I came across an old Mercury Electric Sewing Machine in our church craft room today. It is in a portable case. However, it is sooooooo heavy feels like 30+ pounds. Does anyone have any experience with a Mercury?? I will take pics next week.

A lot of basic Singer sewing machines were sold "rebranded" with other names. If you post pictures, someone will be able to recognize if it's a rebranded Singer. Several Singer models were sold in the "portable" case. If the machine is in good condition and/or works, it can be a fun machine to own. Where I am, these types of machines in working condition sell for around $25 at garage sales and about $30 in thrift shops, but prices vary a lot across the country.

I can't get into that area of the church again until next Monday so I will repost with pictures. The machine and case are in beautiful condition. I just might have to "donate to the church". Its a beauty.

When you look at it again, look for how it is powered. Some of the old electric portables came with a knee bar that is stored inside the domed top. These types have a hole in the lower right area of the base where you insert the bar. When there is a knee bar, there is no foot pedal. I have one like this.

If the machine is a knee bar type but doesn't have the knee bar, it isn't worth as much. Knee bars can be hard to find, but Billy (Lostn51) often has one.

If it's not a top-loading machine, check that the bobbin case is in the machine. Replacing a bobbin case costs extra money too.

Thanks, I will look at it again...will probably buy it anyway (if they will part with it).. Its just so pretty...

Yes, sometimes they just call out to you to bring them home!

So did we buy the machine? I sure would like to see the photos of it.

Billy

Not yet Billy...when I get back to our quilting group on Monday, I will check it out again. Have to ask the Pastor if I can either trade one of mine or donate to the church..I will take pics on Monday

Here's pics of my Mercury. I sent these to Billy and he was going to try to find out more about the machine but I haven't heard anything yet.

I've sewn a little with mine and it does a nice straight stitch. Got mine at a "trash and treasure" shop for $20 :)

She's a beauty. I can't wait until Monday. I'm even thinking of trading one of Kenmore portables for it.