Nerys

The parts were found inside the machine.It was boxed up many years all alone in a box some packing materials.
I have been looking at sewing machines but is too much choice.How does one decide?

leonf

On this particular forum many of us would say, "Nothing with any plastic." however, we do not know what you need a sewing machine to do.

Nerys

I have been looking at the Singer Patchwork 7285Q a sewing/quilting machine.Any opinions on this one? I google search trying to find other machines similar to this but not much luck finding any?

Battle Axe

Could you make us a list of machines that have no plastic in there???

The alternate use for a plastic endowed machine is boat anchor.

Perhaps the best test would be the weight. If it is really heavy, it's probably metal.

Quilterman

I have some brothers around that vintage and that part looks like the light switch. It shouldn't stop you
from using the machine.

You can replace that switch with an automotive switch of similar size from an auto parts store.

Tothill

I hear your concerns about buying second hand and I do not know if second hand or thrift shops in Europe would have sewing machines. But here in Canada, there are often sewing machines in thrift shops for under $50.00. They have not been serviced, but a volunteer usually has tested the machine to make sure it works. I have bought a couple of these old machines and have been very happy with them.

Mickey2

I would not spend too much time or money on the old Brother machine, at most an easy DIY parts replacement if possible. The advantage with your old brother is the stretchy stitches, but it is a noisy model. The Singer model 7285Q is no luxury either, but it's better than nothing. It has a high presser foot lift, that is at least something. If you like vintage there are models worth investing in. I don't know how many auto functions you are looking for, the older machines generally have less stretchy stitches, auto threading, auto cutting,...

The good new models I find worth it are quite expensive, I have not justified the cost for my use. I don't sew that much and my projects don't require much auto functions. I have good but simple machines, an old cast iron straight stitcher (Singer 201, a Bernina 730 free arm and an Elna Supermatic for a bit of stretchy stitches). I get most things done and I don't miss much. Not much tempt me among the more affordable new models, the old have a few advantages.

A good sewing machine doesn't have to be a big investment. All the so called lubrication free models need quite a bit of attention and oil by this time, services need to be kept up. Most models older than 5 years are probably in dire need of service. The older models are easy to maintain this way. I don't know where you are in Europe, I guess UK still haven't made it's exit yet. There should be plenty of good and affordable used models just about anywhere in western Europe. If you do abit of search and make a list of requirements, I can proimes some of the vintage machines are top notch by any standard even in 2019.