Introducing Barra, Sewing Machine Forum Moderator

[Kate]

<SNIP>

There comes a time in every machines life where a new lease on life can be achieved by connecting a heavy chain tightly to the arm and secure the other end of the chain to a strong point. This chain will protect you investment as you launch it over the side of the boat on a relaxing weekend fishing expedition.

Barra.

HEAR! HEAR!

that adequately describes the general condition of the Davis Vertical Feed industrial (leather) machine I had for a while. The only one of its kind I have ever seen anyplace, the poor wee thing (all 80 pounds of her) was literally hung together underneath with hardware store nuts and washers. The only needle was a something-else round shank that had a flat inaccurately ground on one side, and even the self described industrial expert on the Needlebar site could not tell me what needles to look for! The bobbin was home made from a box nail and a brass washer brazed on the other end..... the shuttle had a monster chip from the pointed end that I had to stone the bejaysus out of to get her to pick up the thread.

I had it a year, finally found needles that would sew in it (for Singer button sewing machine) and promptly found her a new home with another fanatic - er, old sewing machine person.

Now HE has a nice boat anchor and I have more room in the shop!

Warm welcomes, and hope you have a fun ride here!

Kate