Singer 201 The Best Sewing Machine Ever Made?

[@rosierycroft67]

I have just found one in my in laws cellar....I literally screamed with joy. It needs some restoration and the electrics upgraded but it will be so worth it. I am beyond excited to get this machine working in my studio!!

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Congratulations! You won't be disappointed 😁

[@hazelthorne8397]

I love my 201. I think it’s actually my prized possession. Mine was originally a handcrank but I had to put a motor on as I make handbags. The stitch is consistently perfect, back and front. I will always recommend the 201 and in my opinion the greatest machine ever made.I use an industrial for my bag exteriors but I always do the lining on the 201 and any other light to med sewing…I must use it everyday .

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

They are great everyday work horses and the stitch quality is second to none.

[@tomobedlam297]

Yes, I understand the need to sew every day. It's wonderful therapy! ❤

[@robabazaheer4430]

hi dear i think u have a good understanding of this machine could u plz help me understand about the machine i am new to this machine i just bought one and have no idea

[@Youtuberkit7]

Bro bought one on Craigslist. What motor you suggest for leather thanks

[@raraavis7782]

Those machines just look so sleek and elegant. Just like vintage cars. It's no wonder, people keep and continue to cherish them - which one would never do with a modern machine. They're just beautiful.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

I completely agree! Style and substance.

[@berniepokorski6608]

It never ceases to amaze me at how quiet these machine are when sewing... I own two 201-2 machines, and both of them are no louder than a whisper when sewing.

[@jacquelinemchenry5272]

I have a 201-2 and it's a beautiful machine as well as the best stitch you could want. If everything was made this well the landfills would much smaller.

[@doraowens6059]

My dad bought my 201 used abt 50 years ago from the local school system. It is the best machine I have ever used. Nothing can sew straight stitches better, in my opinion.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

I could not agree more!

[@curiouscat3384]

Yup - I'm 68 and this is still my favorite. I learned to sew on a 201-2 in 1960 and made my first dress on it when I was 10 yrs old :) My mother sewed all the time, home furnishings and pretty dresses for me and my 5 sisters. I don't use it full time now but when I return to it I am amazed how smooth the stitches are - never a problem with tension, good speed but not noisy - more like a nice humming sound. I would recommend this to anyone who just needs a reliable straight stitch machine, especially beginners. Super easy to maintain too :)

[@kansasscout4322]

I have Mom's old 201. Worked with it last week but it needs a good lube and cleaning. Bought the year I was born, 1951. Thanks for posting this.

[@ronalddevine9587]

I couldn't agree with you more. It truly is the Rolls-Royce of domestic sewing machines. No machine that I have ever seen produces such a perfect stitch. It's almost impossible to tell where one stitch ends and the next one begins. PURE EXCELLENCE AND QUALITY

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

The stitch quality is truly amazing.

[@truthmatters5366]

I have a 201 with the potted motor. I always thought it was a 201-1 but now I know it's a 201-2. I love this beauty and use it often. Thanks so much!

[@karenlindsay9884]

Great video! I learned about features I didn't know I had. A Singer 201K was given to me by a family member and I've owned it for decades. It originally had an external motor. I sewed my daughter's wedding gown on it in 1999. Then the motor was removed and the sewing machine was put into a treadle cabinet and I sewed my niece's wedding gown in 2006 while living without electricity for a while. I did not know until today what a fabulous machine I owned! Even thought I live with electric power now I plan to keep it like it is because there's something really nice about sewing with a treadle. Thank you for letting me know what a treasure I own!

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

I'm so glad you enjoyed my video. These really are a gem of a machine and yes your right there is something special about using a treadle. Keep enjoying your 201!

[@sarahs784]

I bought a 201 from eBay for £27, and whilst it was grimy, it still sewed. I've cleaned it up, and she's a lovely machine now! Cheers for your videos on sewing machine repairs and maintenance, it's helped me no end.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

I'm glad you've found my videos useful and that you've given an old machine a new life!

[@christdriven8790]

I live in an Amish community & the ladies luv this model. Thx for the vid, good job.

[@reeseoroni]

Excellent video, excellent explanation, and phenomenal camera work where I can actually see what is happening! For instance, this is the first video I found that successfully shows how to lower the feed dogs. You did a great job. Thank you.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Thank you. I always try to be as clear as possible. Glad you found it helpful!

[@roxannlegg750]

I have a 201 - it can sew things my modern very expensive machine cant! So much for technology. Thankyou

[@shieldsvalley]

I love my 201-2 so much! It makes topstitching easy, giving me far more control than any other of my machines, including 3 of my computer machines. The Singer 201-2 truly is an amazing piece of machinery!

[@purpy102]

I have a 1936 hand crank , after a shoulder injury it became a treadle machine. It is a sweet machine to sew with. My favorite treadle.

[@MoMaryR]

Good video, thank you. I had no idea the feed dogs could be dropped down

[@mukumbimbonge2210]

Looks amazingly and spuctacular

[@robertawestbrooks1650]

My mom had one many years ago. She never sewed, so I learned to see in school. Now, my dad, he was so smart, he took up sewing, and he sewed our curtain in the rooms. GREAT little machine 😊☺️😘

[@PibbleMom297]

Lovely machine! I have one myself and appreciate its exceptional quality, perfect stitching and graceful beauty. It's sad and a shame they were priced out of existence. But respectfully, I would add that the "cheaper" i.e., less expensive, Japanese models were and are also exceptional machines, with many equal in quality and stitching to Singer. I would never claim this about ALL of them, but most were engineered with precision and built to last. So many "badged" machines with names such as Morse, Remington, Atlas, etc. built in Japan and sold here. Then there were Sears' Kenmore brand machines. In the early Kenmore years, many were made by White and a few other manufacturers (I expect you know this already) Eventually, however, post WWII Sears saved some manufacturing costs and helped rebuild Japan's economy by having machines built there. They were then shipped to the US, motors were attached and sold here in the US. In 1961, Charles Harrison (one of the first black engineers hired by Sears and eventually their first black executive) began designing sewing machines and many other Sears products. His designs were intended to be easy to use, durable and highly functional. Although his exteriors were not as pretty as Singers - no sweeping, graceful lines and exquisite decals - they had their own beauty in simple lines, easy to understand dials and levers. The Japanese built them to exacting specifications with precision and pride. Both vintage Kenmore machines and lovely Singers are still working well today because they were superbly designed, extremely well built with METAL parts, and are repairable. People still love these vintage gems and eschew electronic machines with too many plastic gears, bushings, etc. They just don't have the power and durability of vintage machines. They are NOT bad machines, they just have a limited lifetime - planned obsolescense had taken hold. Manufacturers began wanting you to buy new when a machine you owned broke down. It's sad and both Singer and Sears (among others) fell victim to it by the mid to late 70's. By the 1980's, Kenmore machines were being made by Janome and some in Taiwan with a lot of plastic internal parts. Singer machines were being made that way too. It had become just too expensive to build all-metal machines. Plus they were heavy and "modern" women of the day wanted lighter weight and portability. I'm 72 years old; I lived those years. In addition to my collection of vintage Kenmores and Singers, I actually have a large modern, electronic quilting machine. I love it for what it does but realize it will eventually sit in a recycling bin, waiting to be stripped of anything valuable, while all the lovely vintage Singers, Kenmores (and other Japanese-made machines) will continue to hum along happily. Again, it's sad that Singer-labeled machines are no longer the quality of years ago. Singer as a separate company doesn't even exist anymore, having been absorbed by a huge conglomerate. And of course Sears is virtually gone and down the tubes as well. Yet there are plenty of superb vintage machines just as good vintage Sears beauties. There are enough of them around for those of us who love VSM's to pick and choose our favorites, refurbish or restore them, and pass them down to future sewists in whom we hopefully have instilled the knowlege of their worth. Thank you for taking the time to read this "tome".😊

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Yes, I agree, the early Japanese machines were very well built - they were just cheaper and Singer could not compete, especially when the Japanese started doing zig zag machines. I can't comment on the Sears Kenmore machines as we did not get them here in the UK. There is talk of countering the planned obsolescence here with the 'right to repair' legislation but I'm not sure how well that would work in a global economy.

[@adrianapeace3601]

I have a 201k with external motor, made in the UK and presumably shipped off to the colonies (Aus). Its such a fantastic machine, so straightforward to thread , which really helps me as a complete beginner. Thankyou for your video, it helped me wind my bobbin !

[@anitaluke9167]

I just bought a 201-2 @ an auction for $13.90. It is in the cabinet & has the original matching stool, many accessories (what's a hemming foot lol) a buttonholer attachment, bobbin case, the original instruction book, etc etc. My husbands' Dad repaired sewing machines back in the day; so my husband knows a good bit about them. He tested it and seems its in great shape. I want to learn to sew, and got a brand new Brother machine for Valentines; but seriously thinking I might try the new (old) Singer first. It's truly a beautiful machine!

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Wow! What a bargain! You'll love it.

[@tomobedlam297]

The attachments are great fun to get to know. There are lots of videos online to help you. Dive in, the sewing's fine! ❤

[@micheledash7269]

My girlfriend gave me one her Italian grandmother had to get it out of her basement. It is electric foot pedal and looks exactly as in this video so likely 30s to 40s? It works great! Learning how to sew starting with pandemic masks. So happy to find this video to learn how to thread it and get going!!!

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

If you google Singer Serial Numbers, there's a database that you can look up your serial number and date your machine precisely. Have fun!

[@micheledash7269]

Yes Looks like EE531857

[@micheledash7269]

Feb 27, 1948. It’s a 201K !

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

@@micheledash7269 You won't be disappointed with it!

[@meghanlancaster8747]

I have a cabinet 201-2 with centennial plaque. I haven't yet researched the serial number to learn the manufacture date, but it starts with an "A". It was given to me in 2014 by a friend who was given it by someone in her church whose then recently deceased mother had bought it new. Apparently it was made within a couple years one way or another from my birth. The original owner kept it in perfect condition and used it pretty much up until she died. I guess I am the 4th owner, but only the second person to actually use it. I had no idea what a special machine it is until I started You-tubing last year. It has been fascinating to learn about, and now I feel so privileged to own it.

[@seb5828]

Thank you for this video; it is a real tribute to the amazing 201. I purchased mine and had it delivered about 2 years ago. It was in a case with an out of order external motor. I converted it to treadle in a cabinet and it has been my go-to machine ever since! Once you gave tasted the smoothness and quietness of the 201, it is hard to go back to a 15!

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

The 15 is a great machine but the 201 is so smooth!

[@seb5828]

@@CurioByBSpokeDesigns True! 15s have stood the test of time and have been the most copied model of all Singers. It is a great machine but when you sew on a 201, you really feel that you're using some superior ingeneering ;)

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

@@seb5828 I have to agree!

[@lapalma1928]

Hello Seb 58! What type of 201 do you have? Was the conversion to treadle difficult? Will any standard treadle cabinet fit the 201? Thank you very much!

[@seb5828]

@@lapalma1928 Hello. My 201K was the kind with the external motor so switching it to a treadle was extremely easy: merely unscrewing the old motor and placing the treadle belt on the hand wheel. Had it been the potted motor kind it would have been a much bigger job I imagine. As for the cabinet I used one that used to house a full-sized Singer (15, 66, 27, 127...) Singer only ever had 2 machine sizes: full size or half size (for 28, 128 or 99). Hope that helps. 😊

[@SolLedesmaN]

I have 2 portable knee operated 201Ks, the best one being from 1948. It sews through everything! Doesn’t jam or stop because of bulky seams, doesn’t even flinch. I broke a needle once and didn’t realise it because the machine didn’t make a noise! It’s elegant and quiet, it’s powerful and simple to use. The only disadvantage is the lack of zig zag but I have an overlocker so I don’t really miss it… plus I sorted it by acquiring a Japan badge zig zagger from the 50s.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

I also have a zig zag attachment for mine that works well.

[@maroness]

Thank you for the informative and interesting videos on these amazing machines. I just ordered a Singer 66K (hand crank adapted) and I can go confidently into setting it up with the help of your previous video on it. Wishing you health and happiness during this time.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Enjoy your new to you machine!

[@stellasperidon1159]

These are fantastic!

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

I agree!

[@meghandavitt1618]

These videos are fantastic! I have a 201 from my mother and I'm learning how to care for it. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

You're welcome!

[@richardcastillo7832]

Me as well, my mother’s prize collection and it’s my most valued treasure that I’m learning to sew on.. And I’ve never used a sewing machine in my life but I’ll learn how to use it & make my momma proud 😍😍😍

[@carolineroy9026]

I love your videos they are so well made easy to listen to and filled with complete technical informations. Thank you so much

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

I'm glad you like them!

[@xinixxagnix201]

I have a 201 & 15 with potted motors, best machines money could buy, still today.

[@artie191]

potted motor, not so much. I will always take a 201 or 15 with a motor on a bracket.

[@thegregdavieschannel]

Thank you for putting together some excellent videos. I'm getting back into sewing after some time and accidentally brought a singer 201k and an Alfa 80 hand crank machine. Can't remember the model numbers, but my gran had a couple of hand cranked singers from the 1940's. She also had an older jones machine that was her mother's from the 1930's and a treddle singer.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

I'm glad you enjoyed the videos. Hope you found them useful!

[@kogabear1]

I am lucky enough to own two of these machines. They are truly amazing. The most comment I get is, “ does that old machine still sew?” They don’t look new but they sew as if they were.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Quality engineering is hard to kill!

[@craigdutton6072]

I like how many variants in cabinets ❤,one thing I always find when I’m digging for old bottles 😂is a singer sawing machine oil bottle 🎉🇦🇺I’d certainly say that a gleaming new singer would have been talk of the street back in the day 👍

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

A singer oil bottle? They're pretty rare and very collectible!

[@yunitamulti3607]

I'm so grateful to find this video. I almost frustrated about my sewing machine singer simanco 45223. Thanks to you for uploading this video 🙏🙏

[@chubbycattails-thelifeofde9550]

Thank you for the really helpful video - I have just bought my first vintage sewing machine- a Singer 201k treadle 1939. It looks just like the one you have , complete with the cabinet! I have bought a new treadle cable but haven’t fitted it yet or done anything else!

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Have fun with it! You can't go wrong with a 201.

[@artisanstitch]

I’ve hankered after a 201 for years so was beside myself with excitement when we discovered one in my in-laws attic while house-clearing. In answer to your question, oh yes! They are definitely the best machine ever.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

What a lucky find!

[@kathleenmurphy6765]

Thank you - do you have guidance on the different needles and max thread weight that I could use with this machine.

[@jackiepare6633]

Bought my first 201K last March and love how it sews. It’s my favorite! This coming Saturday, I am going to pick up my 2nd 201K for 40$ and will be converting it as a treadle machine. I already have my treadle and my spoked hand wheel ready for it. I am so excited!

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Last weekend I picked up a 201K with a potted motor and knee control. These are quite rare here in the UK. Looking forward to getting time to look at it properly and give it some love and attention. They are wonderful machines.

[@jackiepare6633]

Curio By B-Spoke Designs I got the idea for the treadle when I saw your video about a week ago. I never knew or even thought that a 201 could be treadled. It’s been playing in my head ever since...lol.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

@@jackiepare6633 I'm sure you'll have fun with it!

[@shelaco1321]

Thank you for this excellent and very helpful demonstration of this lovely machine. I'm about to acquire one so your demonstration has been incredibly helpful, I'll be able to thread and hopefully sew with the machine when I get it.

[@rosanneandreas6303]

Can you do a video on restoring a 201-2? This is a great video. Thanx!

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

201-2 are not common here in the UK. If I find one I’ll do a video

[@lauramarjoram2692]

What a fantastic and informative video. Thank you! X

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@smitbar11]

The cheaper Japanese imports that were coming into the UK in the late 50's were actually very well engineered, as are pretty well all Japanese products. I have a hand cranked 201K and a Jones electric 'Foreign' model that was made by Brother, the Jones is extremely well made :)

[@sewterie]

Thank you for showing this. I have a 15-91 and they are very similar in style with a few variations. Perhaps the full rotary vs. the oscilating hook makes the difference in the stitch quality but I have to say I love mt 15-91. Great stitching. Thanks again.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

The 15-91 is a great, strong machine!

[@juanitabonita717]

Excellent video. Thanks for sharing. I grabbed my first one for $25 in the cabinet and love it. It has a motor. Git the second one on Ebay for $84 just like yours. Then a couple more without table.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

You can never stop at just one can you? Lol.

[@Youtuberkit7]

Bro thanks for the video. Just bought singer 201-1 mint condition on Craigslist for $50. With table all accessories and book. I’m so lucky. What motor to upgrade on this for leather sewing?

[@jackierudd2010]

Brilliant tutorial, Thankyou. I bought a 201 off ebay from Scotland at a very good price, it's in pristine condition and I love it. I've just been offered another singer treadle dated 1883 😊i've only seen a couple of photos but it looks excellent for 130+ years old, it has been in the same family for it's whole life and was regularly used until a few years ago. I can't wait to get it and give it some nurturing, fingers crossed for a healthy outcome and another 100+ years of life, that's the beauty of these fantastic machines, definitely built to last. I've subscribed 👍😊

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Just a word of warning - these old machines get addictive! Before you know it you'll be overrun with them! Glad you enjoyed my video.

[@jackierudd2010]

@@CurioByBSpokeDesigns too late 😂 I've aquired 11 in 2 years 😕😂

[@jackierudd2010]

I would like a 222 too😊👍

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

I have a couple of 221s that I picked up at a good price but can't justify the prices of white ones or 222s

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

I currently have more than 40!

[@julieanderson9030]

I have one, it was my Mom’s. It’s the only thing I sew with and I sew a lot ❤❤

[@lynne1212]

Thanks for the video I'm expecting my 201k any day now and I'm so excited!

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

You won't be disappointed!

[@bodyandsoul17]

Do you know if all of the "modern" 1950's and 60's 201k's were made with aluminium? On the ISMACS website. some say "Alum." in the notes section and some don't. The 1956 one I own is not listed with "Alum." next to it, but it doesn't feel heavy enough to be cast iron. Thank you.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Yes, the modern shape 201s were all aluminium

[@bodyandsoul17]

@@CurioByBSpokeDesigns Great - thanks for letting me know! Strange how the ISMACS site seems to distinguish them as being different.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

@@bodyandsoul17 It all depends how they were recorded - this was in the pen and paper days and different people would record them differently - there are a number of errors and some lost records in the database.

[@ramloganfracic5761]

Thank you for sharing this wonderful educative video. It is very interesting

[@iamsharon3306]

You have such a beautiful voice. I really enjoy watching your videos. You should consider doing voice over work. I am in the market for a Singer 201-2 machine. Anyone know of a machine in pristine condition like this one that's on the market, please let me know!

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

I hate the sound of my own voice and only ever listen to my videos when I edit them! As for the 201 - where abouts are you?

[@iamsharon3306]

@@CurioByBSpokeDesigns You don't hear what we hear,. Your voice is angelic. I'm in the USA - Washington, DC to be exact.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

@@iamsharon3306 one of my favourite cities! x

[@justinmickelson6579]

Hands down the best video I’ve found about the singer 201. Too cool, I just got a few classic machines. This being one. Could you do a video on a international rotary sewing machine. I can’t find any info, any time I search, All I get is white rotary machines. They look similar.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed the video. I would love to make a video about the International Rotary, but I'm pretty sure they were not available here in the UK.

[@justinmickelson6579]

Curio By B-Spoke Designs that’s a bummer. ☹️. Keep up the videos. Quality is awesome. Details are on point.

[@John-d7p]

A nice look at the 201. They are very nice machines, and deserve all the accolades they recieve, but they are expensive to this day. A note for those wanting one but don't want to stretch the wallet: I have the 201's successor - the 223. Made in Japan, they are not in any way inferior in quality at all, and are massive in cast iron at nearly 40lbs and precision built. All steel innards with perfect fit and finish on all connecting rods and gears. As a lifelong tool and cutter grinder, I know what I'm looking at. Japanese sewing machines of the late 1950's - and on are among the finest machine tools ever produced - anywhere. As a lifelong tool and cutter grinder, I know what I'm looking at. If the 201 is the Rolls~Royce, the Japan Singer 200 series are the Mercedes~Benz. Dogs are dropped from the deck via a knob, bobbins filled from the spindle the same way as the 210, almost silent operation, same ubiquitous Singer tensioning system, zig-zag and hidden hem stitching, smooth transition from Fwd/Rev with no difference in stitch length. My wife has a $2500 Pfaff, but prefers to sew on my $80 223. It sews 8 layers of dacron sailcloth, or up to 10 layers of canvas with no problems except the small consumer style motor - which is its only real functional weakness. I would classify it as a true HD machine but for the lack of a powerful motor, no walking foot, small flywheel, and a Class 15 bobbin, which carries only a small amount of thread, and the homeowner depth of throat. It looks much like the later 201's in beige.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

I guess it depends where you are, regarding the prices of 201s. There in the UK they are not all that expensive. However, the 223 is pretty rare here.

[@John-d7p]

@@CurioByBSpokeDesigns 201's go for anywhere from foolishly underpriced-to-$350 US. The 223 is not seen much here, either, but there are several others in that series, so it's kind of a spread out model range. I got mine from a costume maker who meticulously maintined it. MInt condition for $80, but I've seen them lower. ✌

[@trishrowell9715]

Thank you! I learnt so much!I just bought a 201K. Can you tell me which number buttonhole attachment it uses please?

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

It will use any of the low shank button hole attachments. I'll see if I can find the relevant numbers for you

[@catherine5357]

Thank you for the helpful video. I have just purchased a very nice looking beige 201 after watching. I need a hand crank as I have a temporary disability which stops me using my electric foot pedal machine. I'm really looking forward to delivery, it seems to be a belter.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

I'm sure you won'r regret your purchase!

[@ninobrn00]

I’ve been quite curious if you can fit a potted motor on the brown 201k23?

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

I believe a few came with a potted motor, but not 100% sure

[@DebH.]

I almost gave mine away, I didn't realize what I had and how great this machine is. I have a great portable Singer machine, but I think this 201-2 is way better, and as stated, is just super quiet and efficient! Cool!

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

I did give my first machine away - not knowing what I had. Glad I know better now!

[@shainemoodley]

Thank you, I finally know the model of my Singer crank, "201". Yippee!! So glad to have one. I wonder how old it is, the only number on it is ED152587.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

That makes it June 1941! Congratulations!

[@shainemoodley]

@@CurioByBSpokeDesigns Thank you, that's incredible! I oiled it and sewed with it today, works great but my sewing not so great....😅

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

@@shainemoodley I'm not much of a sewer - I spend too much time cleaning the machines up to have time to learn to sew!

[@lapalma1928]

Great video! I just purchased a Singer 201-2 that seems to have been with the original owner’s family. It works, but it is a bit dull. Do you have any suggestions for what product to use to clean the black and silver parts to make it shiny like yours? Thank you very much!

[@elviramcintosh9878]

thank you for this video I was a bit nervous about using my 201 but I shall now give it a go. Mine is knee-operated. A question, is it OK to use WD-40 instead of sewing machine oil? Greetings from Australia.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Hi. WD40 is not good for use on sewing machines. It is not really an oil and is short lasting. Sewing machine oil is very fine and even washes off fabric in water easily. I love knee operated machines. Have fun!

[@marksmale827]

I have just had a more powerful motor (1.5 amps) fitted to a 201K I was more-or-less given. Wow! Incidentally, I plugged in a foot control to a knee-control Singer of this era and it worked!

[@mariod7473]

Thank you, very informative. I just bought one from Facebook Marketplace for $40.00. I intend too use it mainly for quilt binding but you never know...I am learning how to use it, the pedal is difficult , only seem to sew very fast without being able to slow the stitching down, a learning curve I guess.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Mario Denis it sounds like the foot pedal needs cleaning and adjusting. I have a video that might be of some use.

[@curiouscat3384]

The foot pedal can be easily cleaned, remove the screws at the bottom, lift the top off and clean out all the lint and any "gunk" around the metal contacts and around the push button. (I'm not mechanical at all but it worked for me)

[@tatidiaz1954]

Very helpful, thank you very much

[@harrypressman2]

I was just oiling my Singer 15-90 at the "U" forked joint on the right side of the main shaft, when I noticed what I thought was a piece of thick string. I pulled it out and realized it might be an oil wick of some sort. Is this supposed to be where it was? If so, how do I get it back up in there?

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

I don't recall seeing an oil wick in any of mine. Perhaps someone else can help?

[@fredhubbard7210]

I'm looking for a functional vintage. Do you have... or know of a list of machines like this one that are both reliable and continue to have a reasonable availability for parts?

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Almost all of the all-metal Singers would fit the bill. 201, 99, 66, 15 are all pretty common and simple to maintain.

[@fredhubbard7210]

@@CurioByBSpokeDesigns Thanks! I now have a 201-3k. I am so pleased with it! I have a call out for a 99...

[@daved927]

Thank you very informative

[@pierrotcardyn]

Well I have a question: I serviced a lot of 201's. Lately I got one that was bought in 1948, the lady suddenly died 3 weeks after and her daughter kept it on the attic with a blanket over it and never touched it. On her turn she died at the age of 98 years. Her son sold this nearly new Singer 201-1 to me, so I got it nearly new, not a scratch, not a screw touched. Guess what: the lower gears where full of original singer grease! So maybe, the no grease story is a myth. Maybe Singer did not mention it in the manual because they thought that adding a drop of oil to keep the grease smooth was enough and changing the grease by cleaning the old out first, was a job for a Certified Singer technician? What do you think?

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

That's quite interesting. I'm sure there's nothing in the service manual about grease either. I think I need to do more research!

[@pauleysink9659]

I just bought one for NZ$40. Maybe it needs servicing and new tensioning kit. Also I noticed the tensioning shaft and slot is vertical rather than horizontal, Is that correct or can I adjust that?

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

yes, it's easy to adjust. the whole tension assembly is held in by one grub screw. Just loosen it and turn the assembly round

[@lucy7b]

I have 4 of theses. One in the cabinet you show but the teak version.

[@monmowimarciga5052]

Thank you.

[@nealblackburn8628]

i just got one of these machines and got it to sew almost straight away.Tried different tension settings and it still sewed ok so its not a tempremental machine .The number is EG281958 would that mean its made in 1958 . there is a bit of what looks like dried oil on it .What is the best thing to clean it off with. I also got a Duchess made in USA with a hand crank and flying shuttle it also sews very nice

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Sewing machine oil is the safest way to soften up and clean off old oil. Be patient and gentle with it as the finish can be delicate on these machines and you would not want to ruin the decals. These are hardy machines and rarely temperamental. I need to look up the Duchess!

[@canlelola]

Wait the gears only need oil? Well I have two of these myself and in time once I have the workspace I want to give both an overall

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Yes, the gears only need oil - The only time a 201 needs grease is if it has the potted motor and then only a little on the motor worm gear.

[@barbaratrammell3138]

Best sewing machine ever. It comes on a treadle too. I have both. Yes quiet nice.

[@phyllisstearnes7252]

I have just acquired a Singer 201-2 that is red. It appears that it is an original color not a painted one. However, I have not found any evidence of red ones being manufactured. The date indicated it was made in 1940. I wondered if you know of any special issues for this machine?

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Hi, I have never heard of Singer producing a red 201. I wonder if it was a factory refurbishment? It sounds intreaguing.

[@monikatunstall70]

Hello I see someone selling AH# / 201-2 I think it is in 1948ish. Is it worth and cheap parts and easy to find? is it included alumium?

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

It's not likely to be aluminium but they are popular so parts are relatively easy and cheap to come by.

[@monikatunstall70]

@@CurioByBSpokeDesigns thank you i consider buying that one. I wanted little older with gold flowers on machine which is so beautiful and artistic

[@briannajones3223]

This might be a dumb question but what cant i sew with this? Because im definitely buying one today, singer needs to start paying you at this point 😭😭i want to sew sweatshirts, jackets for snowboarding and doing leather as well. Should i get a 191j for leather making? And this one for everything else?

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

I'm not familiar with the 191 - not a common machine here. Saying that, it;s still a domestic machine. The 201 is a great machine and I would say good for occasional garment weight leather. If you're serious about working with leather you may want to consider an industrial machine and walking foot.

[@katherinesheldon6772]

Today I found a 1200. It looks in pretty good condition and the balance wheel and needle armature are smooth. It is in the original table with the knee lift and treadle. I did not see a power cord. The price is basically what you paid for yours! Are power cords ealsiy available for this machine? I'm going back tomorrow to double check on the machine and hope to find the cord. Would this be an easy flip for me? I don't actually have the room, but I think it's a great machine and I would love to pass it onto someone that loves it. I use a Pfaff 230 for 99% of my sewing. I saw a Pfaff in your video on the floor!

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

A 1200 is a great find. here in the UK they are quite rare. Does this one have a motor, as you said it needed a power cord, which should be readily available. The reason I ask is because you said it had a treadle.

[@inannashu689]

I don't know I have a 201 and a 66,the 66 is by far my favorite.

[@GerryP121]

Hi, I have just acquired a treadle version which according to the serial number is from September 1940. Can you please point me in the right direction for a good restoration video, or series of videos. It is in fair condition but seized I think. the black finish is all cracked like a glazed tile. Any help would be much appreciated

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

I have two videos showing the restoration of a seized Singer 15. Not the same machine but taken in conjunction with this video, should help as the principles are the same. The crazing on the finish sound like you have damaged shellac. While careful polishing can help, really the only way to really get rid of the problem is to French Polish it again. There are several videos on KZbin showing how to French Polish a sewing machine

[@rhondaadams4013]

Wow! Does that machine have a reverse switch, or did you move the material back and forth? I have a 1920's model that belonged to my Grandmother and I am wondering if it works. I'm going to pull it out, clean it up a bit, and see if it does work. I had no idea these old machines were so amazing. This one is so quiet.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

This does have reverse - just move the stitch length lever up.

[@reclinerkchipilipili2752]

Thank you Rhonda Adams for your coarsen then give me that one if to repair is going to do that

[@shaina8552]

There is a vintage singer 128 for sale i am looking at locally, does it compare to the 120?

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

The 128 is very different. It is a vibrating shuttle machine with a long bobbin in a bullet style shuttle.

[@AvilinSanagustin]

Location n how much

[@thomasjones4306]

Have the 127 model, works well for its age. I say all of not most vintage models are nice.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

I agree. Most vintage machines have such a neat quality of stitch - modern machines cannot compare

[@oldiowan]

Can anyone tell me if the 201 will sew as heavy material as a 66 or 99? I'm trying to decide which will fit my needs for heavier materials and lightweight leathers - THANKS!!

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

The 201 will handle anything a 66 or 99 can and more.

[@oldiowan]

@@CurioByBSpokeDesigns MANY THANKS!! I have a chance to buy one that looks like new and is supposed to run perfectly...Now it's looking like a very good deal!!

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

@@oldiowan The 201 has such a neat stitch too.

[@oldiowan]

@@CurioByBSpokeDesigns Just one more question if you don't mind - I have several people here in the USA wanting to sell me machines made in ENGLAND.... Do they use the same parts as machines made in the USA? In other words if I have a problem do I have to order parts from ENGLAND? THANKS....Again!!

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

@@oldiowan yes, they're the same parts and so should be interchangeable. Of course anything electric would be different voltage so would need to be swapped out for US spec.

[@ebikemeclement3414]

Please can the hand crank be removed??? So as to convert it to treadle machine.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Yes, if it has a spoked hand wheel.

[@mckinklepoppydog1091]

I’ve just bought one online from a supposed ‘Singer specialist’. I’m really struggling to find someone that will service it for me 😢

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

There are plenty of videos on KZbin showing how to service the machine yourself it’s not difficult.

[@anitaroy1048]

How can I buy this type machine.where Iget this machine

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

You will need to look on local selling sites. This machine is 60 years old. it is not available new

[@lisalu910]

I'm going to make an argument that the 201 is NOT the best straight stitch machine Singer ever made! My vote is with the 301. With it's rotary hook, it stitches just as smoothly and makes the same perfect stitch as the 201 but it sews MUCH faster, and has a vertical bobbin which I think is a superior configuration to the drop-in bobbin. I also prefer the slant shank for ease of sewing - it really was an improvement over the low shank. But best of all, it weighs HALF as much as a 201 and is still a full sized machine. You can install it in a cabinet and lift it out to carry it in a case. Sorry, but the 201 can't touch that.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

You do have a point, however... The 301 was not available everywhere. It was not sold in Europe. I suspect it was a North America only model.

[@ebikemeclement3414]

Please how can i get this machine Am in Nigeria and i need this machine

[@bhanumathikalyanasundaram.4930]

I have 15ND 88/89.what could be the year of manufacture?Made in India.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

I really would not know how to find that out.

[@zebulon9307]

1:03: "a high carbon cloth mesh gear drive" - are you sure? What is fitted here looks like a rack and pinion drive.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

close mesh.

[@samreynolds3789]

Where to buy and Cost ? I am in New England area !

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Look on local buy and sell sites.

[@amarprakashchhetri4647]

How many rupees/dollars is the price of this singer 201 k model sewing machine ?

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

These machines are over 50 years old so there is no set price for them. It depends where you are and the condition.

[@amarprakashchhetri4647]

@@CurioByBSpokeDesigns I am from India, West bengal, Darjeeling,

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

@@amarprakashchhetri4647 I'm in the UK so have no idea what prices are locally to you.

[@Zoie3x8]

"so how did it get the reputation for being the best sewing machine in the world ?" simple; they didn't mess around with planned obsolescence, nor cutting corners for the sake of profit at all costs.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Also, the hardened steel close meshed gearing were precisely engineered.

[@Zoie3x8]

@@CurioByBSpokeDesigns i guess you are speaking as to the 'how' of it, and i am speaking as to the 'why' of it. quality gears, precisely set, comes from making a thing that is intended to last, and intended to be top-quality; the opposite of planned obsolescence, or cutting corners in quality for the sake of profit at all costs.

[@crums0nMyJ4cket]

I'm like no. 500! 🙌🤣

[@paulavieyra4821]

Hi How much can this machine today?

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

It depends where you live. Check prices on eBay.

[@inthehalflight9303]

I can't even get to square one. My stop motion knob is stuck :(

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Put some sewing machine oil around the back of it, let it sit for a day or so, then gently heat with a hair dryer.

[@inthehalflight9303]

@@CurioByBSpokeDesigns It worked! Thank you :)

[@rhonamocke6527]

is 201k the same as 201

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Yes. The ‘k’ denotes it was made in the Kilbowie factory in Scotland

[@anitaroy1048]

Where we get & buying it

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Look on Facebook marketplace and local selling sites. There are many available depending where you are.