My rule is I need/want every model of vintage SM, especially Singer, but have yet to add a 221/222 to my collection of 2x 128, 3x 15-91, 99, 66, 2x 403, 201, and a Spartan. The right priced 221 would be hard to pass up, though. I'm sure the 221 is a great machine but I'm not convinced it has an advantage, other than size, which you indicate is not important, over any of the above.

Ron

I have about 20 machines. One is a featherweight that has sat in its case in the back of the closet since I bought it. I'm sure it is a fine machine, I just have 19 others I like to play with and so it never gets any use. Most of my machines are in cabinets and I prefer that. For some reason I wanted the featherweight so I have it, I don't use it, but I'm not getting rid of it! Do you want to buy something that might never get used? If so, go for it. Otherwise, my opinion is to not spend the money. I'll take my 301 on outings instead of the featherweight.

I have 2 FW's - had three but gave one to my sister. They are great little machines and do take it with me when we go on vacation if we drive to one place and stay. I haven't taken a class in a very long time but hope to get back into going to my guild in the near future. So they don't get used a lot at this time, but one does not know what the future will bring and I am ready for it.

I have three FWs. I bought the first one because it was little and light and I could lug it anywhere I wanted to go. The second went to my GD and the third one is going to my DD.

I also have two FW tables, which I think makes a world of difference if you are going to use the FW alot. The machine sits in the tiny space of my pantry away from everything. Always open. She's quick and convenient for last minute jobs and tiny enough to fit in tiny spaces. I also piece on her . . . and another thing, she can sew through just about anything you give her.

I need my FW.

I got mine because I wanted it but didn't think I really needed it. Didn't think I'd use mine much since I don't got to retreats or do classes. But it's come in mighty handy. I have a sewing space in the basement where I can work while doing laundry, etc. and the FW can be taken downstairs easily. Also, when my Viking is set up for FMQ I can piece on the FW. Back upstairs with no problem. Once a month, sometimes more, I help with my elderly parents who live out of town. Along comes the FW. It's surprising what you can get done by sewing a few seams in between cooking, cleaning, etc. I've finished three quilt tops and have two more in progress that I've worked on mainly during these visits.

So I'd say, yes, go ahead and get the FW. If for no other reason, they're just so gosh darn cute!

I agree--not need, but WANT. They are so cute and they do sew a lovely seam. Am teaching my grands to sew usiing the FW. I can take it in the car, has all the necessary tools needed to cut with, sew with in the box, just need to take my cutting mat and go. Amy

I use mine for classes - which I do not do often; traveling; and as a back up. I've also used it as a second machine when I had something going on the main machine or needed to do a small mending job where I couldn't manage to work in the repair on the larger machine or it was busy. Lots of uses for them! And I did piece a baby quilt on mine for the person who found it for me and sold it to me for a ridiculously low price.

I have seen people buy the older Japanese machines for the price of less than one service bill for their electronic machines.

I say if you want one get one!!

The weight of a machine can make a big difference if you have to move it! My Singer 328K is heavy and is also installed in a 5' X 4' cabinet which mh DH made for me more than 50 years ago. I love having the Featherweight available when I've got my 328 tied up with another project. Since I've gotten so doggoone old, I don't see as well and I have a hard time threading the needles. It's far more convenient to go to the Featherweight than to pull the thread and/or change the setup on my other machine! Just a thought. I'm sure we can all survive without a Featherweight, but I got one at a bargain price, so I don't have to do without it! It's your call! Enjoy!

Jeanette Frantz