At one time this old lady gave me a sewing machine, it was her mothers and when I got home it sliped and broke the bake lite connector after searching for the connector I discover it was a Singer 201. So Excited that was my first sewing machine now I own 14 sewing machines my oldest one from 1847. I have a passion for Antiques and always think about the previous owner and thank the person who built the item I am enjoying. Thankx for your video. Keep on sharing the love for the old sewing machines.
I just bought a 201-2 made in January of 1938 with the original cabinet in "very good" condition for $40. Just wondering if I got a good deal. Yes, it works perfectly. I finished a lap sized quilt yesterday.
I would never buy a new sewing machine when these are still around. I bought one on Craigslist for $20. It just needed oil and new wiring. I have sewed a complete apartment of upholstered furniture on it. What a piece of Americana!!!
I just purchased a 201-3 which is the version with external motor. It's a wonderful machine without the complications of a potted motor. Advantages, I can exchange motors among my machines and actually use only one motor among the five Singers I own. Disadvantages, it's a little noisier and there's a drive belt. The 201-1 is probably smoother. I'll buy one just to have one but they are getting pricey.
Have you ever used a Kenmore 158-1802, 158-1941, or 158-1430? For zigzag I would put any of those Kenmores up against any zigzag machine. As for the 201-2, I currently have 2 of them which will be going up for sale, as well as my personal 201-2. NO other machine makes as good of a straight stitch. I dare say probably the very finest domestic sewing machine ever made by anyone.
I just got one of these machines and was wondering what open toe quilting foot would work on this machine. Or can it be any low shank foot. Thanks for your help.
Great video! I just purchased a Singer 201-2 that seems to have been with the original owner’s family. It works, but it is a bit dull. Do you have any suggestions for what material to use to clean it and to make it shiny like yours? Thank you very much!
Dan Davis, ya, the machine should be able to handle 13oz without issue. When I said "abuse" i was thinking more in lines of the eBay sellers that are recommending the 201 for vegetable tanned leather work and upholstery work.
My machine isn't changing spi easily. The thumbscrew has some rust on it. I oiled it but I'm not sure what I actually need to do to change the stitch length
I have my Nanas 201, 1955 from Elizabeth NJ. Can you define rewiring? Is there any internal wiring to fool with? Or just the power line into the motor?
which video will show me how to rewire the 201 machine, I want to rewire my machine, the light is on the back and it needs rewiring event the light, frayed wiring,
I’ve got 2 201-2 that are locked up. The sewing needle will not go all the way down. Can you do a video on fixing it. I think it’s a timing issue. I saw a video on a 201, (to fix a timing issue) but idk if I could fix my 201-2 the same way. Can someone please help me or lead me in the right direction. I can’t afford to take it to the shop again.
Yes they did, I got one from ebay some months ago, hope this helps? It's great for dressmaking/loose cushions type fabric, but due to it's bulk, probably won't be easy with the heavy fabrics the 201 can handle on it's own. They made button holers too, and rufflers and gatherers and piping gadgets. Once you start looking you'll find an enormous amount of Singer/Semanco accessories.
I have a 1957 201- singer sewing machine that has never been used. I'd like to turn it on but I'm afraid to start it up for fear of dry oils or whatever my be harmful to the motor. Is there something that I can do before starting up my machine?
I am having a terrible time stitching this heavier material with my model 201. It is leaving both the needle thread and the bobin thread 1 in apart but not really looping together. I have stitched lighter materials without trouble.
I am new to sewing and was looking at singer 66 . Does this 201 do canvas and webbing ,or cordura ? Thank You your opinion would be greatly appreciated as far as to what would best work . God Bless
Both are great machines. The 66 tends to run faster since it has an external motor. The direct drive motor doesn't run more than 600-900 stitches per minute, depending on the machine. I have a 66 that came from a treadle table, which has the large 9-spoke handwheel, that I converted to use an electric motor. The large handwheel acts like a flywheel and helps with the penetrating power on the 66. That said, I made a A LOT of projects with cordura, canvas and webbing (outdoor gear for backpacking and biketouring) on the 201 and was happy. I never ran anything greater than T70 through it though, and mainly used T40. If you're going to use a heavier thread frequently forego both the 66 and the 201 and get a 15-88, 15-90 or 15-91. The vertical oscillating hook on those machines work better with thicker thread. GoodlucK!
Hi would love to hear you opinion on the 201 vs 301. I am debating between these 2 machines. I would be using it to sew high end clothing. So stitch quality is important as well as control of speed, I don't like too fast. Any feed back is appreciated. Thanks. Also the 201 I found says on it "201-". How can I tell is its a 201 or 201-2? I t has the light switch like yours on lower right like yours.
Depends on what you need out of the machine. If you're going to build the machine into a table and don't need portability then I'd go with the 201. If you need portability or only occasionally will use the machine and store it when not in use then get the 301. The 301 is geared to run faster than the 201. I find I have better slow speed control with the 201 as well but it does have a lower top speed, so it's a trade off. Also, the bobbin access on the 201 is better and there is no bobbin case. Both are great machines and you'd likely be happy with either. If you found a "201-" it's likely a 201-2. Goodluck!
Thank you for sharing you excellent knowledge , your video was and is very informative . I was wondering if you have a step by step video b of how you rebirth the motor and how you rewired the machine . I just bought one at an estate sale and I need to understand what to look for in servicing my new baby ! Again thank you so very much, Michael .
The only maintenance required is oiling. Google "Singer 201 Instruction Manual" The first link will be a link to a manual hosted by Singer outlining the oiling points. Enjoy your machine!
thesergeant Hey man thanks a lot. I was looking all over the place on how to oil this machine but I found the link through the Google search just as you told me. I'm all set!
Most definitely. I find it to be a superior machine is pretty much every way. The only benefit in my mind to the 15-91 is that is uses a larger class 15 bobbin, but the capacity difference isn't really that dramatic. Some people will argue that the vertical hook on the 15-91 is better for for free motion embroidery and thicker thread since the bobbin thread doesn't have to make a 90 degree turn. Theoretically I guess this could be true but in practice I haven't seen a difference in stitch quality between the two machines for those applications. I've run thread as thick as T90 through both machines and they produced equally good stitches. The 90* turn on the 201 made no difference. I sold this machine within a day of posting it. The person who bought it immediately commented on how quiet it was, then inspected the stitch and just said "wow" --- "the stitch is so much better on this than my current (modern) machine". If you can find one, definitely go for a 201, you won't regret it.
Thank you for an excellent, informative answer and for pointing me in the right direction. I'm trying to learn to sew and need precise straight-stitch capability (shirts, shorts, etc.) for exposed seams, fine gradation between lengths, etc. Great videos. I'd be interested in your review of, say, a '70s Kenmore (and probably any other machine). Thanks again.
thesergeant Based upon your recommendation and video, I bought a 201-2 Centennial. Fantastic machine. I'm a novice but I can get an edge stitch pretty much right on the edge and with perfectly straight stitches, something I had trouble doing on a zig-zag. I also bought a 15-90 (because I'm weak and couldn't resist). So once again, thanks!
I do, I much prefer the hook mechanism on the 201. The weight difference isn't enough to warrant the decreased capacity of the 99 either. That said, the 99 is a nice machine as well.
At one time this old lady gave me a sewing machine, it was her mothers and when I got home it sliped and broke the bake lite connector after searching for the connector I discover it was a Singer 201. So Excited that was my first sewing machine now I own 14 sewing machines my oldest one from 1847. I have a passion for Antiques and always think about the previous owner and thank the person who built the item I am enjoying. Thankx for your video. Keep on sharing the love for the old sewing machines.
A video demonstrating how you rebuilt the potted motor would be very informative. Thanks!
I love to share in this excitement. I am a proud owner of a 201-2. Thank You.
Me too ....I am so excited ❤❤❤❤😁
I just bought a 201-2 made in January of 1938 with the original cabinet in "very good" condition for $40. Just wondering if I got a good deal. Yes, it works perfectly. I finished a lap sized quilt yesterday.
@@lisahelton3297 yes...I'm looking now 4 years later it's listed for $200.00. I'm going to take a look at it.
@@cedarparkwayfarm I got one for sale.
Very helpful video. I’m so anxious to get one of the gems!
I'm convinced now that this is what I want! Thanks for sharing this brilliant demo :-)
Did you ever get your machine? I'm looking at one tomorrow...so excited!
Love the video man! I just got a 201-2 and I’m playing with the tensions now ha
I would never buy a new sewing machine when these are still around. I bought one on Craigslist for $20. It just needed oil and new wiring. I have sewed a complete apartment of upholstered furniture on it. What a piece of Americana!!!
I just purchased a 201-3 which is the version with external motor. It's a wonderful machine without the complications of a potted motor. Advantages, I can exchange motors among my machines and actually use only one motor among the five Singers I own. Disadvantages, it's a little noisier and there's a drive belt. The 201-1 is probably smoother. I'll buy one just to have one but they are getting pricey.
Have you ever used a Kenmore 158-1802, 158-1941, or 158-1430? For zigzag I would put any of those Kenmores up against any zigzag machine. As for the 201-2, I currently have 2 of them which will be going up for sale, as well as my personal 201-2. NO other machine makes as good of a straight stitch. I dare say probably the very finest domestic sewing machine ever made by anyone.
Cómo puedo conseguir bobinas para mi máquina 201-2 ya que no la puedo usar por falta de bobinas
I just got one of these machines and was wondering what open toe quilting foot would work on this machine. Or can it be any low shank foot. Thanks for your help.
Great video! I just purchased a Singer 201-2 that seems to have been with the original owner’s family. It works, but it is a bit dull. Do you have any suggestions for what material to use to clean it and to make it shiny like yours? Thank you very much!
Dan Davis, ya, the machine should be able to handle 13oz without issue. When I said "abuse" i was thinking more in lines of the eBay sellers that are recommending the 201 for vegetable tanned leather work and upholstery work.
you said that it's a tough machine, but not to abuse it, do you think this would work well for denim? More specifically 13 oz. 100%cotton denim?
My machine isn't changing spi easily. The thumbscrew has some rust on it. I oiled it but I'm not sure what I actually need to do to change the stitch length
I have my Nanas 201, 1955 from Elizabeth NJ. Can you define rewiring? Is there any internal wiring to fool with? Or just the power line into the motor?
How does it compare to the 431G?
which video will show me how to rewire the 201 machine, I want to rewire my machine, the light is on the back and it needs rewiring event the light, frayed wiring,
Hi. I've been watching your videos and was wondering if you have any machines for sale.
Everything he said he did I am comfortable in telling you can do yourself.
I’ve got 2 201-2 that are locked up. The sewing needle will not go all the way down. Can you do a video on fixing it. I think it’s a timing issue. I saw a video on a 201, (to fix a timing issue) but idk if I could fix my 201-2 the same way. Can someone please help me or lead me in the right direction. I can’t afford to take it to the shop again.
Great video - do you know if Singer made a zigzag attachment that would fit a 1941 201-2?
Yes they did, I got one from ebay some months ago, hope this helps? It's great for dressmaking/loose cushions type fabric, but due to it's bulk, probably won't be easy with the heavy fabrics the 201 can handle on it's own. They made button holers too, and rufflers and gatherers and piping gadgets. Once you start looking you'll find an enormous amount of Singer/Semanco accessories.
I have a 1957 201- singer sewing machine that has never been used. I'd like to turn it on but I'm afraid to start it up for fear of dry oils or whatever my be harmful to the motor. Is there something that I can do before starting up my machine?
Mary O oil it well with sewing machine oil 🙂
Do you sell the 201 singer? If so how much?!
I am having a terrible time stitching this heavier material with my model 201. It is leaving both the needle thread and the bobin thread 1 in apart but not really looping together. I have stitched lighter materials without trouble.
Hi! What an amazing machine, I have a crank version of this machine (ED152587) What model is it?
I am new to sewing and was looking at singer 66 . Does this 201 do canvas and webbing ,or cordura ? Thank You your opinion would be greatly appreciated as far as to what would best work . God Bless
Both are great machines. The 66 tends to run faster since it has an external motor. The direct drive motor doesn't run more than 600-900 stitches per minute, depending on the machine. I have a 66 that came from a treadle table, which has the large 9-spoke handwheel, that I converted to use an electric motor. The large handwheel acts like a flywheel and helps with the penetrating power on the 66. That said, I made a A LOT of projects with cordura, canvas and webbing (outdoor gear for backpacking and biketouring) on the 201 and was happy. I never ran anything greater than T70 through it though, and mainly used T40. If you're going to use a heavier thread frequently forego both the 66 and the 201 and get a 15-88, 15-90 or 15-91. The vertical oscillating hook on those machines work better with thicker thread. GoodlucK!
Hi would love to hear you opinion on the 201 vs 301. I am debating between these 2 machines. I would be using it to sew high end clothing. So stitch quality is important as well as control of speed, I don't like too fast. Any feed back is appreciated. Thanks. Also the 201 I found says on it "201-". How can I tell is its a 201 or 201-2? I t has the light switch like yours on lower right like yours.
Depends on what you need out of the machine. If you're going to build the machine into a table and don't need portability then I'd go with the 201. If you need portability or only occasionally will use the machine and store it when not in use then get the 301. The 301 is geared to run faster than the 201. I find I have better slow speed control with the 201 as well but it does have a lower top speed, so it's a trade off. Also, the bobbin access on the 201 is better and there is no bobbin case. Both are great machines and you'd likely be happy with either. If you found a "201-" it's likely a 201-2. Goodluck!
Thank you for sharing you excellent knowledge , your video was and is very informative . I was wondering if you have a step by step video b of how you rebirth the motor and how you rewired the machine . I just bought one at an estate sale and I need to understand what to look for in servicing my new baby ! Again thank you so very much, Michael .
Your knowledge .. rebuild the motor
Do you have any videos on how to rebuild the motor?
Try vssmb.blogspot.com.He has a great written tutorial with pics.
I'm wondering if you can help me. I have a 201 that works except for the pressor foot thing is stuck.
Sue Keida put some oil on the long shaft inside. You can take out from the top and clean the shaft too.
Is this machine good for thick material and quality backstitching
I bought one of these machines from eBay that was completely refurbished.
Do you have in stock that you are selling?
Wow
i have one and it's amazing, silent and smooth. but it skips stitches sometimes, never happend with my heep necchi.
Are there any videos on how to oil this machine or just on general maintenance?
The only maintenance required is oiling. Google "Singer 201 Instruction Manual" The first link will be a link to a manual hosted by Singer outlining the oiling points. Enjoy your machine!
thesergeant Hey man thanks a lot. I was looking all over the place on how to oil this machine but I found the link through the Google search just as you told me. I'm all set!
Where can I get parts for this machine?
I’m in need of new cord to plug in to see if it works. I just bought one from a estate sale.
Hilda Hickman Check ebay you’ll be able to find most of what you need there 🙂
Do you have any for sale?
Do you recommend this over the 15-91 for general home sewing?
Most definitely. I find it to be a superior machine is pretty much every way. The only benefit in my mind to the 15-91 is that is uses a larger class 15 bobbin, but the capacity difference isn't really that dramatic.
Some people will argue that the vertical hook on the 15-91 is better for for free motion embroidery and thicker thread since the bobbin thread doesn't have to make a 90 degree turn. Theoretically I guess this could be true but in practice I haven't seen a difference in stitch quality between the two machines for those applications. I've run thread as thick as T90 through both machines and they produced equally good stitches. The 90* turn on the 201 made no difference.
I sold this machine within a day of posting it. The person who bought it immediately commented on how quiet it was, then inspected the stitch and just said "wow" --- "the stitch is so much better on this than my current (modern) machine".
If you can find one, definitely go for a 201, you won't regret it.
Thank you for an excellent, informative answer and for pointing me in the right direction. I'm trying to learn to sew and need precise straight-stitch capability (shirts, shorts, etc.) for exposed seams, fine gradation between lengths, etc. Great videos. I'd be interested in your review of, say, a '70s Kenmore (and probably any other machine). Thanks again.
thesergeant
Based upon your recommendation and video, I bought a 201-2 Centennial. Fantastic machine. I'm a novice but I can get an edge stitch pretty much right on the edge and with perfectly straight stitches, something I had trouble doing on a zig-zag. I also bought a 15-90 (because I'm weak and couldn't resist). So once again, thanks!
How about doing a video then on both of them to justiy purchase of both? :)
Can we send u machines for refurbishing?
Devo fazer pra borda na máquina senge
How did you get it in the table like that?
I made the table. Basically just a cutout with a lip and then I added hinges in the back.
do u think the 201 is better than the 99?
I do, I much prefer the hook mechanism on the 201. The weight difference isn't enough to warrant the decreased capacity of the 99 either. That said, the 99 is a nice machine as well.
I have a 1939 machine and cannot figure out how to sew in reverse
Do you know?
You don't want to actually sew in reverse. Just reverse it a stitch or two to lock the stitch.
Download the manual on line. It's free!
Can you tell me why my 201 skip a stitch sometimes
Usually, this is needle-related. Wrong type, damaged, blunt etc. www.singer.com/sewing-machine-needles (there's a troubleshooting list at the bottom).
My wheel not rotating
Anyone if you can do quilting on these?
Yes, they're excellent quilting machines both for piecing and for free motion work.
thesergeant wish I had one
Nc
لوزة ونوبة عسل مكنة سنجر العالمية
Would like to ask some questions about my singer. Can you give me an email address.
Would like to talk to you about restored sewing machines and any that you are selling now. Please reach out to me with your email address.
Parci