Still Sew N

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.

leonf

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.

leonf

Be careful. Once they move in, they call their family members.[ATTACH=CONFIG]619359[/ATTACH]

OurWorkbench

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.

sewbizgirl

Love that picture, Leon!

luvstoquilt

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

Battle Axe

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.

Aurora

I have two Singers in the coffin cases. However, both need rewiring before I will try sewing on them and I am not ready to foot the bill for rewiring on both.

bkay

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

Still Sew N

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!