Which (used) machine for an Aussie noob?

[Fognozzle]

Yeah, that was my thought too. The Gumtree member himself seems ok, but he's selling it for a mate and it sounds like the mate doesn't care if it sells or not.

The 211-166 is on eBay here: https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/INDUSTRIAL-HEAVU-DUTY-SINGER-211-WALKING-FOOT-SEWING-MACHINE-JAPAN/264692174471

INDUSTRIAL  HEAVY DUTY WALKING FOOT STRAIGHT STITCH SEWING MACHINE

MODEL: SINGER 211-166 JAPAN

IN PERFECTLY WORKING ORDER

CAN TAKE UP TO SIZE 22 WITH THREAD SIZE 20 

BUILT IN WITH SELF WINDING BOBBIN

COMES WITH INSTRUCTION SHEETS, NEEDLES, BOBBINS AND SEWING TOOLS

 

Edited April 30, 2020 by Fognozzle

[Fognozzle]

Sorry Bert, I missed your earlier question. Not really sure how patient I am! I'm pretty keen to get started, and this Melbourne trip is a bit of an opportunity, but obviously I don't want to end up with a machine I can't use. If I can find a good turnkey option then I don't mind paying a little extra for the convenience, otherwise I'll probably end up researching the life out of it for a few more months.

[dikman]

That guy's an idiot then! And if the owner can't get his upgrade so wants to keep it what's the point of leaving it at his mate's? No, they're both idiots.

I still think that 211 is a bit dear BUT it's from a dealer so should have some sort of warranty and support. At least you can try it there just be warned that clutch motors are scary things to the uninitiated! Take some scraps of your canvas with you and see how much you can get under the feet. Tilt it back on the hinges and have a look at the timing belt, make sure it's not damaged. He also has a servo for sale on his website but while it's a good one it's pretty dear.

 

[Fognozzle]

Meh, that dealer expressly states NO warranty or returns. I think I'll give that one a miss, he's not open on the weekend anyway.

The hunt continues... 

[dikman]

Hmm, I didn't think he could do that under State and Federal law. But yes, look elsewhere in that case, I'd be a bit wary of him.

[Bert51]

He's dealer in Melbourne, I looked at a machine he had years ago and I ended up giving it a miss as he was so pricey for what he's selling.

Yes and he did not seem to to be some one I would buy from.

Bert.

[Handstitched]

I dunno, but I keep drifting towards the 132 K6 , a ' multi- purpose machine ', canvas, leather ....your fingers,  yeh nah , just kidding...I hope  

(Sure wish I had a barby  fired up right now, with snags,  and an esky full of beer     ) 

HS

[Bert51]

Can I join you HS, the weather cold and wet (thank God) over here, I'll bring the snags and slaw.

Your right about the 132K6, I like it, it sews nearly anything I can get under the feet, but I have a cylinder arm for the jobs that need it and they both use system 328 needles, so yes I do watch my fingers.

Bert.

[Fognozzle]

I'm in, although I'm leaning towards a nice wood fired pizza right now...

Agreed on the K6, it seems like the model to get. I actually called in to my local saddlery this afternoon, just in case he might have something for sale (he kinda does, he's retiring soon), and he showed me his K6. Filthy, well used, but he loved it. Reckoned he'd get $2500 for it though.

I've found a reconditioned one in Melbourne for $1500, it's obviously been resprayed at some point (silver) but it's from a dealer that claims to stand behind his products and offers a full 12 months warranty, help setting up etc. I'm planning to call him tomorrow and get a vibe, and see whether weekend pickup might be an option.

Then I just have to decide whether I really want to drop that kind of money,  although if the dealer is as genuine as he seems I probably won't lose too much if I decide to move it on later?

[dikman]

$2500???? To quote a well known Aussie, tell him he's dreaming!!

Got a link to the other one?