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| Singer:101 (Sewing Machine) | | Viewed 934 time(s) | | Review rated Helpful by 2 people Very Helpful by 6 people | | Reviewed by: | Manalto | 
| About Manalto | | | | Member since: 5/29/08 | | Reviews written: 5 | | Favored by: 1 people | | sewing machines reviewed: 4 | | Bio: more... |
| | Posted on: | 5/10/09 9:30 AM | | Approx price paid: | $40 | | Had this machine for: | 1month | | Recommended? | Yes | Features
- Drop-In bobbin
- Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure
| | What Manalto likes about this machine
The Singer 101 was introduced in the 1920s as the first Singer with a built-in motor. Because of this they were dependent on electricity and represent a modern departure from the treadle-compatible models. I believe that this was Singer's top-of-the-line machine, made from July 1920 to March 1932. 230,475 machines were made, relatively few by Singer production standards. According to the Singer website, my machine was allocated its serial number in 1930.
The 101 is sleek and elegant. It incorporates a number of innovations for the time: built-in light, a 'spider' wick oiling system, removable bed, and of course, the internal motor with gear drive. Its relationship with the classic Singer 201 is easy to see. The stitch-length mechanism is a click-stop knob located on the bed of the machine, and has the advantage of allowing the user to return to exactly the same-size stitches. Stitch quality couldn't be better.
Although I've heard complaints that the motor on the 101 is weak, I haven't found it to be inadequate. It can plow through multiple layers of upholstery-weight fabric unfazed. I couldn't ask a machine of this vintage to do more.
This machine was on Craigslist for $50. It's in excellent condition, with flawless chrome, decals worn but complete, and is in a gorgeous unblemished walnut cabinet - amazing for 80 years old. The seller agreed on $40. (Bargaining is part of the Craigslist process, isn't it?) What Manalto does not like about this machine
Just as I've become accustomed to using the "Backspace" key on my computer keyboard, the "Reverse" on a sewing machine is essential. The 101 does not have this feature, so I will probably limit its use to small work which can be easily turned around. | *LOGIN to add a comment to this review
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| Reader Comments | | Joey in Katy | 5/10/09 | Love hearing about these vintage machines ... | | * * * | | thirteenstitches | 5/10/09 | LOVE to see a photo : ) | | * * * | | Mufffet | 5/10/09 | Sounds like a very nice find! | | * * * |
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