Is there a guide to older machines I might find at yard sales, flea markets, thrift stores, giving characteristics, desirability, how to identify, etc?
Tom Willmon near Mountainair, (mid) New Mexico, USA
Abandon the search for truth; settle on a good fantasy!
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Tom - I think everyone's list would be different! I wouldn't buy a Singer unless it was black or a 401 - but there are people who love their "Touch and Sew" and "Stylist" machines... I love old Pfaffs and have bought every one I've found at a reasonable price. I also have a White from the 60's or
70's that is an incredible machine - and only cost $1.25! I have to look at all the used machines in a thrift store. I always lift them to see how heavy they are (heavy is good as far as durability) and either plug them in and run them or turn the wheel - you are looking for smooth and quiet. You need to be able to tell "needs oil" noise from clanking machinery - oiling is easy, clanking machinery I'd probably avoid... You probably ought to browse through the ISMACS site (International Sewing Machine Collectors' Society) at lectors' Society
Tom, the place to look is ISMACS for vintage and antique sewing machine information. =20
-------------- You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.=20
--Mae West=20
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ISMACS is the place to see old machines. The place to discuss them is WeFixit on Yahoo groups. They are not specific, good shade tree mechanics and general all around great people. Any and all machines are discussed including what to watch out for at flea markets etc. My current favorite is a green Necchi straight stitch I got off the side of the road. Fabulous machine and sooo quiet. I also have 20 Pfaffs but the Necchi is so well engineered you would think it was running with no oil at all. There is absolutely no drag and no machine or motor noise.
No, not as such, but if you contact Treadle On at
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