What is The Best Vintage Singer Sewing Machine?
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When someone asks, “What is the best vintage Singer Sewing Machine?,” it is a very loaded question. Before Singer went thru mergers and business changes , it was the Rolls Royce of sewing machines. There were so many great sewing machines made. Therefore, this time, I’ll have to present the favorites by era.
The best vintage singer sewing machine treadle series is….
Once I cannot select just one. LOL
I love the Singer Sphinx 127 it was the first sewing machine I ever recognized. However, the most regarded models were the 15 and 66.* Of course, the 15 and 66 models were later available as electric versions.
3 of the best sewing machine with electric and treadle versions available is:
Singer 201 (-1,-2,-3). There is just no comparison in speed and stitch quality, even to this day. The gear driven motor Singer 201-2 is the most sought after version of this machine. It is said to have a little more power because there is no belt to worry about. However, I enjoy the treadle version 201-3 and standard belted motor 201-1 versions as well.
The greatest mini sewing machine is the Singer Featherweight.
Singer featherweights are highly valued for their compact size. Everyone wants one so it has to go on the list. However, in terms of stitch quality and strength, they aren’t anything to write home about. When your shopping, always look for a white Featherweight because those are the most “rare.”
Now, let’s take a look at the aluminum body sewing machines!
This is the hardest category for me to do. So, I won’t select one favorite. There were many greats in the aluminum body era. In my opinion, however, the 301a and 401a versions stand out the most. The machines are simple but have a level of precision. Also, parts and accessories aren’t hard to find.
Best Overall Design
Singer 500 Rocketeer looks like a space ship. Even today, its just downright cool.
What about the last one standing?
I cannot write this blog article without mentioning Singer 626 Touch and Sew (Pink edition). It is the last all metal Singer sewing machine made before everything went to hell with usage of nylon gears and cheap plastic materials.
Singer Sewing machine Accessories
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It’s a shame that all-metal machines became too expensive to make – they are so good. I particularly like vintage Kenmores and have a large collection, but I have a gorgeous black 301A too. It’s in pristine condition and purrs like a kitten!
Plastic gears never last; metal machines can go on for MANY generations if they’re cared-for properly.
Yes, it is a shame for us and the environment. 🙂