As explained elsewhere, my 20-year-old Singer died on me yesterday; a neighbor has offered me her 40-year-old Montgomery Ward "Signature" model URR 285. Still trying to track the actual year made.

Here's what it looks like and all it came with. (It's a BOAT!!! The BUICK station wagon of "portable" sewing machines!)

I had one similar to that one, years ago. I remember it had a nice hum to it.

I had one years ago too... As I recall it.. it hummed right along.. but wt'd a TON!

Wow! Nice machine.

Looks like it hasn't had much use. that was nice of her.

Looks like a gorgeous machine to me!

Wow Jill! I know it's not a FW, but what an amazing machine.

I know that it weighs a lot, but use it at home. This would seem to be an amazing find to have with the manual and all the attachments. I'm certain it will last much longer than any other newer machine that are being sold.

Have you looked to see if there is a serial number anywhere?

If you need a machine for class or meetings, then just buy a cheap newer lighter machine.

That was really nice of your neighbor. Enjoy your new machine.

Pam M

I have the same machine that I picked up at an auction last summer for $15. It came with all the goodies and manuel. I haven't been able to find any information about mine either.

What a great looking machine. Have fun with it.

i'm worried about needle compatibility.

and now I think i have another problem (don't laugh): i started searching craigslist and then reading Billy's tutorials for cleaning treadle machines and um... I'm afraid, very very afraid I may be developing a new addiction....

I have my mom's Monkey Works it has the cams also but dad bought the cabnet for mom...she never liked it as much as her Kenmore...still have the sales receipt dated 1976

I have a Montgomery Ward machine made in 1934. I love it. Yes, it weighs a ton but it sure is pretty. I'm trying to hunt down a manuel for mine. So far no luck. I know alot of people just love the Singers but I seem to be more drawn to these type of machines. Please let us know how it sews. I want so much to get mine going it's driving me crazy. :( Good luck with yours. :thumbup:

Beautiful machine!!! It doesn't look like she ever used it. Or if she did, she certainly took meticulous care of it.

Ditto

She is a beauty! I have a 1969 White limited edition specially designed for G. Fox & Company stores. I always call mine an old Buick too because it is all cream and burgandy enameled with a high gloss shine! LOL!

Looks like a nice one.

[quote=KatFish]I have the same machine that I picked up at an auction last summer for $15. It came with all the goodies and manuel. I haven't been able to find any information about mine either.[/quote\\\


I can beat that. I got one just like that, cabinet & all, for a $1 at an auction. They couldn't get a bid. I sewed a beautiful stitch. Sold it at my auction when we moved to the apt. No room. Also sold my FW for $265. Not too bad. Wish I had them both but no room.

Since last posting, I've been sewing all afternoon and evening. I opened it up and oiled it. Read the manual and learned how to thread it, etc... Then I worked on my Lone Star Gone Wrong UFO-- got the six-inch border made and on. (C'mon gal288, you gotta catch up with me.....!!! in-joke.)

Like a good old Buick, it drives really nicely. It's twice as old as my Singer (which, comparatively, drove like a Corolla-- steady, but not quite as smooth).

Anyway, I am VERY VERY Happy with it. The story behind it is that the previous owner purchased it shortly after finishing college, thinking she would become the seamstress her mother and grandmother were. Didn't happen. She used it for a few things, then put it away. So it's hardly been used.

I'm a bit anxious about the "cams" and the fancy stitching. I'll need one of those to do machine appliqué. One thing at a time.

I just feel really lucky and blessed. I had a new machine -- for free!!! -- in less than 24 hours!

I've offered to make a quilt for a favorite cause or organization of the woman who gave it to me.

-- Jillaine

Beautiful machine!

Wow! Looks like she never used it!

Sure looks well cared for. My MIL had one for years that looked sort of like. She loved it and did a lot of beautiful sewing projects on it.

I too have the same machine. I don't have all the goodies that go with it though. I would gladly pay for a copy of the manual.

I have the Montogomery ward Singature that is a sister to your machine, I bought this machine in 1976 new, have all of the attachments and manual that goes with it.When I moved to TX in 1985, it went into storage. Last week I took it out of storage cleaned and oiled it, installed it in a cabinet I purchased from neighbor. She still sews like she did when she was brand new. when I first bought her, I used her nearly every day to make clothing for my 5 children and myself. Has NEVER been to a shop! Always cleaned and oiled at least once a month when using it every day. Still sews bueatifully and just a gentle hum, quitier than many of the newer machines. Enjoy your machine, read the manual and you will really fall in love with your machine. maggiebb

What a great neighbor. Have fun.

You have really been blessed with this machine. I still say that if my Viking(2003) ever dies(God forbid, as I love this machine), I will only have vintage machines. You can't beat them...all metal and they purr like a kitten.

It may be 40 years old but it sure looks brand new to me! I wonder if she ever used it, but if so, probably just for mending a few items over the years. It's in fantastic condition!

Just bought one of these models at GOODWILL for $30. It had all the attachments & the Manual. It looks BRAND NEW! I've never sewn before...but I need to learn so I can sew zippers into my Leather bags.Even if it doesn't work on thicker leather, which I doubt, I'll be happy! Wade I'm 60.

That's a beauty - and all the other stuff. You are one lucky girl!!!

http://pages.sewing-machine-manuals....923271392.html this says 1971. What a beautiful machine you have there.

I bought a similar one at Salvation Army for $13.50 then paid $12.95 for a replacement bobbin case, so for under $30 I have a machine with a great serpentine stitch. That's the only thing it has my vintage Elna doesn't, but it worth keeping it for. You did well. A machine for a quilt - a lovely barter.