Singer 66-16 - What do you know?
#1
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Join Date: May 2018
Location: South Dakota
Posts: 332
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At a thrift store, I saw a Singer 66-16 in a wooden case with foot pedal and some accessories. Also comes with the wooden domed type style cover. It is listed for $100. Does anyone know about this machine? Fair price? I've been to ebay and youtube and the price seems more than fair but since I just don't know much about the machine so I thought I'd ask the folks here. The folks with all the knowledge. Thanks.
#2
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Have you seen it run and stitch? For $100 I would expect it to do both. What accessories are with it? Does it have the decals you like? Prices vary with location and condition. Are you content to use a machine that is straight stich only without accessories? I am not sure if the -16s even have a backtack. I am thinking not. Check the cords carefully before you plug them in. Many have very poor insulation.
#4
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I agree with Leon, except for the comment about reverse. The 66-16 does have what they call "back tack" to reverse the direction of the stitches. Some machines that have reverse will have a stop on the stitch length assembly and when you move the lever it will reverse but keep stitches the same length as forward. I believe this is not the case with the 66-16, I think the back stitch could be a different length than the forward.
Janey - Neat people never make the exciting discoveries I do.
Janey - Neat people never make the exciting discoveries I do.
#6
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Join Date: Feb 2011
Location: Yorkville, IL
Posts: 7,639
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I wish I had known this a few years ago. My machines are taking over my home! When I moved here I had a sewing room in my basement, next I added a bedroom, later I moved into the library as well and now my sunroom is being threatened. I thought quilting was addictive but nothing like machines. Lol
#7
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So I'm at this retreat in Shipshewana and I take the Sparrow, except I can't find the power cord. And I see these other quilters with Featherweights and these darling little tables that just fit the Featherweight. Oh, no! can you feel it coming?
I sold both my Featherweights because I could not stand the smell of my grandmother's old house in the oil that was in them. I gave up trying to get it out. But now I want another one. The girls next to me have newer ones. No smell. I know where there is one. I"m going to go smell it.
I sold both my Featherweights because I could not stand the smell of my grandmother's old house in the oil that was in them. I gave up trying to get it out. But now I want another one. The girls next to me have newer ones. No smell. I know where there is one. I"m going to go smell it.
#9
Super Member
Join Date: Mar 2016
Posts: 2,867
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I would expect a 66 to be in excellent condition to pay $100. for it, both cosmetically and mechanically.
Be aware that the 66 is the least expensive sewing machine that Singer made. The 15-91 was the next model up, with the 201-2 being the top of the line. Both the 15-91 and the 201-2 are quieter than the 66. A well serviced 201-2 just purrs. You can usually find a 201-2 or 15-91 for the same price as a 66. All are straight stitch only machines.
Vintage sewing machines are all over the map. Yesterday, on local sites (craigslist and offerup), vintage black Singers are listed from $50.00 to $650.00, but most were in cabinets. There was even a beige 301 in a case on OfferUp for $100.
I'd suggest you learn about the vintage machines before you decide to start purchasing them. That way, you don't end up with a house full of machines you don't use. Read about them and their advantages and decide what meets you wants and needs.
jmo
bkay
Be aware that the 66 is the least expensive sewing machine that Singer made. The 15-91 was the next model up, with the 201-2 being the top of the line. Both the 15-91 and the 201-2 are quieter than the 66. A well serviced 201-2 just purrs. You can usually find a 201-2 or 15-91 for the same price as a 66. All are straight stitch only machines.
Vintage sewing machines are all over the map. Yesterday, on local sites (craigslist and offerup), vintage black Singers are listed from $50.00 to $650.00, but most were in cabinets. There was even a beige 301 in a case on OfferUp for $100.
I'd suggest you learn about the vintage machines before you decide to start purchasing them. That way, you don't end up with a house full of machines you don't use. Read about them and their advantages and decide what meets you wants and needs.
jmo
bkay
#10
Senior Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: May 2018
Location: South Dakota
Posts: 332
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Thank you all! Great advice and I loved that photo. Truly the best. And I think I fit right in as I find myself drawn towards these old machines. Most of mine work, several don't - can't really explain the addiction except I seem to have one. Thanks again!
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