BOT ALERT! If you receive a comment asking to go to Telegram app... it's NOT me! please report if you can (there's 3 little dots to the right of the bot comment you can report it there as spam) thankyou!

@janethinton9037

Жыл бұрын

I did not see this warning in time and I have been scammed.

I bought a New Home back in 1976, I sewed a lot in those days! Recently I started again, the machine had been in and out of use for 45 years....usually only for curtains and the like. So I thought I'd get it serviced...not a chance, here in rural France and with its age as well. So I taught myself how to service it, and my husband made a thrifted dining table into a "drop in " sewing table. The machine weighed 16kg. I also discovered that originally these were manufactured by Janome and had ceramic flywheels. I was happily sewing again, and then a friend GAVE me a brand new Brother machine.... I still have my beloved New Home, but at only 6kg, and with an automatic button holer.... I do use the Brother more now. I will gladly keep my old machine for "heavier " work, as it is so much stronger. Thank you for your tutorials and beautiful presentations, I enjoy listening to your very clear explainations.

Just had to share, went to an estate sale and picked up a Bernette 334DS overlock machine with all the pieces plus a lg stitch book for $60.00 American. Spent $25.00 to have it cleaned and it works wonderfully. Never had one or knew how use but am learning. Best deal ever. My sister who also sews spent $1,000. For a new one.

@donnabronner4837

Жыл бұрын

Wish I had my old Bernina. Heavy as a house. Sewed over anything. My electronic Viking is fussy.

@drewk1514

Жыл бұрын

@@donnabronner4837 -- the old mechanical Vikings were awesome! The new electronic models are indeed very fussy. Would NOT recommend them.

@notesfromleisa-land

Жыл бұрын

I've had my Bernette 334 DDS for over 30 years. Did you know that they were made by Juki? It is really high quality. (But I can sure understand why the air threaders are so popular)

@ariciaphillips6775

Жыл бұрын

@@notesfromleisa-land No, I didn't, no wonder it lasted so long.

@carolynrogers1510

Жыл бұрын

They are the best ❤

Why would you _not_ buy a vintage machine? A quality, all-metal machine will last for generations. Parts are generally available for common brands (though some get pricey) and service is readily available. The more sophisticated machines (such as my Necchi Supernova, 1955) do just about anything a new machine can. Singers, Kenmores, and so many others are out there waiting for caring owners. $100 is a common price for these machines. Right now, there is a Pfaff 130 listed for $95 near me. A Kenmore 58 rotary with book, buttonholer, and attachments, mounted in a table, is $85.

In the 70’s when my mom would sew, the TV always fuzzed-out. I’m glad you found a Treasure

@evelynodonnell2583

Жыл бұрын

Yes! I had completely forgotten about that, but you're absolutely right! I can remember that being a thing in the mid to late 70s.

@vincentlevarrick6557

6 ай бұрын

Not just the 70s, even into the 90s, when the mum used the electric beaters in the kitchen, there would be static lines across the TV! @@evelynodonnell2583

I was out walking one day and saw a sewing machine case in someone’s hard rubbish pile on the kerb, I went back a bit later in the car and picked it up, it was a Janome from the 80s, solid metal body like yours. For free I took a chance and took it home, plugged it in and immediately it just sewed like a dream !!

Since eight of our 19 grandkids decided they wanted to learn how to sew, I bought four used machines for practically nothing (from $10 to $40). My husband and I figured out what they needed (just cleaning oiling, a couple of presser feet, a bobbin case, and one new tensioner) and set them up on the dining room table for the kids. After a few months of dealing with the Necchi and its propensity for snapping the thread every 10 inches or so, I gave that one away on Facebook to someone who had way more patience than I. The rest of the machines have been champs. I'm having the kids learn to thread all of them so they get the basic knowledge for whatever machine they eventually get.

I have a Kenmore from the 1980's but the extension table got broken (the machine is metal but it's plastic). I was fortunate enough to find another similar Kenmore at Goodwill for only $15 which had that part in perfect condition. They don't make parts for these machines anymore, so sometimes having an extra machine is nice just for the parts!

@ivancho5854

Жыл бұрын

I recently watched a video on KZread where a someone made an extension table out of a wooden chopping board! She measured and cut out a slot for the base of the machine and then screwed four wooden dowel legs on. It looked amazingly functional!

Have it serviced. It probably just needs a new capacitor. Oh, you’ve done that and it was an easy fix. No surprise there. The older, mechanical machines were built to be serviced and repaired. They are wonderful!

@PibbleMom297

Жыл бұрын

And if well cared for, they will keep running for generations! Meanwhile, machines made post-1979 and '80 have too many vulnerable plastic parts. They'll be living in a dump or recycle bin while a lovely vintage machine will still be running beautifully!

I inherited my grandma's machine - a bernina nova - and it's such a wonderful machine. I do all my sewing on it and I love it! "Zwilling" means twin in German :)

A LOT of sewing machine servicers sometimes sell used machines, already serviced and good to go! It's very worth asking your shop!

I gave a vintage a workout and started getting arcs and sparks. I looked up some KZread tutorials and managed to sort out the issue myself. Women should definitely feel empowered to (safely) replace simple parts like bushings when the need arises. It reduces dependency as well as overhead. To that end, I now know how to open the motor housing and examine it for future purchases.

@PibbleMom297

Жыл бұрын

Good for you! I've been collecting and refurbishing vintage machines for some years now and have learned a great deal from KZread tutorials made by experts. I just recently finished refurbishing an 81-year old Singer 201-2 and she now runs like a dream. We "girls" (I'm 71) can do just about anything we put our minds to!

@vincentlevarrick6557

6 ай бұрын

Please don't just think of this as a "women are scared" thing. Where Evelyn lives, almost all types of electrical work needs to be carried out by licenced electricians. Its not a case of being 'scared', it's that quite literally we cannot access the replacement parts without a licence.

@lisettegarcia

6 ай бұрын

@@vincentlevarrick6557 😲

It is my hobby to restore vintage sewing machines. Blowing up a condensor is almost normal. Old condensors blow up. Just take it out and rewire the motor and everything works perfectly again. There is no need to replace it, because our modern TV's and radio's aren't effected by the signals emitted by you machine anymore. I have a Bernina 707 (which is the same, but with a slightly different body) and they sew like a dream. Precise, quiet, forgiving, perfect balance and they do fantastic darning! It sews leather very good too as wel as chiffon. These machines are simply way up there!

I would gladly pay double for this metal bodied Bernina than for a new plastic shell Brother or Singer. I would say the same for most other Swiss made geared models. The only limiting factor is whether a service center is available for any particular brand

So happy for your amazing find, Evelyn. After reading through the comments, I’m going to be the outlier here. I love my newer machine. It’s light enough for me to move (I don’t have a dedicated sewing space so it has to be moved to the kitchen table) and I love the bright LED bulb. I love the needle threader, and the many needle positions available for accurate sewing. I also love the room above the needle plate. There’s a lot more clearance than my older machines. As I’m getting older, these features are a dream for me.

@sunnydoom2726

Жыл бұрын

Same here. I have a Brother cs7000i. I really love the needle down feature.

@AAD2698

Жыл бұрын

I have added a strip of LED lights that I have added to my Janome 6500. Needle up and down is lovely and so is the cutting feature!

@notesfromleisa-land

Жыл бұрын

I bought a Juki Kirei to get more throat space (12"). In fact I bought it used and save more than 50% over current offerings. It was used like new. (Ebay). I love the newer features...but it it is a big machine and not so moveable.

@PibbleMom297

Жыл бұрын

You're not an outlier! There is a place and use for both modern and vintage machines. I have 3 modern machines and lots of vintage machines. I use my modern Brother VQ3000 quilting/sewing machine regularly. It has marvelous bells and whistles which work beautifully. However, when I want to sew knits, my little Kenmore 158-1040 can't be beat. It's a little like the Featherweight, but it will make zigzags and buttonholes too. Enjoy your modern machine - it makes you happy and you're using it - a total "win-win".

I only have vintage machines. Love how they sew. A 50's Japanese badged machine, my grandmother's singer featherweight, and a "toy" handcrank from the USSR.

@Rhaifha

Жыл бұрын

I have one of those toy ones as well, aren't they amazing?! They're just so cool. I have one standing on my closet, right next to a singer 66 and it really just looks like a miniature of the singer.

@rc31802

Жыл бұрын

@@Rhaifha I'd love one of the Singer handcranks! They work just fine and are very portable :)

@Lunatic717

Жыл бұрын

In July I found a 1953 featherweight in awesome condition at an estate sale. To my surprise, it sewed perfect stitches. I discovered the featherweight shop on line and cleaned it my self. I love that machine. It’s such a wonderful piece of craftsmanship that is not replicated in todays market. Sometimes, I just go into my sewing room and just have to say hello to it as I have it displayed with a clear cover I made for it.

@rc31802

Жыл бұрын

@@Lunatic717 that's awesome!

My mother gave me a White Dressmaker for my 21st birthday in 1966. (Yes, I'm old.) I'd love to know how many miles of fabric has been sewn on that wonderful machine. It has a knee power control which is much easier to use that the foot petal. I bless my Mom every time I use it.

@PibbleMom297

Жыл бұрын

I learned to sew on a White Rotary 77, back in 1959 when I was 8 years old. It was my mother's and she taught me (my grand mom did too). 10 years later, I switched to a pedal-driven machine and had a terrible time getting used to it. I still use machines with pedals but remember how great that knee lever was. Plus I still have Mother's old White Rotary and it still runs beautifully.

@jonnaosborne7234

Жыл бұрын

I learned to sew on my Mother's Singer 401A that she bought used around 1960. It also had a knee lever and I loved that! Now that I have health issues including neuropathy in my feet, I would dearly love to have a knee lever instead of a foot pedal again. The Bernina 830 that I bought in 1977 has a knee lever, but that is for lifting the presser foot, not for stitching. I now have two Janome machines, but I find myself going back again and again to my Featherweights for good straight stitching. But I am mostly a quilter and no longer make as many garments as before. I still sew with a foot pedal, but it's getting more difficult. On my newest Janome, I can use the start and stop button, which helps.

@PibbleMom297

Жыл бұрын

@@jonnaosborne7234 Your Bernina can be retro-fitted to use a knee pedal. Ask about having it done wherever you take you machine for service. You might need to source a vintage Bernina knee pedal assembly, but they're out there! I'm always finding vintage parts for my machines. And if your machine mechanic can't be bothered, ask an electrician once you find an assembly. He or she could most likely do it in 15 minutes or less. Good luck!

@soneil7745

Жыл бұрын

Ooo, I love my White Rotary! I got it on Craigslist and it is the loveliest machine I've ever used. My great-grandmother had one, and I really wanted one just like hers.

As the wife of a machine repairman who buys LOTS of old machines.... that machine is in really good shape. I know this doesn't end well, but even at $100, the machine was a good buy. Though.... is is possible you used a Bernina 830 in high school? They would have come out in the late 70s, I think. It's considered still a classic machine..... and very desirable. My husband specializes in Bernina machines, and would have snatched this beautiful machine up just like you did. I was impressed with the manual being in such good shape, and the accessories you got. Glad this ended well. I have four Berninas (a perk of being married to this guy), and I love, love them.

@alisonjames8082

Жыл бұрын

I bought my Bernina 830 in 1971. I had been saving fora 730, but, by the time I had the money, they had come out with the 830, so that is what I bought. Still have it.

@loriar1027

Жыл бұрын

What s lucky lady you are!!

@issy7465

Жыл бұрын

Depends on the school. I’m studying to be a home economics teacher and some of the older schools I have done pracs at still use machines from the 80s/90s. These machines are easy to learn on, cheap to service and most schools don’t have the budget to get new machines every few years. Unfortunately Fashion Design/sewing isn’t a high priority subject so many schools just have to make the best of what they have.

Hi Evelyn. A slight correction I'm afraid. The electronic component which failed in your machine is called a capacitor and they commonly fail as they get old. A condenser would be found in a refrigerator or air conditioner. I'm so glad that it worked out in the end. All the best from chilly Scotland. 👍

@Noreenlee1

4 ай бұрын

I wondered about that too.

I inherited my mom's Bernina 830. She had it from new in 1981, which I know from the receipt tucked in the goody box. I remember collecting it. She had saved up and ordered the cheaper model, but my dad topped up the extra as a birthday surprise. It sews like a dream. Compared to even older cast iron machines the Bernina is not that heavy.

I remember when they had sewing class in high school. I wish they bring it back🙂

Oh my goodness, yes! I’d forgotten all about that, but yes, we used to have trouble with static on the TV whenever we ran another appliance -though I don’t remember if the sewing machine did that as well. It was such a pain! I have two Bernina that I love. One is a fairly new model that I got second hand and the other is a long arm quilting machine that I got brand new as a retirement present to myself. I love vintage sewing machines but I also love all the bells and whistles of the newer machines.

I got a vintage Kenmore at Goodwill for $10. I took it home, cleaned it up and got the manual online to find out where I needed to oil it. Too complicated for me, but I took it for repair at the Jenome dealer ( Kenmore’s were made by Jenome). He thinks my machine should last a long while and that I found a diamond at the thrift store. Couldn’t be happier as this machine has 30 different stitches. Can’t wait to play with the decorative stitches!

Yay happy ending! Glad shes all fixed and going again. Shes a beauty!

I grew up around many different makes and models of sewing machines that my mom and grandmother used. I also used a Singer industrial walking foot in the US Navy (I was a parachute rigger) which were were taught how to maintain and time. Fast forward, I purchased a 1972 Kenmore 1410 (White made these for Sears) for $15.00 at a thrift store as a home machine to tinker around with and repair (sight unseen practically). Heck the machine was perfect right out if it's avocado green case and sews like a champ. All metal gearing and body built like a tank and sews as smooth as butter.

@PibbleMom297

Жыл бұрын

I'm a collector of vintage machines, mostly Kenmores ("Kennies"); I love them and can service them myself for the most part because the way they were built makes it easy. I LOVE old Kennies! Take care of them and they'll keep running for generation after generation.

I am still sewing with my 1976 Bernina Record. It was $1000, back then. It looks identical to the Minimatic! The last time mine was serviced, about 10 years ago, it cost $150.00 in San Diego. It needed a new rubber band for the bobbin rewind. The old one was over 30 years old! You did really well, I just love my Bernina!

@KariIzumi1

Жыл бұрын

Speaking of San Diego, F in the chat to Fabric Town in National City :(

@patriciahazeltine9986

Жыл бұрын

@@KariIzumi1 I have never been there. Only had my machine serviced before I left California. BF lived there. I was in Los Angeles for a long time, different career, so very few trips into the fabric marts of LA.

I love my Bernina 830 record! I love the way it sounds when I sew-very quiet & soft. I like that it DOESN’T have computer parts. I’ve heard of people buying expensive sewing machines and not being able to use it 5 years later, when the motherboard dies. The only thing that I don’t like is that there isn’t an on/off switch, I just have to unplug it.

@debbiemiksch7276

Жыл бұрын

I wonder if you can have a toggle switch put on the cord to turn it on and off?

@julienielsen3746

Жыл бұрын

I had a new computerized Viking back in 1990. It ran fine a few days.. Then the transformer died. They replaced it for free of course, and it lasted me many years. Then I traded it in on a new Bernina computerized one.

@loist0607

Жыл бұрын

I also have a Bernina 830 record and it has an on/off switch. How unusual. I agree with the lovely sound it makes...very quiet almost like a purr. And the stitches are beautiful.

@vickichisholm931

Жыл бұрын

Yes I have to remember to turn the 830 off!

@charlottealexander2329

Жыл бұрын

I’ve got one too. Mom bought in 1971 and it’s still going. 😀

I bought a Bernina 1130 in 1987 brand new(15 feet included ) and walked everywhere because I didn't have money to buy a car. I didn't mind at all. Best buy ever. It stil works a dream. Bernina is the best machines ever. I did treat myself to a Bernina B480 two years ago as my 1130 is 35 years old. My 25 year old daughter very happily claimed the 1130. I hope you get the joy out of this machine that I have experienced out of mine. 🌸

So glad you managed to rectify the problem. Sewing machines are not made like that any longer. I inherited my mothers sewing machine she bought in the early 70's. Its a Ricca brand, not sure if that brand still exists. Its incredibly heavy, but sews like a dream. I absolutely love sewing with it, I feel somewhat close to my mum when I do.....❤

I have got two vintage Bernina sewing machines, they are the Rolls Royce of machines and sew like nothing that's available on the market today. Everything about them is quality precision and the feet are a work of art.

@notesfromleisa-land

Жыл бұрын

Bernina feet are incomparable.

I loved reading the comments to see how many of us have sewing machine museums at home. I have a Singer hand crank from 1917 made in Scotland, a Featherweight from 1933 if I am remembering correctly, a Bernina 830 Record that I bought new in the early 70's and a Bernina 330 that is about 10 years old. The older Bernina is a better machine than the newer one. I got the knee lift on both of them and can barely sew on a machine that doesn't have it. That red plastic thing that you showed at the beginning is to store the foot pedal and power cord while the machine and parts are in the case.

@lindagieseler9566

7 ай бұрын

I'm well on the way to having a museum too. Hubby says we will have to buy another place for them.

I so agree! Taking it to the repair shop was the right decision! Those old Bernina machines are so worth it! Out of pocket only $240? Great price for that machine!

"Zwilling" is German and it means twin!😉 So it was either for a twin-needle initially, or there's also a traditional company in Germany that manufactures high-quality knifes etc I think - so maybe they used to make needles too, back in the days..😉

@evelynodonnell2583

Жыл бұрын

I believe it's also Swedish for twin as well, maybe spelled a bit differently.

@SHeMaROC22

9 ай бұрын

They did use to make needles.

I have that machine’s direct descendant, the Bernina 830 Record. The major difference is that the 830 Record has a buttonhole making mechanism built in. That red plastic thing goes on the back of the free are to store the power cable & foot control while the machine is in the case. You will find it fits the free arm curve on the back of the machine exactly. You have a powerful workhorse of a machine there! Long may she sew beautifully for you. Congratulations!

Vintage machines are superb, especially Bernina. I’ve had several and my 1230 that was working fine had an issue but now having it virtually rebuilt for less than a modest plastic new one. Stitches are fantastic as is my grandmother’s Singer from 1914 and a later Singer from the 50s. I have a modern Brother machine but the stitch quality is not as good as the vintage.

I started high school in 1976 (aged 11) and in the first term the boys were made to do sewing (while the girls did cookery), and in the second term, the girls did sewing and the boys did cookery. To get around the gender issue, us boys would make tool bags for our dad's or granddads out of denim. I must have been trained well because the machine I was given at school was a Bernina 730, which was the same one my mum used. So, even at 11, I could set it up, and impressed the teacher! FWIW, there is no need to replace the 'condenser' (capacitor). All you need to do is rip it out and forget it. It serves no purpose 20 years after analog TV services ceased.

I'm a sewing machine mechanic in Canberra, and as soon as I heard the sound I knew, haha. We don't even bother replacing capacitors in the non computerised/electronic board machines like this, they don't do anything (unless you have an ancient radio).

@PibbleMom297

Жыл бұрын

That is a fascinating bit of nostalgia! I'm an amateur machine refurbisher and can do quite a bit including timing and rewiring motors. But I've only worked on Kenmore's, Singer's, White's and Brother/Baby Lock's, never Bernina's, so that's quite helpful.

I have only ever sewn on second hand machines. My first machine was a Singer that folded down into a table. My mom sewed my baby clothes on it (I am 57) and I sewed my own clothing in University and for many years after. I was given then my mom’s first Bernina machine when she purchased a new Bernina when she inherited some money from her mother and then inherited that second machine when my own mom passed away. The Singer has long been donated on. My oldest daughter has been given the first Bernina machine which I sewed for so many wonderful years. I now use the second one with great pleasure although it has so so many more features that I will never probably use. And I inherited boxes and boxes of notions, extra specialty feet or attachments (dozens). I learned to sew from my mom and sewing has always been an emotional connection for me. Love your videos.

I bought a trade-in Bernina 1130 about 8 years ago from the sewing machine dealer I used to work at for $200. It’s from the late 70’s, back when Berninas were still made in Switzerland. It was one of their first electronic machines and I LOVE it! I sew a lot, most of my clothes, and quilts as well. I picked up a couple of extra feet, and still want to get a walking foot. Couldn’t be happier. The stitch quality on a Bernina is perfect.

@notesfromleisa-land

Жыл бұрын

You can get a generic walking foot for your Bernina. Don't pay up to get the Bernina branded one.

@andrewmandywilsontatham49

Жыл бұрын

I also have an 1130, I hate to burst your bubble, but it's an 80's machine. I also now have a 1958 Favorit, and a 1958 530 Record. And that's just the Bernina's. Warning: these things get to a critical balance, and then they multiply. I came home one day last week and found a Singer 206 on the doorstep...

@bartellinomathis5161

Жыл бұрын

@@notesfromleisa-land And how would a generic walking foot fit on the patented cone-shaped snap-on system? (Really would like to know. So I do hope you answer.)

I bought this same machine at an auction 15 years ago for $25.00 and have been sewing on it ever since. I absolutely love my lucky auction find! My local Bernina guy had some extra used feet that weren't with it so I bought those at $7.00 each. Quality machine.

Holy crap, I had totally forgotten about the static interference on the TV! I don't remember it with the sewing machine so much, as when mum used the electric beaters in the kitchen, those static bands appeared across the TV screen. I distinctly remember horizontal bands of dark static at 2/5 and 4/5 on the screen, with lighter thin strings of fuzzy static in between.

Congratulations to your new machine! My mother gave me her old Riccar when I first showed an interest in sewing. It is two years older than me, making it nearly 50 years old… I had a lot of trouble with its tension, so I went to a dealer who has also an repair shop, to get a new and better one. I thought my mum‘s machine was an entry level one and that a better one would be cheap. Turned out, that for its time it was a pretty good model. You can move the needle to five positions, adjust the sewing foot pressure, has a number of decorative stitches, even had a feet for button holes. I was shocked to learn that a machine that could match it would cost me at least a 1000 Euros, around $1000 at that time. Back then, I wasn‘t even sure that I would want to stick with sewing. So the dealer suggested to have the old machine cleaned and serviced, so that I could try sewing more intensely, to see if I would like it. So I had it cleaned and serviced, which cost me around $50. After that, I had a lot of less tension problems and I could determine that I wanted to stick with sewing. It gave me time to find out what I was missing with the Riccar and what I wanted in a new machine. So about a year later I got the Bernina 570QE and I love it dearly. I would not like to give up those niceties like a knee lift or automatic button holes and, and, and… But I still keep the Riccar as a backup and because selling it would be like selling a family member.

The first thing you want to check on those old Bernina‘s, 800s even the 930s, is if the feed gear is cracked. If that feed gear is cracked then it’s a $300 replacement. I know because I’ve had to do two replacements on them as a tech. Other than that those Bernina‘s tend to run forever but if that feed gear is cracked then it might not be worth the money

Yes, I am a little scared to get a thrift store sewing machine. I inherited an original American made Singer sewing machine from the 1950's from my mother in law. It has taken a lickin' and keeps on tickin'. It still sews even after falling off the table. The only thing I need now is a case that fits it because mine didn't survive the fall. I also have a new foreign made sewing machine that was made in Taiwan. I can't say that I like that one as much as I love my old Singer. It seems to be allergic to thread. Threading the bobbin is a pain and getting it to sew is also a problem.

I got a 1950s machine for $50. It even came with the original manual and warranty paperwork! It's an imperial so there isn't much online about it so I'm super glad that it came with all the care instructions. I also have a 1970s kenmore I got for $5 and after redoing the cords it works well. Older machines that are all metal interiors are so good and way better than cheap modern plastic machines. There are also lots of shops starting to recreate replacement pieces if something does break. I have a 1940s singer treadle that I'm working on restoring which is also a fun process for me (the timing is off so everything needs cleaning then oil).

@daxxydog5777

Жыл бұрын

AndyTube has great videos on timing.

@nat6098

Жыл бұрын

@@daxxydog5777 I've watched his stuff for help before, but this time it's just down to 25 years of dust mixing with old oil making everything a little off. I'm just waiting until it gets cool enough for me to survive a good couple hours of vigorous scrubbing.

I have a beautiful Princess sewing machine that my mother bought new for me for my 21st birthday in 1975. It is the only machine I have ever owned and I still love it. I made lots of my kids clothes and costumes when they were little and still seem to be making costumes for my adult girls. It has been in almost constant use since I got it (I am a crafter also). It is in perfect condition and runs like a dream.

In the early 90's, I was dreaming of a quality sewing machine but on a tight budget. Walking down the street I just happened to randomly spot a Pfaff in a pawn shop window. I had never bought anything in a pawn shop before, but had to jump on the bargain for this fantastic piece of German engineering with embroidery stitches and a walking foot. I wish I had a video to share of the first time I turned it on...the little LCD screen lit up reading "PISS OFF". I've never seen that message since that very first power-up, but certainly never forgotten it! My sympathy and understanding to the person who had to give up what continues to be a fabulous machine.

Very good advice to get older machines for less. I have 3 old singers that I use. 1941 Feather weight, 1925 66, and 1935 15- all work wonderful. the older machines are usually made of metal and survive. A bit of cleaning and servicing are all you need. I also have a treadle machine that I use. Wonderful old machines.

I am the first owner of a vintage Bernina 830 record electronic, purchased in 1981. It’s the same era as your minimatic, it even has the same red case. It still sews like new after 40+ years. The little squarish red bucket clips to your free arm from the backside and can be used to collect scraps and snips while sewing and to hold the cord when put away. Happy sewing!

The Bernina 807 was my first full-sized sewing machine that I bought new a very long time ago. It’s worked perfectly for years. I’ve only had one problem with it that needed professional repair. It just keeps sewing. The first thing I sewed on it was a raw silk blouse with top stitching that looked like I’d bought it in a dept store. Couldn’t believe how professional and perfect the top stitching came out which was totally due to the Bernina.

I have an old Viking Husqvarna. My parents bought it second hand in the mid 1970's. I have only had to replace the foot petal a few years ago. It can sew anything, weighs a ton.

I have a 1952 Singer 201-2. Talk about heavy! It's a cast iron machine in a cabinet with a knee pedal rather than foot pedal. I bought it because the cabinet is identical to the one my grandmother's sewing machine was in. Once I got it, I fell in love with the machine, too. I ended up rewiring the motor and adjusting the timing on it (as well as a good cleaning and oiling/greasing). It only does one thing, a straight stitch, but it does it very, very well - absolutely beautiful, even stitches.

@MusicaAngela

Жыл бұрын

I have this machine too! it needs re-wiring but I’m not sure where to bring it. Did you know that you’re not supposed to keep it plugged in when you’re not using it or it can cause a fire? (From one of the comments above)

@redessa01

Жыл бұрын

@@MusicaAngela I didn't know about the plug when I first got it, but did learn that somewhere along the way. It's not something we really think about these days. If you're up for a bit of a challenge, I rewired mine myself by following the wonderfully detailed instructions on "The Vintage Singer Sewing Machine Blog."

That’s the same Bernina my mum bought to replace her pre-1950 Singer. I bought a 1980s Husqvarna as a spare locally for £50. It worked fine when I tested it but by the time we’d got it home it had seized up. It cost £150 to service but is well worth it as it’s the same model as my existing machine and has extra stitch cartridges. It’s a really solid machine.

I have bought 3 vintage machines over the last 6 years. A 500a, 411g and 99 treadle singers all. Then today my daughter and i found a fantastic buy on a kenmore 1941 for her to learn how to sew on at our local habitat for humanity. They let us test it 😂 so no motors blowing up and it was fantastic. It was their answer to the bernina and has stretch stitches button holer and flat bed to narrow all aluminum. We love all our sewing machines. Glad yours was fixable and now runs like a top. 😊😊😊

I picked up a Janome 419S for $40 from the thrift store. I felt like I was stealing it. I am sure they didn't know what they had. It works like a charm and looks like (from the glitter I found when cleaning it up) that it was used for 2 costumes before it was donated.

Glad you were successful and it was serviced. I have a Viking I bought in 1980. Younger than your vintage machine. I love my machine. When my mom passed away in 2018, I inherited her Phaff she bought before we immigrated to the US in 1958. It’s a fabulous machine she made her living on.

I've a few vintage machines, ranging from 1896 up to early 60's. Two strand out for their quality: Pfaff 30, solid build, tackles anything and my favourite, the Husqvarna 19e - runs like a Rolls Royce and does beautiful stitches. They both cost £30 and with a little loving care have become great workhorse machines.

There is also a vintage singer sewing machine group but there are so many of them but that is the reason they also have the separate non-singer group. I do have several singers in my workspace including an over 100 year old 3115 that I use for free motion quilting

My mom has this exact machine, she bought it being pregnant with me in 1974. I hope it will be mine one day.

I have a Viking Husqvarna 6440 machine that I purchased new in abt 1978. The exact same thing happened to me when I used it after a long storage. I found on a youtube site that it was the thingy to stop TV interference too. My machine also had frozen from lack of use when I made a career change. I took it to the repair shop, they cleaned it, unseized it, and I now know to use all of my machines regularly, even if I just run them for a few moments to keep the lubrication working. It has the best straight stitch ever, simply elegant. And it has a low gear for heavy fabrics, like denim . It is also great for teaching others how to sew. It is simple, and there are no worries about electronic parts giving out. I did purchased an extra part from eBay once having to do with the bobbin case. I like to have it upstairs in my house for quick fixes when mending clothing or making simple holiday crafts. Other machines stay set up in the basement. Love your site.

I bought a 1950 Singer 66 all metal. She is one of the black finish ones with gold designs on it. She will do a straight stich and back stitch. When I got her the sewing cabinet was in okay condition needed some repair and needed to have it lacquered again. The machine itself needed a new belt, and bobbin wheel/rubber piece. She had her original foot petal, I replaced that and the motor power cord due to it had a delay in the power. She came with lots of different feet as well. I cleaned her up and oiled her. She is my main go to machine and will sew just about anything without needing a walking foot. I don't sew clothes I sew home items and gifts for family like zip bags so I don't need a zig zag. I do have newer machines that will do zig zag though if I need them but I don't usually need them. I also have a 1901 Hand crank Willcox and Gibbs sewing machine that I am in the process of restoring. I love vintage machines and have had good luck with them. My Singer I can take apart completely and know how to put her together and have serviced her myself as there are videos of how to and groups for that. She's too heavy to lug into a repair shop. Also they are like 2hours away from my house one way.

@soneil7745

6 ай бұрын

I love my 66! Miss Hannah (that's its name) is too old to have reverse, but it is the first machine I ever liked sewing on. Mine was a living room decoration until I took the vase off the table, pulled out the machine, and gave it a new belt and a lot of oil. We've been wonderful friends ever since.

Excellent buy…I’ve had a Bernina 830 since 1980…best machine….it will purr now that you got it serviced….also an excellent used machine is a Singer Featherweight….very durable and also a work horse…mine also has the classic red case…,love it…you will now enjoy many hours of sewing!

Almost all of my sewing machines have been used ones! The only brand new one was a Singer from the mid 90's - which was a very bad machine 💩. It was in the shop more than I used it. I've had a 70's Kenmore, 70's Viking Husqvarna, late 90's Viking Husqvarna #1 computerized machine, then I recently gotten my self a 1964 Singer touch n sew (the exact model my mother got in 1964 for Christmas and still owns to this day). This model is the one I learned to sew on as a child (8-9 years old) and now have mine in a cabinet that allows me to have the knee control! (The cabinet is a 60's singer cabinet that had a golden touch n sew in it but it was only worth scrap) hubby refinished it for me and now it and my machine reside in my new craft room!

I love second hand machines. I have bought, cleaned up and donated so many over the years. Every once in a while a real gem comes along that is hard not to keep, but then, one can only justify so many machines in one house!

@ivancho5854

Жыл бұрын

That is extremely kind of you. I too love these excellent machines. I recently found a beautiful Jones dumped outside my home. It's all metal and made in Japan by Brother, a Singer clone of beautiful quality. Unfortunately it is lacking the pedal, which I'm searching for a replacement. Some slightly later models have plastic gears, so I may cannibalise one of those. In my search I was given another! And will give it to a good home once I service it. Keep up the good work! 👍

My vintage Bernina journey: When I learned to sew, it was on my mother's straight stitch Necchi that had a knee pedal for the power. After showing an interest in sewing for several years, my mother and father got me a Kenmore machine that had the cams for my birthday. That machine was and is still a workhorse and I took it to college with me. When I got married and learned about Bernina brand through the quilting world, that started my lifelong love of Bernina. The features that were on the newer ones drew me in, and my husband surprised me with money from a tax refund to buy my 1230 at a quilt show. I still have that machine! But as time went on, I wanted a lighter weight machine to take away to sew days, retreats, or wherever I decided I needed to 'sew on the go". In my search for a lighter weight, easier to travel with machine, I bought several online before I found the 801 Sport that was billed with just the description I was looking for. On my way to finding that machine that now stays in my rolling Tutu, ready at a moments notice, I purchased several machines that came into my sewing room. 807 Minimatic like yours, but there was no handle to lift it, so I gifted that one to my grown daughter. The '70's Nova, which was terribly cute with a wrap around case and a button like foot pedal . While light weight, I found that one to be fiddly to put away at places where I was usually in a hurry when it was time to pack up. I bought a 930 which I was surprised to learn was heavier than a tank, and I think I only took that on a trip one time. It sewed beautifully and garnered a place in my small, but well appointed sewing room. All those machines sewed a beautiful stitch which Bernina is known for and to my knowledge are all still doing so. I love the quietness of those machines and the reliability. Have fun with your new/old machine!!

I have an Elna Supermatic from the 1960’s. It was gifted to me from the original owner. Like the Bernina, it purrs when it sews, so quiet, perfect straight stitches and loads of accessories. It’s a treasured gem.

Even with the repair, you have a real bargain! Happy for you!

I learnt to sew my own clothes on my Bernina. It was bought brand new. In fact, I have been using it today! Thanks, Evelyn. You won't regret buying this one. $100 was a bargain for that!

One thing I’ve been told about sewing machines - they are meant to be used regularly otherwise they may seize up and break as it did in this video. I hadn’t used my sewing machine for more than two years and when I went to use it, I heard a terrible noise before it couldn’t stitch anymore. It cost me $500 to get a new motherboard for it. The repairman told me to keep the machine because it was one of the best made by that brand (Janome MC8000). She sews quietly and beautifully now and of course I switch her on for a few seconds and sew when I’m not sewing anything.

I have several. I bought a 1961 Singer 500a Rocketeer second hand in a table for $150. It required a little servicing and sews great now. My Singer 27 treadle sews beautifully, but it was inherited. My Singer 237 was a gift from a friend, and it’s an awesome little zigzagger. I think $100 was a bit much for that Bernina, especially since you couldn’t test it out properly (might have got it for next to nothing or free once the motor started smoking). Had it run well, then maybe $100, for the sentimental value. I think most people can get a good second hand machine for $50-75. AndyTube and Vintage Sewing Machine Garage on KZread are invaluable resources for learning how to fix your own (much simpler) vintage machines. Stay away from computerized machines and look for the ones with metal gears. My 2000 Kenmore that I paid $750 new had a motor that started whining after 5 years and finally died. Can’t find a motor anywhere. The old Singers? Old motors and new reproductions are everywhere. No one uses all the fancy stitches anyway. Basic utility stitches are all you need.

I am still sewing on my Elna which I got new in 1976. It works great. It is all made of steel and very durable. I love it.

So true about the condenser - In the 70’s I used to sew whilst my husband watched the football on TV. It made the TV (and my husband) go crazy!

I only have vintage machines: a 1950’s Singer, and two Vikings a 150 and a 180 practically twins they have the exact same manual. One of my Vikings started smoking one day, so I set it aside and used my other machines until all of them needed repairs. They all came back from the shop fabulously. The smokey one needed a new belt

The Berninas were in all high schools in Australi i reclkon...we had built in bench Berninas that hailed from the 1960's, and this was the 1980's, so they had to be work horses. BUT I bought my first janome in 1995, when I was pregnant with our first. I made tonnes of baby clothes, home decor and clothes for them and me for years. But it only lasted just over 10 years, before it got to the point, it had been serviced number of times but he wasnt able to fix the constant missed stitches, it was unpredictable. I was ok replacing it with an equivalent model. It too has got to the 12 year mark, and altho it doesnt need replacing, its not as smooth and just seems at times to have gremlins. So Ive upgraded to a large patchworking machine. BUT - i have a Singer hand cranked 201 series and it sews PERFECTLY despite being used for decades. Similarily, my nans machine - again one of those old early 20th C black steel ones...its still being used by my aunt. The basic difference is that in order to make them lighter and more portable, the gears are made with cheaper metals - not steel...and theyre prone to wearing out. These old ones made of steel just go and go and go. Great find!

$100+$120+$20=240 for such high quality!! That amount today would get you a good running plastic machine and you’d get maybe 10-15 years if you treated it well. That Bernina will last you forever! I sew on a Singer FashionMate 248, made in Brazil 1955. Spent $50 to purchase, $120 to service and It’s absolutely amazing ❤

I stopped at our local Thrift store and found a Bernina 730 Record and bought it for $9.50, it had all the attachments and manual, I brought it home cleaned it & oiled it, and gently woke it up, it runs like a new one, good buy on this one, it's now my favorite

I bought a used Viking in the 1980s, for $200.Plastic outside, all metal inside, and plastic cams that gave it decorative stitches. I ran that baby through the pandemic years! When I took up knitting, I sewed leather needle cases for myself and all my friends with my Viking. Long live vintage machines. (Not nearly as fond of 1970s fashion, but still.)

I got a second hand Janome & never could get tension to work right. I put it in shop a couple of times and it would work fine for awhile then start acting up again. A friend wanted it . She liked to try & fix machines . She did get it to work pretty good but after a year it started acting up again. I bought a Brother machine off Amazon. I paid nothing for it. I earned points answering surveys which Converted into gift cards. I love my brother machine. It sews really nice & came with a bunch of accessories. Later I wanted something when we travel. We go to Florida & stay an extended time to visit family. I just got a very basic beginner model (brother) again from Amazon and again used points and got it for $20.00. One day when I get a little better with sewing I will probably look for a more industrial type of machine and will look at second hand ones. So glad your machine turned out to be a gem. Happy Sewing with your Bernina.

I recently purchased a Ward Brothers treadle machine for $100. I was very apprehensive about it and when I got it home found it was ceased up. Took it to my service man, cost $120 for service nothing wrong with it other than lack of care for the last 30 years? And now I have a beautiful machine with several feet, bobbins, a manual and tools in a beautiful wooden cabinet that works great. It is so nice and quiet to sew with and brings back fond memories of learning to sew on mums old Wertheim machine as a child. Love it.

I have a machine like your's! It is said that Bernina old 830 is the best. I got mine in the 70's to sew up blue Jean's for my baby son. Until 2000, I sewed on this machine. I love my old machine. I still have it!

You are such a sweet teacher to us all. Please know that these old machines, though wonderful, are FULL of lead- yes, they can easily lead poison someone, even through inhaling that dust that builds up in the machine, or if a child or pet is playing with the cord… please research this and teach people about it! If you buy a 3M lead test from the home improvement store and swab the cord or internal wiring/moving elements you will see it instantly turn deep red. Not something to mess around with, lead poisoning takes a tiny amount and is irreversible.

I bought a Kenmore at an estate sale for $50. It came with all the cams, attachments, and a full box of bobbins. I cleaned it myself and it’s a heavy work horse that was purchased in 1970, per the original manual. I also was high bidder…again $50…a few months later on another Kenmore that came with a wood cabinet, which was why I wanted it. It sews ok so I now use the cabinet with my current machine, plus the first Kenmore, and change them out with custom wood pieces my husband made. I also love paper art and journaling so the old machine is perfect for sewing on paper👍🏼. I hate to admit this but I once owned a high-end Janome MemoryCraft that cost a small fortune and I always had issues with the tension. I sold that for a fraction of what I paid for it and bought a plain ol’ Singer that sews like a champ. I learned how to sew when I was a freshman in high school MANY years ago and I have used every make of sewing machine there is. Those older heavy ones are a treat. I love how your story had a happy ending!

I learned how to sew on a similar machine and I think they are very solid. The only problem is they typically don't have a self threading feature that is handy for bad eyes. TFS

@PibbleMom297

Жыл бұрын

I have the same problem - my eyes are just old. I have a a tip that may help you: Cut a piece of white card stock roughly 1x2 inches. An old greeting card will do. To thread your needle, put the presser foot down, slip the cardstock behind the needle, wet your finger and transfer the "wet" to the back of your needle (seriously). DON'T wet your thread. You'll be amazed how easily you now can see the eye and may even get the thread through on your first try. I do this all the time - it works beautifully.

Old machines are the best. I’m glad you had that one repaired. I mostly have old Singers. The oldest is 1948 and the newest is a 1966. I also have two Berninas 830’s both 1977 or there about. I’ve also collected sewing books for the years of my machines to learn what they were expected to be able to do. Pretty interesting to see them evolving from straight stitch to more fancy stitching which all seem to copy hand stitching. Fun video, will be fun to see what you make with your new machine as that is probably more close to what people are using.

My 810 Bernina is a real goer too! I recommend using genuine Bernina bobbins as the old machines are fussy about this (all my thread jam problems disappeared once on the genuine article). Enjoy :)

I’ve just inherited my 1977 Bernina Nova 900 from my Mum who's downsizing. It still has both original manuals and going by the purchase date, she was about 12 weeks pregnant with me when she bought it in Sydney after her Swiss friend raved about Bernina 😊

I grew up with a Singer and also used a Singer in school. Later, I bought various models: a Brother, the tension of which jiggled around and was returned to be replaced with the same model which did the same thing. I never liked it. I also had a Singer, which was stolen and a Toyota, which didn't sew very well. Eventually, I bit the bullet and paid more than any of my new machines (about £400 quite a number of years ago) for a second hand, refurbished and serviced Bernina 1015, which has worked well ever since. It stitches better than any machine I've ever used and I think I'm a convert. It weighs a tonne and that's a good thing. It doesn't jump around like some plasticky, modern machines do. These machines are decades old and I'd like another just in case. Highly recommended. I don't need computerisation or endless types of stitch and I'm even thinking of trying to find and learn to use an old treadle machine. I also have a very old Singer in it's table in the garage I was given for nothing, but whether I can get that working after all this time is anyone's guess. I still don't have a Coverstitch or Overlocker machine, but collecting sewing machines can become an obsession. I was, however, happy to give away my barely used, new Toyota in the hope someone could get some use out of it. It just did not sew well enough for me. I had my Bernina sent up from a shop in England where they source and service them for resale. One of these days I'll visit to see what other goodies they have. There are very few shops or even people who service sewing machines up here - perhaps these old skills will resurface.

I just inherited my Grannie's Jones CB model B. My Grandpa was very particular about keeping it in good condition so it still has all the manuals and replacement parts, feet etc. in plastic bags and the original boxes. Not a scratch on it. I tried sewing with it and it sewed straight away. Even the original lightbulb works from way back when. I'm not at all experienced but I already feel like I would encourage anyone get an older machine. They were obviously built to last. About to clean the old oil off with paraffin and I am super excited to see if it improves at all. Thanks for the video :)

I have 8 machines. A marvelous new Juki which has all of the bells and whistles, and I love her. But, I learned to sew on an old treadle machine, and I have always looked for something that has stitches as perfectly as she did. So, I have started buying older machines. Right now I am refurbishing a 1950 Singer 66. Fingers crossed, I will have her up and running soon. When I first tried her, she purred like a kitten but was dirty and needed a good clean. Quit and powerful. I love both old and new machines, and know that I am fortunate to be able to indulge my passion. Oh by the way, I love to sew as well!

My first machine was an old hand crank Singer from a classified ad my parents bought me and I made so many things on it and only traded it in finally for a new electric one as I really needed a ziz-zag stitch.

I recently got a Bernina 830 for £100 and it sews like a dream! It’s replaced my (also cheap, also older/“vintage”) Bernina 1005 as it makes the most beautiful stitches and just works perfectly

Hello! I have a Bernina 830 that I bought new around 1977. It is one of my best friends! We have been through many projects together. It sews so beautifully. I’ve had a Bernina 1230 and a couple of Babylock embroidery machines since I purchased my 830. And nothing compares to the quality of the 830. It just makes me happy when I sew on it. I put my Babylock in the closet! And probably won’t get her out anytime soon.

Mine is the 830 record. The case is the same, but my late husband bought it for me in October, 1975 in Zambia. I will NEVER get rid of it. It serves me VERY well.

I have a very old Elna Contessa it just goes and goes never lets me down. I have other machines Berina, Janome, Toyota (I collect sewing machines) I also run workshops for beginners and i like to let them run the old Elna as it takes everything a beginner can throw at it. it must be a least 40 years old. I like listening to your videos they are very instructive and as I am now 85, I like to keep learning you can never say that you know it all. I hope you are keeping well now.

I bought a 1950s Husqvarna (the green one) in mint condition and I absolutely love it even though Im a sewing machine noob. Not only does it sew wonderfully but it looks so great as well.

I have just got the same exact model.... Gifted to me by a friend who's aunt gave it to her many moons ago. It smelt a bit, a good airing out has done it the world of good. It runs like a dream and sounds so ummmmm. Happy sewing

I bought a secondhand Singer 237 from Goodwill for $13. I got it serviced prior to sewing with it because I was afraid I'd break it. Now that it's been serviced, it sews like a dream! The motor has a buzzing sound when stepping on the foot pedal, but it hasn't affected its performance. My local service repair shop never said anything negative about it. So hey, I'm happy with it! I've sewn several projects without problems. ❤️

i bought an old kenmore 158-1941, took it in to get serviced, and it sews like a dream ❤️

I got a table mounted 1954 Singer 401 quilting machine from a deceased estate. It only cost me the cost of fuel to go and get it! I paid £80 for a service and have been using it almost constantly for a year. It's an absolute work horse and I love it 😍

I have a second hand sewingmachine from the 60s and i love to sew with it. It is quieter than my new sewing machine and i am glad that it is out of metall and assembled with screws, so i can repair little defects myself.