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The Singer 221 introduced at the Chicago World's Fair in the thirties, was and still is a "little dream machine." Due to its compact size, the power unleashed from its otherwise modest size motor, delivers a surprising stitch output even through much thicker materials. It's portability is another attractive feature, weighing in at only about 12lbs, making it ideal for sewing classes and quilting groups. The much later designed Singer 301A, mirrors the flatbed features of the tiny tot 221, and was an answer to prayer for those sewers seeking a larger workspace and more motor output. Good Sewing, and enjoy these and other fine machines! Scott
I bought the Singer Featherweight 221 Sewing Machine because it had been recommended to me by other quilters. I needed a truly portable machine to take to quilting class, Linus quilting and other projects. The machine arrived in good, clean condition and stitches and performs well. The only disappointment was that the bottom of the case was torn and no longer attached on the front and one side, so will have to be repaired before it can be used to carry the machine. Compared to my older machine it is much lighter weight and is a little quieter, so overall I am very pleased with the FW 221.
My first sewing machine was a Singer Featherweight. I loved this little beauty then and still do. I even love the lovely humming sound it makes. My mom traded the first one on a fancier machine for my 16th birthday, but I never forgot it. Now that I am into quilting, I have two of them, one that looks just like my original, and another centennial model produced for Singer's 100th birthday. I also have other high end modern machines from Viking, Bernina, Pfaff and Baby Lock and have compared straight stitches, side by side. I used the same thread and stitch length. The Featherweight won, hands down. Its straight stitch seems to become one with the fabric, flush with the fabric and perfectly locking the 2 layers together without pulling or puckering of any kind. You can tug on the first stitch and it will remain there. The other machines produced a line of stitches that lie fractionally above the surface of the fabric, and often either the top thread or the bobbin thread may go a tiny bit off or slanted. On some when you tug the tail of the first stitch it will unravel. The Featherweight's stitches are perfectly straight, as that is the only thing the machine was designed to do. So that is my machine of preference for quilt piecing. It is also so sturdy (all metal parts) while being light weight that it is perfect for taking on a trip or to classes. Do not expect it to produce fancy stitches of any kind without bulky attachments, and due to its tiny frame there isn't much room for much bulk to the right of the needle. Use your larger model machines for that. On the other hand, it is the only machine I've used where you can alter the stitch length infinitely while you are sewing using the stitch length lever as well as change from forward to reverse with the same lever. No other button or dial necessary. You pre-select the stitch length by turning a screw on the lever. So you can begin a line of stitching with a few mini stitches to lock them, then lower the lever to the pre-selected length, or flip it all the way up to that same length in reverse to lock them and then flip it down again to continue sewing forward, all without slowing down. You can count on the Featherweight to become a cherished and reliable friend.Read full review
I did not know that they existed until I found one at eBay, now I think this is one of the best sewing machines ever made by SIMANCO, The Singer Manufacturing Co. Singer Featherweight 221’s Machine weight Aprox: 11 Lbs Total Length extention bed open: 15 inches Total Width: 7 inches Total Height: 10 inches Foot controller: 95-145 Volts 0.7 Amperes Auxiliary light: 15 Watts Bayonet type Bulb Stitch length 6 to 20 x inch (stated from SIMANCO) Motor: 0.450 Ampere, 110-120 Volts for USA, Canada, Mexico, Centro and Sudamerica Total weight including carrying case: 20-21 Lbs 221K from EUROPE has the same features but the motor is 220 - 250 Volts and it can not be used in the USA, Canada, Mexico or Centro and Sudamerica unless you attach to it a POWER CONVERTER PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A GENERAL REVIEW ABOUT THE SEWING MACHINE SINGER FEATHERWEIGHT 221, IF YOU ARE READING BECAUSE YOU WANT TO BUY A MACHINE LIKE THIS, PLEASE REFFER TO THE SELLER'S DESCRIPTION AND ASK QUESTIONS ABOUT THE CONDITION OF THE SPECIFIC MACHINE YOU ARE LOOKING AT, PAY ATTENTION TO THE PICTURES AND ASK AS MANY QUESTIONS AS YOU WANT BEFORE YOU BUY OR BID IF YOU DON'T SEE CLEAR PICTURES YOU MAY WANT TO ASK SOME QUESTIONS BEFORE YOU BUY OR BID: Does the motor works? Does it comes with bobbin case? Does the Foot pedal or Speed controller is not cracked or broken and the condition of the cable frayed or bristled? Bakelite Receptacles and connectors are not chipped or broken? Does the carryng case is strong or it has hidding issues? A SEWING MACHINE SOLD AS IS, MEANS THAT IF YOU DON'T LIKE WHAT YOU BOUGHT YOU MUST KEEP IT AGAINST YOUR WILLING There is a wide variety of sewing machines but the featherweight 221 is the number one in its class, this machine it’s probably the best machine you’ll find ever. Do not expect it to produce fancy stitches of any kind, the 221 machines don't have the bells and whistles neither dials or preloaded stitches for decorative purposes on your gartments, the Singer Featherweight 221 is a straight stitch machine only and it can produce zigzag by attaching a device called zigzagger that you can buy at eBay too, these machines can do buttonholes with an attachment called buttonholer, there are more attachments that you can buy by separated to make ruffles, binding, hemming or gathering, cording, etc., etc., if you think about the old years there were no fancy machines but straight stitch machines only and however seamstress and tailors made the best suits even for Kings. The Singer 221 rarely comes out of timing, its all metal construction makes of this machine one of the best machine to sew light weight and heavy fabrics with ease, the straight stitches it makes perfectly locks the 2 layers together, I have sewn up to 6 layers of heavy denim. The Featherweight will produce a high quality straight stitches, you can easily setup the stitch length with its handy stitch control lever right in front of you which is the same lever to activate the reverse feature, also its light weight construction makes it perfect for taking on a trip or to sewing classes, there is about 5 inches room to the right side of the needle, you can buy a 221 anywhere just make sure that it’s working and you won’t have to pay extra money to repair it. If you want to explore the wonderful art of sewing, you might want to try a featherweight, you'll love themRead full review
I purchased this machine partly because I love to collect & display vintage machines, partly because I love using them, and partly because I am very partial to the Featherweight machine. I love these machines because they are so simple to operate, they are light-weight and easy to take to a class, and they are very dependable with a nice, uniform stitch. It's so fun to see the reactions of the other class members when you "unveil" your Featherweight! Everyone always has questions and are really interested in looking at and trying the machine. These machines are really easy to maintain with minimal maintenance. All in all, you can't beat the Featherweight if you enjoy dependability and just need a straight stitch and a reverse for your project. Try one - you'll be impressed and so will your friends! :) Have a wonderful day!! Thank you.Read full review
My sister has a singer featherweight and really likes it. Well I finally got one, then another one and then a 301. I have to use restraint to keep from bidding on every one I see on ebay and often wonder how I got along without one for 70 years. It is fantastic. I have 9 sewing machines and would trade off 6 of other brands for the 221. It is all you need other than a serger and a machine that zig zags. I love the big working area. It runs so quiet that you can watch tv and hear what is going on. One came from Craigs list and would not sew. I took it to some one to repair it and he said he couldn't repair it because he couldn't get the screw loose to adjust the timing, but he still charged me $42.50. I got out a manual I had ordered on ebay and had it working in about 15 min and didn't need to get the screw loose. First problem was it had a wrong needle in it. A few more adjustments and it was sewing perfect. I would like at least one more machine as my goal is to make 100 charity quilts, but then again the machine probably wont't be worn out then anyway. Too bad Singer didn't keep making them and not change the quality.Read full review
What can I say; I LOVE these machines! Introduced by Singer in 1933, they were built with a level craftsmanship and quality that impossible to find in today's sewing machines. Innovative with an aluminum hull to create a truly "portable" machine, self storing within a small travel case, the Featherweight has become legend with quilters and others looking for an easy to use, lightweight, straight stitch machine that produces a wonderful stitch. Simple to operate, yet the engineering that went into the design is exceptional, and the durability is amazing. With nothing more than occasional lubrication, the machine will last for generations to come. Many of these machines being sold on ebay have been sitting for decades in someones closet, long forgotten, and recovered in estate or garage sales. Do not be afraid to buy one, as even the dirtiest machine will clean up nicely and sew just fine. Collectors abound, with plenty of information and helpful advice to be found on the internet or sewing groups. Self maintenance is easy, and plenty of documentation to help guide you through just about any repair required. Often the only issue besides dirt and dust is old gummed up oil, which a few drops of penetrating oil will cure. Although many buyers enjoy the machine with the scratches and dings acquired over it's lifetime, I enjoy restoring these machines back to their original beauty, or even personalizing them with custom colors. I have created a website dedicated to Featherweights, including historical information and other "oddities" throughout their production life with the purpose of sharing this information to other owners or future owners. I have owned well over 100 of these machines and still have about 80 or so in my possession, as I just can't seem to stop buying them. So if you are interested in these machines, or just want to learn more about them, check out my website at: www.TheFeatherweight221Factory.com Enjoy your Featherweight! LeoRead full review
I purchased this product because my mother has one and I love working on hers. I love the ease of using this machine. I don't do anything other than straight stitching, so this is a great machine for doing so. Other machines take up too much room. Love the small, light weight, compactness of this unit.
These were made by Singer for decades, but I wasn't aware of them until I read about them in a quilting forum. They're particularly popular with people who like to piece quilts because they make nice, straight stitches and are small enough to be easily transported to classes and group get togethers. They are very solidly made and built to last. If you can read the manual and follow directions, you can probably maintain it properly yourself, and you can still buy attachments and other parts. IMO, this is too tiny to do free motion quilting, although some do, and it's a straight stitch machine, which limits its usefulness for general sewing purposes, as compared to any modern machine you could buy for even a lot less money.
This is the perfect sewing machine for anyone just learning to sew; it is a simple, easy to use machine. Since all the parts are metal and replaceable, it is nearly indestructible. It does not do any fancy stitches or zigzag, but for simple straight stitch sewing and repairs, I highly recommend it. Not only is it a great little machine, it is a beauty and a testament to days of old when machines were beautiful and functional. The small size and light weight also make the machine ideal if you need a portable machine. While this model is no longer in production, the Singer company still has plenty of support available online, including the manual available for reprinting. This machine has a great following online, too, with various websites and blogs that provide lots of information for Featherweight owners. My only regret is that I waited as long as I did before purchasing one; I wish I'd bought it years ago!Read full review