Dug out the old machine my mom used when I was a kid (1960s), and discovered it is this model machine. Found out it was actually my grandmother's machine that she got in 1930. After watching this excellent video, I have a lot more respect for it now. I may even look into having it refurbished. Thanks for the awesome demonstration! 🙂
Thank you :) Ya, the 101 is an absolutely excellent machine. Definitely one of my favorites. It if had the convenience of a reverse stitch I don't think I'd use any other straight stitch domestic.
I just started restoring my great-grandmother's 101-4 machine. I had to get a new motor for it and the wiring was toast, so that all had to be redone, but now, she's a beauty and working so well. There's more work I want to do on it, but I love my 101 and I'm sure my Gramma would be so happy to be looking as nice as the day she bought it new in 1926.
This is the first of your videos I have seen, and I am being absolutely sincere when I say that this is BEST sewing machine review I have ever watched on TH-cam. I just discovered a Singer Model 101 for sale on CraigsList, and when I started looking for information online your video appeared in a Google search. Your enthusiasm for this model is contagious, and now I have a huge interest in acquiring a 101 for my very own. I have always admired the American-made sewing machines of the mid-20th century, ever since I was a child watching my Mother and three older Sisters sewing on a 1948 Kenmore Model 95 -- another great machine that has always been totally reliable and sews an exquisite straight stitch. It's still in the family and it still works perfectly. I consider that era to be the "golden age" of sewing machines. I'm truly impressed by the ingenious simplicity of the Singer 101, and your video review illustrates its many fine features BRILLIANTLY. (I'm even loving the fact that this model has no reverse.) This machine just feels fundamentally "right" in so many ways that it has already gotten a strong hold on my imagination and my heart. Thanks again for providing such a great introduction to the Singer 101. I look forward to watching your other video tutorials.
You have the finest demo videos of these machines on TH-cam. I saw one of these machines in a thrift store but they wanted way too much money for it. It is a tank of a machine! The decals and everything were perfect. If I could have taken a little bit of Zymol to it and gotten it cleaned and polished, it would have been a show piece! I've got every model of Singer but this one. At least it gives me something to look forward too! Fantastic machine and great video!
Great demo. Thanks for taking the time to show the machine. I just picked up one of these for $25. It did not come with the cord or the pedal, and I was not concerned because my intention was to throw a hand crank on it anyway, but after looking over the machine and watching your video I see that can't be done. I picked it up in a thrift store - they were trying to use it as decoration. They had it mounted in a box made of barnwood. I have had just about every other singer made, old and new, but this style never crossed my path so I snatched it up. Because it was so different I no that this one I will keep. (I use all of mine) Thanks again for taking the time to make the video, and time for me to go hunt down parts.
Oooh, I just got a 101 too! Is yours in need of restoration or is it ready to sew? I'd love to talk vintage sewing machines with you, if you are interested please email me, sleepsleepmom@yahoo.com.
I have my mom's 101 in a cabinet...purchased used in 1963. Thanks for the video. My son and I plan on refurbishing it this winter so am learning as much as I can. I, too haven't found the serial number (yet). Much cleaning is in order.
@@AngelaSargent made of walnut; the machine resides in the belly of the cabinet. The top opens up and the legs are fluted. The veneer on the top was badly damaged. One of my future adventures is to learn how to apply veneer!
thank you for this wonderful video! I just bought a 101-4 today, without knowing anything about it, other than that the motor still works. I guess I need to find someone to help me clean it thoroughly and evaluate the wiring and the motor, before I use it. But it's clean just like yours, and perhaps the same year. Mine came with a manual "Revised April 1929."
Had some rattling sound on my Singer 101 (made in 1928 that I hadn't ran since the 1980's) after cleaning, oiling and lubricating. Thought it was the motor after lubing it. Took the motor out and ran it and it runs smooth. Put it back in and rattling sound returned. Re-oiled the oil points again, on the machine, and ran the machine again and the rattling sound disappeared after about 30 seconds. Appears to have needed a little more oil and a little more time for the oil to seep into the oil points. Hope this helps someone else.
I have two 101 machines. One is a bit of an anomaly but it's the machine I always use. It stitches straight as an arrow. I prefer the direct drive to the shaft from the motor as opposed to the gear driven handwheel of the 201. Both models are fantastic but my 101 is my go to #1. I agree with you in regards to the 301. It's a great model.
Thanks for sharing. I have been collecting singers for a few years now and I have never seen one of these. I picked up one at an auction for 10 bucks and I didn't know what it was. It looked like a 15-91 but smaller.
I thoroughly enjoyed this demo! A man after my own heart! If I wasn't already married I would have to marry you because you have a passion for machines as strong as mine!
I bought one of these today. Good to know the lock stitch ways. I was thinking I would have to know it. Thank you! How can I get mine as clean as yours? I don’t think mine came with any accessories.
I have a 101-4 that needs to be re-wired. The wires from the machine are frayed and brittle and there is no connector like you show in the video. I also have not seen any other videos or pictures of the connector on the web. Can you send a picture or show a closeup video of that connector or possibly a source where I can get one?
I just found one of these discarded on the sidewalk and brought it home. It's in rough shape. The power cord is totally eaten away, and the machine is fairly rusted. The date on the bottom is 5-16-30. Would love to get it back into working condition.
Love your demo. Never ever seen one of these for sale, but I'd be all over it if I did. Interested in your comment about the 201 being slower. Perhaps it's because mine (we have 2) are 230v and have an external motor (both 201K's) but they are the fastest domestic machines we have, followed closely by a Pfaff 30. That is tough as nails, but perhaps because of its oscillating hook, it is very noisy and clattery in comparison. Both 201's clock 1400+ spm using a digital tacho. All the fastest machines we have are the vintage ones - Husqvarna 19e, Bernina 901, Singer 401G etc.The modern computerised machines we have are slower, although I think they regulate the maximum speed based on the stitch selected - I guess a domestic machine running a 9mm zig zag at 1400 spm won't last long, so maybe understandable.
I just bought a 1930 101-4 and the hand wheel and the needle bar are not moving. It is a really clean machine and so I wondered what you would suggest to do to fix the problem? Thanks.
I had a Featherweight for years but lost it in a move. Good little machine, used but like my mom's. What I want to know is why the manufacturers don't put the motor Amp. on the plate with model and serial numbers and also year the machine was built.?
Great machine, again serial number is so hard to find, i can see under the paint when i tilt the machine on the right hand side: number 2, hum i wonder ?
Hello thesergeant. Wonderful video thanks! I have a question. I have a 101 in the bentwood cabinet from 1923 that is missing the knee control arm. It looks like someone "built" a new control and soldered it into the hole and it has subsequently broken off. Have looked online and see one with a sort of a screw-like end to insert into the hole in the base and another with an end that looks more rectangle in shape. Which one should I try and/or do you know where I can get one? Cheers!
Thanks so much for publishing this video. I have a 1930 101 and would like to get it functioning again so that it can be used for sewing. I would like to do free motion quilting on it since it has the biggest throat areas of all my machines (15-91, 99k, featherweights, and expensive newer Brother, which can't even do fmq). It looks in great condition and I've cleaned and oiled it up as well as done a prelim test sew on it. I know I need to lub the motor and gears, but haven't done that yet. But, as you say, it runs fast! Would love to convert it to a foot control. If you have any idea how to do that, please share.
Hi, I just bought a 101. It needs work, which I'm willing to tackle as I have been teaching myself how to restore vintage machines. Immediately I saw that the handwheel will rotate backwards, and the hook rotates clockwise. Would you be able to give me an idea what is happening in this situation and what to look for as I get into this? Thank you!
These videos are well done and have very generous amount of information. Thank you! What is the differences between Model 101-2 and the model 101-4? Cheers!
You are the bomb! I love all your videos. My good friend just inherited one of these beauties and this video is super helpful. Any chance you know where I could get a manual?
After watching a few more videos we figured it out. The motor mounting pin next to the front screw was severely corroded. Once this broke free we were able to clean the motor.
I found the Adjuster's Manual for the Singer 101 in the Files of the Vintage Singers Library of Yahoo Groups. The Adjuster's Manual is indispensable in restoring a Singer 101since it is so unique from other Singer sewing machines. I wish that someone would post a simple video on how to thread a Singer 101 sewing machine. Mark.
Do you have a link to the Adjuster's Manual for the Singer 101? I haven't been able to find a copy anywhere. I do have a link to the owner's manual that has detailed threading instructions. Here is the link: www.singerco.com/uploads/download/5ca5b5bf09dcfd3c76dc6d45f2a94ffa6bbd9e18.pdf
@@DFTBAandDS Wish ibsoarin had returned the favor by providing us with a link to the Adjuster's manual, since he was provided with the Owner's manual, with threading instructions, as he had wished. So instead, had to go through the Smithsonian for the Adjuster's Manual.
@@woodymoto2326 Did you find the entire adjuster's manual through the Smithsonian? When I look at the Smithsonian library online, I can only see 5 pages.
@@DFTBAandDS Yes, the Smithsonian Library has the entire manual. Read and follow the instructions in the previous comment in regards to contacting the Smithsonian Library directly. You won't find the entire manual online without directly contacting the Smithsonian Library.
Hey I just got one of these at an estate sale! this video was so informative, thank u! I love this machine but it’s pretty slow. Is urs so fast cuz of the new motor?
It could be the motor but more l likely all the contact points are running tightly. Best thing to do is flush with kerosene or if you're very careful denatured alcohol (will damage finish). Run the machine while flushing all moving parts then allow to dry and then lubricate with machine oil.
However calling it the first electric is incorrect. Singer began to market its machines internationally in 1855 and won first prize at the Paris World’s Fair. The company demonstrated the first workable electric sewing machine at the Philadelphia electric exhibition in 1885 and began mass-producing domestic electric machines in 1910.
I might have misspoke in the video, I'd have to rewatch it to know. To clarify, I meant this was Singer's first 'direct drive' electric sewing machine, not their first electric machine.
I have a Singer 101, manufacture date 1-9-1923. That said how do I know what I have. Are there models 101, 101-4 and 101-12? My dad used it to sew miniature (toy) horse harnesses in the 70s and 80s with my 101. I'd like to get it cleaned up and sew something with it. I just see 101-4 & 101-12 manual. How can I tell what 101 sub number I have? Are they all so similar that it really doesn't matter?
Well, the first #101 made in 1920 had no light and had the speed controller built into the base of the machine. Next came the light with the pull chain, then a "twist switch". Models sold for portable use had aluminum heads and by the time the # 101-4 was made, the speed controller was separated as an independent unit.
Hello, I just picked up one of these up in a cabinet. I am considering moving it out of the cabinet. How did you convert it from the knee control to a foot pedal. Thanks. Do you have any videos showing cleaning up and adjusting this machine. Thanks
I am very familiar with sewing machine repair, 201, 301, 221 etc. I am puzzled how the 101 handwheel comes off past the clutch. I want to remove the handwheel to clean and lubricate the motor and drive gears. Mark.
Very informative as usual! So, I have a 201K with brass undercarriage - (exterior motor) - I am thinking about putting a more powerful motor on it. Why not put a higher amp motor on a 201? Is it apples and oranges? Thank you for posting this!
Go for it! I'd love to find a 201 with and exterior motor to use with an industrial servo motor but I just haven't ran across one. All the 201s I've run across are direct drives.
Thanks for the great video, your machine is beautiful. I picked up a 101 recently and I have noticed that the 101s have some differences among them but what strikes me as curious is that mine is void of a serial number. It is not where it should be nor is it anywhere on the sewing machine. Any ideas as to why? Mine has a covered bobbin winder, cast iron oil well, no light or anywhere to mount one and the upper thread guide is thicker.
@Racer X, On my Singer 101 the serial number is underneath, on the bottom of the machine. Once you find it, look it up on the Singer Sewing Machine Serial Number Database: ismacs.net/singer_sewing_machine_company/serial-numbers/singer-sewing-machine-serial-number-database.html
Does anyone with a Singer Model 101 know how to remove the bobbin case or can you refer me to a link that has instructions how to do it (Don't know if theseargeant is still reading comments here)? My Model 101 was made in 1928. I've looked at instructions for other models like the 201 and they don't come close to helping remove the bobbin case on the model 101. I've cleaned under the bobbin case and around it, but I can still see some lint and things stuck in it that I can't get to unless I remove the bobbin case. I can also feel and hear the bobbin case binding a bit when I turn the hand wheel. I've been struggling with this for a while trying to figure it out to no avail. I need to get the machine up and running so I can sew some outdoor cushions with Sunbrella Marine Fabric. Any help will be appreciated.
Bobbin Case Removal/Cleaning Instructions for Singer Model 101: Finally had some time and took a chance and was able to take apart the Singer 101's bobbin case and clean it. Amazingly, I was able to figure it out on my own. Here's the trick: 1) Remove Bobbin Plate and Feed Dog Plate. 1a) Remove the center screw at the base of the bobbin case. 2) Lift the needle up to it's highest point and center the hook with the needle, then try to pull the bobbin case up and out. 2a) If it won't come out, take the base cover off (with the four screws like thesergeant does in his video) and then lift up the machine so you can see underneath it and remove the round bottom cover plate from below the bobbin area. 2b) Use a bamboo or wooden skewer or a thin dowel and push up on the bobbin case from below, taking care not to hit the gears with the dowel as you guide the dowel to the base of the bobbin case. The bobbin case should pop out when you push it up with the skewer or dowel. 3) Once the bobbin case is removed, then you can take the two screws off of the hook and take it apart. 4) Use an electronic grade alcohol to remove varnished oil and lint from all of the grooves in the bobbin case (take pictures while you take it apart so you know how to put it together). 5) To reinstall the bobbin case, make sure you have the hook lined up with the needle and make sure the little notch in the bottom of the bobbin case is lined up with the little pin in the spinning base that the bobbin case sits on. 6) Screw the center screw into the bottom center of the bobbin case 7) Reinstall the round base cover plate and reinstall the top cover, bobbin cover and feed dog plate if you removed them to take out the bobbin case. Hope this helps someone else that is struggling with this. Now I'm teaching myself how to sew by sewing homemade shop towels. Sewing Soooo much better with a clean bobbin case. The tension is now perfect and much less noisy!
+Michelle Fortney Unfortunately there the 101 and the 221 (featherweight) don't have any kind of release mechanism for the feed dogs (like on a 201, 15-91, etc). The 101 came stock with a special needle plate cover and darning foot. A quick and easy way around this is to get a 3x5 card. Punch a small hole in it and then tape it to the bed of your machine with the hole in the 3x5 centered to allow the need to pass through. Set the stitch length to "0", put on your darning foot and you're good to go.
I'd go through and thoroughly clean all the moving parts. You can use Kerosene, which is pretty mild and won't hurt your paint. If you're careful denatured alcohol is even better but will damage the paint so be very careful when using it. If the machine is smooth it's possible that your brushes are worn, so check there. Goodluck!
Dug out the old machine my mom used when I was a kid (1960s), and discovered it is this model machine. Found out it was actually my grandmother's machine that she got in 1930. After watching this excellent video, I have a lot more respect for it now. I may even look into having it refurbished. Thanks for the awesome demonstration! 🙂
Thank you :) Ya, the 101 is an absolutely excellent machine. Definitely one of my favorites. It if had the convenience of a reverse stitch I don't think I'd use any other straight stitch domestic.
Great tips on how to lock a stitch without a reverse. I didn't know the 101 was faster than the 201. I have a 201-2 and a 301 on the way. TFS
I just started restoring my great-grandmother's 101-4 machine. I had to get a new motor for it and the wiring was toast, so that all had to be redone, but now, she's a beauty and working so well. There's more work I want to do on it, but I love my 101 and I'm sure my Gramma would be so happy to be looking as nice as the day she bought it new in 1926.
Soooooo useful!!! I bought a skeleton of a 101 to learn repairing skills. Just figured out what it is today!
I bought three machines for $20. A 201, this one, and a 2502. All just need cleaning and part replacement.
This is the first of your videos I have seen, and I am being absolutely sincere when I say that this is BEST sewing machine review I have ever watched on TH-cam. I just discovered a Singer Model 101 for sale on CraigsList, and when I started looking for information online your video appeared in a Google search. Your enthusiasm for this model is contagious, and now I have a huge interest in acquiring a 101 for my very own. I have always admired the American-made sewing machines of the mid-20th century, ever since I was a child watching my Mother and three older Sisters sewing on a 1948 Kenmore Model 95 -- another great machine that has always been totally reliable and sews an exquisite straight stitch. It's still in the family and it still works perfectly. I consider that era to be the "golden age" of sewing machines. I'm truly impressed by the ingenious simplicity of the Singer 101, and your video review illustrates its many fine features BRILLIANTLY. (I'm even loving the fact that this model has no reverse.) This machine just feels fundamentally "right" in so many ways that it has already gotten a strong hold on my imagination and my heart. Thanks again for providing such a great introduction to the Singer 101. I look forward to watching your other video tutorials.
Thank you for the kind words! Glad you were able to snag the machine. The 101 is one of my absolute favorites.
Pretty neat. I have one of these that was produced in late-1923. It was my grandmother's. I don't sew, but the machine and cabinet are in my basement.
You have the finest demo videos of these machines on TH-cam. I saw one of these machines in a thrift store but they wanted way too much money for it. It is a tank of a machine! The decals and everything were perfect. If I could have taken a little bit of Zymol to it and gotten it cleaned and polished, it would have been a show piece! I've got every model of Singer but this one. At least it gives me something to look forward too! Fantastic machine and great video!
Thank you for the kind words! Glad they've been of some value to you. Definitely grab a 101 when you can. In my opinion it's one of Singer's top 3.
My mom such bought her grandmother's 101 singer at the estate sale of her uncle (my great uncle) for 70 dollars
Man i totally geeked out on this video , awesome machine and thank you for talking about it and its history , wow just beutiful. 👍👍
Great demo. Thanks for taking the time to show the machine. I just picked up one of these for $25. It did not come with the cord or the pedal, and I was not concerned because my intention was to throw a hand crank on it anyway, but after looking over the machine and watching your video I see that can't be done. I picked it up in a thrift store - they were trying to use it as decoration. They had it mounted in a box made of barnwood. I have had just about every other singer made, old and new, but this style never crossed my path so I snatched it up. Because it was so different I no that this one I will keep. (I use all of mine) Thanks again for taking the time to make the video, and time for me to go hunt down parts.
Just picked up a 101 this weekend- I appreciate this information!
Oooh, I just got a 101 too! Is yours in need of restoration or is it ready to sew? I'd love to talk vintage sewing machines with you, if you are interested please email me, sleepsleepmom@yahoo.com.
I have my mom's 101 in a cabinet...purchased used in 1963. Thanks for the video. My son and I plan on refurbishing it this winter so am learning as much as I can. I, too haven't found the serial number (yet). Much cleaning is in order.
That is awesome! What a great family heirloom.
May I ask what table it is in? I have recently acquired a 101 without a cabinet and trying to figure out who will have to leave their cabinet!
@@AngelaSargent made of walnut; the machine resides in the belly of the cabinet. The top opens up and the legs are fluted. The veneer on the top was badly damaged. One of my future adventures is to learn how to apply veneer!
I have a 1912 singer model 15... so thanks for the tips about begining and finishing the stitches.
thank you for this wonderful video! I just bought a 101-4 today, without knowing anything about it, other than that the motor still works. I guess I need to find someone to help me clean it thoroughly and evaluate the wiring and the motor, before I use it. But it's clean just like yours, and perhaps the same year. Mine came with a manual "Revised April 1929."
Had some rattling sound on my Singer 101 (made in 1928 that I hadn't ran since the 1980's) after cleaning, oiling and lubricating. Thought it was the motor after lubing it. Took the motor out and ran it and it runs smooth. Put it back in and rattling sound returned. Re-oiled the oil points again, on the machine, and ran the machine again and the rattling sound disappeared after about 30 seconds. Appears to have needed a little more oil and a little more time for the oil to seep into the oil points. Hope this helps someone else.
Some say it needs to be warmed up before using it
I have two 101 machines. One is a bit of an anomaly but it's the machine I always use. It stitches straight as an arrow.
I prefer the direct drive to the shaft from the motor as opposed to the gear driven handwheel of the 201. Both models are fantastic but my 101 is my go to #1.
I agree with you in regards to the 301. It's a great model.
Wow! A very interesting video on the 101 which was quite unfamiliar to me. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
Outstanding video. I have a chance to bid on one of these. Now I'm psyched.!. Wish me luck.
Thanks for sharing. I have been collecting singers for a few years now and I have never seen one of these. I picked up one at an auction for 10 bucks and I didn't know what it was. It looked like a 15-91 but smaller.
I thoroughly enjoyed this demo! A man after my own heart! If I wasn't already married I would have to marry you because you have a passion for machines as strong as mine!
BEAUTIFUL machine
I bought one of these today. Good to know the lock stitch ways. I was thinking I would have to know it. Thank you! How can I get mine as clean as yours? I don’t think mine came with any accessories.
I have a 101-4 that needs to be re-wired. The wires from the machine are frayed and brittle and there is no connector like you show in the video. I also have not seen any other videos or pictures of the connector on the web. Can you send a picture or show a closeup video of that connector or possibly a source where I can get one?
Very cool, ill add this to the list of machines I want!
Found a 101 in library table for 50, the wire is rotted though. Any information on how to rewired would be appreciated?
I just found one of these discarded on the sidewalk and brought it home. It's in rough shape. The power cord is totally eaten away, and the machine is fairly rusted. The date on the bottom is 5-16-30. Would love to get it back into working condition.
Do you have a video for how to remove and repair the motor or have recommations for someone who can rebuild the motor? I have a 101
Love your demo. Never ever seen one of these for sale, but I'd be all over it if I did.
Interested in your comment about the 201 being slower. Perhaps it's because mine (we have 2) are 230v and have an external motor (both 201K's) but they are the fastest domestic machines we have, followed closely by a Pfaff 30.
That is tough as nails, but perhaps because of its oscillating hook, it is very noisy and clattery in comparison.
Both 201's clock 1400+ spm using a digital tacho.
All the fastest machines we have are the vintage ones - Husqvarna 19e, Bernina 901, Singer 401G etc.The modern computerised machines we have are slower, although I think they regulate the maximum speed based on the stitch selected - I guess a domestic machine running a 9mm zig zag at 1400 spm won't last long, so maybe understandable.
I just bought a 1930 101-4 and the hand wheel and the needle bar are not moving. It is a really clean machine and so I wondered what you would suggest to do to fix the problem? Thanks.
I had a Featherweight for years but lost it in a move. Good little machine, used but like my mom's. What I want to know is why the manufacturers don't put the motor Amp. on the plate with model and serial numbers and also year the machine was built.?
Good lesson on reversing.
Thank you!
Spider wick system, sweet.
I was given one of these a few years ago and just pulled it out to clean and use. Mine is just as quiet as yours.
Great machine, again serial number is so hard to find, i can see under the paint when i tilt the machine on the right hand side: number 2, hum i wonder ?
Hello thesergeant. Wonderful video thanks! I have a question. I have a 101 in the bentwood cabinet from 1923 that is missing the knee control arm. It looks like someone "built" a new control and soldered it into the hole and it has subsequently broken off. Have looked online and see one with a sort of a screw-like end to insert into the hole in the base and another with an end that looks more rectangle in shape. Which one should I try and/or do you know where I can get one? Cheers!
Thanks so much for publishing this video. I have a 1930 101 and would like to get it functioning again so that it can be used for sewing. I would like to do free motion quilting on it since it has the biggest throat areas of all my machines (15-91, 99k, featherweights, and expensive newer Brother, which can't even do fmq). It looks in great condition and I've cleaned and oiled it up as well as done a prelim test sew on it. I know I need to lub the motor and gears, but haven't done that yet. But, as you say, it runs fast! Would love to convert it to a foot control. If you have any idea how to do that, please share.
I have a White 619-4547 that I’m trying to find information/history on. Any ideas?
Hi, I just bought a 101. It needs work, which I'm willing to tackle as I have been teaching myself how to restore vintage machines. Immediately I saw that the handwheel will rotate backwards, and the hook rotates clockwise. Would you be able to give me an idea what is happening in this situation and what to look for as I get into this? Thank you!
These videos are well done and have very generous amount of information. Thank you! What is the differences between Model 101-2 and the model 101-4? Cheers!
You are the bomb! I love all your videos. My good friend just inherited one of these beauties and this video is super helpful. Any chance you know where I could get
a manual?
Thank you! :) Sorry, no resource on manuals but if you google "Singer 101 Manual" something should come up.
My wife and I are working to restore a 1920 Singer 101. Any advice on how to release a stuck motor after removing the front screw would be wonderful.
After watching a few more videos we figured it out. The motor mounting pin next to the front screw was severely corroded. Once this broke free we were able to clean the motor.
I found the Adjuster's Manual for the Singer 101 in the Files of the Vintage Singers Library of Yahoo Groups. The Adjuster's Manual is indispensable in restoring a Singer 101since it is so unique from other Singer sewing machines.
I wish that someone would post a simple video on how to thread a Singer 101 sewing machine.
Mark.
Do you have a link to the Adjuster's Manual for the Singer 101? I haven't been able to find a copy anywhere. I do have a link to the owner's manual that has detailed threading instructions. Here is the link: www.singerco.com/uploads/download/5ca5b5bf09dcfd3c76dc6d45f2a94ffa6bbd9e18.pdf
@@woodymoto2326 Did you ever find the adjuster's manual? I am now looking for it also. Thanks for the link to the owner's manual.
@@DFTBAandDS Wish ibsoarin had returned the favor by providing us with a link to the Adjuster's manual, since he was provided with the Owner's manual, with threading instructions, as he had wished. So instead, had to go through the Smithsonian for the Adjuster's Manual.
@@woodymoto2326 Did you find the entire adjuster's manual through the Smithsonian? When I look at the Smithsonian library online, I can only see 5 pages.
@@DFTBAandDS Yes, the Smithsonian Library has the entire manual. Read and follow the instructions in the previous comment in regards to contacting the Smithsonian Library directly. You won't find the entire manual online without directly contacting the Smithsonian Library.
How and where do you oil it... with what oil?
I can't seem to find a clear video on where all to oil these things.
Hey I just got one of these at an estate sale! this video was so informative, thank u! I love this machine but it’s pretty slow. Is urs so fast cuz of the new motor?
It could be the motor but more l likely all the contact points are running tightly. Best thing to do is flush with kerosene or if you're very careful denatured alcohol (will damage finish). Run the machine while flushing all moving parts then allow to dry and then lubricate with machine oil.
However calling it the first electric is incorrect. Singer began to market its machines internationally in 1855 and won first prize at the Paris World’s Fair. The company demonstrated the first workable electric sewing machine at the Philadelphia electric exhibition in 1885 and began mass-producing domestic electric machines in 1910.
I might have misspoke in the video, I'd have to rewatch it to know. To clarify, I meant this was Singer's first 'direct drive' electric sewing machine, not their first electric machine.
I have a Singer 101, manufacture date 1-9-1923. That said how do I know what I have. Are there models 101, 101-4 and 101-12? My dad used it to sew miniature (toy) horse harnesses in the 70s and 80s with my 101. I'd like to get it cleaned up and sew something with it. I just see 101-4 & 101-12 manual. How can I tell what 101 sub number I have? Are they all so similar that it really doesn't matter?
Well, the first #101 made in 1920 had no light and had the speed controller built into the base of the machine. Next came the light with the pull chain, then a "twist switch". Models sold for portable use had aluminum heads and by the time the # 101-4 was made, the speed controller was separated as an independent unit.
Fascinating. Thank you.
Hello, I just picked up one of these up in a cabinet. I am considering moving it out of the cabinet. How did you convert it from the knee control to a foot pedal. Thanks. Do you have any videos showing cleaning up and adjusting this machine.
Thanks
I am trying to find online the adjuster's manual. Have you had any luck working on your machine?
I am very familiar with sewing machine repair, 201, 301, 221 etc.
I am puzzled how the 101 handwheel comes off past the clutch.
I want to remove the handwheel to clean and lubricate the motor and drive gears.
Mark.
The underside of the hand wheel has a "hidden" set screw
How do you take out the bobbin on this machine?
Very informative as usual! So, I have a 201K with brass undercarriage - (exterior motor) - I am thinking about putting a more powerful motor on it. Why not put a higher amp motor on a 201? Is it apples and oranges? Thank you for posting this!
Go for it! I'd love to find a 201 with and exterior motor to use with an industrial servo motor but I just haven't ran across one. All the 201s I've run across are direct drives.
@@thesergeant3524 It's the 201K. I don't know if they made it in the states. I can get the serial number off of it if you are interested. I
@@thesergeant3524 Very common in Canada more so than the direct drive
Thanks for the great video, your machine is beautiful. I picked up a 101 recently and I have noticed that the 101s have some differences among them but what strikes me as curious is that mine is void of a serial number. It is not where it should be nor is it anywhere on the sewing machine. Any ideas as to why? Mine has a covered bobbin winder, cast iron oil well, no light or anywhere to mount one and the upper thread guide is thicker.
@Racer X, On my Singer 101 the serial number is underneath, on the bottom of the machine. Once you find it, look it up on the Singer Sewing Machine Serial Number Database: ismacs.net/singer_sewing_machine_company/serial-numbers/singer-sewing-machine-serial-number-database.html
What is the circular disk to the left of the thread post?
It adjusts the length of stitch
@@thesergeant3524
No, I think they mean the silver disk next to the thread post on top of the machine
Does anyone with a Singer Model 101 know how to remove the bobbin case or can you refer me to a link that has instructions how to do it (Don't know if theseargeant is still reading comments here)? My Model 101 was made in 1928. I've looked at instructions for other models like the 201 and they don't come close to helping remove the bobbin case on the model 101. I've cleaned under the bobbin case and around it, but I can still see some lint and things stuck in it that I can't get to unless I remove the bobbin case. I can also feel and hear the bobbin case binding a bit when I turn the hand wheel. I've been struggling with this for a while trying to figure it out to no avail. I need to get the machine up and running so I can sew some outdoor cushions with Sunbrella Marine Fabric. Any help will be appreciated.
Bobbin Case Removal/Cleaning Instructions for Singer Model 101: Finally had some time and took a chance and was able to take apart the Singer 101's bobbin case and clean it. Amazingly, I was able to figure it out on my own. Here's the trick: 1) Remove Bobbin Plate and Feed Dog Plate. 1a) Remove the center screw at the base of the bobbin case. 2) Lift the needle up to it's highest point and center the hook with the needle, then try to pull the bobbin case up and out. 2a) If it won't come out, take the base cover off (with the four screws like thesergeant does in his video) and then lift up the machine so you can see underneath it and remove the round bottom cover plate from below the bobbin area. 2b) Use a bamboo or wooden skewer or a thin dowel and push up on the bobbin case from below, taking care not to hit the gears with the dowel as you guide the dowel to the base of the bobbin case. The bobbin case should pop out when you push it up with the skewer or dowel. 3) Once the bobbin case is removed, then you can take the two screws off of the hook and take it apart. 4) Use an electronic grade alcohol to remove varnished oil and lint from all of the grooves in the bobbin case (take pictures while you take it apart so you know how to put it together). 5) To reinstall the bobbin case, make sure you have the hook lined up with the needle and make sure the little notch in the bottom of the bobbin case is lined up with the little pin in the spinning base that the bobbin case sits on. 6) Screw the center screw into the bottom center of the bobbin case 7) Reinstall the round base cover plate and reinstall the top cover, bobbin cover and feed dog plate if you removed them to take out the bobbin case. Hope this helps someone else that is struggling with this. Now I'm teaching myself how to sew by sewing homemade shop towels. Sewing Soooo much better with a clean bobbin case. The tension is now perfect and much less noisy!
Thanks for great demonstrations. How do you drop the feed dogs on machines? Do you know if this capability exists with Feather lights, as well?
+Michelle Fortney Unfortunately there the 101 and the 221 (featherweight) don't have any kind of release mechanism for the feed dogs (like on a 201, 15-91, etc). The 101 came stock with a special needle plate cover and darning foot. A quick and easy way around this is to get a 3x5 card. Punch a small hole in it and then tape it to the bed of your machine with the hole in the 3x5 centered to allow the need to pass through. Set the stitch length to "0", put on your darning foot and you're good to go.
How to use
I have recently bought a 101 but it is not nearly as fast as yours. What could it be that may need fixed?
I'd go through and thoroughly clean all the moving parts. You can use Kerosene, which is pretty mild and won't hurt your paint. If you're careful denatured alcohol is even better but will damage the paint so be very careful when using it. If the machine is smooth it's possible that your brushes are worn, so check there. Goodluck!
*motor brushes