A new direction...

Well, the thing is, my focus is on vintage machines of a certain look, one that evokes the forward-looking design sensibilities of a new era: the Fifties, with its tail fins and metallic colors!

So this new acquisition represents something of a change in direction for me, albeit a temporary one: a step back in time to that venerable design sense that gave us so many of Singer's classic sewing machines.

What am I talking about? A beautiful example of Singer's model 221, the Featherweight! (there it is, up at the top).

While not on my list of favorites, this one called out to me for its condition alone. It really is stunning. A collection of sewing machines can certainly make room for something as gorgeous as this!

This is from 1956. It has the "striated" faceplate more reminiscent of the Art Deco period than the Victorian as evinced by Singer's earlier models. This more masculine look is something I can appreciate. It is quite light for a sewing machine, and has proved itself a favorite with quilters for its portability (think quilting classes and quilting bees).

I may not introduce this little gem to the general-use category of those other machines that Mary uses for her crafting events. This, I think, is worthy of more limited use, perhaps for Mary alone. But, to be sure, it will make an appearance at future events, if just as a highlight to my collection.

To the Moon, Alice!

So, looks like this is the first post for July 2011. What better way to start off than with this tribute to the end of NASA's Space Shuttle Program. I say "Keep 'em Flying!"

It's true, if you've seen one, you've seen 'em all. Well, maybe not. Here's another lonely orphan from the Slant-O-Matic Rescue Mission: I had just purchased a 500A for my sister, but, as was related in an earlier post, I opted to withhold that in favor of a 401A that was is beautiful condition. That Rocketeer just wasn't up to snuff; needing as did that faceplate.

Well, this one came up on CL, and it too had issues, but the one helped the other out and this is the result (see pic of the new 500A up there at the top).

I learned a few things with this refurbishing: how to better adjust the play in the cam stack selection mechanism, for one.

This one is now ready to join its stable mates in Mary's retinue of crafting-event sewing machines.

A Wonderful Day of Sea, Sky and Crafting!

What a great weekend for gathering at the coast. A weekend of good people, good food and good times! Mary's third crafting event (Space Craft Center Splashes Down in Half Moon Bay!) was a great success. It can be said there was a buzz in the air, as friends, old and new, gathered for two days of celebrating the hand-made arts.

A word about the venue: The Johnston Ranch is an historical property just outside the little, coastal town of Half Moon Bay on the Central Coast of California. While just minutes from the hustle of the City, this quaint "Village by the Sea" boasts beautiful scenery and wonderful things to do.

The Historic Old Coastal Railroad Station, located on the Johnston Ranch, was the setting for this event, and as an ode to handcrafting, what better than the birds singing in the adjacent fields, and the pleasant breeze off the bay.

And, of course, my collection of vintage sewing machines made their appearance. All were plugged in and ready to sew. A new acquisition was on the bench: a Singer 500A was getting "the treatment"; a minor overhaul that promises it many more years of enjoyment for its next lucky owner.

You'll note too, a few machines are gone from my gallery. A Singer 403A (a true classic in fantastic condition) found its way home with my sister; and its "little sister", a Singer 404 will be flying back to Dallas with my niece, whose first foray into the world of sewing netted a new apron in the Millennial Tarten. And the Morse 4300 has a new owner, as Catherine B. drew the winning ticket in the event's raffle.

All in all: the perfect day!