If you use search and look for featherweight there will be suggestions about the smell. The one machine I found last year was very clean but smelly. The biggest problem seems to be the animal glue used in making the case. Ordor Eaters (for feet) did the best job for me. Also on the bottom of the machine there should be a felt washer. Remove that and replace with some batting or felt until you can get a replacement. The odor on the machine will clear up fairly soon. The case is another story.