skip to main content

New Sewist, Old Machines

18 years ago

After years of wanting to learn to sew but not wanting to put out good money for something I may decide I can't stand I've traded my pool table (that we never use) for two sewing machines. Older models both. One of them is a Singer Touch and Sew 750 and the other one is a Riccar 770. The person I'm trading with says the Singer is still in good condition, it just needs a cleaning, but she's used it and it works fine, the Riccar she said needs to be tuned up.

Anyway, I'm wondering if anyone could tell me anything about either of those machines and anything I might need to know about them or sewing with older machines.

Thanks!

K

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (4)

bug_key
18 years ago
Hi,
I used a Singer Touch & Sew for years, they're a nice machine. Here's a hint, mine hated cheap thread and would only sew with Coats & Clark or better. Did the manual come with it? Singer manuals are very helpful. If not try on line, I just got one for my Kenmore. I can't put my hands on the web site right now however. There are alot of online groups that will help you, one of my favorites is the Yahoo group Shade Tree Machanics.Enjoy!
Teri
bggs
18 years ago
Hi K, Here's a link that may help you -- http://www.sewusa.com/Sewing_Machine_Manuals/Singer_Manuals/750_Instruction_Manual.htm
I've bought several downloaded copies from them, and have been satisfied.
Hope this helps! bggs
Related Discussions
Have old E-machine; Will a new Imac increase my speed?
Q
Comments (4)
Probably not $1199 worth of wow. Certainly the faster processor and more memory will allow the machine to process the information it gets from the Internet faster but the limiting factor is still your Internet connection. Imagine having a big, powerful engine in your car and then feeding it gasoline with a eye dropper. That's pretty much what's happening with your computer. On the other hand, Macs are really nice. :-)
...See More
'new' old machines (pics)
Q
Comments (5)
Thanks, Annie for the info. Pretty much anything at that time that wasn't a Singer was a knock off. :) It's tough to do a Google search on the brand name because google wants to use the word Modern as an adjective instead of a noun. I will definitely pass down the stories to my daughter who is now 6. She already has the passion for crafting and spends many hours a day coming up with her own ideas to make things. Rebecca
...See More
Old machine, New problem. Did I cause it?
Q
Comments (1)
It seems I've fixed it! At least, I've completed four loads in a row, so far, without incident...BUT in case the problem reoccurs, for others coming across this post experiencing a similar problem or just because I'd like to understand why, if someone can offer an explanation, I'd appreciate hearing it. All I did was further loosen the three belts. I suspect only one of them would have been causing the problem but I have no idea which. None are so loose they are moving on or slipping off the pulleys or anything but they seem to me to be more slack than I would think is ideal: there is now a deflection of about .5 to .75, perhaps even 1". I've read of some (mostly newer) machines that shut off the motor if it begins to encounter resistance. I believe some washing machine motors incorprate some sort of thermal protection. What in this (40+ year old) machine would cause this behavior? Why would a tight belt (sometimes) prevent a washing machine from initiating the agitate or spin cycle?
...See More
old treadle sewing machine ...
Q
Comments (4)
Actually, it is solid wood, but it has a veneer on both sides, which is pretty common construction. You can ask around, but it will be fairly expensive to do a good repair. You can try to reglue it, if there are no chips of veneer missing. It is pretty common to see the top damaged, but the closed portion in excellent shape.
...See More
loganhogan
18 years ago
The thing I like best about the T&S is the bobbin feature. You don't have to remove it to fill it. You should see a bulls eye button when you slide the panel where the bobbin goes and you push it to the left to fill the bobbin. I've got a 600 and Mother has countless late 600 through late 700 series; however we don't have the exact model that you do. Get you an online manuel and look at the parts you need to oil and lube before you really start sewing a bunch.
Good Luck,
SUsan in Bama
Pele
Original Author
18 years ago
Thanks so much for your help, all :) It's much appreciated :)

Related Stories

VINTAGE STYLE Antique Sewing Machines: Tailor Made for Nostalgic Decor

By Tiffany Carboni

In full-on vintage rooms or contrasting modern looks, old sewing machines and tables are stirring up the past in a most stylish way

ORGANIZING 6 Ways to Care for Your Washing Machine

By Jen L'Italien

Keep your laundry room and clothes in great shape with these basic washing machine tips

SALVAGE Reinvent It: Make a Cheery Planter From an Old Eyesore

By Becky Harris

Don't ignore that yucky old grill growing rust in your yard — turn it into a lighthearted planter that's a joy to see

DECORATING PROJECTS What to Do With Old Family Photos

By Jennifer Phelps: Organize. Design. Reinvent!

Find out how to research, share and preserve images that offer a connection to the past

DECORATING GUIDES Practical New Uses for 23 Old Things

By Mitchell Parker

Junk? What junk? Those things cluttering up your storage space are home solutions waiting to happen

UPHOLSTERY The Perks and Perils of Reupholstering Old Furniture

By Becky Dietrich, Interior Designer

Secondhand upholstered pieces can add character to a room, but beware of bugs, snakes and hidden costs

UNIVERSAL DESIGN My Houzz: Universal Design Helps an 8-Year-Old Feel at Home

By Becki Peckham

An innovative sensory room, wide doors and hallways, and other thoughtful design moves make this Canadian home work for the whole family

ARCHITECTURE Style Divide: How to Treat Additions to Old Homes?

By Mitchell Parker

One side says re-create the past; the other wants unabashedly modern. Weigh in on additions style here

DECORATING GUIDES Declutter Now: Lose That Old Sports Equipment

By Vanessa Brunner

Make more room in your closets and give your home a fresh start the eco-friendly way

0

FARMHOUSES Houzz Tour: Some Old Tricks for a New Atlanta Farmhouse

By Karen Egly-Thompson

A ‘pretend story’ helped this builder create a new farmhouse that feels like it was added onto over several generations

Sponsored

More Discussions

denim, our "mother fabric"

4

huck toweling, anyone?

3