Date: 10/29/08 9:45 AM

I was wondering if anyone knows exactly what machines can and cannot be used with a magnetic sewing guide. I'm thinking a computerized machine, it may not be a good idea, but what about ones that only have some electronic features, or ones with magnetized bobbin cases?

I'm looking for a new sewing machine for my mom, who really misses her 1970's singer, which had a really cool sewing guide that attached with a screw, and she says she can't keep her seams straight without something like that.

Right now, I'm thinking one of the Kenmores, a 16231, 18221 or maybe even the 19110 (but this one is computerized, so is the sewing guide out for it?).

Any help is appreciated!

Date: 10/29/08 9:55 AM

You can put a sticky note packet on the machine to use as a guide. Get the "super sticky" style and pull off the back. You're left with a stack that sticks. When it stops sticking, pull off the bottom sheet again and repeat.
I have a magnetice guide for my old Singer and I love it - it also serves as a pin catcher, but won't use it on my newer machine.

Date: 10/29/08 10:30 AM

I have a Pfaff 7570 which is computerized and have used a magnetic seam guide on it for the 10 years that I have had it with no problems.

Date: 10/29/08 11:33 AM

I have used a magnetic seam guide on my two or three year old computerized Viking Platinum 770 without any problems. As I understand it, the older computerized models can't be used with magnets. But you should check with the dealer or manufacturer to be sure.

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The essence of life is statistical improbability on a colossal scale.
Richard Dawkins

Reply to hestiah
Date: 10/29/08 10:27 PM

You can get a screw in sewing guide for a Kenmore 16231. I got one with the quilting kit, but I didn't care for it because it was a little too big. I don't think a magnetic seam guide would hurt it, but I found that the needle plate was too small to get enough of a grip with a magnetic.

So far, an inadequate seam gauge the only disadvantage I've found with either a Kenmore 16231 or 19233. I've used a magnetic calendar as my seam gauge on my vintage treadle machines for years, and miss that on my modern machines because it was the perfect thickness for me.

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Joe in New Albany, iN

Reply to Sewing Joe
Date: 10/30/08 6:33 AM

I wouldn't suggest using a magnetic seam guide on the 16231 or 16221 because the bobbin case is magnetized, which is why you shouldn't use metal bobbins in it.

Reply to Sewing Joe
Date: 10/30/08 9:21 AM

singer4me, where does your sewing guide attach? My memory of the machine may be a bit hazy, I only looked at them once--is there a little hole off to the right of the plate?

The one on my mom's old machine that she loved looked kind of like a squished 'T', with the guide part about an inch long and 1/4 -1/2" high. Is this one similar?

Thanks!