Kerry - did you say 1929???

I have a Model 221 Featherweight and case with the original Singer owner's manual. We bought it in Atlanta at a Singer store in 1974 for $50. It still runs like new and we have never had any problem with it. You are correct about leather; this one will not sew through leather unless you "help" each stitch by easing the needle through the leather.

We also have a fancy double needle machine that was a gift from about four years ago. Does zigzags and all kinds of things. So far I have not even used it. The little Singer has a sentimental value and does all I need.

My guess is that quality wise they are not made now like the earlier ones. Think Singer told it us it was a 1957 model when we bought it and they tried their best to sell us up to a new machine; glad we did not succumb .

Or is Singer even still in business?