Frequently Asked Questions

1. What machines do you sell?

We specialise in Singer Featherweight 221 and 222K machines, along with vintage Singer toy machines. We also stock a wide range of original and replacement parts.

2. Are the machines serviced before sale?

Yes. Every Featherweight and toy machine we sell is carefully serviced, tested, and ready to sew, unless otherwise stated. Our goal is to provide vintage machines that are reliable as well as beautiful.

3. Do you offer servicing and repairs?

Yes. We provide full repair and servicing for Featherweight machines. All work is carried out by a fully trained engineer.
Please see our Services Page for full details.

4. How do I request a repair quote?

You can use our Contact / Quote Form on the Service Page. Please include details of the machine and the issue, and we’ll get back to you with an estimate before any work begins.

5. How do you ship parts and machines in the UK?

Parts: Shipped with Royal Mail (Large Letter or Small Parcel depending on size).
Machines: Shipped securely by Royal Mail, carefully packed for safe arrival.

6. Do you ship internationally?

Yes. We can ship machines and parts worldwide.

Parts and Machines: Sent by courier.
Please note: buyers are responsible for any additional import fees, customs charges, or tariffs in their country.

7. How long does delivery take?

UK Orders: Parts typically arrive within 2–3 working days once dispatched. Machines are shipped on tracked services for safety.
International Orders: Delivery times vary depending on the destination and courier. Tracking will be provided.

8. What if my order arrives damaged or faulty?

9. Can I return an order if I change my mind?

Parts: Accepted within 14 days if unused and in original packaging.
Machines: Returns are considered on a case-by-case basis due to the vintage nature of each item. Please contact us directly.
Servicing: Once work has been carried out, service charges are non-refundable.

10. Can I collect or drop off in person?

Yes, if you are local to the ME18 postcode, you are welcome to arrange collection or drop-off by contacting us in advance.

11. How can I find out the age of my Singer Featherweight?

Each Singer Featherweight has a unique serial number which tells you when it was made. You can use this number to date your machine.

We have a dedicated “Date Your Featherweight” page where you can look up your serial number against the original Singer production records.

12. What is the history of the Singer Featherweight 221/222k?

The Singer Featherweight was designed as a lightweight, portable sewing machine and first introduced to the public in 1933 at the Chicago World’s Fair. Cast in aluminium to reduce weight, it featured a flip-up extension table to increase the work area, a convenient reverse lever, and a simple maintenance system with a single thumb screw allowing access to the underside for lubrication and servicing.

This clever engineering solved the issues of Singer’s earlier Sewhandy model, which had been heavier and less practical. In 1936, Singer released an improved version with a redesigned bobbin case and a numbered tension dial, making sewing smoother and more precise.

During the Second World War, production was limited and materials scarce, so some machines from that period have painted black parts instead of chrome, or a distinctive crinkle-finish paintwork.

Featherweight production began in the U.K. in 1949 at Singer’s Clydebank factory, then the largest Singer plant in the world. In 1955, Singer introduced the 222 Free-Arm Featherweight, often considered the ultimate model. A small number of special-coloured machines were also produced, including the white/green versions (made until 1964) and the tan/beige models, which were manufactured in both Scotland and Canada.

Today, the Singer Featherweight remains one of the most iconic and collectable sewing machines ever produced, valued for its portability, reliability, and timeless design.