Attention Sewers :) Opinions needed please

[wyckedgood]

I am about to do a spring purge/garage sale.   I inherited 2 old sewing machines from my mom.  I don't sew but I have intentions of learning at least a few basic sewing survival skills.  Knowing virtually nothing about sewing machines, I would like your opinion on which one to keep.

These both powered up and seemed to work fine.  My mom sewed A

Comments

[clevermanka]

The Montgomery Ward one looks like it might have a free-arm option. The Penny's one looks like it is attached to a base (which means no free arm). This is a big deal when you're doing things like pant leg or sleeve cuffs, or attaching sleeves when you've already sewn up the side seams.

However, the Penny's machine looks older, and more likely to have metal gears and parts (a big plus).

Do either of them still have the owner's manual? How difficult would it be to get a foot pedal that works with the MG machine? Which sews a more even seam? I would recommend doing some sewing on each and figure out which one you like better. It doesn't have to be a fancy project--just sew together some cotton shopping bags or something.

Thanks!

[wyckedgood]

What I am hearing you say is that a foot pedal is desirable?

After looking up sewing machine free arm, I can tell you that yes, the Ward machine does have that option, the JC Penney does not.

They don't have the manuals but I could probably find them online I imagine. What would I want to know from the manuals?

I appreciate the advice :)

Re: Thanks!

[clevermanka]

Well, if no foot pedal...how do you control it? Or does it have a leg control--I haven't seen those on any machine earlier than the 40s, so it would surprise me if the MW one had that.

The manuals will tell you things like how to wind the bobbin, what type and size of needles work best, how to adjust the tension, and other things. Like a manual for your car, or any other appliance.

I strongly recommend giving both a solid test drive--with different types of fabric, if possible. That'll tell you more than any superficial assessments from just looking at them.

Re: Thanks!

[wyckedgood]

If no foot pedal...a switch? I don't even know what the foot pedal does. Sewing is a mystery to me. My mom did it, when I was interested in High School she told me that after teaching me to drive it was in the best interest of our relationship that she not attempt to teach me, mom was smart like that lol.

I will check the model numbers and see if I can find anything about manuals online. If not I might sell both of the machines and when I am ready to enter the world of sewing buy something more modern.