How to Judge a Good old Machine
 

I think I made a big mistake by joining the QB because now I really, really, REALLY a beautiful antique sewing machine! The more I look, the more I like. That being said, I found one on Craigslist that is a pretty black Singer. Those of you with experience, could you please tell me what questions should I ask in reply to the CL ad, and then--if I want to see the thing based on their reply--what should I look for in person? I don't want to be swayed by beauty alone, or overpay. Prices out there range from $25 yard sale stuff to $450 and sometimes the cheapies appear better than the pricy ones. Please help. Today is my birthday and I feel like splurging, so I truly need wisdom and self-control to keep from making a mistake! :)

You did not say whether you wanted a treadle machine or an electric machine. There are so many variables.

For your first vintage machine look for a machine that appears to be in good shape and that it has had prior good care. One of the first things I do is turn the hand wheel to see if it will move freely. Does it have accessories and a manual AKA goodies? If electric does it have a foot controller and is the wiring in good shape. Visit the machine and test drive it. Be willing to pay a bit more for your first machine. That is the beginning, I am sure others will jump in and give you more advice. Happy Birthday :o

Consider too what you want your vintage machine to do. I have a vintage dressmaker with a ton of ZZ stitches and a FW for piecing. There are a lot of variables depending on treadle, HC or Electric or ZZ. Obvs. if it's a ZZ, make sure all the stitches work (including reverse). I generally try out the machine if the hand wheel moves. I sew a minute or so, chat up the seller, sew some more, repeat until you're comfortable. Take a scrap of your own fabric that you would regularly sew on, make sure the bobbin winder works, check wiring and check for goodies. Remember, if you feel like you got a fair price and so does the seller and you are happy with your purchase then you got a good deal. Good luck!

good advice - post pics when you find something.

We could go on and on and on ,,,,BUT Trivia 42 said it in her last sentence.
IF I am happy with my purchase...All is good,if in doubt I leave it.
I hope this helps and good " hunting" ,it is just the 1st.

Going through the comments here will get you going :)
http://www.quiltingboard.com/vintage...t-t222097.html

Wish you lived in middle TN - I'd let you try out my 301 and Featherweights.

Thanks for posting this link...I didn't see it before. Good info.

if you are in Indy I have a bunch you can test, too.