201 vs 15-91
 

In another thread, Vridar said he uses the 201 for general sewing and the 15-91 for heavy sewing. Is the 15-91 better for this type of work? I always thought they were very similar machines? I have just bought a 201, but haven't had the time to put it through its paces.

I think the difference lies in the thread travel and thread handling. Both should have the same punching power, IMHO. There recently was a discussion on ISMACS concerning jean thread and 201 conflict, or at least the 66 type bobbin system. One poster indicated the spacing between the bobbin case and plate is not conducive to heavier threads. Others had other solutions to heavier thread incompatibilities. Also, not confirmed by me, is the theory the extra 90 degree thread travel of the 201 hinders heavier thread use. The 91 has a straight thread travel from bobbin to lock stitch. The 201 and 91 motors are the same. There may not be substantial difference between the two, but in my mind, I repeat, in my mind, I perceive the 15 being a stronger "thread injector" than the 201. Also, the 201 is such a fine (by two definitions) sewer, I save it for less strenuous use.

Congratulations on the 201 purchase. You will love it.

The 15 is also known for better tension control because it has a vertical bobbin assembly vs. the drop in of the 201.

I don't have a 201 but I do have a 66 and a 15-91. The 15-91 has handled different weights without much complaint. The only thread that needed some upper tension adjustment was the upholstery thread. Not so with the 66, anything that's a thicker than regular sewing thread affects both the upper and lower tensions. It's easier to switch to the 15-91 than mess around with the tensions.

I prefer any old 15 type over a lot of other machines. I have a 201 and a 301 and a 401 and the 66 and 99 etc. but I still prefer the 15s. I also like the old mechanical all metal machines with the front tension, the bobbin in a case and while a centered needle on a zz is preferred that kind of machine will sew about anything.

A 201 is a rotary hook where a 15 is an oscillating hook. Some say it doesn't matter. Depending on what you are doing it probably doesn't.

I use my 15 daily. The 15-91 just seems louder and it isn't such a pleasure to sew on because of the noise. Nothing unusual or wrong with it but I enjoy the 15.

The 201 sews everything but she just seems so elegant. So I use her for precise piecing and clothing, except jeans.

Thanks, everyone who took the time to answer. I know I will love my new machine, along with the others that have joined my collection.

I love my 201 that belonged to my mom. I have sewn thick canvas with it.

Either one is a very good machine.