At age 60 my vintage Necchi sewing machine (the Italian version of Singer) has announced that she is ready to retire.I originally bought her from a sewing machine repair shop 30 years ago (yes, I was 7 at the time--ha!). The original owner in 1951 was a Mrs. Buster of Sacramento, as her name is neatly penciled into the instruction manual.
Old Necchi, as I affectionately call her, has been a workhorse--solidly built with METAL everything (not a plastic part to be found) . But lately she's been screeching and groaning and says she wants to drink pina coladas on a sandy beach somewhere instead of working so hard.
HELP ME! In the 30 years since I last purchased a sewing machine, things have changed a tad. HAVE YOU SEEN what SEWING MACHINES can DO now?
I just need something basic, that is durable and reliable, and not TOO complicated and for under $300 if possible. Any suggestions? Singer, White, Brother, other? I'd appreciate any suggestions or recommendations you might have--please leave them in the comments section.
In the mean time, here is a sneak peek at what Old Necchi and I have been up to lately. This little prototype will give you a clue as to what my new artistic obsession is and why I've been a little preoccupied. More about that later...
Thanks for visiting!
I really love my Brother machines that I have and have had...however they have all plastic parts so they will never be what your old machine is for sure. I do put in a lot of hours on my machines and so far so good. I also have a great back up Kenmore that I bought at Goodwill for $27 and it is a 1965 if I remember correctly..took it in for service and it is an all metal machine that is a true work horse so that may be a thought if you want a more simple machine..this one has zig zag and straight stitch only. Good luck and do not be fooled by machines that "claim" to be heavy duty :) they just do not make them as they once did.
ReplyDeleteHugs
GrannyZann
Thanks for the info, Granny Zann! Yes, if I want something well-built, I might do better to find an older machine...
ReplyDeleteYeah, mine is plastic too. Can't go wrong with Sears. Your new obsession is looking great! I hope you keep that old machine if for nothing else just a great display, it is a beauty and I'd love to be sipping a pina colada with it anytime ;)
ReplyDeleteOh no - mine is over 40 years - a big old Kenwood that can do anything. I will be very interested in what you get - best of luck!
ReplyDeleteThere are so many choices! I'm torn between trying to find a good used machine or a brand-spankin new one...
ReplyDeleteHave you had your current one in to see if it can be repaired? That may be a great solution and then maybe get a new one as well if you just want to so that you have some of the bells and whistles :) I have to admit I have several becasue I am always worried if I just had one it would break on me in the middle of a big order :)
ReplyDeleteGood luck!
GrannyZann
Susan, grt to see you blog and feature ur work on my blog today. Do join my blog for regular art & artist features and light fun reads. Would love to see u here:
ReplyDeletehttp://thepinkoflife.blogspot.com
Enjoy:)