Singer Toy Sewing Machines

The Singer Manufacturing Company began manufacturing sewing machines in 1851. In the early 1900′s they produced the first small sewing machine for girls. These small machines have become known as toy sewing machines even though Singer advertised them as “portable, not toy machines”. The very early ones were made of cast iron and had an oval base. In the late 1940′s, the machines were made of lighter die cast metal and had a square base. Both styles were held to a table top by a “C” clamp. The machines prior to 1950 were all painted black. Very unusual versions of the 1950′s model (most were black) include those painted red, green, blue and tan. There was also one made in 1951 only. It is referred to as the “Centennial” to commemorate “a century of sewing services”. That machine and the colored versions are highly sought after by collectors. Collectors will pay premium prices for mint machines complete with their box and original accessories (instruction booklet, clamp, needle changing tool, and needles). Today these wonderful little Singer sewing machines have become very collectible due to their sturdy construction and their very appealing look.