Singer 99 "The Little Beast" of a sewing machine!!
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- Опубліковано 16 сер 2016
- This model was in production for generations and by the time this version was introduced, back tacking was now standard as a feature. One of Singer's most powerful models, it has the same drivetrain components as the Singer 66 and is essentially the same machine except that its simply not as wide!. Marketed as a "Portable" version of the Singer 66, this model was most often sold in carrying cases. Here in this video, I'm showing one of the 99 models that I actually discovered in a table setup which is less common for this model. The original owner would have payed extra for the table since sewing tables normally did not come standard with a machine, but were rather sold as upgrade options that customers could elect to buy. This model would eventually be updated with the equally powerful (and mostly the same mechanically) Singer 185J
which can be seen here • AS STRONG AS THEY COME... - Навчання та стиль
I just have to throw it out there in case anyone is on the fence about buying a 99 or a 99k. My advice to you is DO NOT HESITATE. My girl...I call her Dolly...was born in 1949 and has sewn though anything I've thrown at her. She's solid, she's gorgeous and she sews like a chainsaw
Dayna Goodchild,, thanks for the great review of the 99,,, and i love that your Dolly is gorgeous and solid,,,,and sews like a chainsaw,,,, thanks for making me laugh as well. My birthday is coming up and I think I’m going to buy my self one. Happy sewing.
“…sews like a chainsaw.”
😅😅😅
Thank you for this brilliant comparison. And just so you know, I’m going to be looking for an opportunity to use it myself. 😊
Just got my grandmothers 99k made in Britain. Needs tlc and minor restoration. What a gem it is. She laughed a little when i recognized it and told her i would take it. She warned me its heavy but is excellent machine that does anything you ask it to do.
@@semperfi-1918 If you need any help, don't hesitate. Kerosene to clean the old oil, nothing with lint, those disposable mascara wands called spoolies work a treat and oil and blue shop cloths only. Change your needle often and best of luck with the bakelite blisters xo
@@judyditmer2589 I'm absolutely okay with that 😉
I bought my 99K about 45 years ago; I think I paid about $15, and I talked the store owner into selling me a cabinet for it for another $8. He had to take out the machine that was in the table. My grandfather made it fit and also refinished it.
Your video has inspired me to use it again.
Sweet machine and I love how quick and easy this old singer feet and feed dogs turn on a dime. Good review thanks and yes it is quiet and please don't apologize for a long video your comments are great and important.
Just yesterday I bought a 99. From 1925
Knee bar, fully serviced. And I am in LOVE with it already!
I bought it from a vary vintage sewing machine repair man that I fell in love with also!
He chased me out the door with his walker so he could get back to work,,,,
I could have stayed ALL DAY!
Great to hear!
I found a 1953 99k for $80 on kijiji a few years ago, in absolutely perfect condition, save for a missing bobbin slide plate (which I found a spare part for). This machine is a fabulous, straight stitch machine. Infinitely better than my 1990s Kenmore (the only other machine I have ever used). The singer is quieter, feeds the fabric more smoothly, never tangles or has issues with tension, and is more powerful. Honestly, can't say enough good things about it (I likely lucked out in that she was kept in good condition mind you). Thanks for the video - really appreciate it, and all of your videos!
I just bought a handcrank 99k. So excited to get it! It was not inexpensive but I am just happy to get it!
I just scored one of these little beasts at an estate sale for $20 bucks! It works great! Mine is a singer 99K made in 1956. Thanks for your video! 👍🏾
That sounds like an incredible bargain!
Nice i just inherited my grandmothers 54 singer 99k. She told me how she did her whole house doing the curtains coutch covers and all. What a little beast. Needs tlc and has been put away for a few years. Heavy but has its case. Just need to have a gone through and cleaning.
I have a 1956 too as well as a 1917 hand crank. Lovely machines.
Thank you! I just got a 99 made in 1928! It’s beautiful! So I ordered the vintage button home accessory you recommended! So exciting to have good information! I know I’m going to love my bottle “beast”!
Glad I could help!
I found a Spartan! With a light and the standard .8 Amp motor!!
Just inherited my grandmothers 99k from britian made she got for graduation. Needs TLC and gone through but stilk very beautiful. Has origional case. Glad the sellers missed this gem.
I just got my 99K out today and tried it out because you got me inspired to use it again. Sweet machine! If I need it worked on, I'm sending it to you. Thanks for all you do for us.
Great to hear!
I have one of these in a box. My mom had it serviced and gave it to me. I haven't even opened it up, but I will tonight when I get home!!!
They are great little workhorses. I restored and gave one to a close friend of mine as a housewarming gift.
@@VintageSewingMachineGarage I am looking at it right now,. it's so cute. I can't wait to try it out. I notice it has screw holes for attachments to the right of the needle. I wonder how it would work doing binding. I intend to find out.
K is for kilbowie, Clydebank, Scotland. At the time it was the largest factory in the world.
It sure was. Magnificent building that unfortunately was a bombing target during WWII. Most of it was reopened after the war, but later torn down sadly.
Thanks for such a great demonstration,,,i just got one, a 1955,,,99k,,,named her Elsie, after my grandmother,,,who was born in Scotland. She’s a beauty,,and sews beautifully. I am having fun with this machine and yes she’s a little work horse. Yes the stitching on this machine compares to nothing else. It’s just a nice tight straight stitch. Great for layers that fabric art quilters,,,need to sew through several layers.
How interesting that your grandmother was Scottish. The 99K model has the K as it signifies the factory where that machine was produced which was in Clydebank, Kilbowie Scotland.
@@VintageSewingMachineGarage Yes I have been researching the history of the Singer company,,and have watched a documentary about the Kilbowie factory. I find it very interesting for several reasons. The documentary really explains how they made them, and it amazes me to see how hard people use to work during that time. Also that my grandmother came from Scotland,, and my Mom was a professional self taught seamstress. Her specialty was drapes and slipcovers. She was very well known in southern RI. Actually this video of you explaining this machine really sold me on getting one. I got lucky with the machine I bought as it’s in really great shape.Thanks again.
Just got a 27- 99 in Brentwood with kneebar n twin cap wires . Coolest thing. Cleaning it up n replacing motor n light wires to sell.
the 3/4 machines were quite good. I use a 128 and Mom runs a 99 from the 20's for repairs and quick tasks. Both of ours are in carry cases though.
We just scored a 99K at an estate sale for $70. Blond wood cabinet. 1958 model.
Now, we start the restoration process. May refinish the cabinet to more like yours!!
Congrats on your find Gayle. That is actually the same model I chose to restore as a housewarming gift for a close friend.
Great machine I got a portable one at thrift store for $35. Well almost like Singer Featherweight. Perfect for me I'm 5'7. I own two 221 and one 222K. Thank you for sharing. Buttonholes my favorite attachment.
Very nice!
i got lucky & have the same table:) I'm old like the machine so its fun to sew on it.
I believe my machine is a 1948 99k. My mother recieved it from a family friend and I'm trying to learn how to use it. I've got a lot of repairs to do that have built up over the years, so far it's a fun little machine!
Those are great little workhorses! I restored one and gave it to one of my best friends as a surprise housewarming gift. FYI, if you don't already have it, I would definitely get yourself a PDF copy of the User manual for the Singer 99. They are free normally and it can really help guide you in how to perform basic care.
Great video! ~ Really appreciate it! I just got 99k and this info was great !! :)
Fantastic!
Thank you from Scotland ..I just bought a 1957 model 99K ..hoping to sew vinyl
You can do it!
I'm currently restoring my Gma's 99 from 1934. Quick question, mine is missing everything that would attach the needle to the push bar, do you know what parts would be needed to complete it?
I have my grandmother’s 99 with the cabinet. The stool opens and has the buttonholer with booklet, a box of attachments with booklet and a box with a zigzag attachment. I don’t have the original manual so I’ll look for the pdf. Looking to learn how to use this machine.
What a great demonstration. I find your videos very helpful,,, i want one of these 99s,, wonder if you have any for sale? And where do you list them? Thank you.
I was wondering what motor that machine has. I have a Made in Canada 99, and it has a .53 amp motor, but I understand that some of the 99Ks had up to a .8 amp motor. I think I would be cautious about trying leather with the less powerful motor. What do you think?
My mother's machine was an electric and in a cabinet, I was sorry when she traded it for something else.
vintage what country are you in?, i need one serviced
I have a new-to-me 1954 99 just like that one in a lovely table. I’ve fallen quite hard for her. She’s adorable and powerful and quiet. She makes the nicest stitches, even in multiple layers of heavy duty fabric I’m using to make bicycle bags. I think I’ve found my main machine.
Very nice!
Hi I have a 99K how do I find someone to service it?
where do you sell these machines. I have tried to locate you with no success.
The k machines were all made in Killbowie , Clydebank in Scotland.
Yes, they were! That plant was the largest factor Singer ever built.
i have this sewing machine but the rubber piece on the hand wheel has deteriorated and i need a replacement. i’m wondering where i could get it or what the measurements are of the big rubber piece to wind the bobbin?
These are not hard to find Hannah. They are also low in cost. You can find them at sewing supply sites online. Ebay has many sellers and some will list compatible models. Check to see you have the correct size and it should not be tough to find. As with most any Singer model, replacement parts like these are plentiful.
Hello from California, can you please tell me the difference of Singer 99- and Singer 99K ? Thank you.
They are the same model. The difference is, the 99K was made in Kilbowie, Scotland. That’s where the K comes from. Good luck with your machine. I love mine.
Once again, Great work and love your videos! They mesmerize me! I just recently picked up a Singer class 15 sewing machine with serial no. AK954344 and ISMACS tells me there were 50K of these made so they are quite common.This is one is 9.8 out of 10 condition-wise but it is very dirty-it's not rusted at all but has a lot of old dust. What can you tell us about this machine? The bobbin case was missing and a sewing machine shop near me had the "left" finger bobbin case. Can you do a video of one of these? Also, how do you make them look so black again? Do you polish them with sewing machine oil. I am told this is what is used-seriously!
Hi Louis. You are correct. I use just sewing machine oil to buff the machine bodies because its both a good way to clean the machine without using any waxes that would seal in dirt and old oil. And yes, you can see the Singer 15 in action with my video on the Singer 15-91 here on my channel. You should be able to easily find a bobbin case for your machine and I always suggest a vintage bobbin case when available in good condition . Parts like this were, just like the machines, made with much higher quality than new parts are. Congrats on your 15 class!! Here is the link to my 15-91 video:
ua-cam.com/video/4A8NziN2K2Y/v-deo.html
There were 50K numbers allotted at that time, for that run of 15s. It doesn't mean there were only 50K produced ever.
Why does my thread keep breaking
Does this model have a zigzag foot? I’ve found an attachment for the model 66 but you mentioned the 66 is comparable to the 99.
There was no ZigZag foot made for machines such as this one that were dedicated straight stitch models. If you meant to ask about ZigZag attachments, Singer did sell them. I would do a search to see what specific attachment model numbers would work for a 99 or 66. FYI, I have not found such attachments to be very effective but some devotees love them. And they are not especially rare or costly as they were often upsell merchandise for Singer dealers to offer their customers.
Where can I get the feet / attachments like you showed in the video for my 1956 99K all that came with my machine is sewing foot?
Your machine uses what are called "Low Shank" feet and attachments. These are easy to find online as either vintage (not normally expensive) and also new versions are sold as well. You can find them online at such sites as Ebay, Etsy, Bonanza, or local classifieds. They are easy to find and should not cost much.
@@VintageSewingMachineGarage Thank you.
i have a 99 in cabinet , but mine has the screw type stitch length adjuster . it doesn't have that upright pin there by the serial number plate . what does the pin do ? btw i'm 6 ft and i can barely get my knees under the cabinet and still operate the pedal .
Hi Bill. I understand what you mean as I have the same issue fitting under most sewing tables. Wonder if there is some way to elevate the whole table while still keeping it stable? As for the stitch length adjustment, yes, yours has the thumb screw which is what all of the 99 and 66 models used when they were first created. Later, they went to a lever with some number indicators but the thumbscrew models work just fine. You eventually will "know" where your knob turns land in term of stitch length adjustment. As for that pin, that should be the spool pin that is used when you are winding a bobbin.
@@VintageSewingMachineGarage thanks . in other vids they just use the pin on top when winding a bobbin . yours probably has a different winding mechanism . there are risers for under bed legs , to raise them . might work .
Mine is still in its portable case
Thanks! I found one for $20 this week but needs some work. Where can I get replacement parts? Do you refurbish then?
We only restore machines for clients local to us in Ontario. As for parts, these machines and Singers in general are the best for finding parts because Singer made these for many decades and made lots of them. Vintage or new reproduction parts are available all over the internet. Ebay, Etsy, Bonanza, and FB Marketplace. You should have no trouble finding parts. FYI, if you need bobbins, vintage versions are easily found and are better for most vintage machines.
Nice video.
Thanks for the visit
@@VintageSewingMachineGarage 🙂👍
Hi there
Would you please let me have the pdf manual for it, just bought a model like this and I really need some instructions being a newbie :)
Hello Gabriella. Singer manuals are much easier to access than most brands. If you Google "Singer 99 user manual", you should find secure sites that offer it in PDF form and almost always for free.
I bought a 99k in a charity shop in Scotland ( I believe a factory was around here) and seems in good condition but haven’t used it yet
I have cleaned the surface with a water wipe and dried with paper
As a suggestion from another YT
I ordered oil today
Im in love with it already
It has an old world charm that no new machines have
Paid £30 btw
Hi I am a Singer nut. I have a treadle 15, two 201 k's both electric and one in treadle, two 99k an old electric and a newer knee operated and two more commercial machines fortailors machines plus a cobblers machine. What is the difference in strength between the 15k, the 99k and the 201k may I please ask?
All of your machines are great choices and all are strong, but vary in why folks love them. The 15K is the absolute strongest; in part due to its side loading bobbin. Next would be the 99K. Lastly, the 201 is certainly strong, but its best use is often for light to medium weight fabrics which show off its incredible Rotary style stitch. The 201 is certainly no sloutch and can run circles around most modern machines, but back in the day, owners often referred to the 15 as the "Farmers Machine" and the 201 was often known as "The Dressmaker's Machine"
My goodness that has such a nice sound. Much quieter than mine. I guess mine needs more maintenance.
Hi Laura. Many things can cause noise. It could be a motor belt that is too tight causing strain on the motor bearings. It could be bad motor bearings or also something as simple as a loose part/thumb screw or even a thread spool that rattles.
I’ve heard you thread 99 from left to right and then heard right to left. Can you please tell me the correct way? Thank you
Singer 99s and 185's thread from the left to the right. If you ever forget, I would refer to the user manual if you have one. If not, you can find the PDF's of the manual online almost always for free as most Singer manuals can be found without charge.
@@VintageSewingMachineGarage thank you. Whew I was doing it correctly.
How in the heck Do you get a needle in this thing?
Lynette Kleve
On my 99K the flat side of the needle goes to the left to insert. Thread the needle right to left. Bobbin goes in with thread coming off the top on the right side. It looks like what I call a backwards letter P. I've seen him explain this in one of his videos. Hope this helps.
K means Kilbowie in Clydebank Scotland
Where are you located? How do I find you on craigs list? I love your video.
I asked him that and found out he is in Canada, Ontario I think.
Is a 99k smaller than a 99?
Actually, its the same machine, but the "K" part of the model number refers to the fact that it was made in Singer's Kilbowie Scotland factory. Singer was one of the first of what we today thing of as "Global Corporations". They made machines in multiple factories and would distribute some of those models in N. America as well. This was true of many models, not just the 99. When shipped to the US, they would send over the main "head" of the machine (Body/chassis) and would then add the motors/electricals since the UK had and still has a different spec for its electrical system. So the sizes are the same. What you might have observed is that the 99 is a "3/4" version of the Singer 66.
I found a Singer 99 from Feb 1928. I do not own it, yet. It was in a store window. I could not see the asking price. It had a waterfall case in good condition. There was a knee bar coming out of the lower portion of the case. I have never seen that. The machine looked shiny and pretty, with some wear to the front decals. The sign said that it works. What should I expect to pay? We live in Wisconsin. A ball park price would be much appreciated. AC059589. Thanks so very much. I love your knowledgeable videos.
You know, how much anyone should expect to pay for a machine is not always concrete. I have some videos on how to go about purchasing a machine and things to look for when deciding on what and whether to purchase a machine. Generally, machines for sale in large urban areas CAN sometimes bring more money than those in remote areas. Condition and where the machine has been stored can tell you a LOT about the effort required to recondition it. Part of pricing is also based on demand. Virtually all of the machines I work on and find buyers for are not rare. Singer Featherweights, Singer 301's, and even Singer 201's will bring higher prices given that they have a following. Berninas bring some of the highest prices for those that are adamant about having one. But the truth is that there are a lot of great brands and models and so just because a Featherweight brings over $300 on avg. does not mean that its "better" than another machine. What makes a machine "best" for anyone is what they hope to make with it. I restored a machine for a friend of mine as a housewarming present. My friend was new to sewing and needed something compact, but able to sew a variety of fabric types. I chose a Singer 99 as the best model for their needs. I restore a variety of models because I find that each sewer has specific needs sometimes and machines vary in what they do best. Your question actually makes me think I should make a video on how much machines cost on average and how to approach the pricing of machines for sale. Thank you for commenting.
I meant to also add that the Knee Lever option for Singers in cases of that time was not particularly rare. Bernina was known for using those for their machines and even in table mounted machines. I have a Singer 15-91 with that setup than I hope to do a video on in the future.
I called the shop...asking $225. I probably do not need another vintage sewing machine to care for. I would buy it if it were a hand crank. Thank you for responding. I appreciate it.
You're welcome Paul. We all have our favorites and so much of what I would say on hearing that price is purely subjective. But $225 is quite high for a 99K. I have sold fully restored versions of that machine for $150-$175. I'm assuming the one you saw has not documented overhaul? It could be a lovely machine but I personally find that a bit much. But others may disagree. In any event, the 99K is a little beast-like tractor of a machine and it can be a great tool for sewing.
I think I have the exact same one except mine says made in the United Kingdom 99K, What year was this manufactured?
oops, Great Britain
@@tracyjoubert6324 great Britain is just as bad 😔 they were made in Scotland.
Only Machines with the letter K were made in Scotland
I have a 1949 singer . Can you tell me how I can find what model it is . I have the serial # . It only tells me the year it was made. EF 506572 . thank you.
Try checking your Singer serial # at ISMACS website. They have a full or mostly full list with both the year, production numbers, as well as the model type.
Is $160 a good price?
Great question and well, it depends on a number of factors:
What is its overall condition? Mechanically AND aesthetically
Where is the machine located? City machines bring higher prices on avg. than do those out in the country
Has the machine been serviced? If so and this is VERY important, what did the service entail? A full overhaul? Or a more simple tune just to get it moving
Are any parts missing?
Does the owner know much about sewing machines?
Did they personally sew with it or did they hear from someone who said, "it runs well"
Last but not least, how badly do you want this machine?
I paid 140 for mine
I have a 1956 99K I made a box to put her in, I paid $10.00 plus shipping in 2021
Sounds like you got yourself a bargain Nancy. Those are great quality machines!
She sews like a dream
Mines a 1931 n99