1939 Scrollface Intake
Meet my latest project. She’s a Singer Featherweight 221 and was one of a batch of 20,000 sewing machines commissioned July 11, 1939.
Featherweights of this era have a few special characteristics that I really love. They have plating on their flywheels and a distinctive Egyptian scroll faceplate. They also have fully plated stitch length setting indicators.
This sewing machine came with the classic tray top case. It also held some original oil that was leaking-thank goodness for the plastic baggie the seller put it in! As well as some old, grease, a few attachments, and miscellaneous sewing items.
When I first take in one of these sewing machines, I like to do a visual inspection of the machine, it’s case, and foot pedal to get a general idea of what it comes with and the condition that it came in.
I turn the flywheel towards me to check and make sure that everything is moving and nothing feels frozen. I use the stop motion to make sure it is working as it should. Then I inspect the paint with a black light to check the condition of the shellac.
Once I’ve taken a good look at the cord to check for any damage, I go ahead and plug it in and test the light and the motor.
As you can see, this machines foot controller was re-wired with a lamp cord at some point. It does work, but we’ll be fixing that!
Take a peak through the gallery below to see her starting condition. I’ll be posting progress updates as well as the big final reveal once she’s done and ready for a new home.
