r/vintagesewing • u/Disastrous_Snow_482 • 3d ago

General Question Machine suggestions

Im pretty new to the hobby but am looking into getting a machine to take with me to uni. Previously I was using a new home Ja 1518 made in Taiwan which worked well but was unable to see anything thicker then two layers of denims which is a problem cause denim is mainly what i do. I was wondering what other beginner friendly powerful machines would fit my criteria? I’ve mostly been looking on Facebook marketplace but I’m new to the app and having so issues finding a good fit. And advice is appreciated. Price limit of 200

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u/weenie2323 3d ago

Pre-1965 Singer models 15, 99, 66, 201, 301, and 401 are very common, easy to find parts(parts are still made new even), tons of available videos on how to use and maintain, and will sew through anything you can fit under the presser foot are all good options. They are often available in good working condition well under your price. Also try Craigslist and Ebay local pickup in addition to Facebook.

Also the Kenmore 158 series are very good and well priced.

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u/Disastrous_Snow_482 3d ago

I found a kenmore 158 on Facebook marketplace where the poster has claimed it has been fully serviced, oiled etc for 175 you think that’s a good deal?

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u/blueyedreamer 3d ago

Depends on the exact model and I'd definitely ask if it's original wiring, though that doesn't automatically mean it's bad, but it's good to know. Definitely ask to plug it in and bring a needle, thread, maybe a bobbin, and some denim to trying sewing through (depends on exactly what you want to sew and how many layers but it'd suggest folding it up for at least 4 layers for your test). But if it's recently fully serviced and in good shape that saves you the cost of getting it serviced yourself (depending on where you live and if any repairs are needed a service can be 70-200+ dollars and sometimes a 4 hour drive to the nearest shop). I'm not sure it's a great deal, but if it sews beautifully, it's probably not a bad deal imo.

Most 158s are between 50-70 years old now, if I remember their years correctly, which is why I mention wiring. If they don't know if it's original or it is original but seems in decent shape because it's sewing well, just sew with the pedal not on carpet (a nice size tile under) and unplug it when not in use (plus maybe have it on a surge protector).

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u/blueyedreamer 3d ago

Do you have a habit 4 Humanity nearby? I suggest looking for a Kenmore 158.whatever or similar (you can look this up online, I've learned a lot from this blog https://tumorfarmer.blogspot.com/?m=1 ). You want an all metal body. If you need zig zag you need either one that can use cams (door on top) OR has a stitch dial. Look for one where you can lift the presser foot extra high too.

At H4H they're often less than 30 dollars but they MAY need to be tuned, maybe rewired (get a new pedal at that time) and possibly a new motor. Make sure you can move the needle freely before purchasing to confirm it's not seized up.

Also, sometimes people are giving these away for free or cheap on Facebook.

I paid 20 dollars for one 6 years ago and then had it rewired with a new pedal, I don't remember if it also got a new motor. Total cost was 200 (though probably more now)

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u/Disastrous_Snow_482 3d ago

Thanks for the suggestion I didn’t realize they did that

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u/blueyedreamer 3d ago

Oh, I should have specified a bit more, it's Habit 4 Humanity ReStore... Where they sell donations of furniture, dishes, home goods, etc, to help fund them. Most H4Hs have one, but a lot of people don't realize they exist. You can also sometimes find washer and dryers or refrigerators there! I found a knitting machine at one once, they had no idea what it was but I was moving soon... I still regret not buying it and taking it with me lmao.

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u/TheyTheirsThem 1d ago edited 1d ago

My local restore has had an all-metal flatbed 158 on the shelf since 7/10. Someone priced it at $125 and it is now at 50% off but I think the original sticker still scares people off (it was also one of the mid-range machines at the time). The 1752, however, for $20 in a table with a knee lever would have been a solid heavy-duty purchase. Needed the bobbin cover plate but all was loose inside and turned easily. I hit 4 stores on Sat. and the restore was the only one with machines !!! and they were the same 4 that had been there on several previous visits. I guess the mild winter and mild summer was easy on the grannies. In my area 158's at Goodwills fall in the $20-60 range and all have required only a regrease ($15 tube will do 3 machines) and a liberal oiling to dissolve gunk and get it back to like-new performance. Find a shop or two adjacent to affluent areas where the heirs will dump the machines.

It might be helpful for people to mention where they are. I routinely poke the thrifts looking for other stuff (Got a nice like-new extra-large Targus computer bag for $5) and make note of the machines I see while there. I suspect others here might do the same.

Goodwill online has an 18021 currently at $15 bid. If I were looking for a 158, I'd be on this one like a panther on a steak if there wasn't the option of finding similar locally (just got a 1774 for $27).

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u/LegitimateReward1882 3d ago

The ReStores really are great!
I have bought great sewing machines from the online Goodwill auction site. You can use the search filter for your area so you can go pick it up, not have it sent. They always have some sturdy old machines listed (and lots of newer ones). Depending on the bidding action, will often go for $25 or under. But you can’t test them out. And someone could upbid at the last minute. They will tell you if it runs. Worth a try, especially if you feel comfortable with oiling and basic repairs.

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u/BypassBaboon 2d ago

Hold off buying. Start looking around. Estate sales often have them for a good price. Lurk around thrift stores and FB marketplace.

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u/Street_Tradition_682 2d ago

Off to uni! I'd suggest a straight+zigzag machine. Vintage @ FbMp or resale shop? Okay, let's see: Kenmore 158.1914, Necchi BU Mira, Pfaff 130, Singer 237, Singer 319, Singer 401, Singer 601.

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u/QuietVariety6089 2d ago

If you want to sew a lot of heavy denim, you'd probably be best off with a 201 or one of the beefy Kenmores. 201 is a straight stitch only machine.

You might look for an old industrial as many were built with a lot more power. Bernina made semi-industrials in the 700-900 series I think which might work for you. If you can find one you will probably pay more than 200 once it's bought and fixed up, but if you get an 'ordinary' domestic machine you'll have the same problems you're having now.

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u/buckinghamnicks75 2d ago

Can second 201, I got a 201k in a charity shop for £20 and that was such a game changer for making jeans

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u/jvin248 8h ago

Singer 15 is better for "hard use", has a much larger bobbin, and people sell them for half what is asked for 201s.

Often $25-$50 in a fold up table.

I have both 15 and 201 and the 15 gets all the play time.

.

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u/QuietVariety6089 6h ago

I've had both and for heavy duty would pick the 201 for the power and larger harp :)