Congratulations on your new featherweight!! Do you have a picture of her?
Your FW was made in 1948. I’m not sure what date though. You might like this website about Singers
http://singerfeatherweight221.blogsp...herweight.html You can also call Singer 1-800-4-SINGER to find out how old your Singer is, just give them the serial #.
The flat part of the needle faces left and you thread right to left. I think the needle goes in differently for FW’s made in other countires. I can’t remember where you can get manuals but there IS a place to get them (mine came with one.) As soon as I find out I’ll let you know. Someone else may be able to help you. You can also call
Here is a link to “Vintage Sewing Machine Shop … Come on in and sit a spell”
http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-43881-1.htm for vintage sewing machine owners. Billy (Lostn51) knows a lot about vintage sewing machines.