one.  It had the same striated face plate as my FW (AL and AK), and the 
>gold decoration of the even later ones.  I didn't like it : the motor 
>was attached to the back of the machine, rather than attached to the 
>base of the machine, and the light was very gingerly bolted to the MOTOR 
>- in the BACK.  It was also interesting that while I was examining it, 
>the other salesman walked by and told me that it was a piece of "c-p" 
>and did not sew well.  I did not see its case.  This little jewel was 
>priced at $250.  It was not a zig-zag machine, which I had heard that 
>Singer was going to produce under the featherweight name.  The mini 
>classic had an inspection sticker on the right hand end of the base with 
>1988 - 1989 on it.
>	Just letting y'all know incase some one up there is having a FW attack 
>and needs to buy one now!
>
BEWARE!!!!!!  the above machine is NOT a Featherweight,  it is in actual
fact a POOR quality knock off also known as MAL'S Mini Classic...... I owned
one at one time, IT IS A PIECE OF CRAP!!!!!! a total waste of money,  do not
DO NOT waste your time or money on this machine....... IT IS NOT MADE BY
SINGER>>>>>> IT DOES NOT SEW WELL, it does not even sew without complaining
with almost every stitch.......SAVE YOUR MONEY!!!!!!!

You did not see its case because it does not have a case.....
enough said?

Lynda C
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Date: Mon, 25 Mar 1996 12:22:02 -0600 (CST)
Subject: Armorall

Hi, everyone:

I just have to laugh at the things I do.  The minute I use a product, I 
find out there's something wrong with it.  Anyway, I agree with Graham 
about the shine and protection Armorall offers.  I have thoroughly 
cleaned all of the featherweights that have passed through my hands with 
baby oil including Q-Tipping all of the exterior nooks and crannies.  I 
then clean the inside with WD-40 and various small tools if things are 
really caked.  Then lube and oil.  After I get through these stages and I 
feel it really glistens, I have used the Armorall.  It makes them look 
like new and shine, shine, shine.  It also provides a tough layer of 
protection.  I think it's a great product and have used it on the FWs and 
my 66 treadle with what I felt were exceptional results.  I'll look 
forward to hearing what the drawbacks are.  I haven't found any.  Thanks 
for the continued wonderful input.  I'm addicted to this newletter.  

Take care everyone.

Karen 
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Date: Mon, 25 Mar 1996 14:01:51 -0800
Subject: Re: 99K - 1932

I am very excited.  My mother gave me my grandmothers machine.  I called the 
1-800 number and they gave me the Canadian 1-800 number.  Unfortunately, because 
of cut-backs they are not giving out information on old machines and the lady 
told me to go to the library.  I recalled the U.S. 1-800 number and after 
redialing many times and then waiting a very nice lady told me that my 
grandmothers machine is a 99K and it was made in Clydedale, Scotland in 1932.  

I have feet for it and do not have a clue how they work or what they are.  Is 
there a way I can find out.  Because I live in Canada, they can not send a 
manual out.  This is too bad as I need to know how to thread it and oil it.  

I have read todays FWF and a lady speaks about a machine that looks like a FW 
but is something else.  Now that I have my grandmothers machine, I have the bug 
to get a FW that I could use at my trailer in the summer (my Bernina is very 
heavy taking away every weekend).  I did not realize until the past few weeks 
that the FW were valuable and short supply.  Is there a way to know for sure it 
is a FW and if it is okay to buy (workable)?  If anyone has information and 
would have the time to e-mail me or tell us new babies on this list, I sure 
would appreciate it.  Thank you.

Elizabeth
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Date: Mon, 25 Mar 1996 17:36:06 -0500
Subject: Wanted:

FW case &tray in good to excellent condition.  Thanks, Mari
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Date: Mon, 25 Mar 1996 17:37:13 -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 3/24/96

To: Katy  and Graham - 

In this country (US) a Martha Washington is also a type of sewing cabinet.
 It has 3 or 4 draws and 2 sides compartments that have a top flip-up lid.
 The side compartments are half round or roundish in shape and go from top to
bottom. They are usually the size of an occasional/side table.  Looking down
at the table top they are a rectangular with rounded ends.
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Date: Mon, 25 Mar 1996 19:23:55 -0500
Subject: I held my ground.....

Hi everyone,

I really do enjoy this list.  I had been lamenting to my DH that everyone
else is hunting a white or tan fw and I had yet to see a black one.  Well
today I did find a black one and a 301 too.  I guess I'm not a dedicated
collector tho.  I walked away.

The guy wanted $160 for each of them.  The 301 might have gotton a 5 on the
scale.  It looked as if I had been "polished" w/ steel wool.  You really had
to look close to tell it had ever had gold scroll work at all.  The fw was a
sad case.  Mechanically it appeared to be ok.  But like the 301 it looked as
if someone had taken steel wool to it plus a bad couple of spots on the
enamel right in front were down to bare metal and had been "retouched" with
black paint.  The case was missing the top tray and the leather handle was
almost completely deteriorated - No accessories.  I did not see any rust.
 Still I think it would have gotten only a 4.  I just didn't feel it was
worth that price.

Am I too picky???  What would you have done???  DH's criteria for passing it
by was that it wasn't a good investment.  If I bought it for that price and
wanted to sell it I could not get anymore for it so no go.  Not that he has
made me sell my tan or white ones but that is how he looks at it.

Pam
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Date: Tue, 26 Mar 1996 08:46:09 -0500
Subject: FWFanatics

I keep checking auction listings and never see any sewing machines
advertised.  I wonder why Sue in New York sees them listed all the time.
Different cultures from state to state??

I saw an ad for an Estate sale in Quincy Mass last weekend when I was at
Cape Cod.  Five sewing machines and a room full of fabric and craft items.
Lucky for me there was a phone number given so I called.  There were
actually 5 machines.  The Singers were cabinet models and the portables were
not Singers.  Saved a long trip.  But that is one sale I would have loved to
have browsed through.  Did anyone on FWF happen to go to it??

Lucky me.  I came upon an oak wooden box chuck full of attachments at an
Antique Show.  It was in the first booth I entered.  All the rest of the 30
plus booths had nothing at all.  If any FWF out there is looking for one,
the box is for sale.  Email please.

Later on in the weekend I encountered a 3/4 head Singer in a bent wood box.
Could it be a Godzilla 127?  Stay tuned.....

Millie
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Date: Tue, 26 Mar 96 08:05:57 -0600 (CST)
Subject: Treadle machine

Hi All
Just add a Treadle machine to my collection and was wondering if any one
could give me any informtion on the machine. The 6 drawer cabinet is in
excellent shape but the machine is not a Singer in fact i have never even
heard of this machine, but I like the cabinet and the price was better than
fair. The lady said she has the manual and would send it to me after school
is out, I hope so anyway. The name on the machine is DAMASCUS GRAND and the
serial number is 230468.  The lady told me she thought that Mont. Wards sold
the machines back in the 20's. Any information would help.
I also bought a black 301 without a case and have no ideal what the case
looks like. If anyone could describe the case on tell me where I could find
a picture of one, that would help a great deal. I called Singer and they
said they couldn't tell me when it was made because they didn't do that for
301's all they said was it was made between 53 and 59. Does anyone know if
this true or just maybe I got a hold of someone that didn't really know,
it's happen before as you all well know.   Thanks for putting up with my
rambling.    Sheila
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Date: Mon, 25 Mar 1996 08:59:01 EST
Subject: General Electric Portable Sewing Machine

I recently saw a portable machine at an antique mall.  At first I 
thought it was a green (or turquoise) featherweight machine, but to 
my surprise it was a General Electric.  It is the same size as the 
featherweight and comes in a case similar to the featherweight.  Can 
anyone tell me about this machine?  What is the approximate value?  I 
appreciate your help.  Thanks.
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Date: Tue, 26 Mar 96 10:38:26 -0500
Subject: RE: FW Fanatics 3/25/96

Saw a tan fw yesterday in Bay City (Michigan) antiques mall. Price was $395, included case, some accessories and manual That's the first one I've seen. Certainly isn't as attractive as its ancestors, is it.
Carolyn.
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Subject: RE: FW Fanatics 3/25/96
Date: Tue, 26 Mar 1996 10:42:49 -0600

Pam, boy do I think you were smart!  One thing not to forget, as far as 
I'm concerned, is that these are SEWING machines!  If you can't use it, 
why buy it?  I'm not sure I would use a machine with those problems just 
with the finish - wouldn't it snag the material?  Reminds me of a friend 
of mine who offered me a FW (for only $300) with rust under the black 
paint on the bed....

Lynda - so the "Mini - Classic " is a fake?  How do they get away with 
the singer logo on the front?  I agree about the quality, I just 
couldn't believe that the SALESMAN told me how awful it was!  I wouldn't 
pay $250 for a fake / repro. Anyway!

Sherrie
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Date: Tue, 26 Mar 1996 08:52:31 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 3/25/96

Hi everyone,

It's time for my weekly messages.  Went junking the other day and found a 
Singer Buttonholer in the egg shaped case (green) with the buttonholer, 5 
cams, and manual (looks new).  The numberr is 489500 or 489510.  Says so 
right in the booklet.  However, it does not say which machine is goes 
to.  If anyone wants it, it is $10 plus shipping.  I also went to Value 
Village and they had a cabinet for $24.99.  I bought it because the knee 
lever was inside. I unscrewed the knee lever and the holder for the pedal 
and promptly brought them home.  The cabinet was in such awful shape that 
I left it there.  Unfortunately, this knee lever will not work for my 99K 
because of the design of the cabinet.  It will only fit the cabinet that 
has the side opening door on the left side.  If anyone wants this pedal, 
please let me know.  You can have it for the $28 I paid (tax of course) 
and shipping.  It is really in good shape, just won't fit my style cabinet.


Thank you Marie for letting me know about the shuttle.  Linda, I don't 
know if this will fit your machine or not.  To the lady that wanted my 
copy of the Minnesota L manual, maybe it will fit your machine.  Sorry I 
can't remember your name right off the top of my head.

Guess I had better close and let someone else have some space.  I still 
have a couple of copies of Sewing Made Easy, one l949 and one l953 for 
$l0 each plus shipping if you're interested.  Just e-mail me.

Betty
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Date: Tue, 26 Mar 1996 14:26:27 -0500 (EST)
Subject: Singer dates

I would like to hear about people's experiences with the Singer 800 number.
I called today to find out the dates on my latest machines, and received a
more detailed answer than usual - she said how many machines were made on
the same day as my fw (25,000) and then asked where I was calling from and
my last name. Are they going to start limiting us? I sure hope not since I
always seem to have new machines to ask about. I also have a question about
their dates. My newest fw has a serial number only 2,960 less than my
previous one and so it figures that it has the same birthday (Aug.15,1940).
But my 301a is serial number NB168896, and she said it was born on the same
day (May 29,1951) as two of my earlier 301's with serial numbers of NA018629
and NA487675. She also said it was made in Anderson, S.C., which I had
already learned from Graham's earlier post. It just doesn't seem logical
that numbers so far apart could have been manufactured on the same day,
especially when these three machines are a black 301, a light brown 301a and
a tan/cream 301a. Anyone have an opinion on this? Is Singer just guessing
when we call? I'm also puzzled by their recent inabliity to date machines
that have serial numbers similar to ones I've called about earlier and
gotten info on. They provide such a wonderful service, but it's pretty
useless if they're not sure of their facts. Still love those Singers! Sue M.
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FWFanatics@ttsw.com; Tue, 26 Mar 1996 14:11:48 -0500
Date: Tue, 26 Mar 1996 14:11:48 -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 3/25/96

To all:  I just found out from Singer what my two $15 finds from last weekend
are - the first, SN#AB113401 is a model 66, mfg'd. July 8, 1926. It is
missing the belt, but they gave me a part # for it so I can get one from the
local Singer service man, hopefully.
 The other  one, SN#866107 is a Model #2, mfg'd. Apr 27, 1889 - a real
antique ! It has been converted to electric, and has a decal from the Sewing
Machine Exchange in Birmingham, AL. Being new to the collecting, identifying,
restoring, hobby ( addiction?), I'm assuming that the conversions other than
Singer will use the same parts, such as the belt??? The motor is a Universal
instead of Singer. The manual for it is available also, so hopefully, when I
receive both, I will be a bit more informed as to the workings, etc.
I have read back and also received private e-mail on the cleaning of old
machines, and have duly taken note of the do's and don'ts. I think my first
step will be to buy a bunch of WD-40, then wait for warm weather to tackle
the job at hand outside. All the input is wonderfully helpful and informative
- thanks to all !
On another note, I recently purchased a 1938 FW from a lady in Virginia who
had heard of FWF. I bought it as a spare, to use when I take my little
workhorse FW in for it's regular check-up, to let quilt guild friends use
when they come for a "sew-in", rather than lug their big computer models
around, and eventually to give to my step-daughter, who is turning into her
step-mom, as far as her love of things old and dear, and her sewing and
quilting go. But alas, no sooner had the '38 arrived than I saw a posting of
a 1948 model FW for sale, at a very reasonable price. Unfortunately, the
Prize Patrol and Ed McMahon both seem to have lost their way and have not
found my doorstep to present me with the big check, so the 1948 is out of
reach until I can sell one of these machines. Oh, in case you are wondering,
"Why the 1948?" - it was born the same year as yours truly, and being the FWF
that I am, I have always wanted one, but never was able to find one, much
less one within the price range I can comfortably handle. So this 1938 is
back on the market, just as soon as I receive the case tray and a new belt
for it.
It has the original manual, attachments,and 6 or 7 bobbins, plus 1 key. Until
I talked with the seller of the 1948, I didn't even think about the case
having keys! I just don't ever think of quilters being the thieving type, so
I never thought of locking up my machine when we were away from home. She's
never out of my sight anyway. If anyone is interested, please e-mail me and
we will discuss price, shipping, etc.
  Now I must get back to my sewing !
Becky S.
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Date: Tue, 26 Mar 1996 14:40:41 -0500
Subject: 301's-- and A Little Help From My Friends

Okay, I've been off the list for a few months now.  I think since Xmas 
actually and now I've got to jump in with a big time favor and question 
about my 301A Beige Singer.

It's about the bobbin casing.  It's about the little lever on the bobbin 
casing.  

When I first got her home, she wouldn't sew right, and I figured that it 
was the threading.  Right to left, okay got that.  Then the bobbin seemed 
to be rattling a little too much.  So I take her in to where I bought her 
and I'm telling the man about the bobbin casing that seems to be 
rattling.  So we do the following:

Check the spring action on the bobbin casing without a bobbin in it.  
It's fine, tight as a pin, great spring action.  Put a bobbin in it 
before it goes into the machine and it does the same thing, nice and 
tight.  Now we put the bobbin casing into the seating and the lever has 
about 1/4 inch play to it.  I mean you can put your finger on the lever, 
pull it away from the bobbin casing and move it back again, with no 
spring feeling to it at all.  Now if you pull it a little further away 
you can feel the spring action start, but if the bobbins and casing 
aren't in the machine it doesn't have this play at all.

The machine man plays around with a few things and it appear that he can 
get that slack to shorten up to about 1/8 inch, but it still seems to me 
that the slack shouldn't be there at all.

So what I'm asking, is those of you that have a 301 that you use 
regularly, will you check if you have this slack on you bobbin lever when 
it's in the machine with a bobbin in it.  And if anyone out there knows 
what the problem might be I'd appreciate it, because my machine man said 
he'd be happy to play around with it and see it as a challenge, but he 
doesn't really appear to know what to do about it.  I have a year's 
warranty on it, so if it's just the way it is, I'll accept that, but if 
this is really not right, I'd like to know and maybe give him some tips. 
He's not dumb, he know's what he's doing to some extent, but this seems 
like something simple and before I take it to someone else who might know 
more about it outside of my warranty, I'd like to get your opinions.

Thanks people.  You're always such a wonderful resource for me.

Love,

Maureen
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Date: Tue, 26 Mar 1996 12:05:27 -0600 (CST)
Subject: Spring Cleaning

Hi All,

I am *still* sorting things out, and I have an extra Blind Stitcher that 
I can sell.  This is a Greist, and it will work on the FW, and most other 
Singer *straight* stitch machines.  It is mechanically identical to the 
Singer brand blind stitcher.It comes in the original box and with a photocopy
 instruction manual.  I have cleaned and lubed it and will run test it 
before selling.

Singer Even-Feed walking foot.  This is a genuine "Singer" foot that fits 
the *slant* machines like the 301,  401 (tried it on a touch-n-sew, 
too).  I had not used even feeds (?) much in the past, but this really 
helps out, especially when doing scroll type quilting.

Email me if anyone is interested.

Thanks,

Daryl
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Date: Tue, 26 Mar 1996 15:37:18 -0500
Subject: FWFanatics

It only took 2 tries today to get through to Singer.  Found out that my
newest addition to the family is a model 128.

I browsed today at one of my favorite shops.  It is a small craft shop with
200 vendors participating on 3 levels of a residential type house.  The
displays are enhanced by the presence of 4 sewing machines in cabinets or
treadles.  All shiny and sparkling clean.  The name of the shop is NEEDLES
AND TREADLES and it is in Glastonbury CT, south of Hartford.  Stop by if you
get a chance. Nancy spent a bit of time taking machine talk with me - her
specialty is pre-electric. She also admired my address labels with the
sewing machine pic and wants to get some for her shop's mailings.

BTW Nancy said it is surprising how many people do not know what the word
TREADLE means or what a treadle machine is.  One customer wrote a check to
NEEDLES AND TWIDDLES!!  Oh well, guess that proves not every is a machine buff.

Of course, I have a few new items for sale.  (Would hate to disappoint
anyone!) First is a small metal pencil sharpener in the shape of an old
sewing machine on base.  The second is an ink stamp of a gorgeous antique
treadle machine.  The stamp is about 5 X 5 inches, I didn't measure it for
exact size yet.

Email if interested in either.

Millie
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Date: 26 Mar 96 16:12:06 EST
Subject: Contribution

True Story No 2

It was a wet, windy day in Liverpool and I was getting more and more dispirited
trudging from shop to shop giving my spiel about the type of old sewing machines
I was searching for.
I'd had all the usuall insults -- "No sir, this is an antique shop. We don't
sell sewing machines -- or televisions"
Then I got half lucky. The owner of one shop actually listened to me and said
that a lady had been in just a few days earlier with just such a machine. He
described what could only have been a rare Britannia made in the 1870s and in
the shape of a ship's anchor.
"Did you buy it", I asked. 
"Oh, no," he replied" ... we're an antique shop...."
But he did give me a description of the lady. In her late seventies, wearing
carpet slippers and wanting to sell the machine to help pay city taxes as her
husband had died a few days before.
I now had a choice. I could continue the tour and get insulted even more of try
to find the little old lady. I chose the later.
A quick look in Yellow Pages revealed five funeral homes in the area. Two of
them refused to co-operate at all, two were happy to pass on addresses of likely
widows who fitted the description and the fifth did the same after folding money
changed hands.
I got lucky with the third address  I hit. Right age, right area and widowed
withing the right time span.
I called, explained my mission and was invited in. The sewing machine was there
and looking good.
I bought it, paying far more than she had been asking and was till very pleased
with my purchase. I explained that as well as collecting sewing machines, I
dealt in all manner of antiques.
Now, every six months when the city takes are due, I get a post card from
Martha. She shows me the tax bill , I look around and suggest what I can pay
for various items to cover the demand.
The deal works great for both of us. I get to buy goods at a fair price -- and
there's enough left in Martha's house to last her another 50 years.
The moral here is clear. I could have ripped her off the first time I called.
But then there would have been no post cards, no six monthly visits, no tea in
front of the coal fire and no stories of Edwardian England when Martha was at
her prime.
I know that one day the post cards will stop but it will take a lot longer to
forget Martha, her worn carpet slippers, the mangy cat she loved and a unique
friendship that stated with a search through the funeral homes of Liverpool. 
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: Tue, 26 Mar 1996 20:37:21 -0500
Subject: For Newcomers

I suppose we should periodically post a note to newcomers to help them get
up to speed. So, welcome to FWF, all you new-kids-on-this-block!

To learn about FW's a booklet titled: THE PERFECT PORTABLE: The
Featherweight 221 by Nancy Sebro-Johnson (or is it Johnson-Sebro?)is great.
If you have a quilt shop handy you can probably get one. Also you can find
them in some quilting mail order catalogs. The cover is soft and black;
booklet costs about $7.  

I got hooked on FW's when Lady's Circle Patchwork Quilts Magazine (Spring
1995) ran a 2-pager on them. Check this out at your library or from quilting
friends.

Archives of this FWF are available online from homepage
(http://ttsw.com/FWF  or  http://quilt.com/FWF) from inception in 9/95.  

Singer 1-800-877-7762 will graciously provide model numbers and manufacture
dates on machines if you provide serial number; maximum 3 per call.  Be
patient when calling as it takes a bit to get through and we are extremely
lucky that Singer will do this for us at no charge.  You can also request
this information in writing: Singer Company; Consumer Affairs; 135 Raritan
Center Parkway; PO Box 1909; Edison NJ 08818-1909.  A recent FWF gave the
FAX number as: 908-417-1718.

Hope this is all helpful.  I have 2 files which I keep of info on FW's and
I'd be happy to send them to anyone who emails a request to me at
MILMAC@MAIL.SNET.NET.

Again, welcome!!....Millie
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Date: Tue, 26 Mar 1996 20:37:23 -0500
Subject: model 301 story

I've been meaning to mention that a fabric/sewing machine store at Cape Cod
had a model 301 for sale last month.  $150 was the firm price with no
manual, attachments, case.  Machine did look clean however.  

Well, last weekend when I checked it was gone.  I asked the owner and she
told me that a woman from NJ bought it at $150 and knew she had a great deal
because she had earlier in the week in NJ bought a 301 for $300.  At the
time she thought that was a great deal;  maybe she thought it was a FW??
Well, she planned to return the $300 machine when she got back to NJ....

Question:  would any FWF out there pay $300 for a 301????  I know that they
are the 'mother of the Featherweight' but I sure get no goosebumps when I
see one.  (Please take no offence if you love the 301; my personal
preference is the  model 99's.)

Millie
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Date: Tue, 26 Mar 1996 20:48:57 -0600 (CST)
Subject: Featherweights and baby oil!

Hi All!
My Dad uses baby oil, to make those featherweights shine.  Come check
out the featherweight page that has all of the facts taken out of this
list, and put into a summary type format.  Nancy Slater did all of the
summarizing work, and I just put it into web page format.  Its at
http://www.icsi.net/~pickens (In the Gaileee's re-digest section).

I have this cool pic of my dad with his 40 or sew featherweights in the 
background.  Does anyone have any hints as to how I should have this
pic scanned for the web page?  (Offline replies are welcome!)

Cheers,  
Gail P
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Date: Wed, 27 Mar 1996 01:49:50 -0500
Subject: Featherweights in Oakland, CA

A few weeks ago, someone mentioned a "singer museum" in Oakland,Ca.  I called
the "owner" and realized that this was a sewing machine dealer with whom I
have had dealings in the past.  This man owns a small store (not a museum)
with several featherweights.  None are priced above $375.  Even though the
price is good, I don't recommend doing business with him.  He wants $20 just
to talk to you about general information.  He won't return phone calls.  I've
met him twice, once three years ago and once a few weeks ago.  Both times, he
was extremely rude to me.  My opinion:  No matter what he's got, it's not
worth being treated rudely! I don't recommend him.
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Date: Wed, 27 Mar 1996 09:52:46 -0500 (EST)
Subject: Need help w/ model no.

I have recently come across a Singer with no model number attached. I 
think it may be a 99-13 but I would sure like someone's held to identify 
it for sure.
It is a serial number EC984045. I haven't found the EC series in any of 
the lists for identifying year of manufacture.

This Singer is:
 -US made,
 -black with gold detail
 -scrolled face plate
 -3/4 size head
 -flat bed
 -top load bobbin
 -oscillating hook (hook &bobbin case system
	 same as model 185J)
 -straight stitch only (stitch length adjusted 
	 by screwing in or out a round knob about
	 3/4 inch in diameter. There is no lever to lift)
 -no reverse
 -bobbin winder has a geared guide that carries thread
	 back &forth as it winds
 -motor is marked "catalogue BR 7-"

TIA for your help

Ted H
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Date: Thu, 28 Mar 1996 23:09:10 +0800
Subject: Re: Peter Pan

Thank you VERY much. The copies of the manuals arrived today.

What I have is a Model 0, missing the "Hem Guide" and clamp, but otherwise
in quite good condition except the decal on the back is rather battered -
I  can only see two stars, not six.  I read the blurb about it not being a
toy but a real machine that would prepare daughters for the sewing tasks of
womanhood to my daughter (adult), in the hope that she'd take the hint that
she could make some of her own clothes now. Not a positive response, I'm
afraid.
I'm going to the local Singer store tomorrow to try to buy a new needle,
and to buy a reconditioned 99K which has been sitting there for months
(someone paid a small deposit then never came back). I really want a FW,
but I figure that if I give an orphan a good home it may count in my
favour.  Besides it IS a nice machine, even if it does weigh a ton, and the
price is OK.

Joan
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Date: Wed, 27 Mar 96 15:42:35 +0200
Subject: Info needed from Graham

I would like to ask if Graham could comment on the following:

I rang around a few sewing machine shops trying to track down a featherweight 
after all the good stuff I keep reading on this list, and one of the dealers 
said that the motors were not very strong on them and they could no longer be 
obtained in the UK for our 240v electricity supply.  Is this true?  He also 
tried to talk me out of buying a Bernina, but I wouldn't take any notice, there 
is no other machine I would rather have, so I wonder if he was also trying to 
talk me out of the featherweight so that he could sell me one of his c**ppy new 
machines.

Thanks

Pam
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Date: 27 Mar 96 14:29:03 EST
Subject: Contribution

To Sheila

Your Damascus could have been made by either the National or White companies.
Both listed models with this name in the 20s and 30s. I've no record of Mont
Ward using it -- but they certainly used almost every other name imaginable.

To Suzy/Becky re Singer dates.

Like Suzy I am rather suspicious about the Singer 800 number dates and also
about the 25,000 daily production -- that's over 7 million a year.
I have a lot of Singer records from the Scotish factory and much of it is
contradictory.
According to Singer UK it is not possible to date machines to the day until
after 1970 when a code was used within the serial number.
It could well be that batches of numbers were allocated to various factories on
a given day (and this is the birthday we get) and used until exhausted when a
new batch would be allocated.
I have asked Singer USA to explain its system of dating machines but so far it
has failed to respond to my letters.
The situation with Becky's two machines is even odder. Singer tell her that her
66 was  made in 1926 when my information says that the model was discontinued in
1920.
As for her second machine, the No 2, the situation gets into farce. The Singer
No 2 was a giant industrial machine with a one-and-a-half-inch-wide flat belt, a
machine that no lady and very few men could lift off the ground with ease.
 Both the records held by the Smithsonian Institution in Washington DC and my
own believe that 1873 is the date for the machine from the SN you give. I'm
going to guess that the base of the machine is shaped like the back of a fiddle
and, if so, it's a Singer New Family, not a No 2.

Graham F
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Date:          Wed, 27 Mar 1996 13:31:59 +0000
Subject:       Singer 301 Info

Hi All,

 I have two black  301s miles apart in serial numbers and Singer gave 
me the same date for both. I just sold a tan 301a and Singer gave the  
same date for it, May29,1951. I am certain the two black ones could 
not have been manufactured at the same time. They both have different 
"plug" configurations.

 One has two separate plugs into the machine, 
one for the foot pedal (has two prongs and plugs into the base of the 
machine then leads to the foot pedal), the other has the three prong plug that goes 
into the side of the machine and the other end   goes to the 
outlet. My other black one has both the foot pedal and the outlet 
plug going into the machine at  the side with a single  three prong 
terminal. The tan one was wired this way also.

 It hardly makes sense 
that they would have made that many machines of differing types on 
the same day. I think we just have to be happy with the approximation 
of '53-'59 on this one. Their info is obviously not accurate for this 
model.  Smeone earlier mentioned that these dates were probably the 
date that the order went in and this makes more sense to me.

 I have a photocopied sheet that Singer sent me listing serial numbers that 
included one of my machines. To briefly share some  info on that sheet, 
it says that in Feb. of 1955, there were:

 50,000    99ks "made" on the 9th, 
10,000     221ks on the 14th
200          172ks on the 15th
25,000     201ks on the 21st
35,000     15ks on the 22nd

 I don't think it is possible that the plant sat idle on the other 23 
days of the month. This must have something to do with when the 
orders to have the machines made was placed. Anyone else have any 
ideas? 

Katy
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Date: Wed, 27 Mar 1996 14:33:58 -0600 (CST)
Subject: Purchase; Toys

Last week on a day off work, I went to a neighboring town's antique mall. 
Before going in, I decided to visit the thrift store across the street.  There
I found a bentwood case with a lovely little Singer (not FW) inside.  It was
$50 and in such nice condition I bought it.  (It had to be pointed out to me
that it wasn't missing the foot pedal as I'd thought, but used the knee lever
which was stored inside the top of the case.)  I had no idea what machine I'd
bought until I called 800 Singer and discovered it's a 99 born 10-7-35
(AE008542).  SO, this is what a 99 looks like.  Aha.  Now, I just have to learn
what a 301 looks like and I'll feel better about this whole thing.  :-}

TOYS.  Re the antique mall across the street (Main Street Antique Mall, 
105 W. Main St., Marshalltown, IA; phone: 515-752-3077; open Mon-Sat 10-5, in
case anyone is int'd):  Didn't find much to buy, but saw a number of toy
machines.  Either the 99 was all the fix I needed or I'm going to find it
fairly easy, as I'd hoped, to keep away from the toys (with the nice little
SewHandy 50 I bought a few weeks ago seeming to satisfy that urge unless or
until I find a toy exactly like the one I had as a child).  I saw 5-6 toys at a
local antique mall in Waterloo earlier last week and felt very little urge for
any of them.  But it's the first I'd seen so many toy sm's around.  They ranged
from $15 to maybe $40-45 in price as I recall.

301.  Will someone please write about how to recognize a 301?  I've seen some
other requests on FWF for that, too, but haven't seen a response.  

TIA.  Jill M
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Date: Wed, 27 Mar 96 13:15:44 CST
Subject: looking for info

Hi Everyone,
Help I need information on Antique shops, quilt groups and fabric shops, and the best neighborhood for a single person. I will be moving there in June of this year. I am from the south Ga. and mid-Fl area but I know nothing about NC. Thanks to all especially for all the info on FW. I am still looking for one that doesn't break my budget.
Joy
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Date: Wed, 27 Mar 1996 18:34:12 -0500
Subject: Re: martha washingtons

Peter  mentioned "martha washingtons." Is that a sewing box? I
purchased a wooden box with "Martha" in gold on the front and holes in front
for the thread to come out without opening the lid. I  was told that it was a
Martha Washington sewing box.

Also, does anyone know about a small machine named "Bel Air?" My father (89)
was sewing on it the other day and it looks like a FW.

Thanks from beautiful, warm So. California
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Date: Wed, 27 Mar 1996 19:16:22 -0500
Subject: Did it!

Sometimes the need is so great you just have to do it.  My sis and I
disassembled a model 15-91 last Friday night.  This machine was shot beyond
hope.  Her case and the body looked like someone had put her out in the barn
to rot.  She did not have the electrical cording to see if she even ran.   We
took off throat platess, bobbin casing, face plate with the tension attached,
back chrome disc, motor with cover, and the needle shaft, and lastly the
Singer foot pedal.  We even took off the hardware for the case . Sis kept the
buttonholer which also was neglected.  I've grabbed these other parts and
will sell them inexpensively.
   I picked up a tan and cream 301a this weekend with manual, attachments and
case.  I've been sewing a quilt top on her and really like her.  I think she
needs some lubricant cause she sounds clicky. Any ideas where to begin?  I
did oil her although not very liberally.  The manual shows that the feed dogs
lower for embrodiery yet the buttonholer that came with her has a feed dog
cover.  Do I still need to use the feed dog cover when making buttonholes? ..
.. ...(later)  I just lubed and oiled her and now she's alot quieter.
   One more question, does anyone know if there is a case for a Spartan?  My
sister's bottom of the case is falling apart.  The plastic supports that hold
up the machine have become brittle and are breaking.  Any leads would be
greatly appreciated.  Thanks, Jacque 
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Date: Wed, 27 Mar 1996 21:23:54 -0500
Subject: Sheila-301 case

Just saw a 301 casetoday - with 301 inside at a Vac &Sew place.

The case looks like an old hard suitcase with the binding sewn around the
edges and a hard handle but the case is rhomboid shaped  (or is it a
trapizoid???)
I forget but anyway, it is fatter at the bottom and looks like a lopped-off
triangle.

Did that make any sense?

Jeanann
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Date: Wed, 27 Mar 1996 22:28:36 -0600 (CST)
Subject: needles

Hello, Fellow Fanatics!

Bought some packages of needles at a quilt show a couple of weeks ago--I 
sure can't use all of them so I'd be willing to sell/swap.  I do need to 
know what needles my "new" 301 uses; Michele is copying a manual for me 
so I can't play much until I get that.

Red box of curved needles:  flat right side (that's with the needle 
	curving toward you), label says chromium plated, 
	No. 3 1/2, U.S. Blindstitch, System 251

Green Singer box of straight needles:  round top, 16 x 1, with a "9" also 
	on the label (judging from the needles, that's probably the size?)

Letterhead from Chandler Machine Company, 8-10-50:  bunch of needles, 
different sizes, some of them *huge* (I'll take out my contacts and use a 
magnifying glass later to see if I can read the stampings on some of 
them), with a note saying "All of our Darners use the same needles.  #16"

partial brown Singer packet, can't tell what size the needles are

Green Singer box of straight needles:  round top, 16 x 87, size 21 (these
	are *really* thick needles!)

Green Singer box of straight needles: round top, 175 x 3, size 18

another packet of needles, can't read the sizes yet

Please e-mail if you want to know more about these, or if you have any 
information about what machines use these needles or what they are 
really worth.  I'd figured they  weren't for 221/301, but I thought the 
boxes were cute and somebody else  might be happy to have some needles if 
these are really hard-to-find.  I  think "my" model 66 treadle is still 
waiting for me at the antique store...can one of you other 66 fans tell me 
what needles it uses?

That's it for now. Once I can decipher more of the needle sizes I'll post 
that, unless no one is interested.

Rita 
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Subject: $300  301
Date: Wed, 27 Mar 1996 23:59:26 -0500

To Millie:  Yikes!  I'm a bargain shopper and I'm not sure yet I'd part 
with $300 for a fw (unless it was REALLY nice), much less a 301 (the 301 
is a very worthy machine, but I don't think they command the same prices 
as fws).  I walked away from an $85 model 301 last week---beat up case, 
no manual or attachments EXCEPT a buttonholer and zig zagger.  I know 
that may sound tempting to some of you, but the shop owner had an 
attitude, and I just didn't feel good about it.  (At least I finally got 
to see one-know now what I'm looking for)

Now, lest you think I'm crazy, let me add that this $85 machine was on 
the heels of  "the one that got away":  A friend gave me a great tip 
about a machine she'd seen that might be what I was looking for.  She 
said it was beautiful condition, she'd looked at it twice, but was 
holding out for a fw.  It was worth the $65 on it, but probably even 
negotiable, since the owner had it in the shop for about six months 
already and it was still there as of two weeks ago (BTW the owner bought 
it thinking it was a fw, so yes, those mixups do occur among the 
unseasoned/non-sewing shoppers).  I sped to the shop in the next town, 
run by the sweetest lady, who had sold the machine the week before .   I 
asked a few questions-yes, it had indeed been a 301, case, attachments, 
manual.....sob,sob,sob.  I'm recovered to the point where I can talk 
about it now, but it's going to be hard to be objective as I continue my 
search.  Thank you all for listening.  I feel much better now.

Joy 
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Date: Thu, 28 Mar 1996 00:07:21 -0500
Subject: FWFanatics

Betty:  You said: "found a Singer Buttonholer in the egg shaped case (green)
with the buttonholer, 5 cams, and manual (looks new)."

 I have seen such an item with a cabinet model 185J.  Also saw one on the
shelf at the local quilt shop (in the machine repair section) and plan to
purchase it when next I am there for my portable 185J.

I promised someone to ask this question:  she has a Singer machine and the
black paint has lots of flowers on it as decorative additions.  She asked if
these flowers are originals or just someone's artistic endeavor after
purchase.  Can anyone help here?  Thanks.

Graham, I adored your story about the carpet slippers, funeral homes, post
cards, etc.  How great!  Is anyone compiling all these stories from FWF's
into a book for publication??  What shall it be called?

I've been meaning for some time to share a tip with you all:  With garden
planting time around the corner, save the selvages you cut from your fabrics
when sewing.  Use them to tie your plants to stakes, etc.  Pretties up your
garden as well as being functional and recycling! And much better than
string which can cut into plants if too tightly tied.

Millie
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Date: Thu, 28 Mar 1996 11:29:40 -0500 (EST)
Subject: Model 66 converstio RE:Larry

Hi All, I aquired a model 66 which is in excellent condition.It was electrified 
at some point and I would like to send it backwards time wise and make it a 
treadle once again.Can anyone give my any advise on what to look for in a stand 
for it.I would be much obliged.Larry
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Date: Thu, 28 Mar 1996 11:55:41 -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 3/26/96 Part 1 of 2

I got a new fw for christmas from my husband from spiefel it was $174
shipping and handling I just love it. It came with the book and att the only
thing about it I do not like is that there is no light but it is perfect for
quilting classes or doll classes which I have been taking. 
And every one was suprised I got it so cheap the stores here in Cleveland
are selling it for $300.00
                          Thank you for reading my input  Theresa
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Date: 28 Mar 96 11:52:06 EST
Subject: Contribution

Re Singer "Museum".

I did warn you all.

Re The Hopkins family's Singer.

The EC series ran from Feb 1939 to Dec 1940
Could be a 99 but all of these I have seen have a lever stitch adjustment but
it's possible that there were variations.
I can only think of the 66, 127 and 128 having the screw-type adjuster in the
required time period. 128 had a 12 1/2-inch bed, the other two were 14 1/2 inch.
If you want positive id you can send me a polaroid. E-mail for address.

To Pamela Re Singer motors

Your dealer is half right. It's true that the 240 volt motor was one of the
weak-links. They mostly failed due to overheating, trying to drive a machine
that had not been well cared for and therefore made life tough for the
motor.It's also true that they are not available off the shelf from a Singer
dealer. But a defunct motor can be repaired even if in extreem cases the
armature needs re-winding. This can be expensive but a non-working FW in England
is going to be cheap enough to allow for the extra expense.
Bernina to my mind make some of the best, if relatively expensive, machines on
the market today.I guess your dealer wasn't a main Bernina outlet (and would
therefore have to buy it in and loose some of his mark up) or was an agent for
another make which was offering a special dealer promotion with a bigger than
usual commission.
It's a  tough world out there and the average dealer has to push the model he's
going to do best with. Of course if you have built up a close personal
relationship with a dealer, saved his son in an auto accident, married his
daughter and picked his winning lotto numbers, you might get an unbiased
opinion. How's that for cynicism?

To all
Just a special thank you and welcome to all those FWF subscribers who have
joined ISMACS over the past couple of months. I'm flat out at the moment
preparing for our big covnention in April (150 coming so far from 12 different
countries) so please bear with me if the manual or detailed answer I've promised
is a little late.

Graham F
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Date: Thu, 28 Mar 1996 15:38:57 -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 3/22/96


>My brother's apartment building burned six weeks ago so we've
>been busy helping him through this time.  Going through a
>life-changing experience like that sure helps to put things in
>perspective.  As much as I love my sewing machines and all my
>possessions and truly cherish everything I own, somehow it just
>isn't the same priority as it once was.  I pray none of you have to
>go through this experience.

We went through a terrible fire experience on a cold cold Jan. morning in
1990.  We were lucky to escape with our lives, but our 4 beloved pets didn't
make it.

Fortunately, my 1919 Singer Model 128 survived because it was stored in the
attic where it received extensive smoke damage.  However, my Singer Treadle
Model 15 (1906) didn't fare as well. It is scorched and the smoke damage is
well embedded. 

Does anyone have any ideas what I can use to get rid of soot?  I have tried
WD40 but I'm afraid to try something that might take the finish off.  I love
my machines and although they aren't in the good shape they were before
(neither am I) I am still grateful they are still with me.  I believe our
sewing machines become like good friends.  So many memories, so many gifts
made for loved ones.

I'm also happy I gave away most of the quilts I made because at least they've
survived, whereas the one I saved for us was totally destroyed (all that
work!).

One last word:  keep your smoke detectors in good working order. It saved
both me and my DH's lives!

Carolyn
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Subject: needles
Date: Thu, 28 Mar 1996 09:44:14 -0600

Rita (and whoever else),
	I really don't know what you're SUPPOSED to use for needles on 301s, 
FWs, or whatever, but I have (and do) use Schmetz needles on my Pfaff, 
FW, and used them on my old Singer 401a.  I find it interesting that the 
Singer shop in town sells Schmetz needles, also.  Schmetz needles are 
also sold in packages marked Bernina and Pfaff.  You can buy packages of 
one size or assorted.

Sherrie 
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Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 3/27/96I

There seems to be a lot of questions about needles inthe list today.
I have a 40la and it takes standard needles that you buy at any fabric 
store, etc.  From my understanding, the 301 and 401 are pretty much the 
same machine so I don't know why they wouldn't take the same needles.

Also, I have a 99k and it also takes standard needles.  I seem to buy 
more Schmetz needles now because I think they are a better needle, but I 
have always just used Singer needles in the past.  Hope this helps.

I have a Singer ttreadle machine made in 1902 that I have been told is 
the class K model.  Does anyone happen to have a manual for this 
machine.  I have no idea how to thread it or needle size as far as that 
goes.  Any help would be appreciated.

Betty
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Date: Thu, 28 Mar 1996 22:22:20 -0500
Subject: Instruction booklets for 221

The other day there was a question about Featherweight manuals.  I looked
closely at two and compared the pictures.  Fig. 2 shows a FW on a table with
a carrying case on the floor below.  The case in one picture has the leather
handle and the other shows the plastic handle. Fig 5 shows a front view of
the machine.  The face plate in one is scrolled while the other one is
stirated.  You almost have to use a magnifying glass to see the differences
in some of the pictures, but they are different.

I bought a brand new instruction booklet at a recent quilt show.  The last
copyright date in the booklet is 1952.  The story was that someone found an
unopened box full of manuals in some warehouse.  I paid $13 for the booklet.
 The vendor's business card said:  Homegroan, Vintage Sewing Collectibles,
with a phone number: 916-265-2924 (Jackie) or 916-273-2694 (Mary).  I think
they are located in Grass Valley, California (or Nevada City), but I am not
sure.

There was a question yesterday about 301 bobbin cases.  I pulled on my two
and found the latches pulled out easily well over a quarter inch.  Perhaps I
did not understand the question.

Christine T.
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Date: Thu, 28 Mar 1996 22:37:09 -0500 (EST)
Subject: mold and mildew

hi all!
does anyone have a good way to get rid of the moldy/mildew smell in the 
cases?  have several friends who have tried many remedies unsuccessfully.
TIA
cynthia
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Date: Thu, 28 Mar 1996 22:26:03 -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 3/27/96

This is in response to the UK Fanatic whose shop poo-pooed FW's.
I think you hit the nail on the head when you say your dealer was just
trying to sell you the machine he wanted you to buy rather than what you
wanted...
My local dealer here in the USA also told me FW's weren't worth much... and
told me toys were "garbage".  I've also had Singer dealers tell me that when
the FW motor is shot, its beyond repair...  I had to hunt to find a dealer
who even knew how to obtain a Japanese replacement motor for my FW.
The truth of the matter is that a FW motor is rebuildable-- you just have to
find someone who remembers how to do this apparently "ancient" art, as
opposed to throwing it out as the newer dealers seem to think.  Eventually
the motor will wear out, as all electric motors wear out, but then you can
rebuild... rebuild... rebuild...  I guess there are some parts that need to
be replaced, depending on what's gone wrong with the motor, but the guy who
rebuilt mine actually made the replacement parts for me!!! 

Margaret
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Date: Fri, 29 Mar 1996 07:31:58 -0800
Subject: "FO"

Cindy,

here is a method that I have used pretty successfully to eliminate the
dreaded "Featherweight Odor".    first i wash the inside of the case with a
dilute bleach solution  (remember, "do as you otter,  add the bleach to the
water")   then I let it dry out in the hottest place that I know,  a car
with all of the windows closed, on a sunny day.  I bake the case in the
closed car in direct sun for as long as possible. This is usually pretty
successful,  but in very stubborn cases may need to be repeated.  If your
winters are damp,  you may need to repeat this every summer.  

I find that it is usually the case, not the machine that has "FO",  and the
machine just needs to be aired out. 

Lynda C
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Date: Fri, 29 Mar 96 11:04:05 EST
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 3/28/96

Thanks much for the "Singer" files.  Also for the FW Fanatics service.
Charlotte looks forward to getting it every day.  As I said before, I run
the computer and she runs the sewing machines.  Works out pretty well.
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Date: Fri, 29 Mar 1996 11:44:17 -0500
Subject: post 3/30/96

To: Katy and Graham - 

In this country (US) a Martha Washington is also a type of sewing cabinet.
 It has 3 or 4 draws and 2 sides compartments that have a top flip-up lid.
 The side compartments are half round or roundish in shape and go from top to
bottom. They are usually the size of an occasional/side table.  Looking down
at the table top they are a rectangular with rounded ends.
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Date: Fri, 29 Mar 1996 10:01:54 -0800
Subject: Singer Model 15

Hi, I'm new to this group and enjoying reading about others' machines.  I
have a FW which I talked my mother into "loaning" me (for the rest of our
natural lifetimes, of course!).

I recently purchased a larger old Singer at a flea market.  It has an AF
serial number, and according to Singer, it is a model 15, from November
1938.  Its gold scrollwork is in excellent condition, although there are
some scratches on the black paint.  It is in a tan (ugly) case, which is not
in very good condition.  It is "portable" only for a weightlifter!  It sews
beautifully. The machine has a gold and blue medallion on the front which
says "Golden Gate Exposition" and "San Francisco 1939".  My question is,
does anyone know more about the medallion - was this a limited edition (the
lady at Singer did not know) or did they put the medallion on every one made
that year? (But my FW has an AF serial number also, and does not have the
medallion.)

Also, both this machine and my FW have two holes to the right of the throat
plate, and the FW shows a slight circular wear pattern in a 1-3/4" radius
from the hole farthest to the right.  What are the holes for?  What kind of
attachment was used?  I have some attachments but none that fit that pattern.

Thanks for your help.

Louise
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Date: Fri, 29 Mar 1996 13:06:29 -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 3/27/96

To Grahm,
   Well, after reading your comments re  Singer's identification and dating
snafus, I'm  really curious to see what they send in the way of manuals for
these machines ! You are correct that my second machine's base is shaped
rather like a fiddle. But I have a question - if it is a New Family machine,
then what is the difference between mine, which has the Singer logo, and the
machine that has the 'New" logo on it? I saw one of the 'New" machines
recently at an antique shop here, and if memory serves, they are different
machines. I take it the New Family and the New are not the same. At least
they got the model correct for the 66, even though they are off on the date
of mfg. - a little consolation, anyway.
To Everyone: 
   Does anyone then, have a copy of a Singer New Family manual that I may
obtain?
If I'm going to restore these two, it would certainly help to have the manual
to refer to for parts, etc.
To Pamela:
   I don't know what the "experts' would say about the motors on FW's, but my
American made FW has been going strong for me for the last 6 or 7 years of
almost daily use. I have no idea how many hours it had on it when I bought
it, though it was previously owned by a seamstress who made her living with
it. Depending upon what the dealer meant by 'not very strong', I would ask -
how many hours do you expect one to last, with regular care? For the cost of
a FW, I personally feel that the motors are darn well strong enough! Further,
I would be very leery of  this guy if he is selling those 'new c**ppy
machines, from what I've read here in the past few days. Just my two cents
worth.
To JeanAnn:
  Your description of the 301 case sounded just like mine ! It is a golden
tan, with chocolate brown flat binding around the edges, has brass latches,
and a hard plastic ivory-colored handle.  The machine's SN is NA 190604, and
it' so pretty - just like new . To further identify the machine, mine has a
plate underneath the Singer Logo ( below the stitch guide)  which says"301A";
the gold work on the base is all straight-lined, no curves or curliques, and
the machine is more linear in shape than the FW, reminds me of a locomotive
engine. This may be a bit different from the other 301's; I believe there
were two models mfg'd.-
Grahm???
   As always, I learn something new everyday here, and appreciate all the
wonderful, informative input - the more the merrier !
   Becky S.
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Date: 29 Mar 96 19:28:40 EST
Subject: Contribution

True Story (3)

It was 6 in the morning at an outdoor antique show in up-state New York. It was
raining hard and I was not at my best.
But there on a table under 10 sheets of polythene directing the water down my
leg was a super-rare sewing machine, dating from the 1860s.
It was near perfect, but for the fact that some designer-type had converted it
to act as a table lamp.and, I suspected, was going to be very expensive indeed.
Now I always try to set up a little raport with the vendor in these case --
helps to crunch the price down, I find.
Hoping to appeal to her inate love for antiquity I fired up with "Now, what
idiot tried to convert this fine machine into an ugly table lamp?"
She sniffed, looked me up and down, sniffed again and said: "I did".

Graham F
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Date: Fri, 29 Mar 1996 16:19:22 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: For Sale

	Here's an update on my list of machines for sale, added some 
other than featherweights since last post.

AE  Scrolled Faceplate, case, copy of manual, wear on gold and black 
blemish in front of throat plate appears to be tape residue. Good 
condition and stitch. $375.
AF  Attachments, Case, good condition, manual, even wear $375.
AG  Same as Above
AJ  Same as Above
AH  Attachments, case, copy of manual wear on black, gold and throatplate,
    $275.
AJ  Aniversary, Case, Manual, attachments, gold great, $495.
AM  Later edition Scrollwork, attachments, case great, very good conditon,
    manual $510.
AJ  Case, copy of manual, attachments, $450
AL  Case, copy of manulal, attachments, $450
EV  White Featherweight, case, manual, buttonholer included machine is
    in superior condition, $450.

401 A - Excellent condition, cams, a number of built in sitches. $400.
503   - Cams, good condition, $300
Riccar  Hand control for handicapped, no foot control $400.

413G  - Cams, Made in Germany, early 50's, all attachments, all metal.

   There is a $25. shipping, handling and insurance, charge on all machines.
Please feel free e for further details on the machines. Zsux
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Date: Fri, 29 Mar 1996 20:26:38 -0500
Subject: Wanted - parts

My newly purchased FW is missing parts to the Needle Thread Tension can
someone help me find these parts or advise where to go to get them.  It
looks like I need a thumb nut and dial, stop washer and indicator.  It
would probably be wise to purchase the whole assemply if possible.  Has
anyone out there had this problem.  Your prompt responses will be
appreciated.   The machine sews but needs to be adjusted.

Thanks in advance.
Viv S
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Date: Fri, 29 Mar 1996 18:19:48 -0800 (PST)
Subject: I got a machine - now what?

Hi!  I am new to FWF.  I joined because last weekend while driving home 
from a camping trip my DH &I stopped at an antique mall.  There I found, 
fell in love with, and bought a beautiful old Singer.  It is definately 
NOT a featherweight...it weighs a ton!  

Now that I have it, I would sure like some tips &hints on how to take 
care of it.  It is a Singer 99K, serial number EN191056 and has "Made in 
Brittain" in gold on it.  It has a hand crank, a drop in bobbin (with the 
cutest little silver button you push to release it).  It came in a wooden 
arched case but the base the machine is set into is wood covered with 
something that looks a little like burlap.  The case must be opened with 
a key.

There were no attachments or manual with it, so if anyone could give me 
information on how to obtain at least a manual, I would be delighted.   
Oh yes...the stitch length is adjusted by a screw mechanism.  I don't 
think there is a reverse (unless it is by moving the crank handle backwards?)

Also, my new baby (ok, so I am silly :) ) really needs cleaned...but the 
mechanism seems to be working fine.  The wood case could also use some 
help..it has some dents &dirt too.
 
Thanks for any advice/help/information you can give me.

Patty
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Date: Fri, 29 Mar 1996 23:40:05 -0500 (EST)
Subject: List

First, I would like to subscribe to the list.  

Second, I have a Featherweight I would like to list - 
Serial #AG534211
Birthdate Unknown 
Color Black 
Crome balance wheel 
Numbered tension knob
Stitch length indicators is painted black on metal, but numbers are slightly
raised silver 
Case has lift out shelf 
The face plate has late scrollwork 
No seam allowance gauge on throat plate 
Gold trim on base is more ornate-like interlocking paperclips 
Medallion is brass
There is no riveted plate below medallion. 
I live in Eugene, Oregon, USA. 
I have all of the fee (including a buttonhole attachment Serial #W654321N), 
   a manual (9/45), two packs of original needles, original screwdriver.
The foot pedal has black plastic knobs. 
I purchased mine at an auction in 1975 for $35.
The motor part # is 3-120.  

My mother has had a Featherweight since 1950 that includes the table--wood
with black metal legs.  It looks like a card table when the insert is in.
She has had hers torn down many times, servicing it herself.  I learned to
sew on that Featherweight.  She has the original oil can as well as all the
feet and the buttonholer attachment.  You can't beat the Featherweight for
durability, especially for its size.  My Mom has sewn chiffon and like
lightweight fabrics as well as leather.  She swears by hers.  It has lasted
her longer than any of the other machines she has owned!  
Hal &BJ Ma
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Date: Sat, 30 Mar 1996 00:43:54 -0500
Subject: Wanted Info on a Model 285k

Hi
I am relatively new to this list, but am trying to learn more about FW's.  I
have a white FW that has " 221K...Made in Great Britian" printed on it's
side.  I called the Singer 800 # to get any info that they might have on it.
 I have had it for about 15 years.  Anyway they told me that it was not a
221K but  was a 285K, according to their computer.  I don't know what a 285K
looks like, and am wondering why it is marked 221k.  The serial number of my
machine is EV988985.  Singer says it was born 6-11-64.  Any help ffom anyone
out there would surely be appriciated.  If you want, you can email me

Thanks a lot
Diane
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Subject: conversion confession
Date: Sat, 30 Mar 1996 07:57:20 -0600

OK, y'all, you've got ME interested in treadles, now!  I got into my 
husband's grandmother's treadle tonight - usually it serves as a table 
for my serger.  What a wreck!  Chipped paint, rusted chrome (it spent 10 
years in a wet basement in Connecticut, and 5 years in a damp garage in 
Ontario before making the trip to us in Mississippi), gook everywhere, 
but do you know the wheel still turns nicely?  I have no idea what model 
it is, couldn't get through to singer, and am not sure it wasn't DH's 
great-grandmothers (he says no, she came on the boat from Poland, but 
heck, someone has to buy machines!).  It has an AC486946 ser. Number on 
front.  Graham, I remember that you recently wrote something (I think) 
about serial numbers, or was that from Gail's page?  My DH (!) cleaned 
out my mailbox.  I have this sacrilegious idea of combining my 
great-grandmother's electrified treadle and this one to make one good 
machine. 20
	How do you get rust out of chrome?  The face plate has rust in all the 
grooves.  So does the plate on the back.  Also has gold painted 
daisy-like flowers and scrolls for decoration around the base.  The 
holes in the top of the arm (I assume for oil)  are stopped up with 
dust/crud, how is the best way to clean those out?  The throat plate for 
the bobbin, to the side, doesn't want to fit back on - is there an 
alternative for this machine to taking it in for repairs, I'm not sure 
it's worth what would be charged!
	Also remembered that my mom has another machine of my 
great-grandmothers - a big black 10 -ton one in a curved wood case.  Is 
that the 99 y'all keep referencing?  Last time I was home I got it out 
and played with it.  In pretty good condition except mom had a leak 
under her "dry" bar and something rusted in the little drawer at the 
right hand end of the base under the wheel.  So I find myself rich!
	DH, Tim, says to tell y'all that he also has a treadle!  It is a 
Merritt, which we bought in Springfield Mass at an estate auction for 
$15 (six years ago).  It has all the orig. attachments, a shuttle 
bobbin, the original receipt, the original manual (patent date 1909).  
It was manufactured in Massachusetts.   He cleaned it with WD-40 (six 
years ago, without the debate, but he's an engineer you can't tell them 
anything anyway ) and had a new belt made and uses it.  I don't know 
about the Merritt company, but a friend of mine has a 1970-era machine 
called a Singer-Merritt. 
	After all that, I should just shut up and let someone else talk!

Sherrie 
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Date: Sat, 30 Mar 1996 08:11:07 -0700
Subject: Books for featherweights

To those of you who may not know about the book, FEATHERWEIGHT 221, The
Perfect Portable, by Nancy Johnson-Srebro, this book has information about
the featherweight.  It is the perfect source for learning about and caring
for the featherweight machine.  I purchased mine from the local quilt shop
for $6.00, it is published by 
        Silver Star Publishing, RR 4, Box 413, Tunkhannock, PA 18657
Telephone #(717)836-5592.  It is worth more than the price!!   Great
pictures are included and parts of the original Featherweight owner's manual.  

There is also an article in Patchwork Quilts magazine about featherwights
which has several sources for additional information.  The article is "Those
Fabulous Featherweights".  I cannot cite the Month/year because a friend
gave me a copy of the article and did not include the information, but it
was within the last 3 years.

from Alene 
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Date: Sat, 30 Mar 1996 10:25:32 -0500
Subject: I wasn't paying attention

Some time ago, there was a post about re-adhering the lining of FW cases.  I
think the post recommended using a steam iron (or dry?) inside the case to
re-stick the lining.  Is this the method?

Please repeat the instructions.

In the past weeks I purchased a Singer 301a (milk chocolate) for $130 at a
Singer shop, and an AM (1956) Featherweight for $175 from a private party.  I
am happy with my buys.

Love this digest!

Christine T.
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Date: Sat, 30 Mar 96 09:12:37 -0600 (CST)
Subject: Singer (Ruby)

HI ALL!  I was at a pawn shop the other day and saw a Singer sewing machine,
the man said he thought it was what Singer called a Ruby. It had a lot of
Red scroll work on the machine.  It is in fair condition. He is asking $100
for it. Does anyone know if this is a fair price or anything about the
machine.  I never seen one like this, except on the cover of Minature Quilts
that says display until March 25. It is very much like the one on the cover
except that the plug is not in the sme position. Any help before I jump off
the deep end and purchase it.           Thanks Sheila
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Date: Sat, 30 Mar 96 14:01:51 -0800
Subject: SewMore

Does anyone know anything about a SewMore sewing machine. A man was selling
one in a table for $75.00. Is this a good price?  The machine looked in
good shape.  Just interested if this a good find, really want a 
Featherweight.
Thanx  Martha
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Date: 30 Mar 96 18:28:42 EST
Subject: Contribution

To Becky

I have a New Family manual that I can copy for you if you do not find an
original.
The "New": machine was one of a great number of machines built using the words
New and/or Family to cash in on the Singer success. In Europe some manufacturers
even called them New or Improved Singers.

To Patty
Your 99K was made between Jan 1958 and Feb 1959. If you don't get an original
manual, I can provide a copy.

Graham F
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Date: Sat, 30 Mar 1996 19:52:23 -0500
Subject: FW attachments

I have two wonderful FWs, but neither one came with any attachments.  (I
don't even see where you'd have the space to put attachments inside the
case?)   Can anyone post a list of attachments by name and part number, so I
can start hunting this spring?  (Yard sale season is coming!  Yippee!)  Also,
I'd love to jumpstart my collection if anyone has any FW attachments for
sale.

Thanks a bunch,
Beth
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Date: 30 Mar 96 20:38:33 EST
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 3/28/96

Referring the question about mold and mildew in the case.  Try wiping out with a
damp cloth and dry.  Then put baking soda in a cup or bowl to absorb the smell.
If this fails try spraying with lysol and set out in the sun.  May take several
tries.  I tried the lysol method on my flute case that had been stored for
years.  It worked for that.  Hopefully the sun will arrive soon so you can try
the lysol/sun method.  Let me know if it works for you.     Carol
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Date: 30 Mar 96 20:45:52 EST
Subject: FW Fanatics 3/29/96

Hi
      Can someone please reply to a few ?s.Is it true that there is a buttonhole attatchment for the 
FW.I just purchased my first FW last Sun.It is an AM in perfect condition.I paid 350 to an antique dealer.I am a little overwhelmed by the oiling
instructions.I'm almost afraid to use it.
      Also,my husband was doing some thrift shop hopping today and came across
what he says is an old machine that looks a bit like my FW.He says it is black
with a lot of gold design work on it.It has Admiral printed on the bed of it and
Aristocrat printed across the top.They want $15 for it he says it's in good
shape.What is this thing and should I buy it.
       You all have gotten me looking for these old machines now.The bug has
even bitten my husband.He is a blacksmith and has a great appreciation for old
things.Now we're hunting old tools and sewing machines.
                                                                                 
Beth
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Date: Sat, 30 Mar 1996 20:17:49 -0800
Subject: buttonholers

My searches of late have turned up a couple of buttonholers.

One is a Kenmore, in a brown case. No instructions, I don't know if this 
would fit machines other than Kenmore. All of my machines that are currently 
"out" are low shank, and it' -doesn't- fit that. Cost me $5, sell for that 
plus shipping, or one yard of cat fabric. ;-)

The other is a Greist, with manual. It will fit the slant shank Singer 
machines. Cost me $20, will sell for that plus shipping, or e-mail me to work 
out fabric trade.
-- 
Lisa R