Thursday, November 10, 2016

SEWING MACHINE FRUSTRATION

I've been struggling big time with my 3-year old sewing machine for about two months now.  It must be out of kilter in some way --- at least it is not in tune with MY kilter.  I've been so frustrated at times!  My machine store charges $100 to even look at it, which has not been in my budget.
It is now to the point, however, that I can't even sew one inch without trouble. 
 So, I'm making an appointment with the guru to look at it.

In the past 60 years there hasn't hardly been a day when I haven't sewn something.  I would give up my stove, dishwasher, and every kitchen appliance on the planet for my sewing machine.  It is attached to me like another arm!

It's a good thing that I'm not without a backup -----
This is my mother's Singer Featherweight. 

I had forgotten just how wonderful and simple an old straight-sewing machine is.  This one sews like a dream with such a beautiful stitch.

Before my new machine, I wore out two machines that I had purchased in the 1950s and 1960s (one a straight-sewer and one a zig-zag).  My grandfather, the sewing-machine store owner/guru, sold them to me and taught me how to service and maintain them myself.  I would still be using them, but could no longer find replacement parts.  
That's when I bought the high-maintenance; plastic; computer-infused; expensive taste in thread; over-gadgeted thing they call a sewing machine these days.
Don't mind me --- I'm just frustrated and pining for the 'good old days'.
Since I'm doing some simple piecing, I'm off to enjoy sewing on the Featherweight.

I'm joining the following:
Busy Hands Quilts for Finished or not Friday
Cooking Up Quilts for Main Crush Monday
Love Laugh Quilt for Monday Making

9 comments:

Tanya Quilts in CO said...

I have a featherweight as my back up machine too--so much more reliable than anything from today. Hang in there!

Tu-Na Quilts said...

I am in the market for another machine and am frustrated by the lightweight and plastic ones that are available with so many features except the one important one which I really need; where is the button that does the dishes, dusting, and laundry so that I can just sit and sew. Goodness, with that price tag, it should include the maid!!!

sewyouquilt2 said...

I have a featherweight back up too! how sad that in this day they cant IMPROVE on them and make them to last. such a throwaway world and yeah, they are NOT cheap and have MORE things to break down!

Frog Quilter said...

I have numerous featherweight machines as well as other back up items like irons etc. I have to sew, must be some kind of syndrome....

Cathy said...

Ugh! I hate when they break down! The simple straight sewing machines are the best. One day I'll track down a featherweight.

Brenda said...

Nothing like a metal machine. I teach sewing to beginners and I recommend they look for all metal machines, especially if they don't want to commit a lot of cash to it.

Bonnie said...

I enjoy using my Featherweight but I wouldn't give up my more modern machine. My Bernina is heavy because it still has lots of metal parts. I bought in the last 5 years or so but chose a mid-price machine and one that was on the way out. My daughter loves my old Bernina that is almost 20 years old. I'm always shocked when I hear of people paying over $10,000 for a sewing machine. YIKES. I love my machines but really you could buy a nice used car for that money.

Myra @ Busy Hands Quilts said...

A backup machine is essential! My Juki has been in the shop for 2.5 weeks, and I get her back tomorrow!!!!

Miaismine said...

HI! I found you on Main Crush Monday! I hear you! I love my Featherweight as well - purchased it before I even purchased my Bernina - which I also love! I hope you get your machine back quickly, but am so glad you have your Featherweight! Thank you for sharing!