Sew, What's Up

Sew What’s Up Presents

The Sew What’s New Archive

This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and quilting message board “Sew What’s New,” which was retired in August 2007. It is being provided by “Sew What’s Up,” which serves as the new home for many members of “Sew What’s New.”
From: Sunshinedove
Date: 06-26-2006, 09:07 PM (1 of 8)
I recently bought a used machine and I'm not even sure what kind it is. It says "Dial-A-Stitch" on a plate on the front, so I'm assuming that's the brand. It has another plate on the side which says "Precision Built, Made in Japan". It is avocado green, so I have to assume it's from the 1970's. It's very heavy and doesn't appear to have many plastic parts.

It looks like it will be a good machine if I can get it running, but it is missing the needle housing and bobbin case. It has the post that the needle attaches to, but nothing for the needle to be inserted into.

Does anyone have any idea where I can get these parts? I called a repair shop and they quoted me a price of $70 to fix it. I only paid $25 for it, so I'm not real eager to spend that much.

Thanks!
User: Sunshinedove
Member since: 06-26-2006
Total posts: 4
From: lamx
Date: 06-27-2006, 07:49 AM (2 of 8)
If you have a Jo-Ann Fabric store in your area, they often stock parts for White machines. The White bobbin case will work in your Japanese machine. I think the price in my local Jo-Ann is $2.95. The needle clamp will be a bit tougher, if someone has a similar machine and can provide a photo of their needle clamp, we might be able to find one from a donor machine. There is a Yahoo group that deals exclusively with vintage Japanese sewing machines, you would probably have a good chance of finding parts and advice there.

Ed
User: lamx
Member since: 05-04-2006
Total posts: 44
From: ClareSS
Date: 06-27-2006, 10:11 AM (3 of 8)
Hi,
I believe the "Dial-A-Stitch" machines were made by Pfaff.
User: ClareSS
Member since: 04-05-2006
Total posts: 17
From: Sunshinedove
Date: 06-28-2006, 07:33 AM (4 of 8)
Thanks! I will start by looking at Jo Ann's for the bobbin case. As for the needle clamp, would it help if I post a picture of my machine? It really does look like a White, as I saw one on eBay that looked very similar.

I've looked at the Dial-A-Stitch machines put out by Pfaff, but they don't look anything like mine.
User: Sunshinedove
Member since: 06-26-2006
Total posts: 4
From: paroper
Date: 06-28-2006, 11:53 AM (5 of 8)
HOpefully Bill or Tom will be around soon to give you some solid leads...they are always sooo helpful in these matters!
pam

Bernina 200e, Artista V5 Designer Plus, Explorations, Magic Box, Bernina 2000DE & 335 Bernette Serger, Bernina 1530 Sewing Machine, Bernina 1300 DC Overlock (with coverstitch)
User: paroper
Member since: 02-03-2004
Total posts: 3775
From: CodyGramma
Date: 06-29-2006, 05:42 AM (6 of 8)
Give this website a try.... I was looking for parts for a very old treadle machine and found them here.... they were extremely helpful...I emailed them with details and I got a response within the 24 hours they stated. (and in your case if you don't have a model # or brandname I would send photos) Good luck in your search for parts!! and Happy sewing!!

http://www.a1sewingmachine.com/parts.html
Sewing Machine Parts
User: CodyGramma
Member since: 04-22-2005
Total posts: 133
From: Sunshinedove
Date: 06-30-2006, 02:00 PM (7 of 8)
Thank you so much, CodyGramma! I just now emailed them, so I'll see what they have to say.

You all are so helpful!
User: Sunshinedove
Member since: 06-26-2006
Total posts: 4
From: Sunshinedove
Date: 06-30-2006, 03:43 PM (8 of 8)
Wow! They had the parts. Thanks, codygramma!
User: Sunshinedove
Member since: 06-26-2006
Total posts: 4
Sew, What's Up
Search the “Sew What’s New” Archive:
Visit Sew What’s Up for the latest sewing and quilting tips and discussions.
This page was originally located on Sew What’s New (www.sew-whats-new.com) at http://www.sew-whats-new.com/vb/archive/index.php/t-19484.html