For more than 150 years, Singer has been manufacturing sewing machines. If
you are a starter, you may find that a vintage Singer is the perfect machine
for you. Since the first Singer sewing machine was sold, the world of home
sewing has changed and few of those old Singer machines are in high demand
until now.
19th century's popular Singer sewing
machines
The first model of Singer, released in 1851, was extremely heavy,
and the company worked hard to create lighter models with more and better
features for home and professional seamstresses in the late
1800s. Although the Singer company created the first functional sewing
machine designed for home use, it quickly had plenty of competition in the
market. In order to stay ahead, Singer continually improved on its machines,
releasing new models regularly. These were some of the most popular models
during this time period :
The Singer Model A, released in 1859. It was a hot seller and
cemented Singer's reputation as a manufacturer of quality sewing
machines. it offered a large stand with lots of space to work,
beveled gears and a stylish appearance.Today, these models are difficult to
find and often require significant work to be functional.
The Singer New Family, also known as the Fiddlebase, was released in
1865.It featured a beautiful cast iron base and a wood table surface. The
machine itself often boasted elaborate decorations. Since these machines were
so popular and durable, it's easy to find functional antique models for
sale. Even more popular than previous models, it didn't take up as much
space in the little rooms of Victorian homes. They range in price from around
$200 to around $800.
The Singer 27 and 28, released in 1885, were both designed for the home
seamstress. You can find these models in antique stores and at auctions,
typically for around $400 including the wood and iron stand. They were
hugely popular due to their small size and ease of use.
20th century's popular Singer sewing
machines
Singer continued to release new models, working hard to stay ahead of the
competition. The 20th century meant major changes for the sewing machine
industry. By the 1930s, most homes had electricity, eliminating the need for
treadle-driven or hand crank machines. These were some of the most popular
models during this time period :
The Singer Model 99, released in 1921, was the first Singer to run on
electricity. You can easily find these machines in antique stores and at
auctions, typically for around $200. This electric model was expensive for
the average consumer, but Singer continued to sell it well into the
1950s.
The Singer Model 201, released in 1939 near the end of the Great
Depression, was another popular electric model. Also easily accessible in
antique stores and even thrift shops, a Model 201 in good shape with the stand
sells for about $250.The stand for this machine was distinctly modern, giving
it a vintage -- rather than antique -- look to today's buyer.
The third model which was introduced in 1933, the Singer
Featherweight, was one of the longest running and most popular Singer
models. The Featherweight was popular for its portability, since the
machine fit inside a handy carrying case. This machine was produced in
varying forms until 1964, and it's easy to find this model in thrift stores and
antique shops. It can cost you between $50 and $200.
Do you have an old singer sewing machine ? Let us know about your
experience with this machine.
