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Singer 401A or 500A Rocketeer?
Hilary Intermediate Member since 12/21/02 Posts: 547	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 11/10/08 7:46 AM I'm hoping someone can help me make a decision! I am in the process of trying to purchase either a Singer 500A "Rocketeer" or a Singer 401 from ebay, and am really having trouble deciding between the two. I love the way the 500 looks, with its angled styling, it looks so cool! But i have heard they sometimes have problems with the hinged doors on the top and side breaking. I like the 401 as well, though not quite as fun-looking! LOL. And it seems to run on the higher side on pricing. Any advice, or experiences with either of these machines? Or any in the Singer 401, 403, singer 500, 503 series machines? Thanks!
SewPaula   Advanced Beginner MO USA Member since 2/18/04 Posts: 339	Login to reply to this post In reply to Hilary Like this post Date: 11/10/08 8:01 AM I have one of each. I bought my 401a from a fellow PR member and I bought my 500a from Craigslist this summer. I was lucky enough in both cases that they came with all the attachments, buttonholers, etc and in fantastic condition. Honestly, you can't go wrong with either of them -- I do use my 401a more, but that's because it's in my mother-in-law's old cabinet which is more comfortable to use. Good luck deciding and happy sewing! ------ Paula sewpaula.blogspot.com If I were a sewing machine, all I would have to do is lift up my foot and all my tension would be gone.
Hilary Intermediate Member since 12/21/02 Posts: 547	Login to reply to this post In reply to SewPaula Like this post Date: 11/10/08 8:39 AM Oh, thank you Paula!! That's good to hear :o) I am currently leaning toward the 500 (just because it's so darn cute!) but eventually I would like to get the other one too Little does my sweet hubby know... (heehee!) thanks again! Anymore comments or opinions are welcome!
Miss Fairchild   Advanced USA Member since 8/24/02 Posts: 6985	Login to reply to this post In reply to Hilary 1 member likes this. Date: 11/10/08 8:41 AM Why not get them both?? ------ "We don't impose our rhythm on Nature. The key is to respect and live within Her." Jean-Charles Boisset, Winemaker "And no, now that you asked, I didn't enjoy that play one bit, and I'd like a refund" Signed, Mrs. Lincoln My Etsy shop: auntmaymesattic My blog: auntmaymesattic.wordpress.com Avatar: First place award for jacket at county fair
Member since 12/31/69	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 11/10/08 9:11 AM This is a very thorough review of the Singer 401, 403 and 404 machines, and it does talk about the 500 too. I like how it shows all of the attachments being used, etc.. That same site has a Guide to Buying a Sewing Machine on eBay that might be helpful.
Donna H WA USA Member since 9/29/05 Posts: 2054	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 11/10/08 9:29 AM I bought both. Then sold the 401 because I like the looks of the 500 better. No reason to have both machines. If you love the look of the 500 and they're cheaper, then go for the 500. They are basically the same machine. ------ The single most important discovery made by a group of women? The Empty Tomb! http://www.donnahodgson.blogspot.com/
JeanK Advanced OR Member since 2/15/04 Posts: 78	Login to reply to this post In reply to Hilary Like this post Date: 11/10/08 1:36 PM I bought a 500A that arrived with a broken hinge on the top. My local machine repair tech fixed it in less than a minute, so I wouldn't let that be a deterrent. It's a great machine and won't be leaving my collection any time soon.
Hilary Intermediate Member since 12/21/02 Posts: 547	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 11/10/08 3:24 PM Thanks everyone for your input!! I have my bid on the 500A right now, can't wait to see if I win And yes, I think I'll eventually be trying to get the 401 too! LOL-I just love the older machines~there are others on my list as well :D
tlmck3 Advanced Beginner IL USA Member since 7/11/05 Posts: 3612	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 11/10/08 7:49 PM Thanks for that link. I have a couple of attachments and two buttonholers that came with my new-ish 401a with part numbers I was wondering about and my questions were answered there. ------ I am going for a level of perfection that is only mine... Most of the pleasure is in getting that last little piece perfect...Inspiration is for amateurs. The rest of us just keep showing up and doing the work. Chuck Close, painter, printmaker, photographer Hope has two lovely daughters: Anger and Courage St. Augustine
Rockin Betty Beginner Member since 4/8/09 Posts: 1	Login to reply to this post In reply to SewPaula Like this post Date: 4/8/09 7:30 PM Hi! I just received a Singer 500a, and I feel silly that I can't figure out the reverse/backward stitch!! I figured you would know since you have one yourself. Thanks for your help! -Rockin Betty

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