The
Singer "Featherweight" has become the most popular sewing machine ever
made! Produced from the 1930's through the 70's these compact and
lightweight portable electric sewing machines have become a favorite
with today's quilters, crafters, fabric artisans, and vintage / antique
sewing machine collectors. And if you have ever sewn on one you
will understand why!
As the demand for these machines has
grown, so too has the information about the history of the machines that
the Singer Sewing Machine Co. called their "Model 221" and "Model 222",
and that collectors and users call "The Perfect Portable".
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Singer Featherweight Facts
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Singer Featherweights were made in the
US, the UK, and Canada.
The difference between the
221's and the 222's is the "freearm"
feature of the 222's, which allows
a portion of the flat surface to be removed leaving a tubular bed that
allows for sewing on pant legs, sleeves, and other circular areas.
Freearm 222 Featherweights typically sell for two to three times more
than 221 Featherweights.
Featherweights came in 3 basic colors with several
variations---Black,
White, and Tan.
Most black models have a shiny
finish, however there was also a black matte or crinkle finish model produced
for a short period of time, shown on the left, and it is very
collectible and commands a premium price.
White models range in color from
creamy white to ivory to "celery" or a pale green-white. Tan
models range from creamy beige to light brown. White and tan
models tend to fluctuate in popularity so prices can be up and down, but
typically they bring similar prices to comparable condition black
Featherweights.
Featherweights were never produced in red, blue,
purple, raspberry or anything similar. These color machines and
other colors that you periodically see offered up for sale on the
Internet are machines that
have been powder-coated / re-painted. They might look slick, and
some people like them for their novelty, but they are not original or
rare, and they are not something we buy or sell.
Singer 221 and 222 sewing machines came in a
"leatherette" covered rectangular carry case which make them "the
perfect portable".
The serial number on the bottom of the machine can be
used to figure out the approximate production date of the machine.
You can find dating charts
on various internet sites, including Singer's own site.
Although the basic design of the machine stayed the
same over the years there were several variations in cosmetic
appearance. Earlier machines had what collectors refer to as the
Egyptian scrollwork pattern etched on the chrome plated endplate, while
later machines had the striated or striped design. The pattern of
the gold decal around the perimeter of the bed also went from a more
circular scrollwork
design to a more geometric linear pattern.
Singer Featherweights typically sell in the $300-$500
price range, but the exact details of cosmetic condition are critical.
Machines that sew well but show loss to the gold decals, or scratches,
or chipped paint, may only sell for $200. But machines that are in
pristine condition with that show no wear may sell for upwards of $600.
It's all in the details of condition, and it makes a huge difference.
Featherweight
Consignment Sales
* * * * * * * * * * * *
As experienced and
enthusiastic dealers of Singer Featherweight
sewing machines we are always interested in helping you sell your
Featherweight machines
through the Consignment Program we offer for more than you could realize
in most other situations.
* * * * * * * * * * * *
Most Featherweight buyers want to buy from someone they
trust, someone who has expertise, someone they can talk to before making
the purchase, and someone who will stand behind the sale. Many do
not like the anonymity of the internet auction venue, which can hold
prices down. We service every Featherweight we sell and include a
1-year guarantee on every machine. When you partner up with us you
get the benefit of our reputation!
If
you have a Singer Featherweight Sewing Machine that you want to consign, please email us
for details on our consignment program at
LCM@AntiqBuyer.com.
We have Singer
Featherweight sewing machines for sale in a wide range of prices at our sister website
www.patented-antiques.com . If you are looking to buy or sell one of these sewing machines be sure to
visit that site as well, where you will find not only Featherweights but
other antique sewing machines as well as a host of other patented, mechanical and technology related antiques that
we have for sale there.
Select Singer Featherweights
Previously Sold
*****Click the
Links Below*****
The above machines are
examples of the condition of vintage Singer
Featherweights that I am primarily interested in helping you sell.
If you have a good running and good
looking Singer Featherweight Model 221 or 222 that you want to sell, please contact us at
LCM@AntiqBuyer.com
providing as many details as possible. Thank you!!
To see other examples of Singer Featherweights and
other antique sewing machines, including toy sewing machines, that we have
available for sale, please go to our sister site
at www.Patented-Antiques.com.
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