Maggie67

I seen a 221 FW today that had an oval under the Singer badge which said 221-A. It had a singer light, but I can't find any info on a machine having this oval badge. It was a very nice machine, but I don't want to purchase a clone. Any help will be most appreciated. TIA.

Jennifer23

Is it similar to this? (I borrowed this image from cindysantiquequilts.com/dynapage/IP315.htm)
[ATTACH=CONFIG]446457[/ATTACH]

Other people might have more insight into this, but I have seen pictures of quite a few Featherweights with this type of label, including black ones. I'm not sure what the A would stand for; the J in this picture is because it was made in Canada, and the K often seen means made in Scotland.

I've never heard of a Featherweight clone, so I suspect it's genuine if it looks right in all other ways. Could you post a photo of it? People might be able to give you more input then.

Vridar

Somewhere in the back of my mind I think the "A" signifies Anderson, SC. But, were some FWs manufactured in Anderson? Someone will know.

I found this quote on ISMACS concerning the manufacturing of the 301a; "I no longer own this machine, but I thought it would be nice to include. This machine is identical to my 301a in body style and parts. The "a" in "301a"stands for where the machine was made - Anderson, SC - and is the only difference between them."

tenngal

I've seen many - it's not a clone. The "A" is for where is was made.

Maggie67

Thanks for the help everyone. My oops though!! I went back and checked it over and the bottom badge said "221-". It seems to not have been used much. The case is in nearly new condition. It has a manual, however missing the front cover and is missing the screws that hold the extension on. The serial is AM697287 which gives a January 29, 1957 birthday. The decals are in mint condition. I already have a 1947 model with no case or manual, but have a zigzagger attachment I found at a thrift shop for it...cheap. So now I am proud to say I have two FW. I bought it!!! Love these little machines and the song they sing as I sew.

redmadder

I love the music of the machine. My 1941 15 sings in E flat. Once I put the 185 in a wooden box, it went from clickety click to, well I'd have to get out the tuning fork, but very pleasant to listen to. No, haven't seen a 221-A. Sorry, to much of my brain is taken up by music.

Maggie67

The case for my new baby has what looks like splatters of white paint on it. What is the best to clean these cases. I sure don't want to take the black off. It isn't really terrible, but if I can clean it I will. TIA.