Featherweight
Fanatics
Archives
November 1995
Sunday, November 19 - Saturday, November 25
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Date: Sun, 19 Nov 1995 05:04:54 -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 11/17/95
Hello all--
Went to the quilt seminar and it was an embellishment thingie that was trying
to sell me a Pfaff or some other such computerized deal. Not impressed.
I did ask Luigi if he had any old Singer's for sale and he tried to sell me a
$700 industrial number. He is really barking up the wrong tree.
When I mentioned what I wanted the machine for (quilting) he said that the
old singer's don't sew very fast. Not that that is an interest for small
piecework.
Evie, I know what you mean about watching people on the streets and
wondering if they have old machines at home. I've started telling everyone I
know I'm looking for a sewing machine, and that I'm quilting. They probably
think I'm crazy, but I keep hoping that by putting out my feeler's things
begin to show up. It's the being patient part that I have a hard time with,
but whatever I'm looking for alway's show's up if I wait long enough.
On my way home I did stop at Don's Yard Sale place and saw a smallish old
Singer AF series (?) that he was selling for $190, down from $300. It had a
nice cabinet with lovely (empty) drawers inside. It had that matte finishe
black metal, and the cover plate over the needle mechanisms was scrolled but
the plate too was black. From what I gathered in the FW FAQ that I read,
this isn't a FW but it isn't a full sized machine either? It did look small.
I noted that the bobbiin wasn't of the round bobbin type, (what is this
called?) I think it's some kind of shuttle mechanism. Wasn't there a type of
machine that didn't use a bobbin? I vaguely remember this when I was
collecting old White's about fifteen years ago. I was picking them up from
the Salvation Army for about $5 or $10 dollars and I couldn't resist them. I
was purchasing old cabinets and treadle bottoms and I had this plan. Well, I
had to move and I didn't want to move all that metal. And yet, here I go
again.
Ruth, I found some of those Greist feet and attatchments at a second hand
store the other day. The way they attatch looks unlike any other attatchment
I've seen before. Does anyone know which type of machine these were made to
fit?
I also picked up a Kenmore Buttonholer. I believe this one will work for the
old Singer's. I know my mother had a buttonholer for her Singer, but I think
her's was a Singer brand. To this day I think that those Buttonholer's make
the best buttonholes I've ever seen. They sure beat the ones that my Viking
makes..
Feeling feverish,
Maureen
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Date: Sun, 19 Nov 1995 09:45:44 -0500 (EST)
Subject: white FWX
This is for Kolleen who recently got a white FW. When I called Singer
about mine they told me it was a 328K made 5-13-64. When I called about a
328 they told me it was a 221. So don't be shocked about what you hear
from Singer. Some of their records are mixed up. Don't worry about not
having the seam allowance attachment. When you screw them onto the bed of
the machine, they will mark the bed. You have seam marks on your plate.
I found that mine are not quite accurate for quilt piecing but you can use
tape or moleskin or something that will not leave marks.
I love my little white FW. Does yours look slightly greenish in the right
light? We are waiting for Nancy's next book to come out in April. Maybe
she will have better information about the white ones. Also the data base
that Krisi is keeping is providing information, showing us that certain
features such as fancy endplates are showing up in years we didn't expect
them. BTW, when I sent in my questionnaire, I hadn't seen many medallions.
Now I know that the one on my black FW does have a black band.
Waiting breathlessly for my next FW letter.
Marilyn
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Date: Sun, 19 Nov 1995 09:39:18 -0600 (CST)
Subject: Pony ???
Question??? My daughter-in-law told me yesterday that a lady she works
with has Singer in a box that was made before the FW and was called a Pony.
Has anyone heard of this one? Could it be a FW? My dl is going to see if she
can bring id down over Thanksgiving. Then I will know about it.
As for looking at people ANYWHERE and wondering if they have a FW --
Guilty as charged!!!!! I was in a McDonalds in the restroom with a GGM
talking about grandchildren. All the while I was on the verge of asking
if she had a FW at home to sell. I even ask strangers!! We are really
SICK in a NEAT kind of way!!!!!!! Isn't it fun. And I don't even have a
FW yet.
Happy Thanksgiving to all of you. Gail
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Date: Sun, 19 Nov 1995 12:07:14 -0500
Subject: Singer museum, Oakland, Calif
Kerridwen H asked about a Singer museum in Oakland, California, U.S.
We called (510) 261-0413 for Jim's Sewing Machine Center, 3400 Park
Boulevard, Oakland, CA and the message on the answering machine said the
place was a museum. The message said they were open from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00
p.m., Monday through Friday. Jim Slaten is listed on the card as the owner.
Hope this helps.
Christine T.
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Date: Sun, 19 Nov 1995 13:28:38 -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 11/18/95
Well I've done it again! I wrote down the address of the company that
supplies treadle machine parts to the Amish and now I can't find it anywhere.
I am in need of a new belt for my treadle along with a couple of other
parts. Does any one remember the address or phone number? Please help..
Marie C-->
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Date: Sun, 19 Nov 1995 09:37:44 -0900
Subject: 99K manual?
I have my grandmother's 99K but no manual. If anyone has one they would
like to part with, please email me.
Linda
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Date: Mon, 20 Nov 1995 10:19:12 +1300 (NZDT)
Subject: Bobbins
Leanne was asking about FW bobbins and just after that I was reading my
FW manual (even though I'm still FWless) that Ann kindly sent me and I
noticed that the bobbin holder and bobbin look suspicously the same as
my Bernina 830. They are available at any Bernina shop.
I've measured the throat plate that was with one of my bargain finds but
obviously doesn't fit the machine, so if anyone is looking for one I'd
be happy to swap it for some nice 100% cotton fabric. The dimensions are:
Shape is half circle - straight edge length is 2 1/4" and at the widest
part the width across is 1 3/4", it is larger than the plate on my 99k
so I think it must be for a full size machine.
Cheers....Dawn
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Date: Sun, 19 Nov 1995 18:32:23 -0800
Subject: FW's and more
First of all I would like to say thank you to Sue for starting this list,
keep up the good work! Thanks Sue!!!
I would like to tell Washington State FW Fanatics about the sewing machine
repair person that I know, he has worked on many a FW and has great respect
for them.Yesterday I took two of my machines to him for a check up. It
takes 1-1/2 hrs to drive to Port Townsend from our home to Steve
Bergstrom's Sewing Center (360) 385-5050. Port Townsend is a unique little
town with historical buildings everywhere, bed and breakfast's, lots of
shops, and good food. I just can't hold back, the Fountain Cafe we like the
best.I got off the subject, sorry---anyway Steve's only work is sewing
machine repair, he works on the old ones and the new ones as well. He also
repairs toy sewing machines and had 4 of them for sale. There are several
antique shops in Port Townsend so we always have to visit them also. This
digest has me looking at the older machines in a much diffrent way. I
wasn't going to buy an old machine but I did look and admire. The one
machine that caught my eye was a very old sewing machine called a
"Greyhound" with a picture of a Greyhound Dog. The machine was decorated
with red and gold designs, in pretty good shape, and the price was $89.
Do some of you that own FW's feel limited by a straight stitch with forward
and back? I'v wanted to tell you about a fellow quilter I met about 5 yr's
ago. Her name is Shirley Nilsson and she has a natural tallent that makes
me envious at what she can do with what she calls free-motion. She calls
what she does soft pictures. I didn't know Shirley well and she has since
moved from my area but I do remember that everything she did was with her
FW. She volunteered at all our quilt shows each year and had children draw
a picture on paper, then she transformed it on fabric with her FW. Its
hard for me to tell you about all the tiny details she put into her
pictures but she wrote words on a tiny book and made tiny eyes on her
subjects all with the FW. I remember the feed-dogs were covered in case
you are wondering. She did write a book about this and I don't even have it
but I think I will get it the more I think about it. The book is called
Stitching Free by C&T Publishing, 1-800-284-1114. She also has articles in
a magazine called Creative Quilting (I don't know how to get this
magazine).The reason I have this information is because Shirley gave us
each a cute little poster about her book at the time it came out (1993).
I wanted to pass on one more thing about our little jewel the FW. When
winding the bobbin don't go as fast as you can!!! This hint came from a
tech. that was a guest speaker at our quilt guild. She said this rule is
best for all sewing machines!
Best wishes from the other Washington (WA State), after the wind storm we
get to rake all the beautiful fall leaves. I just finished a quilt I'v been
hand quilting for 6 mo.Yea!
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Date: Sun, 19 Nov 95 03:02:00 PDT
Subject: finds....
In my Wanderings today I found a Singer Circular Stitcher. It's says
it's for Touch &Sew machines, and the box looks pretty 70ish. It is
Part NO. 161847.
It says "lets you make circular designs with any decorative zig-zag
stitch pattern. Full or half circles 2" to 10" across, geometric motifs
and scallops, all stitch without following a pattern outline. You can
even use two needles and decorate in the round, with two colors at
once."
That is all I know about it. It has the box, but no instructions, and
it doesn't say how many pieces should be in the box. I only paid 50
cents for it...I think it looks pretty cool. Does anyone know anything
about this animal? How it works? Have instructions? Help? I would
like to use it.
The same thrift store also had two buttonholers for slant needle
machines. One is like the variety we use on our featherweights, except
for a slant needle. It is in the pink plastic oval case, and has the
feed dog cover, which would fit a featherweight. They want $7.00 for
it. If anyone wants it email me, and I will see if they still have it
next time I go in there.
They also had a "professional buttonholer" by singer, for slant-needle
zig zag machines for the same price. It has a gazillion templates with
it. I already have both of these buttonholers, but if anyone else wants
them I will go back and buy them.
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Date: Mon, 20 Nov 1995 23:20:13 +1100
Subject: white FW
Kolleen, received my first FWFantics today and one of the first
entries I read was from someone who has recently aquired the same machine
as I bought on Saturday, however half a world away.
My machine no. is EV 972815 it is a model 221K manufactured in Great
Britain. From records I have the EV was manufactured in 1964 in Clydebank
Scotland. Mine also came with a box of attachements and manual plus the
green case with white trim . I have a spare seam allowance guide email if
you still want one.. Be warned..... do not put foot pedal in case near foot
lever at rear of machine the pedal can cause the lever to bend out of
alighnement causing a few problems. (This was all that was wrong with my
machine and took my local Singer man an hour to fix.) All I need now is a
tranformer due to the fact my machine is American and of course we have
different power voltage down-under.
This is my first FW however I have two treedles one 1894 and a 1929 plus
two hand machines one 1887 and the other 1919 , How do you find out what the
model type? is I think the 1887 is a model 28K ,but not sure.Looking forward
to more lists. Ann-Maree
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Subject: Book
Date: 20 Nov 1995 12:21:24 GMT
Hi Fanatics,
Can anyone please tell me where I can get the book needed
to complete my Featherweights survey, (preferably in Canada)
If any one has a second hand one they could part with that could
be great too. TIA
Greta
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Date: Mon, 20 Nov 1995 09:22:50 -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 11/19/95
Griest attachments:they slip onto the front of an attachment foot. The
attachment foot will fit on an FW, but they are very hard to find. I was
lucky enough to get one in the first set of Griest attachments I bought.
You need the attachment foot to use the hemmers, edgestitcher, binder or
quilter foot. If anyone wants a pix of this attachment, send me your snail
mail address and I'll send a copy to you. It is almost impossible to
describe, but the pix is pretty clear. Ruth:I am including a copy with the
other info to you. (I'll just retape the letter).
Flo
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Date: Mon, 20 Nov 1995 09:37:59 -0500
Subject: fw fanatics
My hubby never could understand my fascination with tag sales, flea markets,
etc.and would never ever think of stopping at one. Well, over the weekend he
couldn't resist an estate sale he saw a sign for and actually slocated the
house, stopped and looked for a FW for me! Who ever said they are not
trainable? Even after 26 years of marriage!!
Re: the Singer publications, I have another one titled "How to Make
Slipcovers' published 1961. It is # 113. Others are listed on the back
cover, from 101 to 121. Titles include How To Make: curtains, draperies,
valances, bedspreads, sleeves, seams and finishes, zipper closures. Ad
infinitum!
I am offering a box of attachments for sale:
A beautiful collection of Greist attachments in a shiny black metal box with
gold lettering (ROTARY) on top with gold squiggle around perimeter. Inside
is a purple/black marblized thick paper lining with gold printing designating
name of each attachment.
Each attachment is secured to the box and thus is easy to locate and does
not shift in transit.
Attachments include 3 hemmers, a braider foot, a binder, a tucker, a ruffler
and an edge stitcher. These are all labed Greist. Also misc items such as
cloth guides, 2 all-metal screwdrivers, misc unmarked feet.
The box is in extremely good condition - the gold lettering is intact. The
attachments are in excellent condition also, no rust. Note: A fourth hemmer
is missing from the collection. Will sell box with contents for $40.
Email Millie
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Date: Mon, 20 Nov 1995 09:11:25 -0600
Subject: FW Fanatics 11/18/95 -Reply
Hi Katy! I haven't talked to you for a while. In this digest you were telling
Marilyn that your 99k was born on 4/26/55 and gave the serial number. I
called Singer and my 99k was born the same day!! We have twins!! My
serial number is EK442762! Talk to you later -- Darlene in Iowa where
the saying goes, "If you don't like the weather here wait five minutes -- it
will change!"
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Date: Mon, 20 Nov 1995 11:38:38 -0500
Subject: gimbel
A fw friend purchased a Gimbel machine this weekend and was wondering if
anyone had information about it. I think it looks like a singer knock-off.
It's medium-light green, the thread tension is located in the rear, and
the head sports a label saying "made in India".
If anyone knows anything about this machine please let me know. Thanks so
much.
susan (painting 12yr old's room sky blue instead of quilting...)
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Date: Mon, 20 Nov 1995 13:09:30 -0500
Subject: Weekend Find
I was at a local antique shop this weekend and I found an old wooden box
that the dealer told me was a sewing machine accessories box, but I'm not
sure. Thought I'd post here and see if anyone knows about this item. It is
very interesting!!! Engraved in the wood on the top of this wooden box is
the wording, " Patented February 19 1889". Dimensions are 3-1/2" deep x
6-1/2" long x 3-1/2" wide. There are embedded hinges on three sides so that
the box opens up and will lay flat. Inside is a bunch of silver-plated
"holders", each different shaped and with numbers on them from 1-19. Could
this really be an accessory kit for an old tredle machine? If not, any
guesses what it might be? I purchased it for $10, even though I don't know
what it is, simply because the box itself is such an interesting piece of
work. Thanks in advance for any help.
Judy
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Date: Mon, 20 Nov 1995 13:41:24 -0500 (EST)
Subject: rotary needle
Hi,
Greta sent me to you!
I have a question about an older machine given to me, that I cannot use
because I can't find the needles for it. I sure hope you can help me.
It's a - "Free Westinghouse" / green, all metal, and has a cabinet
The onle thing written on it as far as a model number is TYPE E.
There is a picture of a sewing machine needle on it, and that says -
"Rotary needles only / use exact length only"
It came with a large assortment of attachments, including a ruffler.
There is no owners manual. I would reall like to use this, I want
to start quilting, but I really want to use that ruffler. I do have
2 modern macchines, But would cost $40.00 to buy the ruffler for one
machine.
Any help or suggestion will really be welcomed!!!
Marilyn
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Date: Mon, 20 Nov 1995 13:59:42 -0500
Subject: Treadle belts
In a message dated 95-11-20 07:57:33 EST, you write:
>Well I've done it again! I wrote down the address of the company that
>supplies treadle machine parts to the Amish and now I can't find it
anywhere.
> I am in need of a new belt for my treadle along with a couple of other
>parts. Does any one remember the address or phone number? Please help..
>Marie C--> lilroo@aol.com
>
The company is Lehmans Hardware in Kidron, Ohio and the number is
216-857-5757. Katy
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Date: Mon, 20 Nov 1995 16:34:47 -0500
Subject: interesting things I learned at the singer line today
To: FWFanatics
Today I recieved several interesting pieces of information I thought
you might be interested in.
1. Between 1948 and 1959 there were 1,055,326 featherweight sewing
machines manufactured. Realize that the featherweights were made
between 1934 and 1964, and then again 1968-1970.
2. The Singer customer service gave me the name of a man in Kansas(?)
Andy Fields. His number is 913-566-3788.
He makes both a reproduction wooden case, and a
reproduction table. His cases are wooden, with a handle and painted
black. They sell for $55 plus shipping and handling.
The reproduction tables are $198. They have wooden legs with black enamel
trim and the top is a natural birch top. I have not
seen his stuff, but would love to know if anyone has seen his
case, and if it is worth the money.
The big story is that my parents found two fw, one black, one white.
I called singer to date them. One of the machines will be my
christmas present. The quote on the white one EV951285 said that
is was a great britian machine model 328K. What a familiar story!
I still haven't figured out how to stabilize the peeling paint on the
bottom of the featherweight I purchased last month. If anyone
has a clue, please email me !
Kim
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Date: Tue, 21 Nov 95 07:24:16 PST
Subject: Thanx Re the FW221 Bobbins
Hullo All
This is to say a big thanx to all wrote to me concerning the
purchase of the 221 bobbins - I very much appreciated the
responses - great warm feeling from all my net friends.
G"Day from Leanne.
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Date: Mon, 20 Nov 1995 15:27:27 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 11/19/95
Hi! Regarding the question abbout the funny feet from Greist. I tink they
go on pushed from the front. They fit my White Treadle and are really
wierd looking! I sure wish that I could modify them to fit my
featherwieght, then I'd have some feet beside 2 for the fW. I just can;'t
find feet anywhere!
See ya,
marie-Elena
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Date: Mon, 20 Nov 1995 19:15:21 -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 11/19/95
My relatively local sewing machine place, the Gloversville Sewing Center,
keeps treadle parts in stock. Not necessarily for the Amish, although they
are in an Amish area. Their phone # is 1-800-336-9998 or 518-725-4919.
Kris
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Date: Mon, 20 Nov 1995 17:32:31 -0800
Subject: Re: Teachers for FW Maintenance
I noticed that all the FW Maintenance teachers listed are in the Bay Area.
Surely there must be some in other parts of the world as well!
Are there any others?
Carol
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Date: Mon, 20 Nov 1995 22:03:51 -0600
Subject: Re-Digest featherweight HOme page
Thanks to Nancy Slater's collection of chapter information from all of
us who have contributed on various topics concerning featherweights, I've
started a set of World Wide Web home pages about featherweights.
So far the topics are: A. Dating your featherweights
B. Featherweight Attachments
C. Bobbin Information
D. Featherweight Case
E. Copies of Featherweights
This is all that is on there so far. TAke a visit and let me know what
you think of the format, etc. Thanks!!
Gail
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Date: Mon, 20 Nov 1995 23:34:09 -0500
Subject: zig-zag machines
I see that I messed up the last note I wrote to the list. What I meant to
ask is whether anyone knows which Singer machine first made a zig-zag stitch
on its own, without using an attachment, and when it was first produced.
Found a really nice 66-6 the other day, in a good cabinet. Machine in
particular is in really good condition, gold designs all in excellent shape.
Orange box which once held attacments is in cabinet, but alas, no
attachments! Only other thing wrong is that somewhere along the line the
cord has been severed---looks like it was shut in a door.
At an auction near here recently there were 6 black FWs, all without cases.
Appeared to be in pretty good condition, but nowhere to plug in/try out.
All striped face plates. Tried to find out where they came from, but no
dice. Curious. Went for $50-75 ea.
SusanJane
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Subject: New fanatic on board!
Date: Mon, 20 Nov 1995 23:16:31 -0600
Happy Holidays Everyone,
A month ago, BI (before internet) I would not have looked at - let alone
bought an "old" machine. Well, my first purchase
was an 1904 Singer treadle. Boy she is a beauty!. The cabinet had
already been refinished. She has a little rust, but her
gold is almost perfect! Right now she is at the Sewing Machine museum in
Arlington, TX having a tune-up, clean-up session.
I bought her while looking for a featherweight. I remember playing with
what I thought was my grandmother's treadle. Come to find out it was my
mother's. When Granny moved in with us, all of the things (read treadle)
were disposed of. Of course I was
only 12 at the time. Wonder whatever happened to it. Well, this one will
have a new home.
Then, I bought a 1938 featherweight (Thanks Zsuxxa!) I haven't seen her
yet. Still waiting for her to arrive from CA. Hope
she comes soon. I understand she is exquisite! Now I am on the search
for one born in 1946. I have a serial # for one born
6-4-46 (two days after my birth) - AG697761. Can you imagine how elated
I was to hear the birthdate and how sad I was
to hear it had already been sold?20
My DH knows I have gone off my rocker. I haven't touched my Bernina 1630
in a year and now I am bringing in
old machines! I want you to know it's all your fault. I read about your
searches, finds and excitement and I wanted to be part
of the action.
Happy Hunting to us all!
JoAnn G
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Date: Tue, 21 Nov 1995 09:32:15 -0500
Subject: Treadle belts/FW Bobbins
I also found last night that these can be purchased from Newark Dressmaker
Supply Catalog. I believe the belts are $3.99 and the bobbins for the FW and
301 are $5.50 a dozen. I'll post the phone number when I can find it. Katy
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Date: Tue, 21 Nov 1995 09:32:14 -0500
Subject: Wooden box
In a message dated 95-11-21 08:27:25 EST, you write:
> that the dealer told me was a sewing machine accessories box, but I'm not
>sure. Thought I'd post here and see if anyone knows about this item. It is
>very interesting!!!
Very definitely an attachment box. Sounds like you got a great deal even w/o
the attachments. Katy
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Date: Tue, 21 Nov 1995 12:38:22 -0500
Subject: Griest Attachments
I'll send a copy of the picture of the attachment foot to everyone who
e-mailed me. You do need to understand that this will only help you use
Griest attachments designed to fit onto this partucular foot. Griest made
attachments for all sorts of machines and a lot of different varieties are
out there.
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Date: Tue, 21 Nov 1995 09:03:45 -0500
Subject: FW Fanatics
Dear Friends How I love you all - I feel we are linked in a great
underground commonwealth of ffriends. Even my BEST friend doesn't get it :-(
She saw that I have two of these cuties in addtion to my Bernina and she
said "What are you DOING? You have to stop!". . . . sigh. . . But I'm still
looking for one or two more - for my daughters of course 8-). Here's my
question for the List - is there a place that has the oval "S" medallions or
even a copy or a decal for sale? - my 1950 FW has had its one pried off and I
would like to put something in that space. Love to all - Henrietta
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Date: Tue, 21 Nov 1995 11:27:12 -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 11/20/95
Attention: To all those people doing X's and O's for Patches... Can you piece
them like O's instead of X's. Please don't worry for those who have sent
blocks. Any questions E-Mail Patches privately .
Thanks. Sue M.
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Date: Tue, 21 Nov 1995 15:36:57 -0400
Subject: Gold Medal Sewing Machine
This group is so good about helping with information that I thought I might
see if anyone knows anythingabout a small machine that I have. It is 9" high
and 11" long and it must weigh 15-20 pounds. It is a manual machine, there
is a knob on the wheel to it turn by hand. On the foot plate (behind the
needle) it says Patented Nov. 12, 1850 with several more dates listed
through to Dec. 18,1865. On the face plate it says manufactured by the "Gold
Medal S. M. Co.". At the top of the face plate are the numbers 55867.It is
black and it looks like it has been hand painted with gold scroll work and a
lovely bouquet of Lily of the Valley flowers to the right of the needle.
There is also another flower, perhaps a rose to the left of the needle. The
bobbin case is beautifully made and looks like a weaver's shuttle with a
tiny bobbin about 3/4" long inside.
I haven't been able to sew with it yet, I can't seem to get the needle to
pick up the bobbin thread, I must have it threaded wrong.
There is no mention as to where it was made. I bought it at an antique shop
in Berwick, Nova Scotia about 10 years ago.
If anyone has any information I'd really appreciate it.
Thanks
Barbara R
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Date: Tue, 21 Nov 1995 10:27:33 -0500 (EST)
Subject: info needed on "Free Westinghouse" machine
Hi,
I am a new member of FWF. I really need some information on a
sewing machine: Here's the story:
My mother-in-law gave me her mothers sewing machine - a "Free Westinghouse".
The word "TYPE E" is written on the bottom. It only uses rotary machine
needles. There was a box of attachments with it. The box is yellow, and in
blue lettering says "rotary attachments". All the attachments have the name
"Greist" on them. There is no owners manual. I have no idea how to use these
attachments, or where to get rotary needles. Regular needles are too long,
and don't fit right.
There are no needles with this machine, so I have nothing to compare. My
mother-in-law doesn't remember where her mom bought the needles from.I
checked the fabric stores, they never heard of a rotary needle.(one woman looked
at me like I was crazy).
I wrote to the Westinghouse company, but the letter comes back "no such
address". My husband said he thinks Westinghouse is out of buisness.
Any help I get on this machine will be greatly appreciated.
Thank you
Marilyn
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Subject: Misc.
Date: Tue, 21 Nov 95 11:39:00 -0600
>>In my Wanderings today I found a Singer Circular Stitcher. It's says it's
for Touch &Sew machines, and the box looks pretty 70ish. It is Part NO.
161847.>>
I, too, have this Circular Stitcher. I purchased it in 1972-73 at the
Singer dealership where I worked for a short time. It is for slant needle
Singers and the Golden Touch &Sew is pictured on the box. No instructions
are in my box and since I never used the attachment, I'm not sure whether
there were any. I figure one end attaches where the seam guide would
attach to the bed of the machine and the other end grips the fabric. Beyond
this I haven't a clue as to how it works. I would also be interested to
hear if anyone has instructions. If not, I will take it to my Bernina
dealer and compare it to their expensive one and see if that helps. By the
way, this one cost $2.25!
>> Engraved in the wood on the top of this wooden box is the wording, "
Patented February 19 1889". >>
I have this same oak box with same inscription and mine came with a full set
of attachments which I stupidly gave away. I've since been told that these
were for a Singer treadle machine and would fit the FW. $10 is a great price
for that beautiful box.
Terry
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Date: Tue, 21 Nov 1995 10:54:55 -0500
Subject: English connector sought
This list has worldwide connections, so I hope I find an answer.
Does someone in England, Canada, or Australia know
about Sew-Tric LTD motors?
My Singer 99K, made in 1950, has a Sew-Tric London
Sewing Machine Motor mounted on the back. The motor is
the same size as Singer motors of the same vintage. The
plug has four prongs. I am looking for a connector
(female) which will go into it. The INSIDE dimensions
are: just a little bit less than 1-3/4 inches by 5/8
inch.
The motor says made in England, 200-250 Volts, 0-60~
5 AMP 50 WATT A.C./D.C. Serial number A141505.
The Singer motors I own all have three prongs and three
holes for the prongs in the connectors. The connectors
are attached to cords for the foot pedal and the wall
plug.
I would be most grateful if someone has an idea about
this. Is Sew-Tric still in business? I could call the
company if I knew the location. The motor is shiny
black and looks eager to run. I hate to take it off the
machine and discard it.
Thank you, Christine T.
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Date: Tue, 21 Nov 1995 16:42:03 -0500
Subject: translations...
My fw friend who is fluent in German says that "nahe elektrisch" means "sew
electrically". Now, does anyone know anything about a treadle named
"Kenwood"?
Happy (early) Thanksgiving everyone from susan who has Much to be thankful
for!!!
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Date: Wed, 22 Nov 1995 09:18:05 +1100 (EST)
Subject: fw weight please
Morning all!
Well my Darling Dad (King of the Garage Sales) has done it again - two
machines for $15.00!!!!! (I think at the current exchange rate this is
about $US 8)
One is a 201K Singer, which has a serial no. beginning EN007....So that one
has been christened "James Bond"; and he's also managed to get me an ORANGE
and BROWN (he swears you need capitals to express the colour combination)
Singer machine made in Australia, to be christened "Ugly Ozzie".
Can anyone tell me the weight of a featherweight in its case? I'm working
out my options, I HAVE to get a fw; and maybe I'll get one from the US, but
I need to work out how much shipping could cost....
TIA; Caitlin in cold and wet Canberra, Australia, where it's supposed to be
SPRING!!!
Caitlin
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Date: Tue, 21 Nov 1995 18:19:58 -0500
Subject: 'lo all!
Thought I'd drop a note and say HI....I've been getting these digests
for a couple of weeks now.
In order of acquisition, here are the machines that I have:
my grandmother's Coronado, acquired just before I got married when she no
longer needed it.
A Dressmaker that I have no attachments or instructions for; this belonged
to a former roommate. My best guess puts it in the late 50's-early 60's.
My Bernette, the only "modern" machine in the group.
A Free Westinghouse, acquired at a yard sale because I love the cabinet.
Marilyn - I saw your note in yesterday's digest....I'm sending you a copy
of the manual, as we talked about in e-mail. ;-)
A Domestic, cabinet in horrible shape, missing the bobbin case. This
followed me home from a yard sale. A little old man kept lowering the
price until I agreed to buy it; it belonged to his mother, and he wanted
it to go to someone who would take care of it.
Singer 328k, the workhorse. I bought it for $25 dollars at a flea market
because I liked the decorative cams. If anyone can find any cams for this,
I'd be interested in buying them.
My Featherweight, January 17, 1995. ;-) My baby.
A White with tons of gold trim, missing the bobbin case. Bought at an antique
market, because it was being mistreated!!!! The man had plugged in BOTH
plugs into the wall, and was burning it up....needed oil. I rescued it. ;-)
White, solid black, acquired at a flea market for $5. Needs some electrical
that my SO has promised to do; has one shuttle bobbin. I'd like more, if anyone
knows where I can find them.
At the flea market is also one of the zig-zag attachments. It has zig-zag,
scallop, and one other I don't recall. It was $5 as well, I think. If anyone
wants it, I'll go back and get it. Trade for one yard of cat fabric. ;-)
Have a great day!
--
Lisa R
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Subject: More on Circular Stitcher
Date: Tue, 21 Nov 95 16:47:22 -0600
The local Bernina store has a leaflet for sale with instructions for their
circular stitcher. The salesperson described the gadget to me and it sounds
much like the Singer one from the 70's. The leaflets are less than $1.00.
I see no reason that the Singer stitcher cannot fit a straight stitch
machine because attachment does not involve the presser bar. Also if you
have one of these, the white knob pulls off to reveal a sharp point, much
like a thumbtack, which pierces the fabric and then turns as you sew. One
use for this on a straight stitch machine would be to make fabric yo-yo's
used in quilts and clothing.
Terry
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Date: Tue, 21 Nov 1995 19:04:11 -0500
Subject: Seeking, not finding
I enjoy reading about the great Featherweight bargains
others are turning up. I have not had any success yet
finding a buried treasure in a junk pile.
My DH and I have been going to all the local garage
sales on the weekends. I put a note on the post office
bulletin board asking for old Singer portable machines.
I received a phone call and the woman said she had a
Featherweight. I was so excited I could hardly drive my
car straight down the road to her house. Her machine
turned out to be a 128 in terrible shape. I pointed out
to her that the machine was very heavy and not feather-
light. She said the machine had been researched by an
antique dealer who told her it would sell for $425. Too
bad. I checked in at an auction house last Friday and
put in a silent bid of $50 for a 301a. On Saturday I
learned that I won the bid. I figured that since I had
just paid $62 for a bobbin case for the one FW I do
own, that $50 was a good offer for the 301a because it
had the same bobbin case. When I brought the 301a home
I realized it was in terrific shape, despite it being
beige and ugly - so 1950s. My DH found all the
attachments and a buttonholer in the bench seat, even a
personal letter from the Singer company to the original
purchaser thanking him for buying the machine.
Christine T.
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Date: Tue, 21 Nov 1995 19:11:36 EST
Subject: buttonholer
Hu Sue- I would like to buy the slant-needle style button
holer that you located if it is not already spoken for. The
one in the pink plastic oval case. I would be happy to pay
your price plus postage. Please let me know.
Thanks, Joe
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Date: Tue, 21 Nov 1995 19:16:45 EST
Subject: Hello Fanatics
I am still searching for a tan colored featherweight in
great condition. Can anybody help me locate one?
Also looking for featherweight original manuals, 221, 221J,
222k, etc.
Would also like a nice model 301 portable machine in great
condition, prefer one with carrying case, attachments,
manual, etc, but will consider all.
Please E-mail info to frxv68a@prodigy.com
Thank you, Joe
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Date: Tue, 21 Nov 1995 23:10:02 -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics
I recently purchased a Singer Treadle Sewing Machine Model 66. The birthdate
was 12/18/1912. I had it cleaned and it runs beautiful. In the cabinet was
a "DE LUXE ZIGZAGGER". The box and instruction sheet were inside. It says
it was Made in Japan which tells me it was made after WWII. A friend showed
me how it works on a treadle and it moves the fabric instead of the needle
moving. I found this to be quite interesting. I also have found two little
green Singer books that I purchased for $3.00 each. One is a 66-18 and the
other is a 201-2. I have the treadle which is a 66 according to Singer and
a 201 in a cabinet with knee pressure instead of pressure foot. It was born
6/28/1946. What does these additional numbers on the books indicate? I
also have a 301A machine and am looking for a book for it. It was born
5/29/51 in SC.
Happy stitching.
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Date: Tue, 21 Nov 1995 22:09:01 -0500
Subject: Attachments boxes
I have been reading the FWF digest for about a week now and I love it. I
learned to sew on my mom's FW. I bought one at an auction for $70. After $65
worth of repairs, it is my primary sewing machine. I love them. Mine is an
AE (early 30's I believe). I haven't called Singer yet. My DH's great aunt
(94yrs old) has sent me her FW from Canada. I can't wait to see it and find
out if she was the original owner.
I am really a Singer treadle collector. I'd be happy to try to answer any
treadle questions FWFs might have. Judy asked about the wooden
attachments box yesterday. That is a Singer treadle attachments box. She
got a great deal. I have seen them sell for $65 - $80. I have three. They
are lined with green, blue or purple velvets. They are for the treadles with
shuttle bobbins (the long skinny ones).
What is the FW Survey I keep hearing about?
Courtney
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Date: Wed, 22 Nov 1995 04:20:12 -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 11/20/95
Was reading Susan's comment on her 66-6 in our last listing. I'm curious
about the different numbers for the different Singer's. the 221K is the FW?
and the 99K is??
A midsize Singer?
I'm anxiously looking for a FW, but my original desire, before this list, was
just an old black Singer Like my mother had. It was never in a cabinet,
always in a case. What were the differences there? Were there only certain
types that were in cabinets and others in cases?
Also, what types of attatchment will fit the FW and does it do well with
them? I know my mother's old Singer machine worked a buttonholer very well,
but I don't remember there being any other attatchments, or that she used
them anyway. I'm just wondering if the FW was made just to do
forward/backward and the extra work of a buttonholer might be too much.
Also what about the feed dogs on a FW. Do they drop? I can't remember what
I did with my mother's Singer when we used the buttonholer.
Maureen
Thanks for the Greist attatchment info.
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Date: Wed, 22 Nov 1995 10:18:39 -0400
Subject: Re:FW Book in Canada
To Greta - I tried to send you an e-mail but it came back to me.
You can try and get the FW book at "The Hobby Horse" RR#5 Georgetown, Ont.
L7G 4S8 (416)877-9292. If no luck there try "Quilters Supply" 1-1060 Hyde
Park Rd., Hyde Park, Ont. (near London) (519)472-3907. They should be about
$7.50.
Good Luck
Barbara R
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Date: Wed, 22 Nov 1995 10:39:24 -0800
Subject: Shine that FW
I was told to use one drop of sewing machine oil on a clean cloth to keep
your FW clean and shining. Has anyone else used this method? I'v read in
this digest several other ideas like wax, but what is best for the machine
to keep the paint looking nice and preserve it too?
Todays my birthday and I'm 39 again! Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family.
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Subject: greist attachments
Date: Tue, 21 Nov 95 03:04:00 PDT
Flo-
Griest attachments:they slip onto the front of an attachment foot. The
attachment foot will fit on an FW, but they are very hard to find. I was
lucky enough to get one in the first set of Griest attachments I bought.
Does this mean I could take the attachment foot off my New Home "parts"
machine and put it on my featherweight? If that is true, I will look
more carefully when I see an ugly eldrige, or kenmore for 5 bucks. I
actually donated a kenmore a while back...sigh...well I do have one
extra if it will work! I have 3 sets of greist attachments, all low
shank. It would be nice if I could actually use them on one of my
machines, since I need the high shank for my New Home.
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Subject: Greist attachments
Date: Tue, 21 Nov 95 03:04:00 PDT
marie-Elena
Hi! Regarding the question about the funny feet from Greist. I think they
go on pushed from the front. They fit my White Treadle and are really
weird looking! I sure wish that I could modify them to fit my
featherweight,
From what Flo posted earlier, it seems you should be able to remove the
attachment foot those feet slide onto from your white machine, and put
it on your featherweight so you can use the attachments on your
featherweight. I haven't tried it yet, but I plan on it as soon as I
get a free moment from refinishing all my sewing machine cabinets. I
spent 4 hours at it tonight.
talkatyasoon! Fran in Snohomish, Washington; where I don't know what
the weather is like because I spent too long buried in the basement with
my sewing machines
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Date: Wed, 22 Nov 1995 12:11:00 -0800 (PST)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 11/20/95
Anyone out there know where I can get a good walking foot for my 301? It
is a Singer slant needle. Do the generic walking feet that I see in
Clotilde or Nancy's Notions work very well? (I see they have them for a
slant needle.) Or would it be worthwhile to try to find a Singer brand
made just for the 301?
I want to use my 301 for straight line machine quilting and I would
appreciate words of wisdom from the experienced.
Sew in piece . . .
Kolleen
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Date: Wed, 22 Nov 1995 16:46:22 -0500 (EST)
Subject: answers
Hi!
To KRISTI - My daughter Rachel studies German and says that "nahe" sounds
similar to the German word for neighbor or neighborhood, and she thinks that
"nahe elektrisch" may mean "neighborhood electrician" or "neighborhood
electronics". She doesn't think is is German, by the way, but something else
middle-European. I am also checking with a friend in Norway but haven't heard
back yet.!
My local junk-shop man has an old Singer ruffler - I'm not sure how it
attatches to the machines but is looks similar to my GRIEST one only smaller -
I can probably pick it up for $3 (plus postage) and send it to anyone who is
interested... let me know. Regards and Happy Thanksgiving.,, and a BIG thank
you to Sue for running the list! Ruth A
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Date: Wed, 22 Nov 1995 16:24:18 -0600 (CST)
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 11/20/95
Hi Judy:
Yes, your dealer is correct. Your box is for sewing machine accessories. I
have a matching box, with purple velvet lining, complete with all the
attatchments for a singer treadle. I think they are for a singer treadle,
because the box was in one of the drawers along with a box of Griest
attatchments. Pretty neat how the box fits together huh? Happy hunting...
A fellow sewing antiques collector.
Barb K.
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Date: Wed, 22 Nov 1995 19:39:39 EST
Subject: Hi Fanatics
To: Henrietta(Whose featherweight is having an
identity crisis)- There were other models of Singer sewing
machines that used the same medallion. Perhaps you can find
a junk machine to get a gold medallion and install it on
your featherweight so that it will "regain it's identity"!
We are looking for a Singer throat plate #121392, and Singer
foot #171071. Please E-mail if you can help.
Also, does anybody know what a #35932 foot is? It is very
short in the front, and has a long movable rod attached
to it like some sort of guide.
Thanks, Joe
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Date: Wed, 22 Nov 1995 20:01:54 -0500 (EST)
Subject: Nancy S-Js Book
For Greta :
If you cannot find the Featherweight book locally, I recently (this month)
purchased two from an American mail order sewing supply catalog called
"Clotilde". If you want the information, E-mail me your snail mail
address and I will photocopy the catalog page and probably come up with an
official order envelope from an earlier catalog.
Notes to those of you who get the catalog from Bonnie Lehman's "Quilts and
Other Comforts". On page 45 of the Winter 1995 issue (the one with the
snowman on the front) is a picture of Lynn Graves, the woman who invented
"Little Foot" and "Big Foot". She is stiching happily away on what looks
a whole lot to me like a FW. Obviously she's one of us.
Am waiting anxiously for the phone number of the place that sells bobbins
(I think at $5.50 a dozen). I have only two.
Lydia
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Date: Thu, 23 Nov 1995 00:15:17 -0500 (EST)
Subject: Thanks for all your help
I would really like to thank everyone for their help with my Free-Westinghouse"
machine. After 5 years of searching, and hitting dead-ends, all you nice
people, find everything for me in one day!
I truly hope you all have a great holiday. And at Christmas, Santa brings
everything on your lists!
Thank you
Marilyn
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Subject: Free Westinghouse machine
Date: Wed, 22 Nov 95 09:08:00 PDT
FF>Subject: info needed on "Free Westinghouse" machine
There is no owners manual. I have no idea how to use these
FF>attachments, or where to get rotary needles. Regular needles are too long,
FF>and don't fit right.
If regular needles don't fit, like they do on mine, then go to a sewing
machine dealer, preferably a singer dealer, and ask for the sewing
machine needles with the shorter point, like a Singer 319 uses. The
length of the needle from the eye to the point is a bit smaller. If you
can't find them where you live, let me know because my dealer says he
can get them from singer.
Also, I have instructions for the greist attachments if you would like
me to make copies for you.
talkatyasoon! Fran
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Date: Thu, 23 Nov 1995 00:48:56 -0500
Subject: Happy Thanksgiving, all
Wishing you all a great Thanksgiving today. May your turkeys be perfectly
browned, moist and tender, and your pies to die for! I have so much to be
thankful this year, although the ongoing strike at Boeing is making things a
bit tense for those of us whose family members work there. (DH not in the
striking union, but if it goes on long enough, will Boeing have to give up
and just close the entire plant down????)
On a separate note, if anyone here has a spare throat plate, with the seam
allowances marked on it, for a FW, please email me and quote a price? Many
thanks...
Sharon,
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Subject: singer decal...old machine ramblings
Date: Thu, 23 Nov 95 00:09:00 PDT
Singer Emblem
First of all, before I forget...I have an old 66 in a dilapidated
treadle cabinet, that is beyond repair. After Dawn's post about
rescuing a rusted machine I decided to give it another look...but alas,
it is too far gone. I feel really sad condemning this old matron...so
I am hoping a few of her "organs" can give life to other ailing Singers.
On that note, when I decomission her, I will attempt to remove the
Singer Emblem intact. I know there is someone here looking for one for
their featherweight. It is amazingly free of decay.
Does anyone have any ideas on removing the emblem without destroying it?
I will be saving her large spoked wheel to use converting another matron
for the treadle cabinet I am restoring. I will also save her throat
plate cover, face plate, bobbin winding assembly, and anything else I
can remove that is not rusted beyond hope.
The treadle iron will and part of the frame will go into the cabinet I am
stripping. It is from a model 15, centennial. The cabinet is exactly
like a plain treadle cabinet with legs.
Her cabinet has a neat little drawer in the front, where my treadle has
only a piece of wood, so I will put that in my cabinet. The drawers I
will refinish and save. I think I may save the drawer's frame and set
them up on my desk.
The model 15 will go into the cabinet which the other model 66 came out
of..(the one I am converting to a treadle). I just completed
refinishing that cabinet tonite.
The motor I take off the 66 will go onto a japanese Compac I found for
$1.00, because the motor was burned out. The foot petal and plugs from
the compac will go onto a New Home machine I picked up missing it's foot
control. That machine will go as a gift to my sister, who is learning
how to sew.
I have really been bitten by the old sewing machine bug. None of the
machines I described above had been touched in YEARS. Every one of them
had a HUGE flat spot on the belts, drives, or bobbin winders from
sitting for years without anyone so much as turning the flyweel. Many
of them have such a large amount of dirt and grime on them you can't see
the paint underneath.
These machines remind me of an elderly woman, who outlived or was
forgotten by her family, left to waste away alone. It feels good to
clean them, oil them, and make them do what they were designed to do,
sew. It makes me sad when I have to decide one of them is unsavable.
I have always enjoyed creating something good and usable from something
which was destined for the trash bin. I make quilts from old jeans (not
on my featherweight, I wouldn't want to tire her out), save scraps, and
buy most of my fabric in thrift stores. I love anything old. Partly as
a protest of commercials etc...partly recycling, partly because I think
old things are beautiful.
Well anyway, thanks for listening to my sewing machine ramblings. If my
husband read this he would know I went over the deep end....I better go
wash the varnish off myself before I become permanently fruitwood
colored. Then perhaps I should give my Featherweight some TLC before
she gets jealous.
PS...
Am I the only one who wonders about the women who sewed on these old
machines before they came into my hands?
talkatyasoon! Fran
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Date: Thu, 23 Nov 1995 08:32:56 -0500
Subject: 301s
Christine, in a message dated 95-11-22 20:16:22 EST, you write:
> When I brought the 301a home
>I realized it was in terrific shape, despite it being
>beige and ugly - so 1950s.
I thought the same thing about 301's and even posted a glaring note to that
effect on this digest. Then I bought one...and had to eat crow :). I cleaned
and oiled it up and it sews so beautifully. I originally thought I would buy
it to resell but it is finding a warm place in my heart and it will stay. My
son calls my 99k "Black Beauty" and the 301 "The Beast" but he loves it as
much as I and at 8 is becoming very accomplished at running the sewing
machine. Many thanks to Kolleen who helped open my eyes to the inner beauty
of this model :). (Kolleen, your funky fabric is on the way :)).
Katy
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Date: Thu, 23 Nov 1995 12:34:37 -0600 (CST)
Subject: Maybe there is HOPE!!!!!
Today when everything is closed my DH tells me someone called yesterday
to say they had a FW for me!!!!! To think I could be sewing right now but....
The only thing that is keeping him out of real trouble is he has been
sick the last few days.
Tomorrow morning at 7am I leave for El Paso for our second district game.
I will be going with the band. Well now I'm going to take my phone with
me and at 10am I'm going to start calling. Oh yes, all my dh said was you
left your name with them. So now I need to remember all the many places I
left my name. AND call all of them. El Paso is 9 hours from Abilene of I
should have plenty of time to call. Monday I'm going to go look at the
machine and buy it. I just hope it is in good condition and not to high ($).
Everyone please keep your fingers crossed for me. I'm one that still dosen't
have a FW.
Gail
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Date: Thu, 23 Nov 1995 15:41:30 -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 11/21/95
I'm hoping someone out there can help me. I bought an old Domestic machine
in a Sears cabinet for $55. After I took it apart and cleaned and oiled it,
it runs beautifully.
My problem is I would like to know something about the machine. Does anyone
know how I can get some information and a manual for my little beauty?
E-mail lilroo@aol
Marie
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Date: Thu, 23 Nov 1995 19:11:40 -0500 (EST)
Subject: Birth-date question/and thanks
I would like to thank all the FWF's that helped me.
I learned information about my "Free Westinghouse", the dates they were
made, etc. Also, I came here, and put my questions to the experts, and in
one day, I found everything I had been looking for, for 5 years!
-One other question, I read that some of you call places to get the "birthday"
of your machines. How do I go about finding the "birth date" for a "Free-
Westinghouse"? Where would I look to try to find a model, or serial number
on my machine? It's in a cabinet.
Marilyn / Can't wait to get my new "toy" running!
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Date: Thu, 23 Nov 1995 19:18:47 -0500
Subject: Bobbins
Lydia,
Just yesterday, I was at my local fabric store buying bobbins for Leanne in
Australia. Singer bobbins are easily available in my area at New York
fabrics, I think that it is Joanne Fabrics by you. The bobbins are 4 for
1.50 and are item #2137 marked for singer sewing machine models 221 and
301. hope this helps. Lynda C
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Date: Thu, 23 Nov 1995 21:55:06 EST
Subject: FW Bobbins
For Lydia P :
FW bobbins should be available at your singer dealer or many places
selling sewing supplies. They are still marketed by Singer, item #2137,
pack of 4 at $1.65 retail. In addition to Singer, they are available at
the wholesale level from Brewer Sewing Supplies in Chicago. Your local
sewing dealer probably already buys from them, so ask him to stock them.
You are correct about Lynn Graves, my sister, she is definitely one
of us. She currently owns about 9 or 10 including the 222K model. Yes,
she uses Little Foot(r) on every one of them. My wife, Emily, is also one
of us. We have 7, each with it's own name, personality and Little
Foot(r). We call her 222K Duchess.
Starting in January, Lynn will be using the FW222k to demo on at
quilt shows, etc. We've ordered a Sew Steady Acrylic accessory table to
fit it's free arm. Little Foot(r) is a distributor for this table.
Anyone interested in receiving Lynn's newsletter/catalog can
contact her at YBPM37B@Prodigy.com.
Phil
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Subject: German &FW bobbins
Date: Fri, 24 Nov 95 14:31:47 +1200
>>tin Singer bank that we've been wanting. I have a photo of it and it
>>is adorable. It looks like a generic black sewing machine sitting on a
>>wood table, and on the table is the Singer logo and "Nahe elektrisch".
>>If anyone can translate please tell me what this says.
Reply #1:
>My fw friend who is fluent in German says that "nahe elektrisch" means
>"sew electrically".
Reply #2:
>To KRISTI - My daughter Rachel studies German and says that "nahe"
>sounds similar to the German word for neighbor or neighborhood, and she
>thinks that "nahe elektrisch" may mean "neighborhood electrician" or
>"neighborhood electronics". She doesn't think is is German, btw
Reply #3:
I've had a look in my Webster's Seven Language Dictionary and this is
what I've come up with (German):
Nahe (two dots over 'a') - neighbourhood; vicinity
nahen (two dots over 'a') - to sew
Naht (no dots) - seam, line of stitches
Nahmaschine (two dots over 'a') - sewing machine
elektrisch - electric
Elektronik - electronics
Elektrizitat (two dots over 'a') - electricity
* * * * *
Leanne: Kolleen tells me that the Bernina bobbins aren't the same as the
FW ones, apparently they are thinner with the spindle part in the middle
not being quite so wide. Sorry if I put anyone on the wrong track, they
_look_ so similar though!
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Date: Thu, 23 Nov 1995 22:47:00 -0500
Subject: Re:Rotary Treadle
God this is getting bad.
Went to a Goodwill today and found a White RotaryTreadle for $74.95. The
case isn't in bad shape, the letters on the front of the cabinet are raised
and parts of each letter is missing. The machine doesn't raise up when you
open the cabinet (the cable is missing), and the treadle belt is missing.
(What does Rotary refer to anyways?)
As I was looking at it a gentleman came up to me and the teller who was
helping me and told us that he had sold that same machine for $10 dollars at
his garage sale. I mentioned that, that was what I was looking for,
something at this level of disrepair for that amount of money, because I
wouldn't mind putting a little more money in it to restore. He mentioned
that it was only the outside that was in bad shape and that the woman who had
it before him used to sew on it. The machine looks good, dusty and needs a
little oiling. Has a bobbin (with thread).
The man who used to own it told me to ask if they would sell it cheaper and I
didn't, I'm thinking of going back. Talk me out of this. I don't have room
for it yet. I want to have the FW now. What to do, what to do.
Someone posted a notice about Featherweight repair teachers? I missed that,
could someone email me with that info. I'd like to find out more, I've
always wanted to learn to repair machines. I used to do that instead of sew
when I was taking Home Ech in Jr. Hi.
Oh, I always hate when 'm reading andI get to the end of this list. :)
Maureen
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Date: Thu, 23 Nov 1995 23:24:54 -0500
Subject: FW Bobbin Source
Newark Dressmaker Supply carries FW bobbins: item number BB34, price .55
each or $5.50 for a dozen. Their phone number is 1-800-736-6783. Their
address is:
Newark Dressmaker Supply
6473 Ruch Road
Lehigh Valley, PA18002-0730.
These bobbins will also fit Singer 301s. Hope this helps someone. Katy
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Date: Thu, 23 Nov 1995 19:29:02 -0500
Subject: Griest-yet again (sigh)
I seem to have created more questions-rather than answers. Let me try one
more time. Griest made attachments for all sorts of machines-per Gordy. I
have some which are high-shank, some which fit my FW and then I have the
other sort.
The other sort should have in the set an attachment foot which fastens onto
your FW in the usual way. The foot part looks very much like a short quilt
foot-about 3/4" square with a small hole (for the thread) centered in it. If
the foot is on your machine and you look at it, on the right hand side, there
is a round blued steel circle-it sits in the back of the foot. It is
attached, by a rivet. IF, and only if, you have Griest attachments that have
a keyhole opening (hemmers, binders and edgers are all I have seen), that
attachment slides onto the attachment foot. You do this by pushing the blue
steel part forward and then the keyhole opening slips onto the rivet. You
need to form a stitch and draw the threads thru and underneath the foot.
they do work. I have tried them all out.
It just happened that the very first set of attachments I found in a junk
shop were of this type. The lady said she only wanted 4 dollars since she
wasn't sure it was a complete set. The set included an instruction booklet.
Without that, I wouldn't have had any idea what this strange foot was for.
Take a look at whatever Griest attachments you have. If they fit this
general description, look for the little attachment foot. If you need a copy
of the directions-with pix-and I haven't already sent you one, e-mail me an
address and I'll get a copy to you.
If you don't have them, keep looking. I'm sure there are more out there.
The only reason I have for thinking they are hard to find is that I've
picked up 7 or 8 sets of attachments this fall. I have yet to see a second
set like this. Should I find another one, I'll post it and whoever gets to
me first can have it for my cost.
Happy hunting.
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Date: Fri, 24 Nov 1995 09:32:20 -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 11/21/95
hi, i think i may have found something wonderful (which i bought quite
reasonably). it is not a featherweight -- i have one of those, but it is a
singer in an oak? wood rounded top case, with a handle that is turned (like a
rope). it is somewhat smaller than the usual cases of this sort, so i think
from what i've read here it must be a 99.
the serial number of the machine is G9224001. the machine is black with
lovely gold, red, and green deco -- faceplate is lovely silver, with grape
vine including leaves and grapes design. there is another silver plate --
not as shiny, covering the interesting attached lamplight on the back of
machine. the feed dog cover is circular, and the bobbin case cover (i am
missing the front part, anyone having one for sale, please email privately)
is square with a concave arc cut out of one corner to fit around the feed dog
cover. the bobbin is the shuttle type (really looks just like a tiny shuttle
from a loom) and I only have one. are these available?
the motor says Singer, Sewing Motor Patent Pending, Catalog B.T.7, and has a
serial number of 904828. there is a knee pedal which fits into hardware at
top of oak case, and slides into a hole on the front of the bottom of the
case.
when you tilt machine back, it exposes an empty space beneath the machine
which is clearly for the storage of feet and accessories, none of which i
have excep the one on the machine. what kind of feet will fit, since i do
have a set of fw feet, and also some from my treadle. also, what kind of
needle should be used. the one in the machine was broken off.
why doesn't it tell you the model number of the machine right on the thing?
does anyone know if i'm just missing it.
btw, on the bottom of the machine itself (when tilted back) there is a gizmo
with the number 8444 stamped on it.
any info you guys might have would be appreciated. this is absolutely my
favorite list. i have gotten soooo much info from it.
ellen b.
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Date: Fri, 24 Nov 1995 11:46:09 -0500
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 11/22/95
Hello all,
No takers yet on the 1948 featherweight I have for sale. It is an AH and has
the fancy scrollwork. I have come down to $250 &shipping. I know someone
out there must need one for a Christmas present. Also a friend of mine found
another buttonholer. It is the 1960 model with the manual, feed dog cover, 5
dies, etc in a green plastic bullet shaped case. In mint condition. She is
asking $25 including shipping. Email me directly at Shelley440@aol.com
Thanks for the input on all other matters and hope everyone had a happy
Thanksgiving and didn't get too stuffed!!
Shelley
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Subject:
Date: Fri, 24 Nov 95 10:06:15 -0600
Someone wrote:>>On a separate note, if anyone here has a spare throat plate,
with the seam allowances marked on it, for a FW, please email me and quote a
price? Many thanks...>>
A Stitch Back in Time in Texas had one throat plate with seam allowances for
$30. To see if they still have it call 1-800-352-1174. They are also a
good source for old machine parts, bobbins, etc. I was pleased with the
order that they shipped to me. Their catalog is filled with sewing-related
gifts of all kinds.
If anyone is looking for Nancy S-Johnson's Featherweight book, I have an
unused extra one for sale for $6 (shipping USA included). Also I have a
Singer slant needle Even Feed Foot (walking foot) unused for $10. E-mail
me at ragdoll@initco.net if you are interested.
Wish I could say I was going to shop the Christmas sales at Mall of America,
but sorry to say it's Mall of Helena so I think I'll skip it all together.
Terry
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Date: Fri, 24 Nov 1995 12:01:48 -0500 (EST)
Subject: No more trips
Well, the DH and I are probably ending our thrift store trips. Although we
are looking for FWs, all the old machines look so interesting and they say
"Take me home and clean me up and I will run." After picking up a 99K, 2
Spartans, 2 128s, a 328K, and a 329, we found ourselves buying a fairly
new Elnita just because it looked so nice and the price was right. This
can get to be a sickness. You want to buy them all.
The more machines you see, the more you wonder. Why were they still
making machines with shuttles in 1952? Why did they switch to matte black
for some models? Why did they go from red, green and gold to just gold?
Why did they ever tell people about the screw in the bobbin case? Seems
more good stitches are messed up by someone fooling with the bobbin
tension than any other reason. I swear some of my machines are
practically unused and probably the sewer messed up the tensions and asked
her husband to look at it and it never got fixed.
I've been complaining about the bad information we sometimes get when we
call Singer. Well, on the last two I called about I got my documentation
along with a note from a CSR, correcting the information she had given me.
I had her name so I wrote to her, asking how she got the correct data.
Seems to me here is one person who cares so I thought I would talk to her
and see if anything can be done. Hope she answers.
Hope those of you in the U.S. had a nice Thanksgiving. Did anyone else
have pumpkin pie for breakfast today?
Marilyn
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Date: Fri, 24 Nov 1995 14:35:39 EST
Subject: Hello fanatics
I really like hearing from Fran- She is certainly an
inspiration, and must have endless energy! Your projects
sound very interesting, Fran. It is great that you are
saving these wonderful old machines and making them useful
again. We would like to hear more of the continuing saga
from "Fran's workshop"!
I am looking for Singer foot #171071 or #161876, or any
other darning foot that was made by Singer for the
featherweight or other low-shank machines.
Thanks, Joe
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Date: Fri, 24 Nov 1995 13:51:06 -0800
Subject: Source of Featherweights
Anyone in the San Francisco Bay area that is looking for a Featherweight,
here is a good source.
Bills Antiques
2339 First Street
Livermore, CA 94550
Bus Ph: 510-449-9002
He had 5 in the store today when I was there. He says he has more. His
asking $350 and you can pick the one you like best. They are different
ages and have different accessories, all five had cases. One of them had a
zig-zag attachment in the case. He says he has some tables and will sell
the table with a Featherweight for $450 total. I ask him where he finds
them and he said most came from the east coast.
Gordy
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Date: Fri, 24 Nov 95 21:19 EST
Subject: Re: FW Fanatics 11/22/95
Since I began reading this list a few months ago and the talk began to
expand to other old Singers, I have been wondering just what I would find
when I finally got to dig out my mother's machine (which was before hers,
her mother"s) on which I learned to sew. All I could remember was that
it was an old Singer portable (ha!ha! -- it weighs about 75 pounds) in a
rounded top case that only sewed forward. You had to turn your fabric
around to backstitch your seams. We went north to visit my parents for
Thanksgiving, and the first thing I did after the greetings was to haul
out the old machine (with my son's muscle, of course). There she was --
an old red, green, and gold beauty, with a beautifully scrolled end
piece. Ahhh! for the days when machines were such lovely works of art!
But, alas, I am still confused about the identity of this damsal. The
manual included with her said 99-13, but when I read through the manual I
noticed that the pressure foot and all the attachments screw on from the
back on the machine itself, but in the manual the attachments, pressure
foot were attached from the side. My mother said that this was once an
old treadle machine that was converted to an electric portable. She
used to have the treadle base, but doesn't know where it is now. I
searched the machine for some identification, but could find none -- no
serial number, no nothing! I even turned her over to look on the bottom
side, as in the featherweights. I suspect that the manual may have been
given to my grandmother when she had the machine converted. Where do you
look for the serial numbers on these old machines? Help! Also found a
seam guide with this machine that I brought home to fit on my
featherweight. The other attachments (ruffler, hemmer, tucker,adjustable
hemmer, etc.) would not because they fit on from the back. What is a
99-13? Also, I have yet to hear mention of a Singer 237. This is my
machine that I started out with 25 years ago. She's a nice little basic
machine with zigzag built in, forward and back stitch, and the same
attachments that fit her, fit my 221. I got her the first year I was
married, and she has served me faithfully. I just finished my first
machine quilting with a walking foot on her. I pieced on my 221, and
quilted on the 237. Does anyone else have a 237?
Regards to all,
Marti
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Date: Sat, 25 Nov 1995 02:07:32 -0500
Subject: Re: Fw Fanatics 11/23/95
In a message dated 95-11-24 11:33:25 EST, you write:
>Am I the only one who wonders about the women who sewed on these old
>machines before they came into my hands?
>
I do wonder about the women who sewed on these old machines.
I read a wonderful book a friend loaned me called "The Quilter's -- Women and
Domestic Art. Although the subject is quilting, what is so fine about the
book is just the dialogue of these women and their life's story. It is truly
one of the most inspiring books I have yet to read.
Enjoying all the Singer talk. It's good to know about the various models.
I'm seeing all sorts of sm's in my search. It seems that Kenmore's are very
prevalent.
Maureen
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Date: Sat, 25 Nov 1995 09:02:52 -0500
Subject: happy mommy
Dear Friends I want you all to know that my newest darling arrived via UPS
from Zsuxxa last week and she is *exactly* as Joyce described her and she is
in beautiful shape and purrs like the proverbial kitten. She is two years
older than me and I only wish I looked so good!! I love her and keep
sneaking back in to peek at her - in fact her arrival inspired me to clean my
sewing room up and build new shelves!! It is so nice to have this list,
especially since very few folks really understand this passion. Henrietta
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Date: Sat, 25 Nov 1995 11:48:39 -0500 (EST)
Subject: Attachment
For Joe H:
Without a picture it's hard to tell for sure, but your "movable
bar" description suggests to me a foot with an attached quilting guide.
If this is the case, the bar should be L-shaped and can be moved in and out
perpendicular to the direction of stitching, to the right side of the
presser foot. The short end of the L just touches the surface of the quilt
and is used to keep a uniform distance between lines of straight quilting.
Just a guess on my part -- hope this makes sense.
Lydia,
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Date: 25 Nov 95 12:45:58 EST
Subject: VARIOUS FW &SINGER THOUGHTS
Dear FWFanatics Friends,
I have not posted a note for quite a while, so I thought I would write on a
variety of topics...I have a great Singer dealer here in Arizona--same family
owns multiple stores. I have learned a lot from them, and they and their
employees are always happy to share information. They always stock bobbins,
light bulbs, belts, etc. that fit the older Singer machines, so you might check
with your local Singer dealer to see if they do, too. Even my (great!) Bernina
dealer is a FW fan, and it is the only non-Bernina machine he will service--that
says a lot, because he is a perfectionist!
301 &301A - It is my understand that the various newly-manufactured Singer
slant feet fit the 301 and 301A's, including the walking foot. Even if the foot
has a zigzag needle opening, you can still use it on your 301 straight stitch
machine. It is not necessary to seek out just old 301 attachments. There have
also been a lot of comments recently about the questionable beauty of the 301,
and I strong vote FOR it's appearance ;-) It has so much going for it,
mechanically, and my Singer expert thinks it will be the next really
collectible Singer. Check it out if you can--it has all the good mechanical
features of the FWs (which I dearly love), plus a couple extras. It does have a
more contemporary shaped head than the FW--kind of 50ish--but is that so bad?
It is also made of cast aluminum and weighs in at about 16 lb.--only 7 lb. more
than our beloved FWs. It had drop feed dogs, a stronger motor (so I am told)
and a better light system. The slanted angle of the needle makes for better
sewing visibility, too. It has a tidy little built-in folding top handle on the
head, for greater portability. Singer also made a folding card table for the
301--like the FW card tables, but with a little larger opening to fit the 301.
As you can tell by now, I have become a big fan of FW's "big sister", the 301
(black) and 301A (tan) machine.
Speaking of Singer FW tables...do you know that Singer also made another type of
FW cabinet? It is a Cabinet 68 and is described as "...a simple and
attractive, early American Cabinet especially designed for use with the 221
Machine. Strongly constructed of fine hard maple and smoothly finished, this
cabinet combines beauty with utility. The oval top is quickly removed and
replaced and provides a spacious table when the cabinet is closed. A spool rack
is attached to the left door and there is ample storage room for attachments."
This description is quoted from Singer's own "Machine Sewing" book--a Treatise
on the Care and Use of Family Sewing Machines and Their attachments, dated 1948.
(If you can find any of these books that Singer published for Home Ec teachers,
get it!) My Singer people have only seen one of these maple cabinets, in a
client's home, and they say it is good looking. Ah, another thing for we FWFs
need to look for!
Many FWFs are looking for various old model manuals--I discovered a Viking
dealer who has filing cabinet drawers full of various old manuals of all
brands, but they are not real cheap--$10-$15 range usually. But, that is not
too bad for those of us who really need/want an original manual. So, ask around
at your various machine/repair shops--some of them might have manuals on hand
they don't usually advertise. This dealer told me they seek these manuals out,
mainly, to accompany their old trade-in sales, because it makes for a better,
more complete sale. But, they will sell them separately--ask around about those
manuals you are desperately seeking!
Some of you have wondered aloud about whether or not to buy a treadle machine
when the head is in good condition and the cabinet is not, or vice versa. Some
advice my Singer dealer gave me on this is to primarily shop for a good cabinet
that is appealing to you, because that is your main investment. He said if I
can find a great cabinet in the $100-$200 range, go for it and don't worry about
the head, because they have stacks of old Singer treadle heads in the $25-$35
price range. They said many of the old heads are interchangeable among the
various cabinets. I sure was glad to get that rule-of-thumb tip. You might
check the going price for old treadle heads in your area in advance of your
antiquing trips.
Regarding the "Sewing Machine Blue Book" published by Bobette Industries...it is
a great little booklet for any serious (and semi-serious) machine collector, but
please be aware of the copyright protection statement printed on one of it's
very first pages--we need to be careful to honor that in anything we FWFs print
here. I am not associated with the publisher in any way, but we do need to be
aware of their rights, for everyone's protection. So, I really do urge
everyone to purchase their own copy, from the sources previously posted. You
will be glad to have your own copy!
Joe H - your foot #35932 is definitely a quilting foot, and the long
movable rod is a quilting guide. I have come across 16 additional Singer
feet/attachment numbers, not previously listed--would the lady who is compiling
the attachment list let me know if she wants those numbers. (Sorry I do not
remember who she is, but I applaud her effort!)
Well, please forgive me the long length of this note, but I hope some of my
thoughts and information will be useful to some. I love all your notes, and
since I have been silent "lurking" for several weeks now, I thought it was time
for me to make a contribution to our delightful FW Digest. In many of your
closing comments, it is obvious that cold winter weather has hit most of the
USA, but not so here in the SW desert country. Yesterday it was 85 degrees, and
it takes a LOT of imagination to go Christmas shopping in that kind of weather!
I know this won't elicit much sympathy from you warm-weather fans, but it is
just too hot for Thanksgiving and Christmas!!
Happy sewing, antiquing and getting ready for the Holidays!
Shirley S.
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Subject: Misc.
Date: Sat, 25 Nov 1995 12:16:22 -0600
Hi Everyone!
Hope everyone had a great holiday. Can you believe that Christmas is
only a month away? UGH! I have to confess that I do have my shopping
done. I'll get the labels printed for my cards this weekend.20
This has to be the most incredible group of people I have run across in
a long time. Everyone is so helpful. I have to extend a special thanks
to Dale Pickens and his daughter, Gail. They are both incredible people.
I had posted that I was looking for a fw made in 1946. Gail lets me know
her dad had one, but sold it. Dale called me and offered to contact the
lady he sold it to last August to see if she would be interested in
exchanging the 48 fw for a higher quality one. Well, she did not. SIGH!!
(Remember, it was made two days after I was born.) So I am still on the
look out for a fw serial # around AG697761. I know it will be like
looking for a needle in a hay stack. Gail, when you read this thank your
father again for me. He is a special, special person. Maybe the lady in
SC will change her mind (Yes, I do believe in Santa Claus!) or maybe one
of you will come across one. Wish me luck.
I have a friend who is also looking for the wooden accessories box for a
66 treadle, either with or without the attachments. But it will have to
be reasonable.
JoAnn G
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Subject: Misc.
Date: Sat, 25 Nov 95 12:07:48 -0500
Barbara R : You asked about your 1865 machine manufactured by the Gold
Medal S.M. Co. The only reference I could find for this company in the
Grace Cooper Smithsonian book was that there was a company by that name in
Orange, Massachusetts. However, this books says they made machines from
1869 to 1876 which doesn't seem to fit your machine's patent dates. Perhaps
, since you are in Canada, there was a Canadian company by the same name.
There were also two machines actually named Gold Medal but both were made by
the National S.M. Co.
Susan R : Both National and Standard S.M. Cos. made machines named
Kenwood in the USA.
Maureen: You asked what "rotary" refered to. There is a debate on the
Bernina list about whether the Bernina oscillating bobbin (case) or the
rotary bobbin is better. The rotary turns a complete circle each time and
the oscillating swings back and forth. I would think your White Rotary
Treadle has a "rotary" mechanism. Interesting question.
About the Singer Circular Stitcher...I picked up a copy of the Bernina
leaflet on their stitcher ($34.95). The leaflet was only 20 cents but
doesn't tell one how to actually operate the device. Bernina's actually
attaches to the throat plate so I can't really compare the two. Does anyone
else out there have the Singer Circular Stitcher with instructions or has
anyone seen this device detailed in a Singer guide book? It is from the
1970's.
There is a book called Know Your Singer by Jackie Dodson published in 1989
that does detail a way to circular stitch without this attachment. Anyone
with a Singer zigzag machine of any era would get some good sewing ideas
from this book. I still see them in sewing shops on occasion. It was
published by the Chilton Book Company.
Terry
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Date: Sat, 25 Nov 1995 14:40:24 -0500
Subject: Answer? for Lotsascrap
In the FWF today, I saw these questions from Lotsascrap:
<>
My best guess, since I only became an "expert" a couple of
weeks ago, is that the machine is a 128. The 99s have a drop
in bobbin, but the 128s have the shuttle type. The 128 I
have has the lovely gold, red, and green deco. As to the
feet, my guess is that it only takes one foot - one that
comes down straight and then makes a jog to the left so the
needle can hit the hole in the feed dog cover. I have used
standard Singer needles threaded from left to right in my
128.
I hope I have not lead you astray with my best guesses.
On Thanksgiving day I gave thanks for Sue's wonderful work bringing us this
very interesting, informative, and fun Featherweight Fanatics list. Thanks so
much.
Christine T.
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Date: Sat, 25 Nov 1995 15:59:04 -0500
Subject: ZigZag &Buttonholer ForSale
Hi All,
Picked up some duplicate attachments. Anyone interested? They are:
Singer Buttonholer #160506- Will work on FW. Has original 5 templates, feed
dog cover, and green plastic box. Very good condition. No manual but I can
send a copy of one. $20 plus shipping.
Singer Automatic Zigzagger #161102 for Classes 15, 201, 221 and 1200. Has
original box, manual and all 4 cams. Excellent condition. $25 plus shipping.
E-mail if interested. Thanks! Katy
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Date: Sat, 25 Nov 1995 16:58:37 EST
Subject: Certificate of Post War Credit
Got a couple of old Singer books today and in one of them was a Certificate
of Post War Credit for a Singer Sewing Machine. It certifies $10.00 was
paid for a class in home sewing and $10.00 would be taken off on a new
machine when Singer resumes production of machines for family use. It is
dated March 28, 1945. Thought some of you might find this interesting, I did.
Al
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Date: Sat, 25 Nov 1995 17:00:08 -0500
Subject: All kinds of things.
First, I want to thank every one who translated the writing on my
German Singer bank. I did a little research on it and it turns out it was
only produced in Germany around 1925. The other model with the dometop case
on a treadle base was made around 1910.
Second, I want to gloat, I mean tell you all about some wonderful
things I picked up at an ephemera show yesterday.
I only found one sewing machine manual, for a 1913 66-1, which I don't
have, but you never know when it will come in handy.
I found a copy of "A manual of Family Sewing Machines" by Singer it says
it was a Singer Educational Publication for use in schools - no charge. It's
great. I now know that the treadle I have is a model 127, maybe a 127-3. It
also listed four different wall charts measuring 36x40-1/2, each showed a
different stitch mechanism. Has anyone ever seen these? It then mentioned
that the 16 bird cards mentioned on this list a couple weeks ago were for
nature study classes. I got 13 of the 16 in the c.1900 set last night. The
back of one shows a Singer needle threader that I have seen, and didn't have
a clue what it was. Another shows a clear glass bottle that held oil. I have
one with the Singer logo in relief, but this shows it with a label also,
which mine is missing.
Someone had both the 18 piece set of people from other lands sewing on
Singers for $65, and the 33 piece set for $125. Both were perfect and even
had the original packaging. He said he would sell both for $150, but doesn't
that still sound high?
I found a number of ads with Featherweights, although they all only show
a small picture along with other machines. One is from Country Gentleman,
Feb, 1950 and says the Featherweight is the "best-seller among machines" and
"sews over pins". March 1951 Country Gentleman shows the back side of the
Featherweight. March 1946 Ladies Home Journal shows an "early American"
cabinet in "fine maple" for the Featherweight. It has an oval top and two
doors that the case probably fits behind. Needlecraft The Home Arts Magazine
Dec. 1934 shows the Featherweight and says to "cut out this ad and present
it when purchasing your Singer - it will entitle you to a free Singercraft
set, the famous Singer Rug-making outfit". Other ads I can't identify the
source of show the rugmaker at work, the sewing notion cabinet that looks
like a nightstand, the little black toy Singer in "Leatherette" case, and on
one ad both the Featherweight, and what must be Godzilla are pictured
together, but it's ok, they are opposite corners, so the featherweight in the
picture wasn't contaminated. This picture also shows the heavier portable
(301?) in black, but with a tan/brown case. They didn't have matching cases?
By the way, I am the not so proud owner of the son of Godzilla. Babyzilla is
a hideous two toned green toy Hoge that when the machine was formed, the
sheet of metal was just sort of wrapped around a mold, and it looks all
wrinkled where the bends are. Sorry, rather bad description, but then you
don't really want to envision this thing anyway.
My best find from the show is a puzzle that has been glued together and
framed. At the top it says "Singer Buffalo Puzzle". It shows a green wagon
with the Singer logo and red wheels pulled by two buffalo, and in the back of
the wagon is a crate and you can see par tof a treadle sewing machine in the
crate. It measures about 7x10 and is just wonderful. It was rather expensive
though, so I didn't buy its sister which was a group of American Indians (I
think in front of a teepee) and one woman is using a treadle. If anyone is
interested in this I have the name of the dealer who has it. I think they
wanted $65 for that one.
By the way, if you are looking for Singer papergoods, be sure to check
the World's Fair sections. Singer had pamphlets they handed out, but they are
pricy. The one I saw for the Columbian Exposition was priced at $40, but was
great if you collect the older machines.
I've had a few people ask me if I'm going to stop taking surveys anytime
soon, and as long as Nancy S-J's next book doesn't answer all the questions
I've got, then I plan on accepting them indefinately. Speaking of which, we
now have around 180 surveys in, and I'll post an update shortly. (Let's see,
go shopping for Featherweight stuff, or post the update? Ok, Ok, I'll make
the time soon.)
Happy Featherweighting,
Krisi
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