I have 2 backup machines- a featherweight and my Bernina 180.

I can't imagine having only one machine either. I would feel so uneasy if I thought I could not sew. I have "many", some computerized and some treadles, and many in between, but all will do piecing perfectly. Many of mine were $20-$30 on Craigslist.

This happened with my Brother machine. It was dust in the foot pedal. Cleaned it out, and then it was fine. It happens occasionally, and cleaning always takes care of it--I vacuum it.

I have lots of backups too...I just fall in love with neat old machines over and over and they have to come home and join the herd And I use them all!

I really enjoy maintaining my old machines too, I can't tell you why exactly, but there's something very satisfying about opening them up and lovingly putting just a dab of grease or a dot of oil in just the right spot and feeling how the motion smooths out. Plus I'm just entranced at the engineering in some of these machines. I think gears and levers are beautiful. :)

When I go on vacation, it's always a tough decision to decide which machine to bring with me. Usually I bring my most neglected machine and rediscover why I loved it in the first place.

But I have to admit, at home, my 6600 gets the most use of them all and occupies the primo spot in my sewing room. I love my vintage machines, but I love my modern miracle machine too. :)

That's why I bought a backup - just a cheap little Brother from Walmart. Now I have also added an antique (not vintage) Singer so I can treadle during lightening storms.

Did you check the plug in at the foot pedal. If that comes out just a little the machine won't run. Ask me how I know! Luann

Tkhooper.....maybe you better find an older machine inexpensive to keep on hand?
U sounded so funny! Lol

Several years ago, my daughter bought me a Featherweight to take to classes. When my Bernina was in the shop for two weeks, I started using the Featherweight. Now, the Featherweught is all I use for piecing. I love that machine! I am no longer concerned when my Bernina is in the shop. I don't use it that much now. So far, anything that has gone wrong with my Featherweight, I can fix myself. I hope you will not have expensive repairs on your machine and that you will not be without it for long.

For years & years I had only one machine. But now, I have my Featherweight, 2 Brothers, 1 Kenmore, and 3 treadles. I think it would be scary to have only one now. I use my FW the most. And oh, I forgot I have an electric Singer in a cabinet that I use for bindings because I keep my walking foot on it. I've only had the Kenmore in shop once because the reverse stopped working.

So agree with this. Even if it is an older machine as a backup, it will come in handy when the primary has to be serviced. To me, it just makes sense.

Serita