SlantZone

The Singer 404G is basically a simplified 401. Single stitch with reverse, without the complications of the cam driven multi-stitch capabilities of the 401/411/431s. Simplicity = long term reliability, quietness in use, & it just feels 'unburstable'. A bit like the older black machines (201s for example) that last a lifetime & more. You can add attachments for Blind Stitch, Zig Zag etc. quite easily if you need them. Note that it is Treadle capable, with the correct Handwheel. Came to me in a desk style cabinet (which seems to put off certain people) & it was therefore quite a bargain. (£28.50 in 2016) Obviously had minimal use & is near perfect. I found a case lid & base for it, so it is now a Portable. In the early 1960s not many would choose the Straight Stitch version of the versatile 400 series machines. Same applies to the Treadled versions, which is why they are rare & so nice to have these days: ) For me the 404G is the Cinderella of the 40...

The most common 400 series machines are an excellent place to start with Slants. A good 401G is a classic Singer. Last of the best IMO: ) This one below was my first Slant & had most of its original attachments, etc. with it. Even the Singer Sewing book. This is what ignited my interest in sewing machines. My good sister Joyce gave it to me a while back. Was being used as a doorstop! It belonged to her mother in law & was missing its case. When I saw it I realised it was potentially a classy machine. Knew nothing much else though. At the time. Sparked an interest & I now have a few more.       Serendipity? 411G, 306K & 'spare' 431G  One thing leads to another... Another well used 431G here. As found. Later, still a bit scruffy, but working as it should. (I touched up the missing paint to prevent corrosion)   Great for 'fancy' stitching, double needle also. Chain-stitching. Free-arm. They are versatile machines from the early 60s & stil...

One of the rarer options for Slants is this 411G in original treadle format. I see people online converting the electric versions to treadle. Quite a job actually, but often successful. Easy to understand why, if you prefer to treadle. Multiple stitch patterns, twin needle capable, even chain-stitch. On a treadle? Yes, on this machine! How nice to have the original specced item from the start? Shown here on arrival. The normal 'wonky' spool pins, but otherwise in good order. The belt cover uses that normally empty screw-hole that puzzles some people: ) Under the top cover you see no motor, no 'Textolite' cog, just the belt guide. Quite likely to be the rarest original option for Slants? This machine was bought new for an elderly relative who was used to a lifetime with treadled machines. She didn't want or need a motor. But in 1964 very few people wanted treadles. Hence its rarity nowadays. But good for Singer to even offer that option on their top ma...

The 431Gs are considered by many to be the epitome of Singers 'Engineered' (as opposed to injection moulded plastic) machines. The last of the best? This one is immaculate & has undamaged throat plate pins.... Be aware of this if you ever consider buying one. Many users assumed that the throat plate pins are cross head screws & try to use a screwdriver to remove them. DON'T!! They are 'snap fasteners' & easily damaged. The 'Screws' get broken thus & you will see many 431s in this sad condition. The pins are not available new & like 'hens teeth' second hand. The other important consideration as a buyer is the chain stitch throat plate & correct bobbin case. Make sure these original parts come with it if you want the machine to chain. Often sold seperately by knowing sellers because they fetch good prices on their own.... Be wary. If you do find a good one treasure it: ) They are fine machines & already 5...

Although I promote & love Slants, there are other vintage machines of serious interest in my possession: ) Like this 1916 Singer 66K in amazingly good condition. Installed in an original 'Drawing Room Cabinet'. As opposed to a 'Parlour Cabinet' which is simpler. Lovely cabinet with 9 doors & 5 drawers. (Plus one bed: ) Plus most of its original attachments. In lovely condition for its old age, (Unlike me; ) & it stitches perfectly.  Just a straight stitch with no reverse even, but sooo nice. Most attachments are available for use with this machine. Decals are near perfect. Cabinet just needs a few little touch ups here & there. Has back clamp instead of side clamp foot fixing, but still top for me. (Easy to change if you need to) Lotus decals are near perfect also. Has dates of manufacture in the cabinet so it looks a genuine item. The Cabinet Makers/builders used pencils to write dates etc. inside & most are still visible, but hard ...

Welcome to my UK SlantZone blog.  Mostly 401G, 404G, 411G, 411M, 431G.    If you are into Singers top of the range Slant-O-Matics of the period, (1957-1965ish) especially the German & Italian machines, this blog may interest you: ) If you are other side of the 'pond' you will be familiar with the 301s, 403A, & 500/503 Rocketeers, but we see few of them in Europe. (Still very cool though) And, I have to say the Singer German made 400 machines were the best (modern) Singer ever made! Holy Grail stuff? 431Gs? Not quite, but some people do think so. 3x 431Gs here. Best at front: ) Never quite sure which is which here. 404 on the left, 431 right.       I'm a relative beginner, but I love these machines & have several of each: ) I'm currently setting up a dedicated Slant website: http://www.slant.zone as my main online presence, but I start here... If you are 'into Slants' already, and a treadle fan, this may be your 'Holy Grai...