3 Reasons to Buy a Singer Featherweight 221 Sewing Machine

Almost 80 years ago, in 1933, Isaac Singer first introduced the Featherweight model 221 sewing machine at the Chicago World's Fair. Today, almost 50 years after the last featherweight was produced in 1960, in the modern age of sewing machines with computer controlled stitching, the featherweight is still a highly sought after sewing machine. In fact, some model 221 Featherweights are still in the hands of their original owners. Here are three reasons why you should find, and buy one.

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1. Simplicity. The model 221 was designed to do one thing, and do it well, and that was to sew a straight stitch. The stitching mechanism combines the original rotary hook and four motion feeds, both originally patented in the 1850s by Allen Wilson. Similar to not being able to build a better mousetrap, these two mechanisms are still found in today's modern sewing machines, but without all the electronics. The original mechanism is a simple interaction of finely machined parts which operate with the consistency of a fine Swiss watch. Barring physical damage of the mechanism, the parts will only wear with time but regular maintenance (oiling and cleaning) will keep the mechanism running as smoothly as the day it was originally purchased.

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2. Durability. In 1933, Singer designed the Featherweight 221 to be the only sewing machine a housewife needed to buy. The smooth stitching mechanism was complimented by a stiff, all metal frame and a small, but powerful, motor. The metal (aluminum) frame greatly reduced the vibration of the machine during operation, which permitted the stitching mechanism to run very smoothly. This enabled the 221 to stitch any fabric without putting excessive strain on the motor. When first introduced, the model 221 was described as being able to do the work of an industrial sewing machine. So by limiting the strain on the motor with a rigid frame, Singer was able to extend the overall life of the machine. Again, proper maintenance is critical in further limiting the friction of the moving parts, which is another component of the featherweight's durability, it is so easy to maintain.

3. Weight. It's called a featherweight for a reason. Singer realized that sewing machines take up space, especially when they are too heavy to move and are usually accompanied by a sewing table. Weighing in at ~11 ½ lbs (thanks to its aluminum frame, and simplified design) the featherweight was the first truly portable sewing machine. When placed in its carrying case, the Featherweight 221 could easily be stored out of sight in a closet. Today, the lightweight is still beneficial to those sewers and quilters who travel to classes and demonstrations where it is necessary to bring your own machine. Sure you can roll in your fully electronic Bernina on a hand truck, or simply carry your Featherweight without so much as breaking a sweat.

Approximately 2.5 million 221 featherweights were produced from 1933 to 1960, and because of its simplicity, durability and light weight it still a highly sought after, and well respected, sewing machine.

3 Reasons to Buy a Singer Featherweight 221 Sewing Machine

If you liked this article and are looking for either more information or want to know where you can find a Singer featherweight 221, visit my Singer Featherweight 221 blog. Did you also know that you can save yourself quite a few dollars by learning how to repair your sewing machine at home.

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History of the Singer Featherweight 221 Sewing Machine

In 1933, when Isaac Singer first introduced the Featherweight model 221 sewing machine at the Chicago World's Fair, he unveiled a machine who's history stretched back over 80 years. The foundation of the Featherweight 221's longevity can be traced back to 1850 when Allen Wilson received his patent for the rotary-hook stitch forming mechanism. Four years later in 1854 Wilson would receive another patent for his four-motion feed. These 2 inventions signaled the birth of the modern sewing machine. Today, all modern electric sewing machines still use both the rotary mechanism and four-motion feed.

From 1850 to 1880, the Wheeler and Wilson Company manufactured more sewing machines than any other company, except Singer. Due to illness, Wilson left the business and later in 1905, Singer bought out Wheeler and Wilson Company.

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In 1900, Singer introduced the Model 66, which featured the innovative top loading bobbin. Singer would then introduce the Model 101 sewing machine in 1915. Although it was the first true electric machine it was unsuccessful, probably due to its incredible cost of 0! In the 1920's Singer introduced the Model 99, and ¾ size version of their Model 66, but it was still much too heavy to be a portable machine. Finally, in 1933 Singer unveiled the Featherweight 221.

The Singer Featherweight Model 221 was the first truly portable, self contained, electric sewing machine. Today, if properly cared for, the 221 will sew just as well as when it was first manufactured. In fact, today ~1% of all Featherweights are still in the hands of their original owners.

Remaining in production until 1960 (except for a few years during WW II), with approximately 2.5 million units produced, the Featherweight 221 is one of the most recognizable machines of the 20th Century. It's all metal, mostly aluminum construction, was critical in not only dropping its weight to a mere 11 lbs, but also made it highly durable. The full rotary mechanism also allowed it to operate very quietly and efficiently. When not in use, the machine could be placed in a special carrying case so it could be stored out of sight (in a closet). Prior to WW II, when Singer had to stop making the 221, creative salesmen informed prospective customers that if they purchased the Featherweight, they would give them the case for free!

Although the 221 was only capable of a straight stitch, its reliability made it the preferred sewing machine of the American housewife for decades. The 221's longevity may also be partly due to the fact that the self contained machine also came with 6 attachments. These were a ruffler, wide hemmer, narrow hemmer, edge stitcher, gathering foot and binder. Singer also included 2 screwdrivers, one for the machine and one to adjust the thread tension.

With such versatility, in such a small package, it's no wonder the 221 was typically the first, and last, sewing machine many would purchase. So it's no wonder that close to 50 years after it was last produced, the Singer Featherweight 221 is still such a highly sought after sewing machine.

History of the Singer Featherweight 221 Sewing Machine

If you liked this article and are looking for either more information or want to know where you can find one, visit the Featherweight 221. Did you know that you can also save yourself quite a few dollars by learning how to repair your sewing machine at home.

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Old Singer Sewing Machines - The Featherweight Series Are A Must Have

Perhaps the survival of an old Singer sewing machine can be attributed to the fact that the company has always placed high regard not just on quality but also durability. They are made of the strongest materials, and they are highly resistant to any substance that can easily cause deterioration.

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Knowing the Age of Your Singer Sewing Machine

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The first commercially sold sewing machines from Singer were released in the market during 1851. The company has then stopped manufacturing any of the older models today, though you can still search for their reproductions or replicas. A long time ago, these old Singer sewing machines were identified based on their serial number, which is then recorded in their log book.

Thus, if you want to know how old your sewing equipment is or if it's truly a real Singer machine, you can check out their official website. You are provided with a list of serial numbers, which can either have one- or two-letter prefixes. The earliest ones use numbers, not letter. However, because there are some log books that have got lost, you will not be able to confirm the authenticity of those manufactured from 1851 to 1870.

Featherweight Portable Singer: A Certified Old Singer Sewing Machine

One of the oldest Singer sewing machines is the Featherweight Portable. It was first launched in the market sometime in the 1930s. This portable sewing machine is paired with a 3-way table, with legs that are very strong.

The working surface was very large, which means it could accommodate wider fabrics and much bigger sewing projects. The surface was left smooth and finished finely so you will be able to sew and cut the fabrics without any hassle. Owners even used it as their dining or poker table.

Because it's portable, this old Singer sewing machine can be easily kept aside or stored in your cabinet. This had also been ideal for those who were living in smaller houses or for students who need a sewing machine for their classes or in their dorm rooms. If you wish to add extra space, you could make use of the extension table.

Today, the original Featherweight Portable comes by real hard. You have to scour for them intently in the World Wide Web. A perfect alternative for it, meanwhile, can be the Singer 132 Featherweight Compact Efficiency Sewing Machine.

Just like the Featherweight portable, the Singer 132 Featherweight Compact Efficiency sewing machine is extremely handy. In fact, it only weighs a mere 15 pounds. The design is also compact. What you can't deny, however, is its exceptional work. It has the ability to produce 32 stitch functions and is extremely easy to operate, making it an ideal sewing equipment for beginners.

One of the greatest obstacles in old Singer sewing machines is how you can conveniently place your thread into your sewing machine. This is completely eliminated in this newer technology. Within 6 seconds, you can already place the thread into the system. It can also immediately adjust the tension of your needle threads to prevent any creases or waves in your sewn fabrics.

Old Singer Sewing Machines - The Featherweight Series Are A Must Have

For more information about old and modern Singer sewing machines, visit sewing machine reviews site and we'll help you find the best model for your needs.

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