Singer 201K: One of the Most Quiet Running Machines Ever Invented!

[@deannesherriff3247]

My Mother was bought one of these for her 21st birthday, she’s 85 now and has just given it to me. She has dementia so can’t help me with it’s intricacies but I remember watching her turn sheets, make my dads shirts and clothes for herself, me and my brother and sister. She took in sewing when times were tight and made a living making things for others. It’s a beautiful machine, has worked hard all it’s life and I’ve had it serviced and am using it to do quilting. My dad had it put into a cabinet for her, and it has pride of place in my craft room. Lovely. Thanks for your great video.

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

Thank you for sharing this Deanne. I'm envious because not only do you have an incredible machine, it's a family heirloom!

[@deannesherriff3247]

Vintage Sewing Machine Garage 💖

[@notesfromleisa-land]

Did you know that there are "memory quilt's" that you can make...not the one's from the clothes of a lost loved one, but one that is of familiar things to a love one whose memory is gone. it's a lap quilt with familiar things sewn securely in. It might be a precious project for you and your Mom's machines to do together for your Mom. You can Google it if you have an interest. Thanks for sharing your story.

[@shieldsvalley]

I have an American built 201 & it is a fantastic machine! It's quiet, smooth & easy to control. After sewing on computer machines for years my 201 makes sewing easy & fun again!

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

Good to know!

[@taddelbruhn2166]

I have a Pfaff 31 from 1916, it sews wonderfully quietly. It sounds like a small hoarse steam engine. I love that sewing noise, it sounds so beautiful

[@carltrotter7622]

The "K" models were manufactured at Clydebank in Scotland, the factory was positioned a few hundred metres North of the famous John Brown & Co. Shipyard, a yard which manufactured the largest and fastest ships in the world - including the RMS Queen Mary, HMS Hood and the RMS Lusitania.

[@Paul.Douglas]

I picked up a 201K a couple years ago. It needs servicing which I'm going to get around to this spring. I also have a 201-2, and I agree 110% that these make the most perfect stitches I've ever seen. And so quiet, it almost seems like it's not running right. Thanks for showing this one!

[@karonwood8560]

Hi there. Thank you so much for falling in love with the Singer 201k3 and demonstrating in your videos. The Clydebank factory shipped the 201k3s all over Europe and the Commonwealth countries ( Canada incl. ) while N.J.'s 201-3 rarely made an appearance over Canada's border. Never the less, I'm happier with the 201k because of the free motion quilting availabiliy by almost the turning of a screw. My 201k3 is almost a twin sister to the one you are currently showing (EF558880). Though mine shows a production number for forging in 1948, it has the Singer Cenntenial badge above the serial number. My machine is in it's original wooden cabinet with it's stool and was outfitted with the knee controller ( Yeah! ) and all of the usual accessories. I even have a larger wheel for the treadle change over for greater movement while fmq'ing. Keep up the good work. Your videos are packed full of great tips and valuable information.

[@carltrotter7622]

Shipping was, of course, very easy from this factory as it was right next to what was, at the time, one of the largest ports in the world. Not to mention all those yard producing almost 1/3rd of Global shipping output in the early 20th century.

[@abelincoln95]

"Runs like a sewing machine" was always a positive description for other machines that were quiet, balanced & running well. Nice example.

[@carolinewoolfall2096]

I've just acquired a treadle 201, it needs some work but once it's running I'm really looking forward to giving it many years of use. Thank you for your very informative videos on cleaning the vintage machines, this should help me not make the mistakes you mention.

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

You can do it!

[@MsSpringbunny]

I thrifted a 201k like yours today here in sweden for ~30 usd with the carrier case, all original electrical work too. So excited to learn more about it. Thank you!

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

Amazing!

[@WaterNai]

Since you were being trolled by the autofocus on your camera, I would like to make two little suggestions. 😄 Put your hand or a pice of paper or something behind the item you’re trying to get a closeup of to block the autofocus from focusing on the background. And to really show off the beautiful work these machines do, when you had the thread that contrasted to the sample fabric, it was much easier to see. Thank you so much for sharing your work and your expertise with us.

[@HRHLusciousLips]

I bought a well-kept Singer 201 in a Queen Anne Mahogany cabinet & matching stool for $25 from a woman that didn’t see who inherited it from her late-MIL. The greatest steal I’ve ever.🤗

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

Very nice!

[@fridgedoc]

Hi, I've just got me a 201K in a cabinet, it's all new to me , my mother had something similar (Singer treadle) in the 1950's it seems to be running ok but I will give it a clean and service. it only took me an hour to thread it up and I've got the manual, now I've done it once, it will only take a minute to do now. All I've got to do now is to learn how to use it ...... lol !!!!! Thanks for your great video

[@realgirl2704]

I would love to have such a simple & beautiful machine. Great info.

[@MildredGlutz]

I would love to get a 201! I have been noticing that on modern machines, I invariably need to use a walking foot in garment sewing but don’t have a problem with that on the vintage Singer 15. I’m suspecting the bigger feed dogs on modern machines grab the bottom fabric and force it through more “efficiently” causing the top layer to slip a bit. Some modern machines don’t let you adjust presser foot pressure, either.

[@njones420]

i've been using my 201k for making a leather car interior for some time... It's a great little machine, which can really pack a punch with a larger motor. You only have to compare the running-gear underneath to current machines to see how heavy-duty it really is (even the 99k is very capable) (as much as I'd like a modern walking-foot)

[@carolyngethings]

Thanks for showcasing this vintage Singer. I found a 201k in a charity shop in the uk priced £30. I bought it primarily because it came with an assortment of sewing feet which I hoped to use with another old Singer I found in a charity shop(Singer 407). After doing some internet research, including your channel, I have come to realise that the 201k is a great machine in its own right! Sadly it isnt working at the moment as it is not picking up the bobbin thread at all. I only brought it home yesterday so hopefully with internet help I'll get this lovely machine working again.

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

What a great find Carolyn. It would be highly unusual for any vintage sewing machine to be broken beyond repair and your machine likely needs service. I can't know specifically but it could be anything from a burr spot on the hook to needle installation or even thread jamming. You might try searching my channel under the term "Troubleshooting". Another option might be finding someone or a shop locally that can take a look at it for you. No one should tell you that they "cannot get parts" for this as Singers are the most practical to service given the massive numbers that were made. The UK made 201's were very popular and so you may, with some patience, find assistance for repairing yours if your own attempts are not successful. That 201 is worth it, in my humble opinion.

[@carolyngethings]

@@VintageSewingMachineGarage Thank you so much for your advice. I'm determined to get this lovely girl going. My other machine is a 407L and it has purred like a pussycat since I picked her up in theg charity shop! I've not done anything to her since finding her...much shame😔. She'll get some oil too at the very least. I acquired yet another Singer yesterday from a neighbour who was throwing her out. Its a Creative Touch 1036. He brought it back from Seattle when he worked there, so I need to sort out a transformer etc before I test her out, but he says she works fine! I'm going to be busy, but I'm loving this newly acquired interest already!

[@carilynjurgeson6178]

I am picking up a 201-2 tomorrow in a beautiful cabinet. Can't wait...It will need some work though. It's been in storage for years. Love this video!!

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

Sounds great!

[@mothbythesea]

thanks for this video! I found one of these discarded in an alley known for it's trash piles. Took it home and it was in perfect working order, even the lightbulb!

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

Great to hear! Its like finding a Rolex watch in the refuse can.

[@karenmattingly8527]

My Featherweight had a front mounted light. I called it a design flaw because I would regularly get burned on it as I sewed. Loved it anyway.

[@carolbrown804]

Great video. My mother bought the 201K in a cabinet just after she married in 1949. As you say I believed she had to pay for it in instalments but don’t know how much it was. I would like to find out. She was a seamstress to trade so knew what to buy as obviously made a good choice. I grew up sewing on it and inherited it when my mum passed. I have a newer Singer bit it is not a patch on the 201K. It sees like a dream. The cabinet looks a bit neglected but it is a real workhorse.

[@barbarasantamaria4456]

Hello watched your video yesterday morning and very luckily purchased a reconditioned Singer 201k that very afternoon . I live in the UK . I found it on Ebay UK . There was two but they both went so quickly. I already have a vintage Singer 66 . I feel as I have hit the jackpot with your video and my Singer. 201K

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

Wonderful!

[@sadiejosiemom]

I have my mom's 201 that was manufactured in 1952. I was born in 1953 so I have no idea how much she paid for it. My parents were poor and worked on a ranch. Right now it is in my garage and previously it was in a storage unit. I went out and had a look at it a few days ago and the handwheel turns and the presser foot mechanism goes up and down effortlessly, however I wasn't able to plug it in to power so I don't know the condition of the motor. It has a rear mount motor but I didn't pay attention where the light is. The cabinet is a very utilitarian one but does seem to be mahogany. It also has a matching bench/chair that has a removable seat with storage below the seat. I don't remember if it has a foot pedal stowed away because it came with a knee pedal that mom always used. She sewed like the wind on it. All my clothes were made on it as well as hers and my much older brothers shirts and at the height of polyester of the 70s-80s she sewed a bazillion quilts from that magic fabric that never dies! My goal for 2022 is to get her back in running order. The part of the cabinet that supports the "convertible machine" has lost some screws or something because it won't the support the weight anymore. I also heard something metal fall out when I was looking at it. It has drawers on either side of the cabinet. She previously had a treadle and ended up loaning it out to her SIL after she got this one. We never got the treadle back. I ended up buying one 25-30 years ago. It's in similar shape.The foot pedal needs a good oiling or wd40. She has beautiful decals and the silver cover is very intricate. Thanks for sharing!

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

Hello. Thank you for sharing. Please note that you should NEVER oil a foot pedal. If there is dust or grime keeping it from working, that can be cleaned, but never use any lubrication near a speed control device including foot pedals.

[@viviennebolton4358]

Ah... my Mum had a hand crank 201k here in the UK but I don't know what happened to her machine as she gave me a more modern one when she was too old to lift it. So I picked up a 1953 201k on my 70th birthday this year to relive my experience as a child and as a teenager when I got the chance to properly sew with it. It's a bit heavy to lift but sews like magic!

[@Chowah]

just bought one like this circa 1951. Love it! I cleaned it, waxed her and next gonna work refinishing the desk.

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

Fantastic!

[@jo-anncampeau4831]

My wife wanted another sewing machine, she had a Brother and didnt like it. I remembered the old Signer my grandmother had so I told her I would try to find one similar. Someone gave us a model 127, looked rough but still worked fine. After research, I knew about the 15-95 and found one with a direct drive potted motor at a thrift store, think I paid 75bucks. Then I read about the 201soooo I started looking for the elusive 201, well I ended up finding 4 of them, all near my home. One that is in a portable case in horrible condition but after cleaning it and oilling it, it ran just fine, I dismantled it completely,(not the drivetrain) and I will rebuilt/repaint it (just for fun). 2 others are like the one you just desribe in your video with the motor attached in excellent condition, they just sat for a long time unused and only needed cleaning. And finaly the one I was looking for, with the direct drive potted motor, apart the dried up wiring that has to be redone, you can tell the machine was well taken care of and is in excellent condition. Except for the 201-potted motor that I paid 125$, the others,I paid under 60$. The portable was 25$. Now I have a bunch of cabinets to refinish and a very good machines to play with. Now I just hope she doesnt want another car!!!

[@jo-anncampeau4831]

Oh and forgot, 3 are 1951 anniversary models

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

Wow. You have a lot of great finds there. FYI, before you refinish your cabinet, stay tuned for a video series I am going to post soon on how to clean/recondition sewing machine cabinets. It might save you a lot of time depending on the condition of your cabinets. Just like these amazing machines, the cabinets are also undervalued in my humble opinion. They may in fact be of higher quality than most new furniture sold today!!

[@jo-anncampeau4831]

@@VintageSewingMachineGarage there was a lot of Signer repair guys and looks like they sold a lot of 201. Sure will watch, got 3 more cabinets to do LOL. I did one allready, dismantled it, stripped the finish, repaired a few holes and reveneered the working surface and few coats of tung oil and it's beautifull, solid and I agree with you better than some furniture. I also sandblasted and repainted all the metal parts.

[@kickbush1]

Would love to have seen the foot pedal and cabinet in this video. I am lucky to have a 201- and I love it!

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

Hello Pam. The cabinets that I come with some of my machines rarely make it into a video, but I am planning a series of videos on Sewing Machine Cabinets and will show this one if I still have it in my inventory. Stay tuned and I hope to have this video up soon.

[@debbiepring2236]

How do you clean the bobbins that are a bit rusty or pitted? I tried metal polish and bug and chrome cleaner and a nail file but still tarnished. Also where can I get a replacement throat plate for my 101-4? I bought it the other day and refurbished the motor and all the gears. The electrics are original and it works well...as quiet as can be! Will reber the cabinet and put in display in the hall..and use it of course. I love it and hope it continues to do well with the original wiring as I have no idea how I would tackle that job! Would be interesting and I would be willing but dont want to ruin a beautiful machine. Thanks for your blogs. Have really learned alot and turned my head in a different direction. I feel like we are saving an endangered species! Like cast iron pots, they can be handed down for generations and are so useful and beautiful.

[@EphanyasisOwleyes]

When I get to show off my vintage Singer sewing machine I hope you can watch because I need your help to fix her by just telling me the how to if you don't mind.

[@jenniewren9351]

This looks like, and sounds like a beautiful machine. Looking forward to the next tutorial for overhauling my 99k. It seems to have issues at the hand crank end - do I need to take that apart? Also the tension discs have spots of corrosion. Thanks for giving your time and energy in spreading the word about these wonderful machines.

[@theprojectproject01]

Depends on the issues your hand crank end has, I suppose. But you can help your tension discs by popping into your local auto parts store. Buy some 800-grit sandpaper, some 2,000-grit, and a little tub of Mother's Mag Wheel and Aluminum Polish. Disassemble your tension assembly, and lay a sheet of 800 on a clean countertop. Lay a disc down on it, thread-contact surface down. Using even pressure and a figure-8 motion, polish off the corrosion. You want an evenly matte finish on the disc. Do the other disc, then move on to the 2,000 grit and repeat. Finish, similarly, with a dab of the Mother's polish on a paper towel laid flat. You'll end up with a clean and polished set of tension discs you can then reassemble (dry, please, no oil needed or wanted here) and reinstall.

[@jenniewren9351]

JR Roloff thanks for this. I'm a complete novice so I'll have to find a KZbin video for taking apart tension discs. Terrified of getting it wrong. Thank you again.

[@MrClassiccarenthusia]

Yup.. Very nice! I found one of these in mint condition in my basement. Works (seemingly), but I still don't know how to thread it.. 🤔 I was hoping this video would explain it! 😂

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

What a great machine to discover you have. I should do more videos on threading so thanks for the reminder. In the meantime, you can get PDF versions of the user manuals for these and most Singer manuals are free so no need to pay for one. That manual should have full threading instructions along with other very useful info that you will also want to have.

[@MrClassiccarenthusia]

@@VintageSewingMachineGarage Thanks, a manual and or schematic would be something very useful to have, I shall have a look on the tinterwebs. In the meantime, I have ordered a set of 2020 needles, and did in fact watch a video on how to thread it. Everything seems to be working, except the needle. 🙄 Which is slightly bent. Not going to go any further until I have new needles and have oiled it. It's silent in operation though, I thought your camera mic might have been a bit low, but nope, really is that quiet. If it's of any interest, mine is also a UK/EU variant. Serial number EF774663.

[@karenkavanagh9372]

I have this exact machine and lovely extended cabinet with mounted foot peddle it was My Aunt Edith's . I also have My Nannie's mother's treadle, my Nannie's sister,;Aunt Mable"s but parts missing on the bobbin casing ( kids taking it apart from underneath while they laid on the floor thinking they were automobile mechanics and took off parts.. now lost.. and I lost the knee peddle , so She'll never sing for me. I have 2 child''s toy machines. Again some kids took of the bottom part of one of the machines. Kids like taking off parts.. sad All Singers.

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

Yes, I know what you mean. My brother "Disassembled" my Mom's machine when he was a kid wanting to learn about things mechanical. It never got put back together and the machine is long gone sadly. It becomes quite apparent why sewing machine tables and even sewing machine carry cases had locks with keys. It was primarily not meant to deter adult thieves but rather to deter curious children!!

[@esther8897]

I just bought a nice mocca brown Singer 201K from 1955. I have serviced it, but can not find anywhere if you should oil the motor as well, and if so, how do you do it?

[@rsplatt100]

Where did you obtain the throat plate with markings on it?

[@ricknshez6860]

G'day! We need to sew some clear plastic panels with zippers and canvas sail bag on our yacht and we've seen one of these for sale in our area. Do you think it would be suitable for those jobs? Thanks!

[@carolacklandca]

Hi I have just purchased a 201 k its like new with all the original receipts etc :) I have bought it to do free motion embroidery but I can only get it to stitch normally. I have put the feed-dogs down but just doesn't do you have any suggestions for me please.

[@jerryparker1241]

I have one of these machines in an Art Deco cabinet. Love love love this machine. I am using it for quilt piecing. Only one problem, it is missing the stitch length screw and the screw for the tension knob . Could you give me the names of sources for these?

[@roseroserose588]

If you've not found a replacement yet, check out "Fred Sanford's Sewing Machine Parts" on eBay. He has a youtube channel as well, and hundreds of machines for parts!

[@maryprovost3292]

Is the 201 marked anywhere on the body that would help identify it.

[@kjlouisi4630]

i have this one, bought it for $20, table and all, at a Peddler's Mall.

[@karonwood8560]

That's because they didn't have a clue what the value is for a 201k3. 😉

[@kjlouisi4630]

@@karonwood8560 yup, i couldn't believe it and it is the exact dream as he says it is. Lucky find.

[@chiamsp1957]

Hi, i inherited a Singer 201K from my mil, I have no problem sewing straight stitches, perfect stitches but when I do the reverse the upper thread becomes loose(upper tension is loose), how do I rectify this? Thanks

[@JenInOz]

My sister in law sold her house and brought over a 201K for me last week. The table it had been in was "long gone" as it had been in the kitchen with her feral kids. There is no power cord or foot pedal, no bobbin case or bobbin cover or needle. In trying to decide if it's worth repairing or not.

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

Hello Jen. For some machines, those missing parts would involve some research. But because it is a Singer that was in production for DECADES, all of these parts are availble online either vintage (such as the bobbin case), or new reproductions such as the power cord. You can order a new cord with generic electronic foot pedal already wired for less than $30. Some items like plates are made as reproductions or often available as vintage salvage parts at sites such as bonanza.com or ebay. Whether something is worth overhauling is always subjective and up to the owner, but given how amazing the 201's are, I totally think its worth it. If you prefer to find an example with fewer issues, you can always look for another one and offer this one for sale to folks like myself or DIY folks who want to overhaul a vintage machine. Whatever you decide, that 201 has value so be sure to repurpose it if you don't keep it for yourself. I know I sure would!!

[@deannesherriff3247]

Could you tell me what the knob at the side of the stitch length lever is for. Thanks.

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

Sure, that knob is used when the sewer needs to lock in a particular stitch length. It can be helpful especially when sewing heavy material since that will sometimes cause the length lever to move. (seldom but it can happen). For exact method to adjust this, check your user manual. If you don't have the manual, you can download PDF's for free online. I often need to loosen this screw and reoil it since it commonly did not get much use even when new.

[@toddsmith1223]

You actually can treadle a 201-2. You need the spoked wheel. Getting the bobbin winder to work is the challenge though.

[@danell74]

I think this is what I have! Can't find info on it anywhere. Serial number S721760

[@ChrisLee-UK]

Would something like this sew leather, around 6mm thickness? Lovely machine none the less :D

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

It really depends on the type of leather and how it was tanned; not just the thickness. Some leathers are very dense and hard as a board, where others are softer and flexible so that they wiggle in your hand. That really matters with leather sewing. While the 201 can certainly sew garment weight/light leathers, I would personally prefer a Class 15 machine for that. Others however, can and do sew leather with these so your own experience may differ, but in mine, I prefer vertical class 15 bobbin machines for leather sewing.

[@ChrisLee-UK]

Vintage Sewing Machine Garage thank you so much, some of my leathers are pretty tough so yes maybe something slightly beefier would be better. Thanks again, great advise 👊🏼😎

[@viviennebolton4358]

Loved the video but difficult to see the close up of the stitches as the camera couldn't focus whilst your hand moved back and forth - it might be best to keep your hand still then the camera will focus for you.

[@tawanahedmondson9268]

I’m interested in making hand bags with heavier materials like vinyl, canvas or leather and needing to sew several layers. Is the 201 the best vintage singer for that? I think what I want is a 201 with a potted motor. Please advise if I’m incorrect in that assumption. Secondly, how do I find your restored vintage Singers for sale? Thanks so much!

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

Hi Tawanah. You are on the right track in searching out a Singer with the potted motor. While the 201 with this motor (not the 201K you see in THIS video) is a very strong machine, the best candidate for what you are describing is the Singer 15-91 which is a Class 15 machine with the same Potted motor. Its bobbin and shuttle/hook are vertical as opposed to the 201's horizontal top-loading bobbin. Vertical bobbins are less upset as you move up in fabric weight. FYI, all home grade machines, even the 15-91, have limits in what they can sew. But if a Singer 15-91 cannot sew what you are working on, it would be time to look at a light industrial machine.

[@ramonaspackman4384]

I have a 201 potted motor but have trouble braking needles. If you lift up underneath their is the bobbin case and on the outside two metal parts that expand out after a few stitches are made and my needle hits it and breaks how do I fix this ?

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

Hello Ramona. It is possible that your bobbin case ring has come loose based on your description. Also, be sure to have your needle installed with the flat side facing to the left. All 201 models thread from the right towards the left which is different from most machines. But if you have the needle inserted all the way up (be sure it doesnt slip down when you are putting in a new needle) and you have threaded it in the correct direction, then it may be some part has come loose in the bobbin case area. They do not typically behave this way unless they have been taken off intentionally.

[@TheLightbright01]

Also when you repair this check if any crevices on bobbin case. Mine kept doing this and the needle had cut groove in case.

[@klipsie1]

What is the piece of black metal in the cabinet to the right of the machine? Is there a name for that? My cabinet is missing that piece and there is just a hole between the right side of the machine and the wood.

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

That piece is a filler plate that Singer used when they added a new machine bed dimension. When the Singer 300, 400, and 500 series were launched, the bed length got wider. Singer wanted to standardize dimensions for their vast selection of sewing tables, but they also knew there were millions (literally) of customers who had machines with the older dimension length who might need/want a table and so this 'filler piece', allowed for older machine designs with the less wide beds to fit into the new tables without that gap/hole that you may have in yours. That filler also was attached to a spring so that when the machine was tilted down for storage, the filler piece followed in tandem so the lid could be closed.

[@JamesSmith-lz1xu]

have just purchased a singer 201k fron a sewing shop in my town for £50 ,,, my wife took to it like a duck to water.. her mother was a seemstress by trade , who made her living by making alterations and making dresses and even tailored suits with a machine ,,made in spain an ; alpha .. without all the abilities of the singer 201k .at the price tag of £50 i thought it a bit on the steep side ... but my wife says it was a steal at the price .. enyoyed your video ,, any chanche of a light for the machine?

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

Hello James and thank you for sharing. As for a light, yes, lights came with the machine and if yours is missing, you can get used ones if they are in good condition. Also, you can still purchase light bulbs for these even all these years later.

[@davereinders5932]

Question about 201 stitches. My stitches are not completely straight. They are slightly off center. Is that normal or is something off? Do they feed dogs create that affect? Thank you.

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

There could be a number of causes, but the first thing that comes to mind is your presser bar tension. Adjust it so that your fabric can feed, but still have enough pressure from the presser foot to hold the fabric steady. If the fabric is not held down enough, it can wiggle, which MIGHT explain what you are seeing.

[@davereinders5932]

@@VintageSewingMachineGarage Thank you. I will try that. Never would have thought of that. Love your videos. Learn a lot.

[@sharonmiller1140]

201 is my favourite machine, i have got 9 different variants of this model. All of mine are UK machines as the US machines were never sent to Australia. I have 201K1, 201K3, 201K23 and 201P models. The "P" models were parts that were sent from the UK to Australia to be assembled into an Australian head, they were aluminium heads. Here is a link that shows all the different variants both Australian and US. www.singersewinginfo.co.uk/201/

[@danell74]

I have a treadle singer, its badge is missing, and its serial number is S721760. I cannot find info on it anywhere! It has the same decal pattern as the one shown in this video, but its tension dial is on the back of the machine facing out to the left, and its bobbin winder is a monstrous mystery below the handwheel. Its not on the page ll ink you left either 😔 i would love it if someone could point me in the right direction 🙏🙏🙏

[@sharonmiller1140]

@@danell74, it sounds like your machine is a Singer model 15 - www.singersewinginfo.co.uk/15

[@hsing-jungwu6026]

What kind of motor to use to be quiet like your video? I put a new 180w motor on my belted 201, but the motor is loud and all I hear is the motor.

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

There could be many reasons why the motor is 'loud'. 1. It may simply be the normal sound it makes (new motors are made to meet a low price). 2. It could be that there is something wrong with the motor 3. If a motor belt is too tight, it can strain the bearings/bushings which can cause odd sounds. 4. There can be other issues that are difficult to know without seeing/hearing the motor in person.

[@hsing-jungwu6026]

Vintage Sewing Machine Garage hi, thank u for your response. I think mine is senario 1. Do u recommend any good quality and quiet motor?

[@gigivh9178]

I got this machine about a year ago when you showed this video i fell in love with it .What sewing needles would this machine use? and what bobbing should i get for it? I still don't know how to make tension work for me.

[@Chowah]

get 15x1 Organ Neees and class 66 Bobbins. oil ONLY w Sewing Machine oil (never ever grease it)

[@christdriven8790]

So the American version of the 201 can not be converted back to manual using the belt ? Thx

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

It cannot and it is due to the Hand wheel design. Have others tried to convert it? Possibly, but I would highly suggest keeping it as beltless and searching for one of the 201K models that were designed for belts.

[@christdriven8790]

@@VintageSewingMachineGarage Thank you much for your reply. I live in an Amish community & thez ladies luv the 201's. I travel the country & while I travel, I search for antiques. I'll be searching for the 201k's. Thx again 😊

[@cmk5791]

Hi I enjoyed the 201K video two weeks ago I picked up 2 201Ks one is a centennial model

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

Congrats on those. They are incredible machines. Once given their maintenance, they can be great sewers.

[@virgi8]

hello , could give me size of bobine in the case? i bought such machine but inferior bobine is missing thanks you

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

These take Class 66 bobbins or what some folks refer to as a "Drop in" style of bobbin. They make new versions but many vintage machines do not play well with them. Vintage versions are easy to find (millions were made) and they are not costly. Ebay, Etsy, Bonanza, FM marketplace should provide lots of options for you.

[@kjlouisi4630]

i would like to know where you list your machines please.

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

I list them either on Craigslist or Kijji. I don't ship them or sell on Ebay etc. due to the exhorbitant costs for shipping and the high chance of damage.

[@kjlouisi4630]

@@VintageSewingMachineGarage you wouldn't by chance be located in KY would you?! hahaha!!!

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

Hi KJ. No, I am not but I'm sure that it's a wonderful place. I believe the closest to KY I have ever been is to Cincinnati in southern OH just north of Louisville.

[@artsymark655]

@@VintageSewingMachineGarage Where are you located?

[@alexaelliott2598]

Is the 201 the same as the 201k?

[@jimkatravas2308]

You should use red thread not white on white

[@ameliaschafer-rutherford9787]

I just bought this one and am so excited!! It has the treadle too. I live in the UK, so I guess it is cheating a bit.

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

What a great find Amelia. The great thing about the 201K's is that you have the option for either a motor/belt or treadling. Either way, they are extraordinary machines!

[@moiraberniegatt9491]

@@VintageSewingMachineGarage absolutely love your videos. I would have loved that model. I just got a 611 yesterday. Looks almost new despite being 1965 model. I turned it on and it ran right off. It's in a cabinet. They spent £125 on this. It isnt solid teak but is teak veneer. It has a flap the size of the cabinet draws. I dont know if I need to take it to be checked over or, if it sees, then it sews. I will oil it and grease it. Not sure what grease to use on the gears. Not certain if they are steel or nylon gears. Will find out later. It has a slant back needle and gears. Not sure if that is good or not. Keep up the good work. I'm in the UK btw

[@helenharris1918]

Hi how are you? I have a machine just like yours and I locve it.

[@5kristy71]

I have just bought 201k 1953 It is electric but it’s not working. How would I know what the problem be. How would I make it into a treadle? Mine is EJ100624.

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

Your 201k 'should' fit into a Singer Treadle table fairly simply. As for what your machine's current issue is, it is tough to say without inspecting it as it could be many things.

[@5kristy71]

@@VintageSewingMachineGarage I have found a motor for it now thanks again.

[@ThePattyGates]

I know a lot of the same machines have different names. I have a Kenmore117.234 .....Been lookin everywhere for info and no luck. Help me Sweetie!

[@siamese35]

When you say class 15 do you mean like a singer model 15-91

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

Yes, or any of the 15 machine models.

[@martylittle5540]

It doesn't have the tack sound

[@janiceboan5823]

Do you have any 201 for sale

[@VintageSewingMachineGarage]

I have a 201 direct drive version that is waiting for me to get to. If you are local to us in Southern Ontario, you would be welcome to see it.

[@janiceboan5823]

I would so enjoy owning a machine that you have serviced. You sound so trustworthy. I live in Florida and now own my fathers home in Youngstown Ohio. Of course that is still a bit far from you. Is shipping possible? I’m looking for the I believe 201-2 singer. It does not have to be in a cabinet, as space is an issue but I would love one in a case. A couple of years ago I became acquainted with the singer featherweight machine and am now a proud owner. I have also connected with Carman from The featherweight shop from Idaho. Are you familiar with him? It is online and they offer many videos dealing exclusively with featherweights. I love learning about the older singer machines. When I was a little girl I sewed on my mothers singer that had been converted to electric. I believe it dated back to the 1800s. My sister inherited it as she was the oldest. It is a shuttle bobbin. My sister says she still will use it to mend something (but rarely). I am 64 years old and have sewn all my life, I have only recently begun to do some quilting , which a beautiful stitch is sought after by quilters. Wish I could meet someone like you with such a heart for these lovely machines. Thank you for being a “tinkerer”a rare breed these days😊 If I were to see your listings on eBay would I know your machines by your KZbin name?

[@Thestripper1]

Please learn to focus your camera.