You do not have to have a 301 or a FW to have a good machine. Try a Japanese 15 - fantastic machine and usually pretty inexpensive. Too bad you don't live around here... Look at the link: http://www.quiltingboard.com/picture...p-t164361.html that way you will have some idea what to look for. Then if you find one we have info how to clean one up and we can answer questions, help find manuals and cheer for you.

I just never get enough of reading the posts on vintage machines....I have now sold 2 of my 4 treadles. The white is the next on the cleaning block! Of course since DH took it upon himself to "help" clean that while I was away, it now has to have a part replaced/made! HUMPF!!!!

I bought my two 301A's on CL. Love them. Then my son's girlfriend found a trapizod cabinet, tan, 301, sitting on a curb waiting for trash pickup. GASP!!! She told my son, "Your mom likes old sewing machines, lets take to her." I couldn't believe my eyes when I opened it up. Moral of story...Your machine is out there. I would say just keep looking, but sometimes they find their way to you.

i spent 3 years looking at old machines before the perfect one in my eyes appeared---and it was all of $20! in beautiful shape (it's owner had taken wonderful care of it) the belt was not even cracked- cord like new- clean- sews like a dream! so many times over the 3 years i (almost) spent $100+ but then i would walk away- thinking---that's not the machine i want & i don't want to spend that much---i am so happy i waited---it is the best $20 i ever spent- and i use it almost every day! i did not have to put any money into it- did not have to do any more than oiled it- threaded a bobbin, threaded it & was sewing :)

Wow! And that's all I can say

I found most of my vintage machines at auctions. A great place to get one and they all included the attatchments and manuels. For some reason, people don't want the old ones. The most I have paid at an auction was $15.00.

thanks for making me Nauseous! Just the thought...BUT at least the kids had enough foresight to think of you...YAY

Well... I spoke too soon!!! I got a message from the people that were selling the vintage Viking I wanted to buy but waited too long. They had a 1975 Kenmore machine that was in perfect operating and cosmetic condition! I just bought it! I just hope it gets here undamaged. :) I'm going to start a new thread about it with pics!! :)

I've been looking for an old machine for several years. Then, about 6 months ago someone on Freecycle had a "sewing machine" free - I took it and it was a 1950's Morse. Then a couple of weeks ago I went to an estate sale and found a 301a with 3 buttonhole attachments, a zigzag attachment and a LOT of attachments for $25.

I'm also in the "If you wait it will come" school.

Have you looked at the Singer 15-91. It is an old cast iron one but a wonderful work horse and supposed to be great for free motion and quilting too. I think $50-$100 for one in cabinet is not unreasonable. Definitely look at Craigslist.