Vintage Sewing Machine Repurposed

Uncover the charm of a vintage Singer sewing machine found at a thrift shop. Learn creative ways to showcase and upcycle this classic piece.

Vintage Singer Sewing Machine

Vintage Singer sewing machines are highly sought after by collectors and sewing enthusiasts alike. Here are some interesting facts about vintage Singer sewing machines:

  • History: Singer is a renowned brand in the sewing machine industry, and their machines have a rich history. The company was founded in 1851 by Isaac Merritt Singer and has been producing sewing machines for over a century.
  • Model Variations: Singer sewing machines come in a variety of models, each with its own unique features. Some popular models include the Singer Featherweight, Singer 221, and Singer 301.
  • Durability: One of the reasons why vintage Singer sewing machines are so popular is their durability. Many of these machines were built to last for generations, with sturdy metal construction and high-quality craftsmanship.
  • Collectible Value: Vintage Singer sewing machines can have significant collectible value, especially rare or limited-edition models. Collectors often look for machines that are in good working condition and have original accessories and attachments.

What year did Singer introduce the portable sewing machine?

1889: SINGER brand introduces the first practical electric sewing machine. 1890: SINGER brand reaches 90% market share globally. 1921: SINGER brand introduces the Portable Electric™ machine, an electric motor-powered model. 1929: Overall, American sales of sewing machines drop. SINGER brand attributes this to the Flapper social trend, featuring emancipated women who were moving away from the traditional homemaker role. Source: Singer

Thrifted Vintage Singer Sewing Machine

This week, while Thrifting with the Gals, I stopped by a thrift shop nearby. I hadn’t been there in ages and really had no idea what to expect. But immediately upon entering, I spied this vintage Singer sewing machine!

Thrift Shop

As a side note, my mother was the Community Services director here almost 40 years ago. I can remember her bringing all kinds of goodies home with her. This thrift shop also provided me with my first set of Pfaltzgraff Yorktown dishware, along with a couch and loveseat for my first apartment right out of college.

Anywho, back to this vintage Singer sewing machine!

What could I do with this? Where would I put it? I truly asked myself. I was so drawn to it, but what and where could I display this old black sewing machine?

Vintage Singer Sewing Machine in Thrift Shop

Before you even answer that question. It was selling for $35.00, and it included the cord and peddle and was in working order, too.

Vintage Singer Sewing Machine in Thrift Shop

I got on my phone immediately to see what these antique Singer machines were selling for online. And I had no internet access, oh no!

What is the value of a Singer sewing machine?

The value of a vintage Singer sewing machine can vary depending on several factors, including its age, model, condition, and rarity. Generally, old Singers in good working condition can range in price from around $100 to several thousand dollars.

Some factors that can affect the value of a vintage Singer sewing machine include:

  • Age: Older machines, especially those from the late 1800s or early 1900s, tend to be more valuable due to their historical significance.
  • Model: Certain Singer sewing machine models, such as the Featherweight or the Red Eye, are highly sought after by collectors and can command higher prices.
  • Condition: Machines that are in excellent working condition and have been well-maintained are typically more valuable than those in poor condition or with missing parts.
  • Rarity: Limited-edition or hard-to-find models are often more valuable because of their scarcity.

It’s important to note that the value of a sewing machine can also be influenced by market demand and location. If you’re interested in determining the specific value of a vintage Singer sewing machine, it’s recommended to consult with an antique dealer or appraiser who specializes in sewing machines.

Vintage Singer Sewing Machine Repurposed

I was pretty excited about this find, though, and quickly snatched it up over to the checkout counter. It weighs a ton!!

I think it will look beautiful in the white built-ins in the living room or sunroom of our Vermont home. If not, I could easily sell this antique Singer sewing machine for a small profit, too.

Vintage Singer Sewing Machine Repurposed

Here is the vintage sewing machine displayed on a table I also bought at the York Community Services thrift shop on this same day in our sunroom in Maine before it traveled back to Vermont with me.

Isn’t she pretty?

After further research, I can’t get over the difference in the prices for very similar vintage Singer sewing machines.

Check out last week’s thrifted finds here; hint one of them is on this coffee table.

Vintage Singer Sewing Machine Repurposed

Thrifted Vintage Table

I also picked up this vintage wooden table at the thrift shop today for $25.

Vintage wooden table in thrift shop.

I love the warmth it brings into our sunroom as a side table. And I love how it also fits the sewing machine so nicely.

I have decorated with this old sewing machine in numerous places throughout our homes now. Today, it resides in my craft room on a bookshelf. I have adored it over the years. It was certainly a fabulous find and a wonderful vintage home accent.

Bernese Mountain Dog on White Ektorp White Sectional in front of Bookshelves
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A Vintage Affair

If you have any thoughts, comments, or suggestions, I’d love to hear from you. Please share in the comments below. And be sure to share this blog post link with your friends who are also vintage enthusiasts.

Do you have a flair for all things vintage, too? I would love to see and feature you in our Reader’s Showcase Series. A place for you to share and be recognized for your talents and passion for all things thrifting, vintage, and antique decor-related inspired by your time here with Dabbling & Decorating. Email me at annck@dabblinganddecorating.com

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15 Comments

  1. I love your style Ann and how you decorate with your thrifted finds! I’m sharing your post today on my Sunday round up “From My Neck of the Woods,” because I know my followers will love it too!

  2. I, too, loved Yorktown in ’73 but ended up with Royal Mail in Blue (noticed your cups!). I had to shop in the same grocery store in Concord, NH (not my usual!) all summer to get enough stamps for it. I buy Yorktown for a friend who has it! Almost never find RM in blue–only the brown! Love the table; it can be used in so many places. And your sewing machine reminds me of my late m-i-l’s machine still sitting in my cellar! Wish I had room to display it. They are lovely staged with some vintage sewing collectibles.

    1. Thank you so much, Kathy! I’m so happy you like it all so much!

  3. Marlene Stephenson says:

    Love all the fun and pretty things you find. I have my Mom’s old 1948 Singer, they were so heavy but, they had such pretty writing and decorations on them, now everything is plastic.

    1. I agree Marlene, they really have a beautiful and unique style to them.

  4. Michele M. says:

    Oh it looks soooo good on that gorgeous new-to-you vintage wooden table, too. Well done – great thrifted finds. Love love love it.

  5. Love the sewing machine, it’s a piece of art, and it looks great on that very pretty table. I had to smile at the mention of the Yorktown dishes. When I was engaged in 1970 I found it for $4.99 a place setting and the companion pieces were equally reasonable. I loved it!

    1. That’s so funny and what a deal you got on them!

  6. Ann,
    I’ve had a vintage sewing machine in my clothing shop for several years and after being asked numerous time to sell it, I finally did. It went to a good home and I quadrupled my investment! I just didn’t have room for it any longer!

  7. So much fun today. Love your choice with the Singer and table. Love the look together. 👍🥰❤️