How to Appraise a Sewing Machine

Locating the serial number is the first step to appraising a sewing machine.

Appraising antiques — whether fine china, furniture, timepieces or sewing machines — requires numerous factors to determine the item's value. Sewing machine value can be a tricky thing to determine because sentimentality often figures into it. A buyer may be interested in a sewing machine because it's like one his grandmother owned. Conversely, a seller may have attached a sentimental value to a machine that is not backed by its true value. A sewing machine should be reviewed for functionality, condition, completeness and how it compares with other available machines.

Instructions

1. Look for a serial number or a marking of some kind from the manufacturer to help you determine how old the sewing machine is. The serial number is usually stamped on a plate on the front of the base of the machine. In general, a low serial number on an older sewing machine has the best chance of being valuable. Find out how many of that sewing machine the company produced and, if possible, how many remain. Check with the company, if it is still around, or in a collector's guide, for information about your sewing machine.

2. Look for publications such as "Antique American Sewing Machines: A Value Guide," "Warman's Antiques & Collectibles Price Guide" and "Antique Trader Antiques & Collectibles Price Guide," which have an entire section devoted to older model sewing machines. Online sites, such PriceMiner, WorthPoint and Kovels can also give you an indication of value for your sewing machine.

3. Review the sewing machine for damage such as scratches or paint chips; sewing machines that are in better condition are likely to fetch a higher price than one that is marred in some way. Review the condition of the sewing table and stool as well, as these can add to the value of the sewing machine. Look at the surface of the table for any scratches, indentation, needle marks or other defects. Check the stool for blemishes, stains or rips in the cushion. Use this information and compare it with the information in your condition guides.

4. Check to see if the machine is in good running condition. Plug the machine in, if it is an electric model, attach a bobbin with thread to the machine and thread the sewing needle; if you know how to sew, try to sew with the machine; if not, just turn on the machine and press the pedal to see if the bobbin is feeding the needle. Press the foot pedal to see if it runs, if it is not an electric machine. Verify that all accessories related to the machine, such as needles and bobbins, are intact and in good working order. Locate a repair person online or in a local directory who works on antique machines to have him look the machine over to see if it is salvageable (meaning that all it needs is a part or two to get it functioning again).

5. Review collector's sale websites or online auction sites to see if your exact sewing machine or a comparable one is listed. Check collector's publications and review classified sections as some publications list a “wanted” section where collectors can post what they are looking for.

Tips & Warnings

• Sewing machines have different kinds of value to potential collectors, such as sentimental value, utilitarian value, decorative value, historical value, collector's value or parts value — all of which could add up to monetary value for you.

• If you are unable to locate enough information about your sewing machine, consider having it appraised by an professional antique dealer.

References

• International Sewing Machine Collectors' Society; How Much is My Machine Worth?; D.A. Brumleve
• Collector's Weekly; An Interview With Antique Sewing Machine Collector Harry Berzack; Maribeth Keane, et al
• Antiques of a Mechanical Nature; Sewing Machine Information Pages; Larry Meeker, et al
• "The Encyclopedia of Early American & Antique Sewing Machines: Identification & Values"; Carter Bays; 2006
• Smithsonian Institution Libraries; Sewing Machines; 2001

Resources

• Collector's Weekly: Vintage Singer Sewing Machines
• Collector's Weekly: Sewing SuperBrowse
• "Antique American Sewing Machines: A Value Guide"; James W. Slaten; 1992