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Need reliable sewing machine Need reliable sewing machine
Jody K.   Member since 2/14/11 Posts: 3	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 2/25/13 12:31 PM I need advice on older mechanical sewing machine. I gave my old Kenmore to daughter in law, maybe a mistake. I purchased a new brother runway, thinking that would do me...not so! It's great for clothing, but not layers of denim or for even small quilting items...just not heavy enough. I was told that an older Pfaff 260 in great condition would be really good for me. Does anyone know from experience???
Marie367   Intermediate OH USA Member since 5/28/11 Posts: 1370	Login to reply to this post In reply to Jody K. << Like this post Date: 2/25/13 10:53 PM Look for another Kenmore if you liked the one you had. They are pretty cheap in my area. I have mine that I bought in 1980. It is still a workhorse and while I love my new Janomes with all the bells and whistles my old Kenmore has my heart. People on here have talked about old Pfaffs, Vikings and Singers. A newer Brother can't compare. That is why I kept looking for a new machine until I found one that I could afford that felt similar to the old Kenmore (I ended up with a Janome). I keep thinking I want another vintage-they are just great for so many things! Have you checked under sewing machine reviews? The reviews include vintage and would give you an idea of features etc.
ShantiSeamstressing Advanced Beginner Member since 6/11/10 Posts: 1204	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 2/26/13 9:55 AM Hi Jody, The older 158 series Kenmore's are workhorses. They aren't all that hard to find, either. I find them on CL and on Ebay. That's one option. Sorry - - I don't know about that specific Pfaff. But if you research it and find lots of good advice - - then that would make another good option. If you don't mind having a straight stitch only, a Singer 15-91 or 201 would be another superb choice. They will definitely plow through layers of denim for you. Then if you need a sturdy and strong machine "yesterday" so to speak, my suggestion would be a Janome HD1000. They are heavy...all metal...strong...have all the stitches one would need for construction..can handle layers of denim... So, you've got several options! And if you really yearn for that older workhorse Kenmore - - just keep looking and looking and I know you'll find it.
Mufffet   Intermediate VT USA Member since 8/14/05 Posts: 8925	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 2/26/13 10:32 AM Yes, another Kenmore, and don't be afraid to have it get a nice servicing at a reputable sewing guy. There are other older machines too that are great, including a number of older Berninas, Pfaffs, Vikings etc. You may live near shops that sell really nice older machines. On any given day at some shops you can get serviced Elnas, Berninas, and Pfaffs for under 300. These tend toward being old, and mechanical and hardy. ------ "Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible." --Dalai Lama I have sewing machines
mgmsrk1 Intermediate NY Member since 12/16/12 Posts: 93	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 2/26/13 3:56 PM I agree if you want power a older Kenmore can't be beat. I have a 158 from 1968, it will sew anything. The main problem is it weighs a ton. They are pretty common on craigslist, there is one now in my area with a table for about $70.
lisalu Advanced Beginner GA USA Member since 10/5/08 Posts: 1787	Login to reply to this post 2 members like this. Date: 2/26/13 4:09 PM I don't know about the Pfaff, but if it's heavy duty stitching you want, then I'll go out on a limb and say that no other domestic sewing machine will outperform a Singer 15-91. I feel pretty confident in saying that if the 15-91 can't sew it, then no home sewing machine can. Being a straight stitch machine is actually an advantage for this type of sewing. Also, you already have your Brother for whatever zigzagging needs you may have so you're covered there. BONUS: Singer 15-91's are generally the best bargain around. You could get one for as little as $25 if you're lucky, but you really don't need to pay more than $75 TOPS. -- Edited on 2/26/13 4:10 PM -- ------ Margaret (Singer 201-2), Betty (Singer 15-91), Bud (Singer 503), Kathy (Singer 221), Liz (Singer 221 Centennial Edition) http://runningstitches-mkb.blogspot.com/
Jody K.   Member since 2/14/11 Posts: 3	Login to reply to this post Like this post Date: 3/11/13 5:05 PM Thanks gals/guys for your replys. I think I located a Pfaff 230-260, but looks like I may be a collector...I will look for a singer 201, 221, etc. Really appreciate you encouraging me!!!

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