What brand and model do you have?
I have 3 machines:
1960 Kenmore
1972 Kenmore
and a brand new Singer Futura
How long have you had it?'72 was a gift 10 years ago, '60 I bought at the Habitat for Humanity Home Store about a year ago, Futie joined us last October
How much does that machine cost (approximately)?'72 - free in the cabinet with the matching and very uncomfortable chair
'60 - $40 in the cabinet with the adorable matching chair
Futie - Big Bucks but I split it with a decorator friend. I do her sewing and monogramming.
What types of things do you sew (i.e. quilting, clothing, handbags, home dec projects, etc.)?I sew home decor items (pillows, bed skirts, pillow shams, window treatments,) alter clothes (hate it,) make aprons, tote bags but my fave thing to do is make clothing.
How much do you sew? How much wear and tear does the machine get?
I try to sew every day, mostly on '60, but she has been misbehaving lately so I'm glad to have '72 as back up. Futie is strictly for embroidery.
Do you like/love/hate your machine? Are you ambivalent? Passionate? Does she have a name?I love '60 and '72. They are sturdy workhorses. Futie is seriously light (in my opinion) but she is good for embroidering. She has way too many bells and whistles and beepy noises for me to put up with in daily use.
They are named '60, '72 and Futie - couldn't you tell?
What features does your machine have that work well for you?The basicness of '60 and '72 are perfect for what I love to do. I have always said that if my Great Grandma didn't have nor need it then why do I? (I was one of the last people on earth to get a microwave.)
Is there anything that drives you nuts about your machine?
Futie's beeping at me and having to haul '60 and '72 an hour away to get service.
Do you have a great story to share about your machine (i.e., Found it under the Christmas tree? Dropped it on the kitchen floor? Sewed your fingernail to your zipper?, Got it from your Great Grandma?, etc.!)? We want to hear it!My [Grand]Mama lived "with" us in her own apartment that she built on to our ranch style house. She taught me to sew, embroider and knit. (She tried to teach me crochet but it didn't stick.) I was under 10 years old when I started learning.
Mama made me learn by hand before I could even
look at a machine. I remember my Mom being very particular about her machine so I was very excited to get my own when I was 15. Straight from Santa's workshop. Who knew he and the elves made Brother machines?!
I sewed that baby to pieces for 20 years!
Would you recommend the machine to others? Why?I highly recommend getting a used machine if one is thinking about learning to sew. In the beginning you don't need (nor want) a beeping computerized monstrosity. It'll drive you nutty.
What factors do you think are important to consider when looking for a new machine?Again, basics! Ask friends who sew what they want in a machine too. I prefer simple with back stitch and zigzag and buttonholers.
Do not bow to the pressure of those vipers in some fabric/sewing machine stores who will tell you you MUST have the hottest/latest high-end machine. Some cost as much as a car!!! Not many people really need all the bells and whistles. and nobody needs the ridiculous pressure some of those people use.
Do you have a dream machine?I have always "coveted" my Great Aunt Sally's treadle machine. Mom used to sew on it til the belt broke way back in the early 70's. I don't even remember what brand it is. Welp, Mom informed me a few weeks ago that I can now have Aunt Sally's Treadle AND my Great Grandmother's too!!!
No clue where I'll put 'em yet. But I can not wait! Should have both of them home by July. They shall be named Sally and Eudra!
Be sure to stop over at
Colorado Lady's blog for more Vintage Thingy Thursday fun!
