I have been meaning to share photos of my quilt studio since we moved once again. My quilt studio for 2024 is very similar to every one I have had in the past but I think this is the largest.
For a few years now, I have been wanting to make the sewing machine mat and cover that is featured in Lori Holt's book Quilty...
Happy Wednesday! Today I want to share a few of my favorite resources, tips, and tricks for Sewing on a Vintage Singer Featherweight 221. I was very lucky to find a featherweight under the tree this past Christmas from my parents. It is in beautiful condition, and had been picked up with it's original case, accessories, and even the loan agreement. You can read a bit more about that story here. I had it cleaned and serviced at my local sewing machine shop after I got it, wanting to make sure it was in true working order between I started using it. I don't regret having it serviced that first time, because I really felt like it needed to be seen first by a professional. However, since that first cleaning I've serviced and cleaned it myself. Now that I've been using it pretty heavily for the past 5-6 months, I want to share my experiences with you all! Ever since my machine returned from it's first tune-up, I've been using it almost exclusively for piecework. Nearly anything that was just simple piecing, since March has been done on my featherweight. That includes the majority of the projects that I made for my Quilt Market booth this past Spring! I continue to use my Janome Horizon 7700 for anything that requires a walking foot, like bags with interfacing, shirring and for all my quilting. I wouldn't trade it for those things for sure. But for pretty much everything else, I'm preferring the featherweight. It is so easy to use for piecing, and creates amazing stitches. In addition, it is so lightweight and it takes up such little space so it's great for traveling. Two resources that have been really helpful for me is Featherweight 221: The Perfect Portable And It's Stitches Across History by Nancy Johnson-Srebro, and The Featherweight 221 and I by David McCallum. Nancy's book is all about the history of the featherweight, the different models and accessories. There is part of the original manual in it as well, but in general it is more of a commentary on featherweights rather than a how-to manual. It was really interesting, I read through most of it in one sitting! David McCallum's book is a true how-to guide. It is a comprehensive guide to care and also repair. I turn to this book every time I need to oil my machine. It has very clear, easy to read diagrams for where to oil and how often each spot should be oiled. Only the front of each page is printed, so you can use the backs of the pages to take notes. I keep track of each time I oil my machine to make sure I don't oil it too often or not enough. I highly recommend both books, but if you only buy one, buy The Featherweight 221 and I by David McCallum. You don't need much to take care of regular maintenance on a featherweight. These are some of my favorite tools: I always have compressed air on hand to use on all of my machines. It's great for getting dust and lint from hard to reach places, like under the needle plate and in the bobbin case. I seem to keep buying this one by 3M, it lasts a while. Early on I picked up a non-abrasive car wax to protect the surface of the featherweight and keep it nice and shiny. This butter smooth wax has worked great and doesn't have a strong smell. Make sure to test any wax on a hidden place first. I buff it on with a microfiber cloth. Unlike most of today's machines, featherweights need oiling on a regular basis to make sure it's running smoothly. I oil mine after every 8 hours or so of use. Not all parts of the machine need oiled that often though. Once you get used to your machine, you'll be able to hear and feel when it needs oil. I really like the Zoom Spout Oil*. It has a thin spout that comes way out of the bottle, making it easy to get hard to reach places. You only need a tiny drop in each spot, and this oil makes it easy to control the oil. I use q-tips to clean up any excess oil. You'll also need Singer Motor Lubricant for the gears and motor. Before you start sewing again, sew through some scrap fabric to make sure everything is running okay and to let any excess oil run onto the scrap instead of your project. *Update: I recently started using this oil pen, which makes it even easier to deliver one drop at a time. I absolutely love it, and it's refillable! Once the machine is all nice and clean, it's back to sewing! I use Schmetz Universal Needles in my featherweight. They work great in all my machines, I like not having to order anything special. The needles go in sideways and you thread it from right to left. I only use Aurifil cotton thread in my featherweight. It feeds so smoothly through the machine, and it only seems right to treat it to the best thread! Like all machines, featherweights have their own quirks when it comes to actually sewing. I like to use the stock foot that came with the machine to do all my piecing. It's super skinny which makes top stitching really nice and the 1/4" guide is easy to see. You can buy a 1/4" foot for your featherweight, but I don't have one for mine. I don't ever use the 1/4" foot I have for my Janome, so I probably wouldn't use one for this either. I'm not sure why, I just don't like using them! One of the biggest tricks that helped make things easier for me, was learning how to loosen the hand wheel so that the needle doesn't run up and down while you wind a bobbin. Before you start winding, hold the large wheel in place with one hand and turn the small wheel towards you until it loosens. Wind your bobbin and turn it back until it locks in place when you're done. I do have the original carrying case for my featherweight, but I decided to create my own set of accessories for travel and storage. I wanted something cuter and also a little more functional. You can read more about my featherweight travel set here. Want to make your own set? Check out my Sew Portable Travel Set Pattern! I also have a tutorial for a patchwork mat to match! I'm not a featherweight expert, but I've definitely learned a lot using it these last few months. I'm looking forward to stitching up lots more projects with it! I hope this was helpful to some of you! Do you sew on a vintage machine? What are your favorite tips, tricks, and resources?
A collection of frequently asked questions surrounding the Singer Featherweight... from "Is my machine a Featherweight?" to "What is my Featherweight worth?" to "I just...
Are you one of the lucky sewers who owns a coveted original Singer Featherweight sewing machine? Here’s how you can make a custom protective zipper cover that
This is truly amazing what has been designed here. For Singer Featherweight sewing machine owners and lovers, here is a pattern and a tutorial that will show
Is your machine skipping stitches, or looping strangely after it was sewing just perfectly moments before? Most all stitch problems on a Singer Featherweight have...
For a few years now, I have been wanting to make the sewing machine mat and cover that is featured in Lori Holt's book Quilty...
"Is this a good price?", "How do I know if anything is wrong with the machine?", "Are some Singer Featherweights better than others?", and "What...
For a few years now, I have been wanting to make the sewing machine mat and cover that is featured in Lori Holt's book Quilty...
SINGER C240 FEATHERWEIGHT SEWING MACHINE BUKU PETUNJUK MANUAL 28 PAGES IN INDONESIAN. IF YOU WOULD ALSO LIKE TO RECEIVE THIS MANUAL AS A PAPERBACK BOOK, YOU CAN ORDER IT FROM: themanualarchive dot com IF YOU CAN'T FIND EXACTLY WHAT YOU NEED, THERE ARE THOUSANDS MORE INSTANTLY AVAILABLE MANUALS AT: themanualsservice dot com
This is truly amazing what has been designed here. For Singer Featherweight sewing machine owners and lovers, here is a pattern and a tutorial that will show
PLEASE FOLLOW DOWNLOADING INSTRUCTIONS BELOW We are so very, very excited to offer Ellis & Higgs quilt block patterns by Nadra Ridgeway! Her lovely designs are easy to follow and especially creative as she adds a sweet touch that makes her patterns unique. Using traditional quilt designs with simple angles and squares, Nadra takes it one step further to make her patterns look as lifelike as possible. When you're reading through her pattern and sewing along, it's like having your pattern instructor right there with you as you construct each step. We love sewing with her patterns! This Sitting Bunny Block would be a perfect project for your Singer Featherweight. You can download and print this pattern immediately after purchase (Acrobat Reader required, www.adobe.com). UNFINISHED QUILT BLOCK SIZES: - 6 1/2" X 6 1/2" - 12 1/2 X 12 1/2" FINISHED QUILT BLOCK SIZES: - 6" x 6" (15.2 x 15.2 cm)- 12" x 12" (33 x 33 cm)PLEASE NOTE: This pattern contains no text, but only diagrams to describe the individual steps.THIS PATTERN INCLUDES:- Cover with a picture of the unfinished quilt blocks- Diagramed step-by-step instructionsSKILL LEVEL: Advanced beginnersNOTE: The quilt blocks contain some really small pieces, the smallest piece is a ⅞" x ⅞" square.MATERIALS NEEDED:Black Print: 2" x 2" (12" block), 2" x 2" (6" block)Green Print: 4" x 4" (12" block), 3" x 3" (6" block)Light Green Print:1 FQ" (12" block), 1 FE (6" block)Background Fabric: 1 FE (12" block), 10" x 10" (6" block) © 2019 Nadra Ridgeway, ellis & higgs. All rights reserved. This pattern is not available for commercial resale. Pattern duplication and sharing is prohibited. TERMS OF USE: You may sell handcrafted items made from this pattern under the following conditions: The item must be made by the individual that purchased the pattern. Keep a copy of the receipt as proof of purchase. The item must be made by hand, one at a time, mass production is not allowed. Credit must be given to ellis & higgs as the designer of the pattern on a tag affixed to each item. If selling online, the listing must contain a direct link to the original pattern. **DIGITAL PATTERN DOWNLOADING & POLICY DETAILS: Downloading When you complete your order, you will receive an email that says "Your downloads are ready". In this email you will have a unique URL link to click on which will lead you back to our website and the following screen: Click on the words "Download Now" so that a little window pops up for you to select whether you want to open it as a PDF or save it to your computer. Be patient with your first attempt - the file is large, so it may take a few moments to load the PDF depending on your ISP connection speed. Once the window pops up you can select either option of whether to "Open" or "Save". If saving it, just be sure to make a note of where you are saving it on your computer so you can retrieve it later. If you click on your download link and a web browser appears but only presents you with a white screen or downloading doesn't appear to take place, most likely there is an incompatibility between the web browser you are using, your system software, and the way our website serves files. First try switching to a different web browser. (For example, if you are using Internet Explorer, try starting the download with Firefox instead. We have found that Firefox works very well!)However, if switching browsers does not work for you, try downloading it from your laptop or desktop computer rather than an iPad or mobile device. This usually solves the issue as the iPad tends to hide downloaded files in odd places and requires a reader app to open it (Adobe Reader App or Kindle App are free). If all else fails, you can forward your email link to a friend or local copy center business to have them download and print it for you. Digital Policy Details This digital product policy is designed to help you understand our commitment to you but also remind you of your responsibilities when you purchase digital products from The Featherweight Shop. If you have a registered account with our website, then your order history is provided once you login to your account. You can then download any digital product or pattern purchases at any time in the future using your order history. Due to the nature of digital products, saving to computers, etc., refunds cannot be issued. If you would like a hard copy of this pattern, then please feel free to forward the digital file that is emailed to you to a family member, friend or your local copy center for printing. If you do not have a registered account, then please know that it is your responsibility to promptly download and save the file you purchased to your computer. Once you have downloaded and saved your item, safeguarding it is up to you. Be sure to back up your files, because it is not a matter of "if", but "when" your files will be lost. Carbonite, Backblaze or other backup file system is highly recommended. You set it up and never have to worry again. However, if you ever need to recover your lost files, these backup programs are a life saver!
"Vintage Sewing Machine & Notions" ~ a paper piecing pattern This pattern is inspired by my favorite sewing machine - a Singer Featherweight circa 1964 and a fun notions jar, and I have lots of those! 12" x 12" Finished Block 12 1/2" x 12 1/2" unfinished block This 13 page pattern includes: *Full size, full color pattern for foundation paper piecing or freezer paper piecing *Detailed instructions on how to assemble the block *Three pages of paper piecing tips including: Matching Seams Fussy Cutting Small Pieces To Back Tack or not to Back Tack This pattern would be wonderful for a mini quilt, pillow or on a tote bag! This pattern does not include instructions for paper piecing. If you need help I have lots of tips as well as a free beginning pattern here: http://charisecreates.blogspot.com/p/paper-piecing-resources.html It is OK to use for small scale home production. Please give credit to Charise Randell @ ChariseCreates.Blogspot.com if reselling an item using this pattern. It is not intended for large scale production. I would love to see your creations! You can download them at my Flickr Group – Charise Creates Projects http://www.flickr.com/groups/1905750@N23/ Thanks for stopping by!
For a few years now, I have been wanting to make the sewing machine mat and cover that is featured in Lori Holt's book Quilty...
For a few years now, I have been wanting to make the sewing machine mat and cover that is featured in Lori Holt's book Quilty...
Great Quilt Group Project – Name Tags! This darling little quilt packs a big impact in a small space. The embroidered personalization makes it extra special. Make several to give to your quilting and sewing friends, and don’t forget to make one for yourself! What will you do with your mini sewing machine quilt? It …
Use the Boxy Tote Pattern to create a bag that was initially intended to hold a Singer Featherweight Sewing Machine. Besides using the Boxy Tote Pattern as a sewing machine case, it can be used to store your knitting projects, sewing supplies, or it can be turned into a diaper bag. The Boxy Tote Pattern has a rigid metal frame that will hold open the mouth of the bag, making it easier to get items in and out. Included with this pattern are two metal stays, recommended materials, and detailed instructions.
Singer 221K Featherweight - GOLD SINGER SEWING MACHINE COMPANY These decals are a recreation of the original decals found on the Singer 221K Featherweight sewing machine. The decals are printed on clear backed waterslide decals for easy application to your machine. All orders come with easy application instructions. Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SewingMachinesandDecals PLEASE NOTE: All decals are created with the aim to get them as close to the original as possible, however it is important to note that we will not be responsible for any perceived differences between the original decals and the decals supplied, including colour variations and size differences.
The Cut Press Sew Quilt pattern by Lori Holt of Bee in my Bonnet features 4 wall hangings. All of these projects (or even a few) would be fun to hang in a sewing room and would be a great gift for all of your quilting or sewing friends. Photo credit goes to Lori Holt. Check out her blog.
Shop Shirring Foot Here Ever wonder what you can do with this little attachment? Using this foot has made a drastic difference in the...
For a few years now, I have been wanting to make the sewing machine mat and cover that is featured in Lori Holt's book Quilty...
For a few years now, I have been wanting to make the sewing machine mat and cover that is featured in Lori Holt's book Quilty...
Today, in part 4 of the Getting To Know Your Featherweight Series, you will learn how to thread a Singer Featherweight Sewing Machine from start...
Farm Girl Vintage Sew Along Spring is finally arriving, and we are so excited to add three more blocks to our stack of Farm...
For a few years now, I have been wanting to make the sewing machine mat and cover that is featured in Lori Holt's book Quilty...
DIGITAL DOWNLOAD ONLY Singer Featherweight SVG designs for Cricut etc. These are the Prism Paperclip decals, which are in use on the Singer Featherweight machines, 221 and 222. There are 2 files included, the side and the centre decals. SVG Sizes Prism Paperclip centre – 1.44″ (37mm) w x 5.76″ (147mm) h Prism Paperclip side – 2.64″ (67mm) w x 8.94″ (227mm) h You may use these designs for personal use. The digital design files are not to be resold, traded, copied, changed, shared or altered. Since this is a digital download sale, I do not accept refunds.
Fellow sewers and quilters appreciate handmade gifts! Choose beautiful fabrics for these projects that come together quickly. Your friends will love having pretty accessories and decor added to their sewing spaces.
A few months ago, I received an invitation to join the Sew Out Loud designers on Flickr. At the time, I was completely swamped and just couldn’t see how on earth I could participate. So time …
Singer 221K Featherweight - BLACK SINGER SEWING MACHINE COMPANY These decals are a recreation of the original decals found on the Singer 221K Featherweight sewing machine. The decals are printed on clear backed waterslide decals for easy application to your machine. All orders come with easy application instructions. Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SewingMachinesandDecals PLEASE NOTE: All decals are created with the aim to get them as close to the original as possible, however it is important to note that we will not be responsible for any perceived differences between the original decals and the decals supplied, including colour variations and size differences.
I've created the Pricing Guide for Vintage Sewing Machines that will help you answer the question, “Is this a good price to pay for a vintage sewing machine?”. This PDF download is full of information to help you determine what price you should pay when you find your perfect machine(s). While I
It doesn’t take long to be in the quilting world until you start to hear about the legendary Singer Featherweight. These little machines were manufactured from 1933 until 1961, at a rate of over 1.5 million per year. They do one stitch, a straight stitch, but it was legendary in doing that one stitch well. I became bitten by the bug, and decided to try to find one manufactured in 1954, the year I was born. So I found one on EBay, and was the successful bidder! You know, these little machines are just plain cute! And I just love little things! Speaking of little things, I decided to name my Featherweight Zola Mae. My Aunt Zola was my favorite aunt, and was an excellent sewer and quilter. And she was a tiny little woman. So it is a perfect name! Well, it doesn’t take long once the Featherweight bug hits that you start to accessorize. So I decided to make case liner and cover. The pattern is by Jean Meier, Meier-izms of Seattle, WA. I decided to make my own pattern for the case cover. I wanted one to cover the case to protect from dings, and to take the stress off the carrying handle. Even though these machines are lightweight (hence the name), they still are 11 pounds, and that is a bit of stess on cotton fabric. I backed my outer fabric with DecoBond (a Pellon product) to give it some strength. I also used a double layer of DecoBond in the straps, and ran them under the bottom. I had to use my thinking cap on how to get the liner on, but it finally clicked ! Voila! If there is a next time, I will make the straps a bit longer. And I sewed it entirely on Zola Mae!
Singer class 127 vibrating shuttle sewing machine models.
A few days off and not that great weather makes one productive. I wanted to sew a protective sleeve for the sewingbed of the featherweight. Searched the internet for a tutorial, measurments etc. but found zip. So I had to tackle that myself and while doing so, i thought other featherweight owners might want to sew a similar item...tadaa a tutorial by yours truly! Here's how I did it :First I wrapped the Feather in dressmaking paper, top and bottom Then I pulled out a piece of really ugly fabric to make a prototype I came up with this pattern eventually. I can't make pdf files, so you have to draw your own, with the measurements written on the pattern. Cut three: one outer fabric, one inner and add 1/4 " seam allowance and one fusible fleece without the seam allowance . The pattern is without seams!! Iron the fleece on the outer fabric. Flip one side up and sew this side Box the corner a tiny bit, 1/4 " is quite enough Repeat to the other side and sew the inner fabric the same way. You'll get two sleeves. Slide them inside eachother, right sides together and sew all around, leaving a gap on the upper side for turning. align the seams! Turn, topstitch and you're done! My sleeve has one longer flap and that's not just for protection You can slide it under your machine to use it as a threadcatcher, or to put your gear in, while sewing. I added some velcro so I can use it with my machine mat . The mat can be used with Sven too and since Sven is a lot heavier and bigger, I can't put the threadcather underneath him, hence the velcro... Questions? Something not explained clear enough? Feel free to ask :) Meanwhile I'm very pleased with my sleeve (and with myself i might add haha)
Sla de cursief gedrukte tekst over als je meteen naar de onderdraadspanning wilt! ;) Jullie moeten niet denken dat ik alles weet van naai...
This is part two of my client's request. This was a restoration of a Singer Sewing machine that had also been sitting in a garage for decad...
