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From: Melanie T
Date: 03-07-2006, 09:44 AM (1 of 24)
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How many machines are in your home or sewing area? Where do you keep them? Do you use them all? I seem to be aquiring a collection of machines and it is getting out of hand. I have 11 in the house at the moment, 6 more in the church sewing room that I interchange mine with at will and have three more bought since the beginning of December that I will be picking up the next time I go see my parents in the states. Many of them are going to be shipped to sewing centres in Eastern Europe through Christian Aid Ministries, but as I collect and fix them up for that purpose, I keep some of them for a while because they are just so neat. Am I a nut? Is there a sewing machines support group? Melanie
4 little sewing machine mechanics (6, 4, 2, Born June 14) Ontario Canada |
User: Melanie T
Member since: 09-21-2004 Total posts: 155 |
From: beachgirl
Date: 03-07-2006, 11:00 AM (2 of 24)
I have 5 sewing machines & 2 sergers. In my sewing room I have 2 of the sewing machines & both sergers. 2 machines in the spare bedroom & one inthe queen ann cabinet with the matching stool underneath in my living room. It doesn't look like a machine cabinet at all. I don't use all the machines but do start them up & sew on them once in awhile so they won't freeze up. Keep them oiled & cleaned. Keeping the 3 I don't use much as they are sentimental to me. Silly I suppose but 2 were my mothers & other was my first one. I love all that I have & just can't part with them. So where is that support group ? LOL. 
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User: beachgirl
Member since: 08-31-2004 Total posts: 615 
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From: Pudge99
Date: 03-07-2006, 11:10 AM (3 of 24)
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There are seven in my house and I am always watching yard sales for more. I have the three I use;Serger, Embroidery and regular sewing. Then I have two older machines in their cabinets for the kids to sew on. Out in the garage are two cabinet-less Singers that need some repair. I was hoping to find a place that fixes old machines and gives them to those who need them. Yes I am addicted., but hte only support group am interested in is one that helps me find new places in the home for the machines. Oh yeah I do have one more machine(an old singer treadle) but it is not in my house. It is sitting in IL at my dad's house until I can figure out a safe and inexpensive way to get it down here. So I guess I have 8 machines. Gina
Pictures of my successes and failures Pfaff 2040 Janome Mylock 134D Singer Futura CE-100 w/ Autopunch Husqvarna Viking 3D Sketch |
User: Pudge99
Member since: 10-30-2001 Total posts: 1375 |
From: CodyGramma
Date: 03-07-2006, 02:43 PM (4 of 24)
| Same here ...I currently have 7 machines...2 which I use frequently... and one I just acquired to use specifically for free motion quilting (if I can get the right parts). the others are older machines..one singer, one white, one new home and one sears...all of which need work to get running....plus I have a serger as well.....I also watch for bargains and buy when and if I can!! I don't think you can be too prepared for your sewing needs!! LOL |
User: CodyGramma
Member since: 04-22-2005 Total posts: 133 
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From: esrun3
Date: 03-07-2006, 05:52 PM (5 of 24)
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Well, you all have me beat in machines but when I think about it, I can't believe I have as many as I do. I have 4 in my sewing room-one was my mom's and one is a very small portable one for quick projects. The other 2 I tend to use routinely-often have 2 projects going at once and it keeps me from having to change out thread all the time. I have one serger that doesn't fit anywhere in my sewing room so it sits under a table in the living room until I need it. And to think I'd love to have an embroidery machine too...no idea where I'll put that!
Lyn
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User: esrun3
Member since: 12-02-2004 Total posts: 2345 |
From: Chrysantha
Date: 03-07-2006, 09:46 PM (6 of 24)
well...lets see...I have 6, of you count the Singer in the garage that no longer works...the rest are UP and -sometimes- running in the computer/sewing room...2 embroidery/sewing, 1 embroidery only, 1 quilt and 1 serger....unless someone can come up with a sewing machine that will program and run the others...I doubt that I'll be getting any others.. 
Chrys
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User: Chrysantha
Member since: 09-06-2002 Total posts: 2414 
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From: blessedmommyuv3
Date: 03-08-2006, 08:58 AM (7 of 24)
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Ha! I have gotta show dh this thread--sometimes, I think he thinks I am crazy with my machines; and "only" have 5. 1 manual sewing machine, 1 computerized sewing machine, 1 serger, and 1 standalone embroidery machine. They are in a special configuration in the sewing area of my great room, and I use them daily. My dh refers to my sewing area as a miniature sweat shop. BUT in my defense, lol, I do make the majority of my 3 dd school clothes, and church clothes too, and the occasional purse. I sew at least 2-3 times a week, and often daily.#5 is the 1950's straight stitch only machine I learned on first. And it is in my closet for dd to use. Jen |
User: blessedmommyuv3
Member since: 05-18-2004 Total posts: 263 
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From: DorothyL
Date: 03-08-2006, 10:13 AM (8 of 24)
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Jen Do you make your daughter sit in the closet to sew on the machine in there? I have a sewing machine and a serger. Both Pfaffs. Someday when I get the credit cards paid down I want to get an embroidery machine. A Pfaff. More than that just takes up space I can use for my fabric collection(s). Ok - I do have an old Singer treadle tucked away so in case the world as we know it ends someday I can still sew!! Dorothy |
User: DorothyL
Member since: 12-09-2002 Total posts: 3883 |
From: plrlegal
Date: 03-08-2006, 12:02 PM (9 of 24)
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At the moment, I have a 70 year old Singer treadle that is in perfect working condition (deceased MIL's), Singer Fashion Mate 237 (that I love), Singer Quantum 3400 (appliques like a dream), Pfaff 2044 (love, love, love this machine), Kenmore Mini Ultra (to carry to quilt group), my Futura 100 (embroidery/sewing but I use it for embrodiery only) and my Juki serger. All of them are out and usuable except the Kenmore mini which stays in it's little carry bag. My dh says my sewing room is a "graveyard" for machines. He thinks he's so cute and funny!!! LOL Patsy Patsy
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User: plrlegal
Member since: 05-19-2001 Total posts: 318 |
From: Pudge99
Date: 03-08-2006, 12:15 PM (10 of 24)
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Hey Patsy, I thought I was having dejavu when you have been answering all my ce-100 questions. Now I know why. You were the one to answer all my Pfaff 2040 questions as it is just one step below your 2044. OH do great minds think alike or what? Gina
Pictures of my successes and failures Pfaff 2040 Janome Mylock 134D Singer Futura CE-100 w/ Autopunch Husqvarna Viking 3D Sketch |
User: Pudge99
Member since: 10-30-2001 Total posts: 1375 |
From: blessedmommyuv3
Date: 03-08-2006, 01:21 PM (11 of 24)
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Jen Do you make your daughter sit in the closet to sew on the machine in there? lol! No, Dorothy, but somedays I wish I could just lock her in the closet-lol! Teenagers. When they use it, I lug it out and put it on my cutting table and grab an old kitchen chair for them to sit on. They (14yr old and 9 yr old) weedle me into sewing more often these days with the little manual Janome, because it is already set up and plugged in. Its more user friendly for them, too, as far as threading because it is a drop in bobbin. Jen |
User: blessedmommyuv3
Member since: 05-18-2004 Total posts: 263
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From: pretnichols
Date: 03-08-2006, 03:03 PM (12 of 24)
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Well, I have 7 -- all old mechanicals or treadles. A non-working Singer treadle and one that was a converted treadle. The only one that I use, is my Singer Stylist 543 from 1977. I downloaded the manual (searched this site for the info), so that I have a printed copy AND a PDF as a backup. My mother's Pfaff 60 (circa 1957) was the one I learned to sew on, and has not been used since 1977. I'm guessing it would work if cleaned up. I also have inherited my late MIL's Elgin & an antique one of hers. The Elgin worked up until her death in 2003, but again, hasn't been touched since then. I typically have only used my machine for straight-stitching since I was never shown how to use the zig-zag portion of it. And yesterday I adjusted the tension on it to sew my DD's patches on her Brownie vest, and messed it up. The top thread kept breaking (sulky brand) so I adjusted and now it just messes up in general, but the thread stopped breaking.  I am saving for an embroidery machine, and have about $600 so far. I want to buy from a local dealer so that I can get training, support, etc. I'm not looking for top-of-line (yet!!), but want to aim for mid-range. Thanks for reading my "novel". Sometimes I just get carried away......... 
Peggy
So little time, sew much to do........... |
User: pretnichols
Member since: 10-16-2005 Total posts: 342 |
From: wghmch
Date: 03-08-2006, 04:30 PM (13 of 24)
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"Am I a nut? Is there a sewing machines support group?" Melanie, The answers are yes & yes. Here's the link, but be warned that most of them are far crazier than you, and no one is ever apt to advise you to get rid of any of them. They even have a pastor who is a "regular". Just look for Dennis Steckley. Go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/wefixit/ |
User: wghmch
Member since: 03-04-2003 Total posts: 249 |
From: crazy4quilting
Date: 03-09-2006, 04:50 AM (14 of 24)
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Well, I absolutely love sewing and using my sewing machines. It all started out with using my Mom’s Singer (1970’s) model. I was then bitten with the sewing bug. I’m sure a lot of you remember the first machine you sewed on. It was Green and only did some straight and zigzag stitches. I currently have a Kenmore Computerized Machine (120 Stitch) that I bought about 12 years ago. I paid close to a $1,000 for it back then. This is about the quietest machine I have ever heard or have used, is well constructed and have never had a lick of problems with it….sews like a dream. I also have two Kenmore models that I got off of Ebay for like $30.00 a piece. Keep in mind; these were valued at $349.00 a couple of years ago. I call these my loaners. When family members need to sew something, I let them use these. I also bought a Singer Red Eye off of Ebay (just because I loved the way it looked and got it for a great price). Later I bought a Simplicity Quilter’s Classic computerized machine. I really wouldn’t classify it as a true computerized machine, because it is basically just an LCD screen to indicate stitch pattern, length, etc. I just wanted a machine to tote with me to classes, etc. Now Sergers & Embroidery Machines: I have a White Speedy Lock Serger that I have had for over 10 years. (My first one!) Still sews perfectly. Later I purchased a Singer Serger as a backup model. My first embroidery machine was the Brother PE 150 Model and Simplicity Smart Box for software conversion, etc. I tell you what though. That little Brother PE did a fairly good job for a low end embroidery machine. (Getting ready to sell though). I then upgraded to the White Embroidery 4400, which I can easily attach to my laptop for editing designs, etc. I’ve done several projects so far on it, and really like it. I just hope the machine quality is good. We’ll see. I’m hoping one day to win the Lotto and buy one of those beautiful sewing machines that does everything, sewing & embroidery, but till I win, I’ll just have to wait. 
A Girl Can Never Have Too Much Fabric!
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User: crazy4quilting
Member since: 03-14-2002 Total posts: 51 
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From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 03-10-2006, 01:08 PM (15 of 24)
I have a total of 5 machines.. A kenmore from the late 60's or early 70's. It currently resides at DIL's home.(she wants to learn to sew) It has 5 zigzag and 5 stretch stitches. A Singer 221 (featherweight portable) I purchased from Singer in 1957 after a 3 month rental. (I got a new machine guaranty with it, and a box of feet and tools, and a buttonhole attachment).. It's name is Old Faithful (named by my sons).. It stays in the coat closet in its case when not in use. Ready to travel whenever I need it. Then I have my Janome MemoryCraft 4000. This is the one I use everyday.. I have a serger that is 15 years old made by Babylock, it is a Companion 2040. 3-4 thread serger and does a rolled hem and that is all, but what a workhorse it is.. I recently bought a Janome Coverstitch 900 ?? .. I did not have the money to buy a new serger that does it all, and the old one is doing fine, so I just bought the coverstitch . I am happy with it, also.. All my t-shirts that are old have hems coming loose because they were done with twin needles.. Now I have fixed those old loved shirts and they are like new again.. If I were younger, I would buy an embroidery machine, but they are too expensive to leave when I'm gone for my family to have to give away or sell at a yard sale.. So, I just pay friends to do embroidery for me when I need it.. Works for me.. I love all my machines, have never had a bad one.. 
Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022 
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From: crazy4quilting
Date: 03-10-2006, 03:12 PM (16 of 24)
Hi Libby (like your name)  Oh, if only I could get a featherweight. I would be in seventh heaven... I have looked at allbrands.com. They actually have a Featherweight replica that they sell for $299.00. I don't know how good it is, but to try and get one online, I'm looking at $400 - $700.  Too much for this old girl.
A Girl Can Never Have Too Much Fabric!
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User: crazy4quilting
Member since: 03-14-2002 Total posts: 51
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From: bridesmom
Date: 03-11-2006, 12:55 AM (17 of 24)
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I have got to get DH to read this thread. He is always asking me why I have so many machines. I currently have 6 - oh my gosh I didn't realize that!! I have one old Baycrest that is a workhorse that will be donated to a local youth shelter, an old Singer and an old Pfaff, one of which my DD will get as she wants to try her hand at sewing. I'll keep one as a backup just in case. I have a Pfaff 1471 creative, its older, but I love it, a Janome 634D Mylock Serger, and an older Bernina Deco 500 embroidery machine. It's a bit tempermental, only likes certain threads, but it's been a great one to learn on. I'm hoping that when I take my sister to the Sewing and Craft show here next weekend that she will find a new embroidery machine and I can buy her Artista off of her. But I'm not going to mention that to DH, I'll just switch machines and either sell the Deco or give it to my DD. The less he knows the better I think. He stays out of my sewing room because I believe he starts to get short of breath when he sees all the boxes and boxes of stuff, a bit of a panic reaction!! The scary thing is 2 years ago all I had was one sewing machine!
Laura
Tickled pink with my Innovis 4000D |
User: bridesmom
Member since: 01-21-2004 Total posts: 2026 |
From: Sancin
Date: 03-11-2006, 04:56 AM (18 of 24)
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Leap Frog I got a FW on ebay for $235 + taxes and border charges. I watched the auctions daily for about 6 weeks. There are some good deals and some foolish ones. Many of the highest price ones ($400 - $ 800) are from dealers who seem to know little about sewing machines and specifically what accessories are. If you try EBay watch the machine you like and bid at the last minute. If you don't win don't worry, it is a busy selling place. The one I bought had no accessories and wasn't in pristine condition, but good condition, it had been checked over and cleaned, and the seller was honest and didn't hedge on questions. I figured I could buy accessories separately, but haven't yet. I had checked with our local all machine repair man who sold FW for $125 when they first came out. He said that repairs for the FW can be expensive. I bought mine for sentimental reasons as well as lightweight portability. In retrospect I should maybe have considered a Lotus or other small one that was newer and had at least a zig zag stitch (the reason I traded my original FW in!). As I learned to sew before 'other ' stitches were available I know all sorts of ways to finish seams, etc. But last night I was using the FW and thought what a pain in the neck it was to have to remove the garment to fold and pin seams over. I do have 2 other machines (an Elna and a Janome), but didn't feel like setting them up. Interesting discussion! 
*~*~*~* Nancy*~*~*~* " I try to take one day at a time - but sometimes several days attack me at once."
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User: Sancin
Member since: 02-13-2005 Total posts: 895 
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From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 03-12-2006, 06:51 PM (19 of 24)
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Sancin, Far be it from me to advise you to buy another machine, LOL-- But if space or weight of machine is a problem, how about that Janome Jem?? I have heard great things about it, and I understand it is very portable.. only weighs 11 or so pounds.. Has all the better stitches I understand.. My FW cost me $ 150.00 used in 1957 and included the buttonholer and zig zag attachments that were normally sold separately , as well as the usual little box of attachments and tools, and as I said before a new machine guaranty since it was an authorized Dealer rental machine.. One of the best investments of my life.. It started skipping the other day and I took the Throat plate off and I wish you could have seen the solid piece of fabric that came out of there. (not really, just so much lint that it looked like a chunk of felted wool).. I guess it had not been cleaned since it left here.. Libby Ortiz, keep a watch on e-bay and you might find a bargain yet.. Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022
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From: momof3boysohmy
Date: 03-14-2006, 06:42 PM (20 of 24)
| I am so glad I'm not the only one my husband thinks I'm crazy with 4!!! He says I'll be like the proverbial "little old lady with cats" only for me it will be sewing machines! This, from a man who is a gun collector and owns 30 guns!!! Ha! Ha! There's the prettiest little Viking Lena on ebay now, that's pastel yellow. I've been trying to hard to resist it.......... |
User: momof3boysohmy
Member since: 03-14-2006 Total posts: 4 |
From: Kdruan
Date: 03-20-2006, 11:11 AM (21 of 24)
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Oh my gosh, I have never laughed so hard. Just as I was thinking what are your hubby's thinking then the hubby comments started. I know I'd have to hide the machines from my DH. As it is now with just 3 machines he's already yapping. Heck, I don't ask how many tools he's NOT using and GOTTA have! At least I'm using mine.. LOL... OKay, Okay... Now, now lets just not talk about fabric stashes okay... shh..... Kathy |
User: Kdruan
Member since: 02-24-2006 Total posts: 17 |
From: mommydionne
Date: 03-20-2006, 05:27 PM (22 of 24)
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Personally I think there is nothing wrong with a sewing machine collection I have a Bernina 160, a singer treadle, and old singer "portable" (wood case, weighs more than my 7 yr old) and a viking serger, I gave away my Janome 272 to my old babysitter who is taking fashion design at NSCAD, and my old singer 3 thread serger is sitting in my sister's porch, (need to get that back,) oh yeah a brother disney embroidery only machine too. ain't it great 
Jeanette
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User: mommydionne
Member since: 01-08-2004 Total posts: 838 
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From: LadySloPokes
Date: 03-26-2006, 11:36 AM (23 of 24)
I'm so glad that I'm not the only one who is building up a collection of machines. Like many of you, my SO seems to think that one machine is all you need to do it all... My current collection of machines in use are my Singer Quantum Decor 7322 (Christmas present in 2004) for sewing, Singer Quantum Futura CE-200 (Christmas present 2005-his idea!) used expressly for embroidery; and his late mom's old Singer Ultralock Serger model 14u32, a 3 thread machine which I'm still trying to learn how to use other than just trimming fabric that unravels  . My first sewing machine, Singer Fashion Mate 257, is quietly sitting in our office waiting to be serviced and passed on to my DD when she's ready for it. I almost dread telling dear SO that I'm really wanting a new 4 thread serger....  Cookie
Cookie
LadySlo...yes am I, but hey, I'm gettin' there! Are you sure it's supposed to look like this?! Proud owner of Singer Quantum Decor 7322 & Singer Quantum Futura CE 200.. "A balanced diet is having chocolate in both hands!" |
User: LadySloPokes
Member since: 08-15-2005 Total posts: 198 
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From: sewingcybermom
Date: 03-26-2006, 08:13 PM (24 of 24)
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Well, seeing that my machines bring in an income that pays my daughter's college tuition, dh can't complain! Bernina 950 Bernina 930 Bernina 1100DA (2) Bernina Deco 650 Babylock blind hemmer Janome Coverpro 1000CP Singer 221 Featherweight I think I'm done buying machines for a while!! All are set up and they get used daily with the exception of the Deco. That's a fun machine to use, but my business doesn't really call for a lot of embroidery. See some of my work here:
http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v6...ce%20costumes/ |
User: sewingcybermom
Member since: 01-18-2006 Total posts: 58 
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