Hello- New to Board
 

Hi, I am in the Pacific Northwest area. I've been quilting for 15 years or so and sewing for most of my life. I recently been bitten by the Vintage Machine bug and love learning about all the different makes and models. I would appreciate anyone's input on selecting a vintage 50's-60's metal Japanese make/model that would work for piecing and yet work for the occasional heavy duty sewing needs. I notice that some makes/models have the left needle position. How does that work for piecing? Thank you!

Welcome from Southern California!

Welcome! I'm new here too. I love vintage machines, but don't know anything about vintage Japanese machines. I'm sure someone here will be able to help you though.

Welcome Kirklandquilter and Mimi Sews! If you want a vintage machine that is able to sew heavy-duty, I suggest a gear driven Singer (not belt driven), such as the 201 or the 301. They have potted motors and worm driven gears which are much stronger than belt-driven machines. These are both straight stitch machines, and the 301 is a 'slant needle' machine, with the needle slanting towards you for better visibility. I also have a Singer 403 which has a potted motor (internal) and is gear driven and very strong. It's also a slant needle. The 400 series uses cams and can zig zag and do decorative stitching. These are great machines!

Welcome from western NY and happy quilting :)

Welcome from Michigan!:)

Welcome from Southern California. You might want to watch the posts in the "For Vintage & Antique Machine Enthusiasts". Have fun.

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*** Hi! Y'all from the upstate of South Carolina.
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Welcome from NV (way down south by the AZ border) Used to live in Bellingham and miss the green but not the dampness. My arthritis definitely prefers the desert heat. Hope you find the perfect machine for you needs and hope you get a good deal on it.