My Sewing Space - Updated for 2024

 

I change it up often, moving things around to suit me, but this is the latest arrangement.

I have downsized my collection of machines - no really!  Yes, I have pared it down to the ones I really use and no more.  (Okay, I don't really USE my Featherweight 221, but that is the one "collector's item" I allow myself - well that and the Singer 127 treadle which is a display piece elsewhere in the house.) 

Singer Featherweight,  Singer 127 (inside treadle table)

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And okay, I don't really NEED both a Kenmore 1050 and a Singer Genie, but I am a sucker for "miniature" items.  Those are both the coolest small size sewing machines in their neat molded cases and I can't resist...after all they don't take up much room.  They're so CUTE!

Kenmore 1050,  Singer Genie 354

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I keep both the Kenmore 1760 and Kenmore 1774 because they each bring some different applications to the party:

Kenmore 1774,  Kenmore 1760

The 1774 does a chain stitch - only machine I have that does it now that I sold the Touch & Sew 600e.  It is also my FMQ machine.  I like a vertical bobbin machine for FM work which rules out the 201 and 401.  I can't do it on my 1760 because I have never been able to find an embroidery (hopping) foot for SHS.

The 1760 is my only free arm machine, and my Go-To machine for about 90% of my sewing - hence the position of "honor" in my space.  

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The 201 and 401 don't cancel each other out, either.  Both are rotary hook drop in bobbin machines, so technically the 401 usurps the 201, all else being equal.  But even though I don't do a lot of quilting, I have found that piecing is a joy on the 201 with its narrow feed dogs and dedicated straight stitch. 

Singer 401, Singer 201

The 401 is my only slant shank machine and it is just about the Best Overall sewing machine Singer ever made.  The only thing it "does" that is unique for me is that it takes the Singer Deluxe Monogrammer which is about the coolest thing ever.  Kenmore has a monogrammer attachment as well, but it doesn't make letters as beautiful as the Singer version. 

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The Kenmore 16641 serger doesn't have to justify its existence, of course.  While it's not technically "vintage" like all the other machines (I don't think any home serger falls into the "vintage" category at this point) it is an older model that I bought on Shop Goodwill for $60 and it is a most excellent machine. I've gotten my money's worth 10x over on that one. 

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If anyone is counting, I think that tops out at NINE machines.  Well, and the 301 I have at my Mom's house which I may bring back home later... so we can call it an even TEN. 

Singer 301

Singer Genie versus Kenmore "Mini Kennie" 1050

 In a previous post I compared the Kenmore 1050 "Mini Kennie" to a Featherweight.  But this Kenmore machine really has more in common with another, lesser known, Singer model - the Genie (aka the Starlet in Europe.)

I'm not sure if this is technically accurate, but I'd refer to these as 3/4 machines as opposed to the Featherweight which is a 1/2 size machine.  That - and zigzag capabilities, plus the case configuration - gives these two machines a greater basis for comparison.  Also, they are both 1970s-era machines.

They both have clever plastic molded cases that conform to the machine (rather than a box such as you use to carry a Featherweight.)  They weigh less than 20 lbs each.

These machines have a few similar features such as a retractable spool pin, low shank snap-on feet, and built in accessory storage.

There a number of differences, though.  

In most ways, the Kenmore is the better built machine.  However, you may be surprised how much quieter the Genie sews.  It is also worth noting that your work is closer to your line of vision on the Genie.

The Kenmore makes an unpleasant whine and I'm not sure if it is something specific to this machine.

The stitch quality is more or less the same 

(I could stand to adjust the tension on the Kenmore - left sample)

The Kenmore with its presser foot pressure adjustment, reverse stretch stitches, and built-in buttonhole stitch covers more bases for garment sewing.  However, the Genie stitches pretty nice buttonholes with the Singer Professional Buttonholer, so it can still hold its own. 

A Genie has the added feature of its funky '70s flower decor which might not make it a better sewing machine, but gives it an undeniable "oomph" factor.

Bottom line is I love them BOTH!