Holiday Happenings

Well, the holidays are upon us, and now it's time to take advantage of the gift-giving season and try lightening the load in the sewing machine department. It's always a challenge figuring out which machines to keep and which need to find new homes.

I've set up a nice little display of about sixteen machines. While not exhaustive of my collection, it is representative, though only about nine are for sale (with the others riding along in enthusiastic support). All in all, a nice little display that anyone interested in these vintage classics would enjoy.

It's easy enough to put on the block those machines that are duplicates of others that I'll keep. And then there are those that don't really fit the parameters (as I see them) of my collection.

But it all comes down to available storage space, and more practical reasons for maintaining a collection of sewing machines at all. Mary has her favorites, and her crafting events are best serviced by machines that are sturdy, dependable and able to hold up to some abuse. Throw in a few unusual machines for good measure (and visual interest) and Space Craft Center is good to go.

So those Singers of which I may have two or three each can go. These include a 500A, a 401A and a 404 (well I only have the one 404, but its condition is near perfect, and it's one whose sale might go a long way toward replenishing the kitty). And the 128 can go; it doesn't fit the profile of my collection, no matter how nicely it sews.

The Vigorelli should go; it isn't going to be used, and it isn't a well-know make, and it really belongs in a collection belonging to someone who knows these great machines.

The Necchi Nora. Now this is a tough one. Necchis are beautiful machines; so solid. But this one is pink which, in my view, adds a certain premium to its value. So of the three Necchis I have, this is one that might bring in a few bucks while at the same time delight a new owner.

That leaves two of the nicest machines I have, and these would be the toughest to lose, even at the premium prices I'll be asking. I haven't put a price on them, as I'm still somewhat ambivalent about selling these. How would I ever replace them? They are the Pfaff 130 and the Elna Supermatic.

Now the Pfaff, it must be said, is a monster! I find it bordering on the tragically hilarious that this is considered a portable machine; it weighs a ton! But it does come in an interesting base that is set up for table-top usage. And with that base attached, the whole is meant to fit into a leather case that hardly seems capable of holding so great a weight at all! One must wonder...

And then, if last, it's because it's the best (of course): the Elna Supermatic. This beauty looks to have just come off the showroom floor; it's that clean! I really think this will be staying in the collection. I can't see it ever being replaced. But where to put it? It isn't a portable machine, though it is meant to be. This one is without its carrying case, instead being housed in a beautiful, period cabinet which is, itself, in wonderful condition. Mary hasn't tried this one yet. When she does, she's sure to take note of its remarkable, watch-like characteristics.

But this sale isn't all about those machines that will (hopefully) be finding new homes. This is just as much about sharing the collection in its entirety; both those on the block and those accompanying them as adjuncts to the show.

And it is a show! A rare collection of classic sewing machines from an era of uncompromised quality and dedication to the domestic arts.

Happy Holidays!