Do I need a Featherweight?
 

I own 4 sewing machines, a model 66 Singer treadle machine, an Elna Quilter's Dream, a 301A Singer and a Singer Touch n Sew.

I need to know what benefit it would be to purchase a FW? As you can probably tell I am trying to convince myself that I need to have one.

I have been sewing quilts for 12 years now, don't do my own quilting on larger pieces, don't have room for a long arm quilting machine, I use all my machines.

Any suggestions?

Do you need? No. A 301 is basically the same, except it's a touch heavier and can drop the feed dogs. Do you want is a totally different subject.

I thought I had to have one, and got one. I have yet to sew on it. I sew on my old Touch n' sew I've had for ages. Since it was new. I guess it is over 50 yrs. old.

I got my Touch n Sew in 1972, husband got it overseas, it has been a great machine. My daughter had it for a few years and then gave it back to me, now it gets used every week at our church quilting sessions.

I love my 301A, and I guess I don't really NEED another machine, it would be a status symbol...and who can afford that?

I need all 4 of mine!:o They are just so cute! I don't use them all the time, but when I'm sewing something that has to be super accurate I use a featherweight. You can't beat the nice straight stitch. I also have other old Singers and I like to use them all from time to time.:thumbup:

Mine stays in it's rolling carrying case and goes with me to my Guild meetings, sit and sew and retreats. I love it!

Need is subjective. With your other machines I wouldn't say it's a need, but if you want one and have some spare cash why not? I have been using mine happily the last few weeks. It's super quiet and takes up a tiny bit of space on my table.

Agreed. I don't think need has as much to do with it as want. :) That said, I really like my FW. (I wanted it so I got it.)

I borrowed my mother in laws featherweight a few years ago with the idea that I would take it to guild meetings. I spent more time trying to figure out if I had it threaded right. It was rather slow sewing compared to what I was use to. I have an extra heavier machine to pack around, and as long as I can, I will use that. It was a good lesson for me before I went out and spent the money on one. What do you want it for? If it was the ease of carrying and then see if you can sew on one before you make the purchase.