Is there a list somewhere on what machines or not so good?
10-04-2013, 06:59 AM
#12
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I'm always a sucker for a family history link when I look at old machines at yard sales. The Singer I bought in a cabinet for $30 belonged to the woman's mother and she remembered her sitting by a window in her bedroom making dresses and pajamas for her and her doll. The woman was moving into a senior complex and didn't have room for two machines, so she kept her new embroidery machine. I think it's a 66, but not positive. It's a beauty and sews like a dream.
10-04-2013, 11:49 AM
#15
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HMM There were some nice machines mentioned but the older Kenmore and old metal Japanese machines will sew darn well. Older European machines are really nice but can be complicated. If I were starting out... I would find a machine that looks like it has had use unless you are just a collector. I say that because chances are it is a good one and will work just fine. If you don't have much in one you can feel free to tinker a bit.
10-04-2013, 01:05 PM
#16
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[ATTACH=CONFIG]439702[/ATTACH]
From the video. This is what's driving the hook.
ETA: I'd still take this over the nylon version of the same I found in the Bernette a few weeks ago. This shouldn't skip time like that did. That said, it's terribly loud and it does look a little violent like Brian says.
From the video. This is what's driving the hook.
ETA: I'd still take this over the nylon version of the same I found in the Bernette a few weeks ago. This shouldn't skip time like that did. That said, it's terribly loud and it does look a little violent like Brian says.
Last edited by ArchaicArcane; 10-04-2013 at 01:17 PM.
10-04-2013, 01:11 PM
#17
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Your question is which machines to avoid. Here is a YouTube about the 285 to avoid.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=tj6XaW-Wk98
This Singer has a dirty secret but you'd never know to look at it. Modeled after the popular 185.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=tj6XaW-Wk98
This Singer has a dirty secret but you'd never know to look at it. Modeled after the popular 185.
10-04-2013, 07:56 PM
#18
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The link opened for me. I wouldn't limit myself to well known 'American' names. My Montgomery Wards clone and my gorgeous Admiral sew as well as any Singer 15. I do limit myself to pre 1975. No plastic wonders here - well, almost. Today's machine is a 1970s MW that has a stitch none of my others have. I'm sure it has some nylon parts somewhere. My 301 is my go to piecer and quilter.
10-05-2013, 08:38 AM
#20
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