Hi and good morning to everyone. This is such a wonderful and informed group, I thought perhaps you could help me. I am considering purchasing a Singer model 301a. This is what is called the "big sister" to the 201 featherweight. I want a little heavier machine and have an opportunity to get what looks like a nice one. If anyone has this machine can you tell me how you like it? Also, since I know nothing about these vintage machines, will I be able to do FMQ on this machine? Can you even purchase a FMQ foot for it? It is supposed to have a long bed on it which I like and the seller says there is no rust and it has been recently serviced. Any comments or opinions would be very helpful. Also, I would like to thank everyone that participates in keeping this forum going. Like a lot of other people, I so look forward each day to reading the posts and viewing the wonderful pictures of the quilts. Although I don't post often, I feel very comfortable here!

Can you look at it in person and take her for a ‘test run?’ How much are they asking?

Have you seen the thread here ‘Vintage Sewing Machines?’ Here’s the link http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-43881-1.htm Vintage sewing machine lovers (and Billy who has a ton of knowledge about vintage sewing machines) participate in this thread. You could also post a question on that thread directly to those who collect, use and love these vintage machines.

I have a FW 221 and would like to get the 301 also. My little FW is not made for heavy fabrics like denim although she would probably do it. I’ve read that you can FMQ with the FW but haven’t done any FMQ yet. Both machines are similar but the 301’s motor is about 4 lbs. heavier than the FW’s so I’m guessing but don’t want to give you the wrong advice.

Good luck and please keep us posted on how this goes. If you do get this machine share a pic with us.

Do I? I have two! Just recently purchased them. They are awesome! I do know the feed dogs drop on them. It would depend on how much they are asking, what kind of condition it is in. Does it come with a book?

Love my 301s. Much better than a FW in my opinion. They are gear driven rather than belt driven, so they are more powerful. The handle on the top makes them easy to transport. The dogs drop for FMQ and the harp is a little larger.

Thanks Scrap Happy and deedum. The machine is currently on ebay as a buy it now for $200 and $40 shipping. The pictures that are posted look very nice and I have asked the seller several questions. Yes it does come with a lot of accessories and the book and it is in a case that looks great. I did a lot of reading about this machine last night on the internet. It is quite impressive and I love the fact that it is heavy duty. I can remember my mother had a 301 in the tan color when I was just a kid. She was a seamstress and made her living sewing. She put many a mile on that machine. She simply loved her Singers and would have nothing else. I have asked the seller one more question and am waiting for an answer from him now, then will make my decision. I will keep you informed. Thanks, Barbo

Your Mom was a smart lady. They are wonderful machines!!
The 301 is starting to go up in price I noticed. I got one on ebay too but a lot cheaper.

Still, if you can afford it go for it, you won't be sorry.

I recently bought mine from craigslist for $125 with the cabinet, original chair, and 4 of the expensive attachments plus the regular set of attachments. I know that I got a great deal, but when I looked on my craigslist today, there were at least 2 more of the things for sale under $200, and one for $400 with the cabinet, so try looking there.
I love this machine for FMQ! I bought the foot for it and it works really well. I also have a featherweight, and the 301 feels just like it.
You wont regret getting this machine, it is a workhorse, mine is a 1951 mocha short bed 301.

I have three 301's that I recently purchased. The black 301's cost more than the other ones. You can adjust, clean, and maintain yourself. Great feature and saves money to spend on fabric! I have only practiced FMQ with it. I loved it!! I got the FMQ foot from April 1930's. Nice foot. I just purchased the even feed foot that fits this machine. I also purchased the instruction and maintenance booklets. Well worth the money. Good luck!

Nancy
Quilter711

The 301 is a wonderful machine and a real workhorse. Mine is tan with cream in nearly perfect condition. I found it on Ebay for just $80, plus shipping, a couple of years ago ... a lucky find! The prices are going up on them, so waiting will probably just get more expensive! You will love it.

Thanks everyone! I just purchased the 301a and I am so excited. I don't know how I am going to be able to function until it gets here. LOL. I am already shopping for the free motion, walking and 1/4" foot. Just can't wait to get my hands on "Agnes". That was my mom's name and that is going to be the name of my new girl. Proper tribute to the woman who "made" me learn how to sew. She would be so "tickled" about my passion for sewing and this Singer 301a. I will post pics. Barbo