Vintage Sewing Machine – Irresistible Allure That Time Can’t Conquer
There are some things that time can beat. Vintage sewing machines are one of them. There something quite special about creating clothes on something older than you.
It’s like partaking in a fragment of history or the pure sentiment of knowing that your vintage machine is a precious family heirloom. The knowledge that it was passed down from your grandmother to your mother and now to you is more than enough to make it dear to your heart.
Reasons To Consider Buying A Vintage Sewing Machine
When referring to the term vintage sewing machines, we think of the ones created at least 40 years ago. Still, not all of us are so lucky to inherit this piece of family history. But that’s not the reason not to have one.
One of the biggest advantages of the internet is that you can find all kinds of things to buy, including vintage sewing machines. They are quite affordable too – you can even find it for $75 with shipping fees included. Of course, that’s the bottom price. Models from famous manufacturers like Singer, Kenmore, and Viking are rarely found so cheap.
Just take a look at the price tag of this Singer 221K sewing machine. Still, it does worth every penny.
Also, garage sales and local thrift shops are good places to find affordable vintage sewing machines. Most people don’t even know the true value of the things they own so finding the old-school machine can be a barging.
The most important thing when buying a very old, classic sewing machine is that is still fully functional. Best way to determine that is to ask for a stitch sample from the seller. Also, if you are buying it on the garage sale or Craigslist check and test the machine first.
If you still aren’t convinced, let’s highlight the major benefits of buying a vintage sewing machine:
- Cost-effective
- Practical
- Eco Friendly
- Easy To Use
- Durable
How Are Vintage Machines Cost-Effective?
It’s quite obvious that vintage sewing machines are mechanically less complex than the new models. But that’s their biggest advantage – they don’t break down easily. Fewer mechanical parts equal fewer things to get broken. And if it does, the repair is much easier compared to modern sewing machines.
In the long run, these machines are more payable. There are no motherboards and computer circuits to cause glitches, therefore they are much cheaper to maintain. All it needs is regular oiling, sometimes a minor tune-up and it’s good to go for a long time to come.
Image credit: @Pixabay
Practical
While vintage sewing machines don’t have numerous fancy settings they are equipped with all the same parts as the new models such as presser feet, needles, and bobbins. While the long time has passed since they have left the production line, accessories for vintage sewing machines manufactured by famous brands aren’t that difficult to find. Plus, when it comes to basic sewing machine equipment, not much has changed, making it a very practical choice.
Image credit: @Pixabay
Eco-Friendly Feature
What many sewists probably don’t realize is the fact that using a vintage sewing machine is beneficial to the environment. Just think about that – recycling a vintage sewing machine by giving it a new life is a kind of recycling that certainly benefits nature. Instead of rotting on some junkyard polluting the soil it once again serves its purpose as a part of your most valuable sewing tool.
Easy to Use
As mentioned, a vintage sewing machine isn’t equipped with a myriad of stitch functions like the new sewing machine. Once again this comes as an advantage since it’s relatively easy to use. With no electronic parts to deal with, any adult with proper tools can take it apart, clean and then assemble it back (lowering the maintenance costs in the process). You can’t do that with a modern machine full of fragile parts.
Since there are just a few hooks to deal with, threading is also a piece of cake. The rest of the parts, like presser feet, bobbins, and tension function don’t require special attention.
If you are concerned about what can and can’t be done with a vintage machine, just remember that back in the day housewives were using these machines to make complicated fashions for the whole family. Unless you are planning to sew a difficult costume like the ones Lady Gaga wears, the old gal has your back.
Durable
Finding any fully functional 40-years old machine is tangible proof of its durability, won’t you agree? The same goes for vintage sewing machines. Keep in mind that most of the models you can find today were top of the line in design and production which is the reason why they still function to this day.
Just like vintage cars, these machines are also made of a more durable metal material as opposed to their modern sewing relatives with many plastic parts.
Image credit: @Pixabay
Should You Give In The Charms Of Vintage Sewing Machines?
Besides all the features listed above, vintage sewing machines have a special, classical charm. Colored black, white or tan, they have simple curves, bare exteriors and enamel coatings. All put together makes a neat package with great esthetic value.
Extremely reliable, they create beautiful consistent stitches. The allure of vintage sewing machines goes beyond emotional sentiments – it is also aesthetic, practical, and cost-effective which makes these oldies irresistible..
If you’re interested to know more about the history of sewing machines, take a look at this video: