Originally Posted by AshleyO
I just wanted to cross post this here, as it may relate to some of you :)
I am looking for an older Singer or similar all-metal machine. I am still fairly new to sewing and my very basic machine died on me. Hubby and I are tight on money so hoping to find a good used machine that will last and last. I heard the Singer models 301, 328, 401, 403, 500a, Slant-O-Matic, Rocketeer, etc are very good workhorse types. I am willing to pay for shipping and then some for the machine as well, but our budget is pretty limited. Please PM me :) Thank you for your time.
Ashley
Most any vintage Singer, the ones up to about the 600 series, pre 1970 are great machines. Stay away from the Touch and Sew that used plastic feed dogs and parts. The Rocketeer (500 series) are great machines. I love my 503a, but to make all the fancy stitches you have to use cams. My Rocketeer has a buttonhole attachment and a monogram attachment. I love the machine! Just be careful with any of the newer Singers.
You will be better off going to yard, barn, and thrift store sales to find a cheap machine. The shipping would cost more than most of those places charge. I got my 503a Rocketeer from a barn sale for $10! I got most of my vintage machines for under $50, even got a very nice treadle for $45. Just start hunting, as they say here, the machines will find you! Good luck!
Nancy