Is a Singer 185J worth $144?
 

Our local Craigslist has a Singer 185J for $144. The ad says it has been owned by one family and comes with manual, bobbins, and buttonholer. It looks lovely in the picture, but before I go to see it, I would like some advice on what a fair price is. I note that several people on this board seem to have the same machine. Any thoughts on price and whether it is a machine worth having? I don't have too much room and already have a FW, Bernina 440, 10-year- old Pfaff, and my original 40-year-old Dressmaker. Thank you to anyone who cares to share his/her thoughts.

I would not give it unless it was brand new and in a cabinet. Truth be known the cabinet is worth that just because they are rare and far and few between. But as far as the machine $40 to $60 is the average asking price around here for a nice one loaded with all of its accessories.

Billy

I bought mine in mid-December for $40 in a very nice cabinet. It needs a needle plate and a clean up but I think I got it for a fair to good price.

Joann

Billy it's good to see you on the board again, We missed you. Keep Well.

I think prices vary depending on the circumstances. I got one in fabulous condition in a wooden cabinet for $50 recently and it came with accesssories and manual. So dunno!

Billy, I need to ask you a question if I may. I just bought my first featherweight (a 1945). I bought it from a sewing machine shop so the owner naturally went through it and it's in tip top shape. i haven't had it very long and have sewed very little on it but yesterday, it broke upper thread couple times, with pressure foot in the UP position, you can barely pull thread through the tension, he had it set on 3, i turned in down to 2, still hard to pull. any idea? thanksDonna

I have a 185 and paid $20 for it. It does not have a cabinet or accessories, but works fine. I think that model is cute with such a pretty color. Mine has the portable case. However, it is not practical for me -- too heavy to take to sewing events and doesn't do zigzag. I have plans for mine to be donated to a sewing class at the county jail. The fact that it is a simple machine will be a big plus there. It will be sturdy and will stand up for them.

I wish I could keep every sewing machine that I rescue, but it is better to pass them on unless I can put them to work in my own sewing room.

Dayle