Singer Model 201-3
Singer Manufacturing Company, Model 201-3 electric sewing machine in cabinet
Machine Head
Cabinet
Cabinet Plate, Manual and Accessories
Provenance and History
This machine was purchased from a charity thrift organization in Edmonton, Alberta sometime in the 2010s-20s. The machine was donated to The Sewing Machine Orphanage June 30, 2026. The donor took excellent care of the machine while it was in their home and expressed interest in finding a place where it may continue to be cared for and appreciated.
Condition and Evidence of Use
The machine had not been used for quite some time. The cabinet, model 43, is a unique addition to the orphanage with an integral pedal on the right hand of the cabinet leg opening. The top finish on the cabinet requires stripping and a reapplication of finish to bring out the beauty of the veneer underneath. Wiring will be checked and replaced if necessary to ensure safe operation.
Current Status
Status: In care
Location: The Sewing Machine Orphanage
Stewardship Notes
Stewardship notes will be added here.
Resources and References
Manuals
Instructions for using Singer sewing machine 201K reversible feed, lock stitch, horizontal rotary hook, for family use
The Singer instruction manual for the Model 201K, an archived copy of the ISMACS PDF. It covers operating the machine's reversible feed, lock stitch and horizontal rotary hook, along with general use for family sewing.
Instructions for using electric Singer sewing machine 201P (Published in 1953)
The instruction manual for the electric Model 201P, an archived copy of the ISMACS PDF. The 201P is a closely related 201 model, so this is a useful companion reference for operation, threading and adjustment.
International Sewing Machine Collectors' Society (ISMACS)
About ISMACS
ISMACS is the leading international authority on early sewing machine history, founded in 1985 by a small group of English collectors, and now with members across every continent. The organization maintains the world's finest archive of sewing machine manuals, advertisements, patents, and historical documents—all available to members. ISMACS is recognized and regularly consulted by media, museums, and institutions worldwide. The Society produces a professional magazine featuring research findings, restoration tips, auction details, and detailed histories of pioneering sewing machine companies. Members benefit from annual conventions, auctions, and a welcoming community of world-leading collectors dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of sewing machines.
LR Crafts Vintage Singer Information
Find Vintage Singer Sewing Machine Info (LR Crafts)
LR Crafts provides a comprehensive guide to identifying and dating vintage Singer sewing machines. The site includes serial number lookup tools, factory history, and tips for collectors and restorers. It is a valuable resource for anyone seeking information about Singer models and their provenance.
Bob's Vintage Sewing Machine Service
Bob's Vintage Sewing Machine Service
Bob's Vintage Sewing Machine Service offers expert advice, repair guides, and restoration tips for vintage sewing machines. The site features detailed tutorials, parts sourcing, and community support for enthusiasts and collectors.
ISMACS Singer Sewing Machine Company Archive
ISMACS Singer Sewing Machine Company Archive
This section of the ISMACS website provides extensive historical information, serial number lists, manuals, and resources specifically for Singer sewing machines. It is a key reference for dating, identifying, and learning about Singer models.
Smithsonian Institution Digital Collections - Cooper Hewitt
Smithsonian Digital Collections: Cooper Hewitt
The Smithsonian's Cooper Hewitt collection includes historical documents, patents, and design archives related to sewing machines. This digital resource is valuable for research into the technological and design history of sewing machines.