I've been reading how some of you have found Singer featherweights and love them...My question is "do you really use them or are they just for display".
I've been researching them because you all made me curious and find that if I were to buy one it would be a 301A. But why would I buy one, would I really use it when I have the modern sewing machines...

The featherweight only weighs about 11 lbs. It is perfect for taking to classes, retreats, etc (as long as you only need a straight stitch). It sews a beautiful stitch and they are just plain ADORABLE!!! :)

BOTH. Ours is actually one my DH parents bought him when he left home in 1978. It is 221model 40's but I don't remember exact yr right now. We use it, she's pretty, and purrs like a kitten!!!

Thanks for asking this question! I've been wondering this myself.

I am blessed to have my mother-in-law's Featherweight and I use it at home and at our sewing ministry's weekly meetings. It is especially nice to sew patchwork because the seam is so straight. The needle doesn't waver. I guess it's the simple things in life that bring us the most pleasure sometimes.

Not everyone. I guess there's already my DH's GM's treadle sitting here.
He's the only one who can use it. I never got the hang of treadles so it
will probably remain unused as I took over the sewing jobs. I use my
Janome or my Kenmore or just mend by hand if I have to. Yes, I do
mending. <sigh> LOL

Nothing can beat piecing on a FW!(for me)...pab

they will outlast anything on the market today

Sure will.....

they just don't make them like they used to.

I got a brand new Singer for $400 for Christmas 2010. It died just shy of it being a year old.

The oldies just don't stop. Give them a lil oil, a lil TLC and they'll last forever