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Singer Sewing Machine Question?
For quite a few years I've wanted to learn how to sew, but I didn't have a machine or the know how to buy one. Recently, I was fortunate enough to be given a 1950 Singer Featherweight 221. Everywhere I look on line I read how it's a great machine that will last for years and years ...and it's particularly favored by quilters. Groovy.
Since I don't currently have any aspirations of making quilts or even clothes for that matter, the above assertions aren't making much sense to me. All I'd like to be able to make is the occasional simple curtain, bed covers for my pooches, and occasionally a lame costume for the same pups. Ok, maybe I stretched the truth a bit; I may want to make dog clothes and blankies. Just trying to keep my goals reasonable here...
Can anyone tell me more about this machine, does it fall into those parameters? Or would I be better off selling the machine and buying a newer one?
Thoughts, advise or random chocolate chip cookie recipes accepted.
6 Answers
- Anonymous8 years agoFavorite Answer
I sewed on a 301 (the 221's "big sister") for about 35 years. Yes, your machine can do everything you are mentioning, but will require a Greist attachment to do buttonholes, and a zigzag attachment to zigzag, if you want to do either of those two things.
Do you have a manual for the machine? http://www.singerco.com/uploads/download/644_221k....
Here's my advice on machines for beginners:
Source(s): 50 years of sewing - Nana LambLv 78 years ago
There are a number of groups here on Yahoo! Singer groups, Featherweight groups, and specific 221 groups. They can help you with most of your questions.
I recommend you go to bookstore or sewing center and buy the Singer Sewing Book. Is a bit pricey, but so worth the price. It doesn't have doggie clothes in it, but everything else is there including threading the machine and the bobbins.
I am making halters to match my re-enactment costumes for my trio of fur babies. They may eventually get fancier clothes, but some of them get too hot anyway out on Quads of old forts.
- dripLv 78 years ago
any home sewing machine can make curtains or pet beds.
this home sewing machine has a straight stitch which can sew just about any thing. This is a basic machine, but a very good solid machine. You should have no problem with making curtains or dog beds.
You will have trouble with any kind of stretch fabric.
- 4 years ago
I have been gifted a 306 singer machine. New to sewing and would like to know what size needle and foot should I use for lightweight leather. Mostly a maximum of 8 oz. Also what would be the heaviest thread I can use. Thanks
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- Renee GLv 68 years ago
That machine is worth your weight in chocolate chip cookies. Maybe five times your weight in chocolate chip cookies.
It is 3/4 size, to be more portable, but the lock stitch is supposed to be "perfect".
- Anonymous5 years ago
Cheap, comparatively, and they come in packs of various sizes and kinds. The cost depends on the type and kind and number you get. (Anywhere from a few dollars and up) Go to your nearest good fabric store. They will carry them. I shop in both Jo-Ann Etc. and Hancock Fabrics and have seen them.
