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let us know what you decide
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Originally Posted by Terryl
I recently bought a refurbished brother machine on overstock.com It is light weight so I can take it to classes. Works beautifully, I bought a second machine just like it for my daughter to teach her to quilt.
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It is nice to know that there are others who love the vintage Singers. I have a 301A for piecing and a 500A for applique work.
Yesterday I bought a FW in a cabinet for $30. It runs great, just needs cleaning. Then I may be asking for help on the basics of the machine! |
If I was short of cash I would consider a used machine. Some of the older models, all metal, quite heavy, in a carrying case or a cabinet are fantastic. Look around, take your time. It is possible to find a clean little used or well took care of machine. An older model that does not zig zag will give you a straight sewing line and holds the stitches firmer together. If your machine zigzags then it will not make as straight a sew line.
The older machines do not cost much and are a jewel to use and own. I am speaking from experience. For quilting I use my old straight stitch Singer. Also use it for clothing or home deco. They seldom break, just keep oiled and clean. I also own several embroidery/sewing machines, a Brother 4001N, a Brother 8500 and a Babylock model which is between the 8500 and the 4001. I have a computerized Janome I use for classes and my quilt groups, also several Singers from old to moderately new. My pride is a old White in a beautiful cabinet with curved drawers and front has fancy carved large wood letters, vintage 1913. I love sewing machines and finding out what one does better than the other. It can be a pleasant suprise. My suggestion is to talk to some of the older women about their machines. Like me they probably love to give free advice and who knows you could find your buy of a lifetime, someone's pride and joy who needs a good home. You could be like me and over the years wind up becoming a collector. |
My Pfaff is a retired machine. They replaced it with a newer version this year. I bought from a dealer and got it at less than half price. It was brand new and in the box. What a deal and they offer free sewing instructions and if I have any problems I can just call and they help. See if any of your dealers can offer you something like that. It's much better than buying on Ebay.
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Originally Posted by Prism99
I'm not sure what retired means. Superseded by a newer version or model? If so, it doesn't matter. What matters is whether the machine has the features you are looking for and "feels good" to you when you sew.
I would not purchase a machine on eBay unless I had at least tried out the brand, and preferably that model or a close model, to make sure I like the stitch quality, the sound of the machine, etc. For those with budget limitations, I think it's much better to go around to local dealers and see what they have in used machines. Often you can get a better quality machine with more features if you buy used instead of new. It's also a good idea to check out reviews of the specific model you are looking at. http://www.patternreview.com is a good place to do that. I have a FW and 301. I'm wondering if there is something you are doing wrong with both machines that produces the bunched up stitches on the bottom, as that is not typical of those machines. Are you sure, when you insert the bobbin in the bobbin case, that the thread is going in the correct direction? As I recall, the FW needle threads oddly (from left to right? it's been a long time since I had it out). |
I had the same problem with my FW and 301 when I first got them but it was user error in both cases... Bobbin tension and needle threading issues. The 301 needle threads from right to left. Make sure your needle is inserted with the flat side facing left. And you MUST use the correct size bobbin with both. Also, make sure your bobbin tension is correct. The manuals will show you how to adjust bobbin tension. Hope this helps!
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Now this is funny I am retired and I am keeping my vintage machines from going into retirement! :lol: :lol: :lol:
Seriously I think their perception of retired is the model they did away with but replaced it with a newer version. Like the 301 went to the 401 etc., so it would be new in the box if that is the way they are presenting it. Personally I would keep using the 301 and just save my money for a new machine that you really want. Sounds like you were threading it the wrong way, and the top tension might be a little loose. A lot of good information has been given on the 301 and you should be able to get it up and running perfect in no time! Billy |
I happen to prefer my vintage machines to the newer ones. I like the computerized machines for their wonderful features like embroidery, etc., but I'm always afraid I'm going to burn out the motors when I'm quilting so I find myself going back to my vintage Kenmore, Singer and Domestic machines for the heavy lifting.
As far as "retired" is concerned, it's an industry term to keep you coming back and spending money on the newest, latest and "greatest". "Retired" just means that that particular model is no longer being made. It's planned obsolescence. If it's new in the box, retired or not, it should retain the same manufacturers warranty and all it's associated benefits. Check with the manufacturer to confirm before purchasing. |
I bought an older version of the Babylock Ellageo when I got my sewing/embroidery machine. I bought it at a sewing center who had taken it as a "trade-in". It was purchased new from that center and they had always serviced it. They checked it out and serviced it before they sold it as a "USED" machine. I haven't had any problems with mine -- and I got some free classes on how to use it.
Good luck! |
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