DoryJM Posted July 24, 2013 Report Share Posted July 24, 2013 I knew it was only a matter of time (and $$), but Dennis has found the boat of his dreams that will also suit mine--the only thing its lacking is a place for my favorite horse!! It is a great boat with a "raised salon," which just means that while its a sailboat, it also has an open cabin with lots of light. It also has a little navigation station desk that will be perfect for piecing (who needs to really check a map, anyway??) when we're anchored. I will have my own floating studio!! To that end, I need some recommendations from you guys. What is the smallest sewing machine you've seen or used that is reliable for piecing? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
RitaR Posted July 24, 2013 Report Share Posted July 24, 2013 The feather Weight is what most are going to recommend. I have the Burnette, (which is built by Janome!) by Bernina and it not only has a great stitch consistancy, but is light weight. Has several feet, does have some stitch selections, and is just easy to thread, can use a prewound bobbins. I love mine, stopped carrying the feather weight for sewing at the guild meetings, and can't say I'm disappointed. I have the Burnette H40. I know there are other models now, but haven't compared the features. Good luck in your search. And on hubbys new boat. Rita Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BethDurand Posted July 24, 2013 Report Share Posted July 24, 2013 I have a Janome Gem gold that I love. However, the Featherweights are quite popular and seem to fold up smaller. Have fun with that boat! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Primitive1 Posted July 24, 2013 Report Share Posted July 24, 2013 Funny you should ask, my DH and I are temp living in a small one bedroom apt in Dallas while we look for a home and I brought along my featherweight so I would have a way to piece and it is great! Very small and is very reliable! Love it! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lisae Posted July 24, 2013 Report Share Posted July 24, 2013 I take my Featherweight camping. It's mechanical so no worries about power surges. Lisa C and I have even had whole weekends camping and sewing on our Featherweights! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bonnie H Posted July 24, 2013 Report Share Posted July 24, 2013 I take my Featherweight with us in our trailer. It's not computerized so I don't have to worry about the generator surging and ruining anything! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DoryJM Posted July 24, 2013 Author Report Share Posted July 24, 2013 I've never heard of the Burnette! That's a new one for me. I like the idea of the FW, since it doesn't have any electrical parts. When we're moored, we'll have normal electrical power; however, when we're anchored, it will be subject to surges, etc. Perhaps a FW is the way to go. Sure would be awful if I had to buy another FW!!! Gotta go google Burnette! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sue E. Posted July 24, 2013 Report Share Posted July 24, 2013 One of my quilting students just purchased the new small Pfaff and loves it. It is light weight and easy to take to classes. I own a Janome Gem Platinum and I love it. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
RunningThreads Posted July 24, 2013 Report Share Posted July 24, 2013 If you can find one an old Elna Lotus or Stella, all mechanical, lighter than a Featherweight and also does a couple of decorative stitches. I've been looking for one for about 6 years and can't find one in my price range (I'm cheap). We take the featherweight in the trailer with us, it is very tolerant of poor voltage. Nigel Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jimerickson Posted July 25, 2013 Report Share Posted July 25, 2013 Dory: One of the great things about the Featherweights is the carring case. Sturdy, compact, easy to store, and roomy enough of some other small tools. Most other machines don't have a case that compares. The Featherweights sew great. You won't go wrong with one of them. Jim Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
seakitten Posted July 25, 2013 Report Share Posted July 25, 2013 Jim's right about the Featherweight case, but so you know, they mildew like crazy (something about the glue that was used to make them). Get a bunch of those moisture-absorbing thingies. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
seakitten Posted July 25, 2013 Report Share Posted July 25, 2013 Dory, check the Jan.-Feb. '13 issue of Machine Quilting Unlimited for a nice overview of small modern machines. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DoryJM Posted July 26, 2013 Author Report Share Posted July 26, 2013 Thanks!! Might have to buy a new (to me) featherweight. After all, one can never have too many machines, right??? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jimerickson Posted July 26, 2013 Report Share Posted July 26, 2013 Dory: If you decide to buy a Featherweight, let me know. I have several, all in great shape, serviced and ready to sew. All the machines I have, have good cases, sound, and without the moldy smell some have. E-mail me at jimatthelake903@yahoo.com if you're interested. Jim Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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