Frolic

Sunday, April 14, 2024

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