We decided that with the kid in school for Memorial Day, we'd go out and see what kind of trouble we could get into antiquing. Turned out, not much because all the antique stores were closed for the holiday.
So, after a nice long drive in the country and a blood sugar moment that almost turned into an argument, we ended up back in Austin, having not gotten out of the truck for anything but a cash machine. We went to a Mexican Restaurant that I'd been wanting to try...YummY!!!
And, we went to Goodwill on the way home. I spotted this Singer 237 from way down the aisle and it looked like another shopper was going to get it while I tried to decide. The price was right and I plugged it in and everything seemed to work okay, so I brought it home.
I gave it a good oiling and started sewing on it. It's in need of a very good lubrication, but for the most part, it sews great and is very, very quiet. And, it's my first vintage zig/zag machine. All the others have been straight stitch and this owner's manual, which I had to find online, says it will do all kinds of things, including FMQ and satin stitching.
When I got it all oiled and set up to sew, I tried to put a needle in and it wouldn't stay. I was about to start shopping to see if I could figure out what was wrong. If I was going to have to spend money to get the machine to work, I was going to return it to Goodwill and see if I could bargain an even better price. Then I saw this little U shaped part in the cut out next to the machine. It looked like just what I needed to help hold the needle in, but I never suspected it was the actual part I needed. It exactly fit in the groove that I needed it to fit in and after a little fiddling, I got it in and put a needle in and used the machine to finish a pair of lounging pants for Rob. That fixed, all that's left is the light switch doesn't turn the bulb off. I have to unplug the machine. But, this too is repairable. Given time.
No, I did not need another machine. I have more machines than some forests have trees. But, I love these old vintage machines and can't help but pick one up when I see something unusual or underpriced. Maybe...just maybe...one day I'll sell a few. Sydney has already let me know that on my first day in the old folks home, she's going to start putting my machines on the market. Little brat.
Two days of school left. They aren't doing anything but cleaning lockers and watching movies. But, she wants to be there, so there she is.
Take care everyone and we'll talk to ya' soon.
Lane
