Fetherwieght or 301A?
11-23-2011, 02:08 PM
#21
Super Member
Join Date: Sep 2009
Location: Massachusetts, USA
Posts: 1,775
The "A" signifies that the machine was manufactured in Anderson, South Carolina. There is no other difference between the models, that I know of.
Last edited by cabbagepatchkid; 11-23-2011 at 02:11 PM.
11-23-2011, 02:10 PM
#22
Super Member
Join Date: Sep 2009
Location: Massachusetts, USA
Posts: 1,775
Ooooops.....double post!! The "A" signifies that the machine was manufactured in Anderson, South Carolina. There is no other difference between the models, that I know of.
Last edited by cabbagepatchkid; 11-23-2011 at 02:12 PM. Reason: double post
11-23-2011, 04:03 PM
#23
Junior Member
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Western NY
Posts: 152
One other difference is that the 301 (sans A) were only made for a short period of time- like 9 months or so from 1950 to 1951, and they were only available in black or mocha. I have one of the 301's and I really do like to sew with it. I also can do zigzag stitches with my attachments if necessary (the attachment moves the material instead of the needle). I also have a 221 and a bernina 430 that I use regularly, and would choose a machine based on the classes I was taking e.g. the 301 for any classes with FMQ, but if just piecing I would bring the FW. I have brought my bernina down to my camper, but it is heavy and a bit more sensitive than my other 2 workhorses- with more possibility of knocking something out of whack when transporting.
11-23-2011, 05:36 PM
#26
Junior Member
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: KY
Posts: 232
I don't know anything about this machine but I saw it while I was just looking around the quilting board. It might fit your needs and it looks like a really good price to me. http://www.quiltingboard.com/items-s...e-t169411.html
Angie
Angie
11-24-2011, 08:17 PM
#27
Junior Member
Join Date: Aug 2010
Posts: 135
Originally Posted by soozieq2
I am on the search for a machine I can take to quilting class with me. I love my Bernina 1090QE but she is heavy!! I dislike pulling her out of her table and lugging her up and down several sets of stairs. Featherweights are cuter and more collectible but also more expensive and BLACK. I live in the Pacific Northwest and anything black soaks up all of the little light we get. 301A's do come in other colors and are less expensive although a bit harder to find. I am checking Ebay but am afraid to purchase something before I can operate it. Of course money is an issue but I don't want to let a few bucks get in the way of finding something reliable. Do my generous Quilting Board members have any advice for me? Are there specific models I should look for, others I should avoid? Thanks so very much and have a peaceful Thanksgiving.
one yet....only 5 lbs more then the FW and have handle to carry..the 301's sew through anything...have a great
stitch ..
11-25-2011, 07:25 AM
#28
Junior Member
Join Date: Oct 2011
Location: Clayton WA
Posts: 265
I don't understand what you mean about the black I live in the Pacific Northwest and I don't have any trouble with my black featherweights. I have 4 of them and one white I don't notice any difference. I bought them all off craigs list and didn't pay any more the $250. for any of them, even the white one which sew like a dream. Best of luck finding what your looking for.
11-26-2011, 03:07 PM
#29
Junior Member
Join Date: Aug 2011
Location: Bedford Co, PA
Posts: 256
I was in your position recently ... wanted a compact, portable machine to take to my Quilts of Valor groups. Started looking for a FW, but dang, they are expensive! Even the one I wanted at a local country auction went for over $300, so I decided at that moment to get a 301. They are the best: all metal, gear driven, full sized, handle on top, and they make the nicest stitch. I was so happy, I went out and got another one (besides the classic black one), a lovely LBOW. If you're on a budget (or just cheap like me), go with the 301. The FWs ARE adorable, but I just couldn't part with that much cash for "adorable".
Let us know how you fare!
Let us know how you fare!
11-26-2011, 07:43 PM
#30
Junior Member
Join Date: Feb 2009
Location: Grays River, WA.
Posts: 216
The 301 is a slant needle, direct drive machine. What is great is that most accessories for the Featherweight fit the
301 and 301A. The 301 is indeed stronger and is called the big sister of featherweight though only 3 or 4 lbs. more.
I live in SW Washington and know what you mean about color.
Good Luck
301 and 301A. The 301 is indeed stronger and is called the big sister of featherweight though only 3 or 4 lbs. more.
I live in SW Washington and know what you mean about color.
Good Luck
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