How to Judge a Good old Machine
#1
Super Member
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Join Date: Aug 2013
Posts: 9,299
How to Judge a Good old Machine
I think I made a big mistake by joining the QB because now I really, really, REALLY a beautiful antique sewing machine! The more I look, the more I like. That being said, I found one on Craigslist that is a pretty black Singer. Those of you with experience, could you please tell me what questions should I ask in reply to the CL ad, and then--if I want to see the thing based on their reply--what should I look for in person? I don't want to be swayed by beauty alone, or overpay. Prices out there range from $25 yard sale stuff to $450 and sometimes the cheapies appear better than the pricy ones. Please help. Today is my birthday and I feel like splurging, so I truly need wisdom and self-control to keep from making a mistake!
#2
Super Member
Join Date: Jan 2011
Location: Sierra Vista, AZ
Posts: 3,992
You did not say whether you wanted a treadle machine or an electric machine. There are so many variables.
For your first vintage machine look for a machine that appears to be in good shape and that it has had prior good care. One of the first things I do is turn the hand wheel to see if it will move freely. Does it have accessories and a manual AKA goodies? If electric does it have a foot controller and is the wiring in good shape. Visit the machine and test drive it. Be willing to pay a bit more for your first machine. That is the beginning, I am sure others will jump in and give you more advice. Happy Birthday
For your first vintage machine look for a machine that appears to be in good shape and that it has had prior good care. One of the first things I do is turn the hand wheel to see if it will move freely. Does it have accessories and a manual AKA goodies? If electric does it have a foot controller and is the wiring in good shape. Visit the machine and test drive it. Be willing to pay a bit more for your first machine. That is the beginning, I am sure others will jump in and give you more advice. Happy Birthday
#3
Junior Member
Join Date: Jan 2013
Location: Kansas City, MO
Posts: 255
Consider too what you want your vintage machine to do. I have a vintage dressmaker with a ton of ZZ stitches and a FW for piecing. There are a lot of variables depending on treadle, HC or Electric or ZZ. Obvs. if it's a ZZ, make sure all the stitches work (including reverse). I generally try out the machine if the hand wheel moves. I sew a minute or so, chat up the seller, sew some more, repeat until you're comfortable. Take a scrap of your own fabric that you would regularly sew on, make sure the bobbin winder works, check wiring and check for goodies. Remember, if you feel like you got a fair price and so does the seller and you are happy with your purchase then you got a good deal. Good luck!
#5
Senior Member
Join Date: Sep 2012
Location: N.of Montgomery
Posts: 424
We could go on and on and on ,,,,BUT Trivia 42 said it in her last sentence.
IF I am happy with my purchase...All is good,if in doubt I leave it.
I hope this helps and good " hunting" ,it is just the 1st.
IF I am happy with my purchase...All is good,if in doubt I leave it.
I hope this helps and good " hunting" ,it is just the 1st.
#6
Going through the comments here will get you going
http://www.quiltingboard.com/vintage...t-t222097.html
http://www.quiltingboard.com/vintage...t-t222097.html
#8
Super Member
Join Date: Jun 2009
Location: Central Illinois
Posts: 2,329
Going through the comments here will get you going
http://www.quiltingboard.com/vintage...t-t222097.html
http://www.quiltingboard.com/vintage...t-t222097.html
Thanks for posting this link...I didn't see it before. Good info.
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