I am looking at this machine and was wondering if anyone could give me some pointers on what to check out on it. I am wanting it mainly to carry to and from classes. Also if it is a good machine or if I should hold out for a different model.

http://dallas.craigslist.org/dal/atq/2226279722.html

Thanks,
Kristie

I would check with Billy - lostn51
b/c he knows what to look for.
It looks like a bargain to me!!!!!!!!!! The old Singers are wonderful.

Looks like a special finish, crinkle or blackside... PM Lostn51/Billy... He'll know all about it, including the blood type of it's first owner.

This is definitely a machine you do *not* want to lug to classes! The ones in wooden carriers like this weigh a ton. Plus, you can never be sure that the old hinges are going to hold, so even if you do carry the machine around in its case, you need to strap the case closed first.

The old Singer model favored by quilters for its light weight is the model 221 featherweight. Second choice is model 301, which is considerably heavier. Both of these have a hinged table piece to the left of the needle that can be folded up. Both came in portable models (machine does not have a wooden base), and that is what people take to class.

The wooden base type machines can be collectible; however, they are really not considered portable because of their weight.

I would go over to the Vintage machine thread and see what they have to say..lots of good tips in there. And people with a good eye for a good machine.


http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-43881-1.htm

I don't think I would want to carry it to class because of the weight of the machine.

I am not really worried about weight so much as I don't want to lug my very expensive electronic model around, but I thought I had seen that it comes out of the wooden case. Back to researching now. I haven't seen any 301's so going to search for it now.

Thanks,
Kristie

Nope. It stays attached to the wooden case.

Good luck in your search!

Thanks everyone I am going back to do more research, thought I had it all figured out.

If you do buy one with the wooden top, remember that the handle is only for lifting the top off of the machine and base, not for actual carrying. It's not strong enough to use for carrying the machine.

I think this one is a 99 and even though it's a 3/4 size machine, it's still pretty heavy. You can lug it to class without the wooden dome - just carry it by the arm.

I never have liked that crinkle finish - mostly subjective, I know. :) But my other issue with it is, how the heck do you get it really clean - that rough surface is a great place for oil and lint to hide.

If I were to buy it, (to strip and paint it! ;) ) I would replace the motor, belt, power cord and foot control and I would guess that it would take two days to thoroughly clean and oil the workings and the surface.

It's not a bad price, even including the extra $50 you'll pay to replace the electrical components. If I needed a "class" machine, I would buy it.

I am using my 301 for classes, but next time, I'm taking the 201, even though it is twice as heavy. I never have taken to my 301 and even though it's a very nice machine, I love my old beat-up 201.

Good luck! :)