dltaylor, Featherweights appear to be going up in price. If the machine runs, and it should, that is a decent price.

I have 4 Featherweights and in my neck of the woods, you can't find one for under $250 unless something is wrong with the machine! If it is complete, sews, has the case - go for it!

Nancy

Kathie, do a search here. There are a few pictured that people here saw or bought. Also, on page 877 Miz Johnny said she had a couple Bel Air machines. Does it look like a 99 or full sized?

Nancy

PS Kathie, I'd offer a lot less.

Amboo, here is Billy's Cleaning Tutorial. http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-45983-1.htm

He used on this one, kerosene, Goop (non-pumice), brass and chrome cleaner, Liquid Gold, oil, and lots of elbow grease. There is a part 1 and part 3 to these tutorials if you do a search here.

That little machine is really cute too!

Nancy

Hi

Thanks for the reply. That is a great tutorial. As soon as the weather is half decent and I can spend some time outdoors, this little machine will have a nice kerosene soak. It's already looking better just using Gojo, metal polish and elbow grease. I don't want to get too vigorous and wear the finish off and I'm not confident enough to take it apart. Pretty sure I'd never get all the little pieces back where they belong! Stock tip: buy into the companies that make q-tips and cotton balls! I've really been going through them.

Nancy

Boy the shop has been really busy this spring. Everyday i have pages to read and great machines are getting rescued. Are we creating our own price increases by introducing so many people to the wonders of these machines?

I have been pondering, what happens to the stools or chairs that go with cabinets? Were they originally sold with the cabinets or was it a seperate expense? If a cabinet has a matching stool, how much more are you willing to pay for that?

Kathie;
I have a Bel Air that's made in Japan. Believe she's a 15 or 66 clone. She is heavy, that I can tell you. I paid $25 but no manual or attachments. Attached is her picture.

I am stuck in the land of indecision. I am a new sewer. I am looking at buying either a Singer 301 or Singer 401. They are both in OK condition (they sew but will need to be cleaned etc) and they are both around $125. I can't afford to buy both.

Please help me decide: which would you choose and why?

I could not pass it up...so I brought it...thanks for the advice!!

Personally, I love the 301 machines. Is it a long bed? I really don't know anything about the 401. I am sure you will be happy with either one.