Which Vintage Machine is best for FMQ?
#1
Which Vintage Machine is best for FMQ?
Hello, All! I am just venturing into FMQ and would like to get a vintage machine that does a good job with FMQ. I have heard good comments about Singer 15-91's and 401's, and some Bernina's (830, maybe?). I would really love all your opinions and things to look for in a vintage FMQ machine. I have a wonderful 201, but it is a hand crank, so I think I would need a 3rd hand to use it!
Please, I really value all your comments and opinions! Thanks so much!
Please, I really value all your comments and opinions! Thanks so much!
#2
Super Member
Join Date: Jan 2010
Location: Outer Space
Posts: 9,319
401's would be last on my list for FMQing. LOL. I have probably 17 vintage machines and it's a wonderful machine, but not for FMQing! The raised plate and horizontal bobbin are not the best. The best vintage machine that I own for FMQing is the 301, hands down. In fact, I own 5 of them because they are so great. Larger throat space and a vertical bobbin make it a wonderful machine.
#3
Super Member
Join Date: Nov 2010
Location: Cadillac, MI
Posts: 6,487
301 hands down. AnnieRose's plug blew up in the middle of a quilt. I wandered from machine to machine looking for another that would FMQ. The winner was a Necchi BF, but nothing beats the 301. She is back together now and we are finishing the quilt. I just purchased a second one so I never have to go without a 301 again.
#4
Senior Member
Join Date: Mar 2012
Location: Harrisburg, OR
Posts: 443
I love my 15-91 for FMQ. I would start with one of those because they are super easy to find in a cabinet, and if you wait and watch you can snag one in excellent condition for a low price. I've only seen a couple 301s on cl around here, and all for $200+. I've been watching for one with no luck.
#5
401's would be last on my list for FMQing. LOL. I have probably 17 vintage machines and it's a wonderful machine, but not for FMQing! The raised plate and horizontal bobbin are not the best. The best vintage machine that I own for FMQing is the 301, hands down. In fact, I own 5 of them because they are so great. Larger throat space and a vertical bobbin make it a wonderful machine.
#10
Power Poster
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Somewhere
Posts: 15,506
I use an old beat up Japanese 15 - love it. Here is a link to some photos of Japanese 15s: http://www.quiltingboard.com/picture...p-t164361.html Some have more room in the throat than others. Most of the time you can get a good one for about $50.
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