I have a featherweight that I bought off Ebay. It is light-weight and easily transportable to class or vacation. It has a beautiful straight stitch. I took it all apart when I bought it and cleaned and oiled it. Only had to buy the oil pad that fits in the bottom and parts are very accessible. It was a super deal.

How difficult was taking it apart and oiling it. I am not mechanically inclined and would be afarid I would not get it back together. You must have some experience in working with machines ???? I would rather do it myself than spend money to have someone else do it.

No experience. I found an article on "how to clean a featherweight" and all the gears were really accessible once you took the bottom off. I'll see if I can find the link for the article.

You don't have to take it apart to do the normal maintenance oiling. There are small holes where you put a drop of oil. For the heavy grease lubrication inside the machine, I take mine to a repair person who specializes in vintage machines.

Where do you find or buy the Featherweight. I have seen some on Ebay. What is a fairly reasonable price to pay.

Here's the link for an instruction manual for the featherweight. It shows how to oil and see the gears.

http://www.scribd.com/doc/14112813/S...ght-221-Manual

I paid under $200 for mine which included shipping (came with case and all attachments) and the gold decals are in good shape but not perfect.

Well, mine was made in 1938....same year as me and we are both going strong. It is lightweight.....10 lbs. Sews a straight line like a dream. I can service it completely by myself. It makes the nicest little hum that is so peace bringing. Besides, that fact, it is so darn cute! Mine was free to me, but is valued at close to $500......because of it's age and good condition. I have two relatively high end machines. Neither is as comforting to sew on as my little Featherweight! It's hard to explain, but all the Featherweight owners I know, have a real bond with this machine.........I have just one. I know one lady that collects and has 7......she also has one high end machine, but regularly sews on a Featherweight.

I have a sweatshirt that says, "Grandmas are antique little girls." I am, and I love my toys. Don't have a featherweight, though.

mine is a 1949