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Elna Grasshopper Review (2023 update)
Note from Editor: The Elna Grasshopper Review was originally written in 2012. We have reviewed and revised this in 2023 and now provided alternative Elna options. such as Elnita EM16, EC60 Computerized machine and the EF72 Sewing and Quilting machines, and other mechanical sewing machines, Singer Making the Cut Sewing Machine and the Brother GX37, as the Elna Grasshopper is now discontinued.
Elna Grasshopper overview
This machine is now discontinued
The Elna Grasshopper Sewing Machine is a classic and iconic machine that has been a favorite among sewers for decades. This lightweight and portable machine features a sleek and stylish design that is both functional and visually appealing. With a solid metal construction, the Grasshopper is built to last and can easily handle a wide range of fabrics and projects. The machine features a straight stitch only, making it perfect for basic sewing tasks such as hemming, seaming, and topstitching. The Grasshopper also features a built-in thread cutter, making it easy to quickly cut your thread and move on to your next task. With a convenient carrying handle and its lightweight design, the Grasshopper is easy to transport and store, making it perfect for sewers on the go. Despite its simple design, the Elna Grasshopper is a reliable and high-quality machine that is sure to meet all of your basic sewing needs.
About the Elna Grasshopper
The Elna Grasshopper was Switzerland’s answer to America’s Singer Featherweight. They are similar in weight and portability, but there are many differences as well. The Elna Grasshopper is the very first sewing machine produced by Elna. For this reason, it didn’t have a model number or name.
The color and the styling resembled an insect. Thus, the first sewing machine made by Elna became known as the Grasshopper. The Elna Grasshopper was in production from 1940 until 1952, and was one of the best selling sewing machines of the time. It was the first mass produced portable free arm sewing machine, and gave the Singer Featherweight a run for its money. The Grasshopper was invented by a Spanish Civil War refugee named Ramon Casas, and mass produced in Geneva, Switzerland by the firm, Tavaro S. A.
While the Grasshopper was not released for public distribution until 1940, it has actually been around since 1936. At the time, Europe was embroiled in World War II, and Tavaro was involved in manufacturing munitions. However, due to the Swiss policy of neutrality, the war related product line was eliminated. With the factory quiet, Tavaro shifted to making sewing machines and the world was introduced to the Elna Grasshopper. The Grasshopper’s efficient and functional metal carrying case was ideal for wartime.
Whenever bombs were dropping, bullets whizzing through the streets and soldiers were marching through small towns, the Elna sewing machine was easy to pack up and compact, making it possible for refugees escaping the horrors of war to carry it as they fled to safe havens on trains and buses.
Elna Grasshopper Features
When you first see the case, you aren’t sure what’s inside. Then after opening it up you are first struck by how cute the whole thing is… a little green sewing machine tucked inside with a metal accessories box, operating manuals [this one had two] and an electrical cord.
The machine itself looks kind of funny. There’s this metal thing hanging from it. At first glance, we weren’t sure if it was a hanging rod or some weird attachment. Upon further inspection, we realized it was a knee controlled replacement for the traditional foot pedal.
The next thing that caught our attention was the fact that the fly wheel is at the bottom of the machine, not the top. At least it’s still on the right hand side. The motor is located directly behind the fly wheel. It really looks a little funny, but very innovative for when it was made. The power switch is located on the very top of the machine. The light housed above the needle, giving the user the best possible illumination while sewing, a definite improvement over the Featherweight.
This odd looking all metal portable sewing machine is equipped with the following standard features:
- Straight stitch only
- Knee lift
- Two owner’s manuals
- Carrying case doubles as work table
- Free arm
Working on the Elna Grasshopper
The carrying case is functional in more ways than just providing a neat means of transport for the Grasshopper. It converts into a sewing table.
I’m not sure how many other portable sewing machine carrying cases have as many unique features, but this one has certainly got to be at or near the top of the list.
Unpacking the case is reminiscent of opening one of those surprise gift boxes. As we opened it up, we found not one but two owner’s manuals, the accessories box, an electrical cord … of course the sewing machine itself… and once it’s empty, it lies flat to form a sewing table.
NOTE: in doing research, we learned that the Elna Grasshopper also came with two oil cans, but they apparently did not make it with this particular unit. With a case like this, you only need access to electricity to whip up a great outfit. You can literally open up an Elna Grasshopper and sew almost anywhere. Just imagine riding on a train, waiting in an airport terminal or sitting in a coffee shop and sewing away while sipping on your favorite cappuccino, zooming along the rails to your next destination or waiting for your flight to start boarding.
The only drawback is that when you use the carrying case as a sewing table, you do not have access to the free arm or bobbin case. Threading the Elna Grasshopper is a simple process, but different from anything we had seen on other sewing machines. There are no onboard guides, like those found on today’s sewing machines, but if you are familiar with operating sewing machines at all, you can figure it out easily. If, like a lot of people you are new on the sewing scene, the owner’s manual does a very good job of explaining the threading process step by step.
Winding the bobbin is a little different from winding bobbins on other machines. The bobbin winding pin is located behind the balance wheel, attached to the motor axle. Unlike most machines, it is not necessary to turn the balance wheel before winding the bobbin. The trick to remember, though, is the machine will NOT sew if you leave a spare bobbin on the bobbin pin.
If, like most sewers, you wind several bobbins at once to complete a project, you must stash your next bobbin someplace other than the bobbin winding pin. When it comes to adjusting the tension, you have to use a thumb nut to adjust the tension. For some reason, getting the right tension setting was a little challenging for me. I’m not sure what the drawback was. We are certainly accustomed to manually adjusting tension, but getting this one right took much longer than usual. Once we found the correct tension setting, however, things went smoothly. Working with the knee control on a portable machine was interesting. Although we are accustomed to working with knee controls on cabinet mounted sewing machines, it took a minute for me to position our self so that sewing on the Elna Grasshopper was comfortable, but just one minute.
Finding a comfortable position and level only required a little shifting of our chair and we were ready for action. The Elna Grasshopper is a straight stitch only sewing machine. The two step adjustable stitch length regulator is not the easiest to operate, but it works fine. Like many other straight stitch only machines, the stitches produced by the Grasshopper are neat and have that distinctive look about them.
However, in our opinion, these stitches are not as neat as the stitches produced by the Singer Featherweight. We found that even though it is equipped with a speed reducer, the Elna Grasshopper was not as fast as the Featherweight either. The Featherweight we had reviewed a little while ago sews approximately 1,000 stitches per minute. We just didn’t get that feeling with this machine. If you ask me, it stitches at the rate of about 500-700 stitches per minute. Don’t get us wrong. This is very good when you think of how small this machine is. It is also relatively quiet… which bodes well if you actually do decide to break out your Grasshopper and start sewing in a coffee shop or airport terminal.
Best Elna sewing machines today
The mechanical Elnita EM16, EC60 Computerized machine and the EF72 Sewing and Quilting machines are the best alternatives to the Elna Grasshopper that are available on the market today.
The Elnita EM16 Mechanical Sewing Machine is a reliable and durable machine that is perfect for beginners and those who prefer a simpler approach to sewing. With 16 built-in stitches, including straight, zigzag, and decorative stitches, this machine offers a range of options for basic sewing tasks. The EM16 also features a front-loading bobbin system, making it easy to load and replace the bobbin, and a free arm for sewing cuffs, collars, and other hard-to-reach areas. The machine is lightweight and portable, making it easy to transport and store. The EM16 also comes with a range of accessories, including a hard cover, four presser feet, and a seam ripper, to help you tackle any sewing project with ease. With its simple and straightforward design, the Elnita EM16 Mechanical Sewing Machine is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use machine for basic sewing tasks.
A flexible and easy-to-use computerized sewing machine, the Elna Elnita ec60 offers a number of functions for both beginner and experienced sewers. This machine can handle a variety of chores, from straightforward repairs to more challenging sewing tasks, thanks to its 60 built-in stitches, which include basic, decorative, and stretch stitches.
The Elna Elnita ec60's user-friendly LCD screen, which makes it simple to choose and modify stitches, stitch length, and stitch width, is one of its noteworthy characteristics. Additionally, the machine has an automatic needle threader that makes threading the needle simple and does not require hand threading.
This sewing machine's constant and accurate stitching is another advantage. Each stitch is even and accurate thanks to the machine's sophisticated features, which include a drop-in bobbin system that prevents jams, automated tension adjustment, and an adjustable speed control.
The Elna Elnita ec60 is light-weight and transportable, making it convenient to use for extended periods of time. The machine also includes a foot control, which makes it simple to manage the sewing machine's speed while allowing your hands to be free to control the cloth.
- Best purchase that lasts for a long time
- A small but strong structure
- Easy operation
- Highest level of value
- Upscale accessories
- More stitches may have been incorporated into the machine
The Elna Elnita EF72 sewing and quilting machine is made for sewers who want to buy a high-tech machine and will really use all of its features.
The Elna Elnita EF72 has a ton of features, like an adjustable thread tension, a reverse stitch button, a dust cover, a 7-piece foot dog, an automatic bobbin winder, and more, that are sure to be helpful for most quilters. This computerized sewing machine can sew up to 1000 stitches per minute and be utilized for a variety of tasks, including zigzag and satin foot overcasting.
The Elna Elnita EF72 can be used at any time during the day without worrying about your eyes thanks to its additional three LED lights. This sewing machine also has seven dog feeding mechanisms, which help the fabric move smoothly and perfectly regardless of the type of fabric.
- Good foot variety
- Spacious throat
- Handles a variety of fabrics
- Knee lift is not included
Read the detailed review of the Elna Elnita EF72 here
Fabrics
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Knits Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester | Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers |
Accessories
The green and black metal accessories box that came with this machine looks exactly like it did when it was first purchased.
In fact, the carrying case and sewing machine are both in remarkably good condition – especially when you consider how old they are. Inside the accessory box, we found a zipper foot, ruffling foot, darning foot, cording foot, a binding foot, and a spare screw with accompanying nut. A small screwdriver and lint brush were also included in the accessories box. The brush is used to help get rid of lint, dust and thread snips while cleaning the machine. The screwdriver was included to help with opening the light housing, making bobbin tension adjustments when necessary and changing presser feet.
This particular machine comes with two manuals… the main owner’s manual and a supplemental manual that gives more detailed instructions for using the accessories. We suspect that the supplemental manual may have been acquired after the machine was first purchased, but there is no way of verifying this theory.
Maintenance
| Maintenance activities | After each use | Monthly | Once each year | As needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clean race hook and feed dogs | Yes | No | No | No |
| Wipe head with soft dry cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Wipe head with soft damp cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Lubricate | No | Yes | No | No |
| Service by sewing machine repair professional | No | No | No | Yes |
The instruction manual is an excellent resource for oiling the Elna Grasshopper. The metal construction means that oil points are everywhere on this little green dynamo. One thing that really caused us to stop and take a second look is that the manufacturer not only recommends that a little bit of oil be put at several points all over the machine, users are also advised to add a little bit of kerosene near the bobbin shuttle. Kerosene is a highly combustible fluid and we are not so sure we would recommend its use, but the owner’s manual specifically states oil at some points and kerosene at others.
About Elna
Elna travels back in time to 1934. It was a brand that projected great Swiss craftsmanship. Elna was the first sewing machine brand to use a free-arm, an innovative design by Dr. Ramon Cass Robert. Elna was initially not meant to be launched in Switzerland, but that was until the Spanish Civil War forced Dr. Robert to flee to Switzerland. Here, he formed a company with the help of two other business partners. Electrina was later shortened to Elna.
Elna later joined a gun manufacturing company called Tavaro to launch their first machine, the Elna 1, which did well in the market until World War II broke out. Elna’s brand was a rocky ride but their post WWII models sold fairly well. People loved the excellent Swiss artistry.
Tavaro owned Elna till 1990. In 1995, Elna declared bankrupy. In 2006, Janome acquired Elna. Elna is still in sale and the products are manufactured by Janome. These are not the exact same devices as earlier Elna models but Janome has consistently kept up the Swiss craftsmanship in Elna products.
Alternative Mechanical Sewing Machines
We have listed the best mechanical sewing machines and also our recommendations under $200, specifically the Singer Making the Cut Sewing Machine and the Brother GX37 listed below.
The Singer M3330 Making the Cut Sewing Machine, featured on Amazon Prime's MAKING THE CUT, is the machine you might want to add to your sewing room if you're searching for a reasonably priced sewing machine with enough capabilities for beginners who want to learn how to sew and for advanced sewers who want to make a variety of sewing projects. This machine offers 97 stitch applications, adjustable stitch options, a built-in needle threader and a built-in cutter for efficiency, and "Making the Cut" technology for unique designs. Its one-step buttonhole, LED lighting, and durable metal frame make it perfect for quilting, garment making, and DIY projects. The included essentials make it ideal for project kick-starts.
- Offers 97 stitch applications, suitable for various fabrics and sewing projects
- Full metal frame ensures long-lasting performance, providing stability during use
- Built-in needle threader and one-step buttonhole simplify the sewing process
- Long-lasting LED lighting provides bright, cool-to-touch illumination for precise work
- You won't be able to use this basic sewing machine, if you're a top-tier professional, to work on complex sewing jobs
The Brother GX37 elevates the sewing experience with its user-friendly design and versatility. With 37 built-in stitches, including utility and decorative options, it caters to a spectrum of sewing projects from garment construction to applique. The machine's intuitive features, such as the automatic needle threader and drop-in top bobbin, simplify the stitching process. Ideal for both beginners and intermediate users, the GX37 offers a versatile free arm for various sewing and quilting tasks. The included accessories, from sewing feet to an instructional DVD, make it a comprehensive package. With Brother's enduring support, including online, live chat, or phone assistance, the GX37 is a reliable companion for all sewing enthusiasts.
- Markings to show how to thread the device
- Removable flatbed
- Barely makes any noise
- Conveniently large front dial
- Fresher friendly interface
- Plastic body makes it slightly brittle
Summary: Elna Grashopper review
When you consider when the Elna Grasshopper was introduced on the market and the conditions of the time, it is easy to understand why it was a top seller. The sturdy metal carrying case and the fact that it converts into a compact workspace was clearly a strong selling point in those uncertain times. Taking a sewing machine into a warzone is not something that anyone would consider, but the Elna Grasshopper was conceived during war times.
No doubt, Casas had that in mind when he included all of those fantastic functional and portable features in his invention. When it comes to using it today, however, the Elna Grasshopper leaves something to be desired. First of all, the fact that it produces only straight stitches is a major drawback when you put it up against machines that can do practically everything except drive itself home.
Threading, bobbin winding and tension adjustments on the Elna Grasshopper are difficult for the beginning home sewer. Even some seasoned home sewers might be skittish when faced with this vintage workhorse. Let’s face it. We have been spoiled by machines with features like self threading, automatic bobbin winding and automatic tension adjustment. Then there’s the maintenance. Oiling the Elna Grasshopper is no cake walk. There are lots of moving parts that require attention, and lots of steps to getting the machine oiled properly.
And when you think about it … if you had this machine at home, you would need to keep kerosene in your house! Even the smallest amount of kerosene could spark a fire. We must admit that we are honestly not certain we would want this machine in our collection, except as a showpiece.
If you decide that you want to use it as well, make sure you clean and service it in a well ventilated place to reduce the possibility of an accidental fire. If, on the other hand, you have the space and have a passion for displaying vintage sewing machines, the Elna Grasshopper should definitely be in your collection. It is after all the very first sewing machine produced by Elna. That alone makes the Grasshopper worthy of a place of honor in your collection.
When you consider the utility of the carrying case and the fact that this is the first portable free arm sewing machine, you have even more reasons for including the Grasshopper in your display.
If you are an advanced sewist, have a look at our best sewing machines, best sewing books and best sewing magazines posts and if you are looking to get a mechanical, heavy duty, quilting or industrial sewing machine, have a look at some of our great articles. If you are a beginner sewist, review our best sewing books for beginners, best sewing machines for beginners and best sewing machines under $200 to get started.
For brand related articles, check Best Bernette | Best Bernina | Best Brother | Best Husqvarna Viking | Best Janome | Best Juki | Best Singer |
For best accessories, check Best Chairs | Best tables | Best tracing paper | Best machine oils | Best scissors and shears | Best presser feet | Best needles | Best sewing kits |
Happy Stitching.
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If you are an advanced sewist, have a look at our best sewing machines, best sewing books and best sewing magazines posts and if you are looking to get a mechanical, heavy duty, quilting or industrial sewing machine, have a look at some of our great articles. If you are a beginner sewist, review our best sewing books for beginners, best sewing machines for beginners and best sewing machines under $200 to get started.
For brand related articles, check Best Bernette | Best Bernina | Best Brother | Best Husqvarna Viking | Best Janome | Best Juki | Best Singer |
For best accessories, check Best Chairs | Best tables | Best tracing paper | Best machine oils | Best scissors and shears | Best presser feet | Best needles | Best sewing kits |
Happy Stitching.
Husband brought in a Elna grasshopper with a date stamp on bottom of 12 ave 1951. we are assuming it was made in the 3rd series. does not have the accessory box or manuals or oil cans. Do you know if these have much of a worth. This does work. Thanks for any updates.
Patty –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight. The Elna Grasshopper I reviewed is still available for sale at the Pfaff Sewing Center in Ft. Lauderdale. The asking price is very low… less than $100 as I recall. It, too, works and although the oil dispenser is missing, most of the accessories and instruction manuals are intact. My guess is if you try to sell it, you won’t get more than about $50 if that much.
The good news is your Elna Grasshopper works. Enjoy it and celebrate it for the conversation piece that it is.
Happy stitching.
Hi there! I glad I found some one that might help me, I am lookin to buy the two instruction manuals that comes with the Elna Grasshopper machine. Do you know where I can buy them or some one who has one and can make copies and mail them to me, I will be more than grateful to pay for the charges.
Thank you
Rosa Otero
Hi – I have recently found in my house a perfect condition Elna Grasshopper with manual and all accessories. March 1951. Do you have a value on this? Thank you
Just had my Grasshopper checked over by TSA on its flight home from Colorado. Guess others think it looks military as well. 😀 I’ve saved the piece of tape they left on the accessories box as evidence of its adventures.
Could an Elna Grashopper be considered an antique, and how much it could cost for this?
I have one in almost new condition, no scratches, the accessory box, cord but no case. Works perfectly. $140.00. 228-424-3877 if interested.
Seeing the accessories I noticed a foot that looks like a darning foot. Along side was a small a rectangular piece of metal with a hole in the center. I have seen other machines with these same attachments. I believe the metal piece fits over the feed dogs and then the machine can be used for free hand darning. I am missing the small metal rectangle.
I have been using the “grasshopper” for more than 40 years and it has served me well as a basic machine with very few problems. But my belt has stretched and I need a new one, can anyone tell me the size I need? I took it off to look for one and left it somewhere>
Have one for sale. Asking 500 for it. If intrested please call 920-672-7142. THANK YOU!
what type of bobbin does it use…do you have a class number?
The Grasshopper uses standard Elna bobbins which are smooth on one side and have holes on the other side…They usually come 12 in a clear plastic storage box…got mine on E-Bay for $9.49…
I have some problems with my Elna #1. When I made a comprehensive service and tested everything worked, I began to pack the accessories. After a short while smoke rose from the engine… I did not run it, but the cord was plugged in! It turned out that it was the capacitor that no longer worked. I removed it, but forgot to notice how the cables were mounted !!! A repairman stated that it is OK to run the machine without the capacitor, but then I have to know how the cables should be installed again. Can someone send a picture or sketch how this should be? Pleeease!!!
olle_bengtson@yahoo.se (Spelling!!!)
Hello Olle,
…and don’t forget the folded knee lift looks like a grasshopper’s folded legs…
Sorry I can’t help you out with the particulars…I have also purchased 2 Grasshopper clones made by the Portman Sewing Machine Co.. One has the Newhome name on it & the other has Montgomery Ward name on it…They are identical to each other & look almost exactly like the Grasshopper, but with foot control instead of the knee control & both are a mottled grey in color…..They all sew up a storm!!
Howard
I’m looking for a power cord for the grasshopper can anyone help me with that?
Hello, I purchased a power cord from E-Bay last year…made by the Jinguan Wire Cable Co. Item# on the female side of the cord is 50346N…Hope this is of help, Howard
…found it for you currently on E-Bay…
Pfaff 230,260,332,362 Bernina 530,534,730 Elna Green Lead Power Cord #50346N
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I have a grasshopper… reads model # 50. It was my Mother’s and she left it to me. There are an assortment of feet that I am unsure how to use. There is no manual! I really need to know how to use all the assessories. Is there any chance of finding a manual for my little green beast? Does anyone have any idea where I could get one? Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thank you kindly ☺
I have a manual för Model 1, but in Swedish. I have scanned it myself and is in PDF (5,3 MB). Could this be of any interest for you? You can mail me and write in notification window “Elna #1 Manual”. That makes me not throw it away as spam… 😉
Thank you so much for thinking about me and my dilemma. Unfortunately, I don’t understand Swedish. English only I’m afraid…
There are several pictures…
I think they are in some kind of international language… 😉
…but it is your choise. 🙂
Have a nice day!
Olle
olle_bengtson@yahoo.se
Here you can find the manual in English :
https://elnagrasshopper.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/elna-grasshopper-instructions-part-one.pdf
https://elnagrasshopper.wordpress.com/
Good luck !
Whoops! Forgot my e-mail:
olle_bengtson@yahoo.se 🙂
Kerosene is pretty safe liquid. This liquid is used everywhere in the world for lighting.
I have a Elna Grasshopper from 1951 and it works fine. Maintenance is easy. For sure it is much more robust than all those modern electronic sewing machines.
I bought one of these for around 25 $ c:
I have a grasshopper no 1 looking for a speed reducer a motor capacitor and acc box.
The speed reduction gears are hard to find but there are now 3D printing files which is how I am planning to get one made until a genuine one comes my way
I am looking for a speed reducer as well. Did you have any luck with a 3D printed one?
Hello Kerrie, did you get a speed reducer printed? gr ALice
You can download a manual off the internet. I found my machine sews thick denim and leather. I repaired my daughter’s backpack and stitched through two layers plus binding and the straps. You might try it with the proper needle for thick fabrics.
I have the elana 1 machine in very good condition .. foor sale
Aqaba. .Jordan
00962797219109
I came across your elna grasshopper sewing machine review and the machine though very old but unique.The question I have is are there any vintage machines that sew chainstitches apart from the ones used in embroidery?Do you have an idea of any modern sewing machine that sews lockstitch on the top of clothes and chainstitch
under,thanks.
The Elna Grasshopper is a wonderful straight stitch machine, when it is properly set up it stitches as well as any machine from it’s era, and has a very functional free arm. One does not need to use kerosene in an age when we have excellent lubricants like Tri-Flow, and a well tuned Grasshopper will keep a close pace with a Featherweight.
Hello,
i have an Elna Grasshopper from my mother and would like to try to use it. Unfortunately i have no needles. Could anyone tell me what type of needle would fit into this machine, with references, numbers etc. Thank you.
Yes no need to use much kerosene, just a few drops where recommend near the hook, you could use a small oil bottle to keep the kerosene in.