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[Desert Lily]

I had 2 sewing machines in my life, both from my grandmother. One was a very old non-electric Singer that worked by pushing the large pedal on the floor. It was wood and scrolled iron. The second one was also a singer but from the 1950's that I powered with a lever at my right knee. These were the only 2 that I learned to thread a bobbin on, and I used the 1950's one for decades until it broke down. I felt that I could control both of those machines. I don't have enough confidence to use a computerized sewing machine, but I'd like to.

[Zhills]

I agree, those old Singer's were indestructable!

Mine was purchased new, just a bad model.

I learned to sew on a treadle machine also.  Made all my and my kids' clothes for years!

[Patriot3]

I don't know too much about sewing machines........I have one that is mostly just basic.  A Husqvarnna.  It does what I need because I don't sew like I did in the past.

If you ever watch Nancy Zieman on Create TV, she uses Baby Lock.  I was sad when she died.......such sewing talent!

[ECBG]

I would see what brands can be serviced in your area.

[Lilysmom1]

@Kachina624 , I have a Singer of the same vintage.  I bought it used 27 years ago.  I don't do much sewing on the machine.  Normally I use it to piece for quilts.  Works like a charm.  I have never had it serviced.  It is metal, not plastic.  A workhorse.  LM

[coffee drinker]

I got an email from Joann dot com who has what looks like a very basic machine.  Cost is a bit over $100.   Don't know how basic you want, but check out Joann dot com.  I believe they have free shipping of purchases over $75.

[Kachina624]

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@Lilysmom1 wrote:

@Kachina624 , I have a Singer of the same vintage.  I bought it used 27 years ago.  I don't do much sewing on the machine.  Normally I use it to piece for quilts.  Works like a charm.  I have never had it serviced.  It is metal, not plastic.  A workhorse.  LM

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@Lilysmom1    Sounds just like mine.  Very heavy, all metal.  The only fancy thing it does is zigzag.  A workhorse which I use on multiple layers of denim.  I once made a vinyl canopy for our boat on it.

I also have a small Singer Feather Light from the 1950s which belonged to my aunt.  She didn't sew or do crafts so I don't know why she had it.  It looks brand new.  I understand they're highly prized by quilters to take to group activities.

[Lilysmom1]

@Kachina624 ,I considered buying a newer machine but DH said I would probably never get one as reliable.  The Singer is still going.  I managed to find a booklet on it online.  An antique!  LM

[Harpa]

Eons ago I had a very reliable Singer, just a basic straight stitch and zigzag.

When I updated a few years back, I also chose a Singer - Stylist 7258 - something rugged and because I wanted some fancy stitches. Nothing too expensive, but had the features I wanted. I've been very happy with it.

[wagirl]

I've been sewing for 60 of my 68 years--and all I used were Singers--had my first one for more than 20 years and got a new one which I had for that long too. If you need just to do the basics, then no need for a fancy expensive machine. I did everything on a Singer. Figure out what you want to do then buy accordingly.