I just love my old mechanical Singers and also like the knee control. I have computerized but don't really care for them and only use them when I have to. My Singer 401 has enough fancy stitches for what I do. I had an expensive Viking Saphire I just hated so I sent it to my sister when her machine died.

Mechanical for me.

I'm afraid to invest in the computerized machines for now.

I'm just barely above the computer illiterate category I can post a reply :D So there is no way I'd ever attempt a computerzed sewing machine besides its only been a few years since I started using an electric sewing machine :lol:

I've recently acquired a Featherweight and love its simplicity and its beautiful stitch, and am now considering looking for a bigger vintage machine for quilting. But then yesterday I was playing with the decorative stitches on my Janome and had a great time - realised that I could be doing so much more with this machine. For me, computerised and mechanical both have their place.

I was 'seduced' into buying a computerized machine when I first started quilting, Husqvarna Orhidea, I only ever used it as a mechanical machine, knew nothing about computers! Rarely used the embroidery attachment!! 3 years ago traded it for Sapphire 870 which I much prefer!! I just need a good workhorse!!! Love to see all the wonderful work produced on computerized machines, just not for me!!! Would love to treat myself to a Featherweight next!!!! I can dream can't I???

I like the extra features the computerized ones offer. The needle up/down, the thread cutter, the stop/go button ( no need for a foot pedal, which, with MS really works well for the legs). I don't use it to its fullest compacity I'm sure, but, what I do use, I use lots.

Like everyone else, I like both for different reasons. For straight stitch and piecing, you can't beat a FW. But, the needle down/presser foot up function on my computerized model is the absolute greatest when I'm making another of my postage stamp quilts. Don't think I would have made as many if I had to do them on a mechanical machine.

Yes, I love both. I love the deco stitches of computerized machines. But I know that each computerized machine has a much more limited lifespan. If only my mechanicals had needle-down, though. That's the only feature they lack that I really miss. And are there any mechanicals with adjustable pressure foot pressure? I've had that sweet 930 out and purring for a few days now, and I just love her so. I call her WINNIE because she came from Wisconsin and I think on 1/11/11 (all the vertical lines in the date and her name). She doesn't have adjustable foot pressure, but she's perfectly adjusted for piecing. I love solid metal machines.

Hello, Maia! Good to hear from you. I know I've seen mechanicals with adjustable presser foot pressure, but they were older machines. The 1031 Bernie that I'm in love with doesn't , and you're right about that being a design flaw. Glad to hear you're spending quality time with your 930 girl. :P

I have both kinds of machines and have come to the conclusion that I will use my computer machine only for what I cannot do with the mechanical.
It costs alot to keep up a computer so why use it for simple piece work. I do love the needle down function and use it alot, just wish it was on my mech machine.