I learned how to sew on my Mother's feathweight. She purchased it in 1936 for $125 which was a fortune in those days. After she died I let my two nieces have it as she had taught them to sew on it. I purchased one at a yard sale locally. I don't believe it had ever been used. It still smelled new. I only paid $20. Someone had passed away and the family was selling off her things. I made a fast get away before someone told them what I good deal I had gotten. I take it to retreats or workshops as it is so light. It does make a beautiful straight stitch. I won one for my daughter at a raffle my guild had several years ago.