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Which vintage Singer? 301A or 15-91 I need help choosing
tnbrdnrd Intermediate TN USA Member since 2009 Posts: 13	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 1/19/12 0:36 AM I have been looking for a vintage Singer to use on thick, fabrics that are sewn in multiple layers. I make mostly handbags and totes, but also clothing and would like to learn to quilt. I have a new Juki picked out, but every time I get the $$ to get it, something comes along to take my money.......like my car died. Anyway, I have been reading about the quality of vintage Singers and have found a family in my community who has both a 301A and a 15-91, both in cabinets in excellent condition and with all original attachments! They are also asking a whooooole lot less than that new Juki that I want. My question is, are there any of you out there who sews on both these machines and which one does best on thick fabrics in multiple layers? I've read every single review on here and am still confused. And, BTW, a pox on all ya'll who infected me with this vintage SM affliction.......and you know who you are!
bellsew   Advanced WA USA Member since 2003 Posts: 275	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 1/19/12 2:33 AM I use both machines. I have a 15-90 in a treadle and a 301 in a cabinet. The 15-90 will plow through just about anything in my opinion. It has even made chaps. I love the 301 for its speed and is a lovely machine for seaming on cottons. Both make perfect straight stitches, I believe the 15-90 is the heartier machine. BTW the 15-90 is very similar to the 15-91, it has an external motor as opposed to the internal potted motor of the 15-91, so the comparisons are pretty accurate. I also have a 15-91, but never use it because I prefer the treadle, it's already set up in the living room and is so convenient.
Jannerie Advanced OH USA Member since 2009 Posts: 94	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 1/19/12 8:06 AM i have both a 15-91 and two 301s. Although the experts claim the 15-91 is better for free motion quilting, I could never get my tension adjusted right for free motion on the 15-91. It sews a perfect straight stitch though. Both models are great. I personally prefer the 301 with the cabinet/cradle that makes it east to go from portable to cabinet. enjoy the machine you choose. (Buy both) I have a Viking 6020 that I use for bags and totes. It has a low gear that is wonderful. -- Edited on 1/19/12 8:09 AM -- ------ Pfaff creative Sensation, Singer 15-91,237,221,328K,301,301a,401,403,404,500,503 Bernina 630, 125jubilae Viking 6020
Al Johnson Beginner MN USA Member since 2007 Posts: 1073	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 1/19/12 8:23 AM I'm with Jannerie. Get both. Then you can decide which one works best for which task, and have them set up for their own best use. Reduces the need to be adjusting tensions, changing needles, and so on. They don't take up that much space!! :) ------ A sewing machine is just a welder for textiles.
poorpigling Advanced TX USA Member since 2007 Posts: 8680	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 1/19/12 8:33 AM Yes, this is exactly why so many of us have multiple machines. A bonus being these old vintage machines are affordable. so why not splurge and try them both out. You can always resell one you find you don't like.
lisalu Advanced Beginner GA USA Member since 2008 Posts: 1265	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 1/19/12 9:19 AM I have a 15-91 but I am not a quilter. I have heard, though, that it is much preferred by quilters for some reasons like a large harp space and a vertical bobbin which is supposed to be better for FMQ. The feed dogs drop, too (I don't know about the 301A) I can tell you it will sew through anything you can get under it!
Melody   Intermediate MI USA Member since 2002 Posts: 1014	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 1/19/12 10:18 AM I have both and the toughest one is the 15-91. I love the 301's for the lovely straight stitch and its portability. I say get both too. My 15-91 was found across the street on trash day (free) and my 301(s) were all pretty inexpensive. I paid $50 or less for each of them. ------ Melody http://crazedsewer.blogspot.com/ hmmmm...
justgail Intermediate IA USA Member since 2006 Posts: 349	Login to reply to this post In reply to tnbrdnrd Like this post Date: 1/19/12 11:54 AM They are both in the same family? I'd say get them both, as it's likely that if separated, they will be traumatized. These separations must be handled gently. I can't speak to the 301, but the 15-91s I have are sweet quiet workhorses who have sewn up the fake flat-felled seams on insulated canvas coveralls without missing a beat with the proper needle. My Viking tried, but could not hack it.
Soolip Advanced CA USA Member since 2008 Posts: 1658	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 1/19/12 1:12 PM The 15-91 is better for thick fabrics, hands down. The 301 has a slant needle, which is fine for lighter-weight stuff — but the angle of the needle can sometimes cause it to deflect when faced with multiple layers of dense fabric.
karen149   Intermediate CA USA Member since 2005 Posts: 1945	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 1/19/12 1:23 PM I have both. You should, too

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