Find sewing machine model number from serial number, FAQ
The majority of the full size sewing machines were made in the USA and the UK.The Class 201 were first introduced in 1935.It was the best sewing machine in the country.Hundreds of thousands of them were produced and most are still sewing as they were 70 years ago.
The most expensive machines to buy were at the top of the range.A 1947 price list shows that an electric model 201K3 costs more than any other model.
The factory in Germany that made the 201D models was closed at the end of WW11.
The parts for the 201P models were made in the UK and assembled in Penrith, Australia.The bases and cases for the UK built machines were made in Australia.
The high-carbon super-hard meshing gears gave the machine a smooth ride.Even though the machine is straight stitch only, Singer produced lots of attachments to achieve different finishes.Buttonholers, zigzag attachment, blind Stitchers and many more were included.Favored by tailors and professional seamstresses because of the large 'harp' space, they could easily cost 6 months wages and were often purchased on credit.
It's a very easy to use machine because it shares the same drop-in class 66 bobbin as the 99K.The needle insert and threading were not the same.Unlike most other models, the needle must be inserted into a 201 with the flat side facing to the left and the threaded from right to left.In the 66K and 99k the bobbin is placed in the machine with the thread winding off in a clockwise direction.The 201 is able to drop its feed dogs for darning and free- motion sewing because it has a numbered tension dial and stitch length indicator.It is very good at decorative top stitching with different thickness threads in the top of the machine and the bobbin.The bobbin could be re-filled without the need to thread the machine.The electric versions had a light attached to them.
The chrome scroll work face plate and back access cover are early models.The machines weighed about the same as the 66K, with a cast iron body and an overall weight of about 30 lbs.They were mounted into tables or cabinets and not portable.The models were hand-crank, treadle and electric.
The underbed transfer of power to the shuttle is accomplished with a unique direct drive gear mechanism.
A new design shape was introduced in the 50's.The machine was a lighter and more portable at 24 lbs and came in either a wooden or two-tone vinyl covered case.The classic black with gold decals and brown and beige were used for the new butch, which was thought to be more modern looking at the time.The black ones are the most sought after and hard to find.The finest sewing machine in the world ceased production in 1961, because it became too expensive to make, despite the fact that these new look models still had the top of the range mechanics and an unbeatable stitch quality.There is still no sewing machine that will stitch better than the Singer 201.