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Featherlite Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Featherlite Review was originally written in 2013, and has been revised and updated in 2023. Since Featherlite is a company that no longer exists, we have added modern day alternative home sewing machines such as Elnita EM16, EverSewn Sparrow 15, and SINGER Making The Cut .
Before stumbling upon a Featherlite sewing machine during a visit to Eve and Dave’s Sewing Center in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, I had never heard of the brand.
The Featherlite, it turns out, is one of those sewing machine brands that is no longer in existence, but the machines they put out were exceptional,,, and if you are lucky enough to sew on one, you will be just as impressed as I was.
After attempting to do some research on the Featherlite brand, I was disappointed to discover that there is very little information about this brand. I can’t even tell you if it was made in the US or somewhere abroad. Nor could I find any information about when it was made.
Suffice it to say, the Featherlite must be a good machine. I did find it for sale on e-bay and learn that it came in several different colors – pink, aqua and tan among the color choices.
Featherlite Overview
Featherline sewing machines are now considered vintage or antiques since they have long been discontinued. There is not a lot available online about this brand, since it existed long before the internet or social media. This particular sewing machine was a compact home sewing machine that worked as well as any other. It does not offer a threading guide or any guide at all. No instruction manual is also available for Featherlite machines. However, for an experienced sewist, this model will not be extremely difficult to figure out. This is a general and surprisingly nice home sewing machine that does not make much noise while it is running and also accommodates most usual fabrics like cotton, linen, wools, synthetics, etc,.
This product is now discontinued. We recommend trying out other alternatives that we have added to this post.
The Featherlite actually looks like a child’s machine. In fact, it might be a good option for teaching a young child the basic operation of a sewing machine.
My only reservation, however, is that since Featherlites are no longer in production, finding replacement parts may be somewhat of a challenge. It is very compact, barely 12 inches wide, 12–14 inches high, and six inches deep.
What are the features on Featherlite?
The shiny metal legs that support the Featherlite are reminiscent of the chrome trim on some automobiles. There is no on/off switch. The stitch length and tension adjustment dials are shiny, but easily readable.
I was a bit surprised to discover that this all metal machine had a removable worktable that was made of plastic. How odd. I fully expected the worktable to be made of metal like the rest of the machine. At least it seemed to be a thick, sturdy plastic, not the type that becomes brittle over time and ultimately breaks or cracks after a few years of normal use.
Working on the Featherlite
The Featherlite is an older sewing machine and does not offer the advantage of a numbered threading guide or little pictures telling the user how to thread the machine or wind the bobbin. However, anyone with a little bit of experience on any sewing machine could easily figure out how to thread the Featherlite. It’ a simple 4 step process.
Top thread guide – own between the tension discs – up to the take up guide – down through the two thread guides adjacent to the tension dial – through the thread guide above the needle and through the eye of the needle.
When it comes to winding the bobbin, the process is even simpler. The thread goes straight from the spool down to the guide at the lower front of the machine up to the bobbin which is mounted on the spindle on front. Turn the balance wheel one half turn toward you to disengage the needle and press the presser foot.
Inserting the bobbin, however, is not as easy as I think it should or could be. Try though I might, it was impossible to open the bobbin housing door with the removable work table in place. That’s fine if you are using the free arm, but if you’re working on something large, like a dress, skirt or pair of slacks, then this is a real time waster, especially if your sewing project requires you to use more than one bobbin before the job is finished.
The stitch selection dial is very easy to understand and use. Simply loosen the set screw and slide the lever up or down until you get the desired stitch setting. The stitches, regardless of length, are perfect in every way.
I haven’t seen stitches this neat in a very long time. They are tight, secure and perfectly even. I sampled all of the stitch length settings. It didn’t matter if I used a long basting stitch or a very small, extremely tight stitch, the quality remained the same. This is a definite plus when you consider the fact that the straight stitch is the only thing the Featherlite does. No doubt about it… it does this one thing very well.
What are some alternatives for Featherlite?
Featherlite sewing machines are no longer manufactured because the brand itself has retired. Featherlite typically sold basic home sewing machines for the. Here are some modern day alternatives we recommend.
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.
The EverSewn Sparrow 15 is a reliable choice for beginners and creative minds seeking an efficient yet budget-friendly sewing companion. Boasting a modern blue and white design, this electric machine offers 32 stitch patterns, including 15 utility stitches and 12 decorative stitches. Ideal for kids and those starting their sewing journey, it features user-friendly functions like a manual thread cutter and a 5 mm maximum stitch width. The Sparrow 15's robust build, automatic needle threader, and included accessories make it a practical solution for entry-level sewing enthusiasts. Aimed at beginners and kids, the Sparrow 15 offers an accessible entry into the world of sewing with a modern design and functional features.
- Budget-friendly option for beginners
- User-friendly functions like a manual thread cutter
- Robust build for durability
- Automatic needle threader for convenience
- Limited stitch patterns compared to more advanced machines
- May not fulfill advanced sewing needs for experienced users
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
Which fabrics work on the Featherlite?
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
| Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Knits (medium to heavyweight only) | Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber Upholstery Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers Leather/suede |
What are the accessories that come with Featherlite?
The Featherlite that I reviewed is offered for sale ‘as is’. There are no spare presser feet, extra bobbins, needles, oil dispensers, screwdrivers or any of the other accessories one would expect when purchasing a new sewing machine.
The bobbins are a standard size; therefore, finding bobbins to fit the Featherlite is quite simple. The presser foot is detachable, but since this is a straight stitch only machine, you really don’t have too many options when it comes to purchasing additional presser feet. Of course, if you really want to use this machine, you could use any presser foot that does not require a zigzag stitch – zipper, cording/piping, etc.
How to maintain the Featherlite?
| 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 | No | No | Yes |
| Service by sewing machine repair professional | No | No | No | Yes |
Summary: Featherlite Review
The Featherlite is surprisingly quiet. If I didn’t know better, I’d have sworn that I was sewing on a much larger sewing machine. The Featherlite’s performance certainly outpaced several sewing machines I reviewed that are at least twice its size.
This machine is simple enough for a child to master. However, in light of the fact that it is no longer in production and finding replacement parts may be difficult to locate, I don’t think children should operate the Featherlite without constant adult supervision.
There aren’t a lot of Featherlites around. Although some might initially confuse it with the very popular Singer Featherweight, the Featherlite is a very unique sewing machine with a very unique set of qualities of its own. It is a very sturdy, all-metal, easy-to-use sewing machine that produces some of the most beautiful stitches I’ve seen in a very long time.
Aside from assigning the Featherlite to collector’s item status, I think this is a great machine for mending and some alterations. With proper maintenance and care, the Featherlite could last for many, many years. In my opinion, the Featherlite could very easily be one of those sewing machines that can be handed down from generation to generation, just like the Featherweight.
If you are interested in finding one for yourself, you might be able to find one on e-bay. While researching the Featherlite, I discovered that they are occasionally offered for sale there. Who knows? You just might get lucky.
Featherlite Review
Summary
The Featherlite is a mechanical sewing machine that was made in the early 1900s. It is a very simple machine, with only one stitch: a straight stitch. However, it is a very durable machine and can sew through even the heaviest fabrics. It is also very easy to use, making it a great choice for beginners.
The Featherlite is made of metal and has a very simple design. It has a hand crank, a stitch length regulator, and a thread tension regulator. It does not have an automatic needle threader or a drop-in bobbin. However, it is still a very easy machine to use, even for beginners.
The Featherlite is a great choice for sewers who are looking for a simple, durable, and easy-to-use machine. It is not a machine for heavy-duty sewing, but it is perfect for basic sewing projects.
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Happy Stitching.
I just bought my blue featherlite 023366 today at an auction, It has no bobin, but I am sure a universal will work. Anxious to try it out.
I have just acquired a Featherlite and it is missing the bobbin case. Can someone please send me a photo and description of a replacement bobbin case that will work? Thank you
I have a lavender featherlight that I am currently trying to get cleaned up and working. Does anyone know where I might get a manual for it? It appears that the needle is threaded from left to right. Am I correct on that? Thanks!
Faith,
I have an orginal copy of the Featherlight manual. It has the handwritten date
of Dec. 1988 inside the front cover. I would be happy to send you a copy of it.
Just let me know where to send it. I have a lavender Featherlight and I love it.
Judy
Would love a copy of your manual for the featherlite. Have one but it seems frozen up?? Address is 24 Coachman Ct. Dillon Colo. 80435 Thank You!!
I would love to get a copy on this!
Just found my little blue featherlite in a heap of junk at the goodwill outlet… $2! I’m so excited… would love a copy of this manual as I have no idea where to start with this sweet little sewing machine.
greene0756@gmail.com
i just was handed down to me this Featherlite and have no idea how to work it. The manual would sure help a lot. I’d be glad to pay you for it. Thanks, I hope I hear back from you!
Do you still have a featherlight sewing machine manual? I need a copy of one.
Judy,
Would you be kind enough to send me a copy of the owner’s manual?
Jeff Bochner
176-39 Union Tpke, Flushing, NY 11366
Thank you kindly,
Jeff
I had a friend pass me down her feather light and I can’t find anything about them! Would love the info that you could share about them!!
Hi Judy, I just came across your post on the manual on the feather lite sewing machine. I hope it not to late to get a copy from you.
thanks,
Ana
I have just found a pink Featherlite at an antique store. I realize that I’m writing this almost 5 years after your message, but I still hope that you would be able to send me a copy of the manual. I can hear the engine going, but the foot does not go up and down. I hope it is repairable! Jane
I just bought one and would love a copy of the manual as this one does not have it You can send by mail if you prefer to 201 Pike st, Logan NM 88426
Hi, I also would like manual for my machine. Thx.
LTiran
P. O. Box 84565
San Diego,CA 92138
I would love to get a pdf copy of the manual for the featherlite de-luxe compact.
Hi Judy! I just got a lavender featherlite and would love a copy of the manual especially since mine is missing some parts. My email is cindy.crabtree1016@gmail.com. thanks in advance!!
I’m in the process of selling a friend’s Featherlite on eBay, and it has the manual, small though it is. I notice your comment was back in 2013, but if you’re still looking for one, I’m going to scan this one as I often do with manuals for older devices. So I’d be happy to email it you as a PDF or other useful format.
I have just inherited a Featherlite black machine. I would love to have a manual for it.
My machine is like frozen. I notice there is a sign on it that it came from a sewing machine company in Knoxville, TN on Kingston Pike.
The parts appear to there. Please let me know if I could get a copy of the manual.
I would be happy to pay for it. A digital copy would be fine.
Becky,
There were only 5 pages to this “manual”, but I’d be happy to send you the scanned images at no charge. I don’t see a place here to attach or upload anything, so if you send me your email address, I’ll get them off to you.
I would so be interested in purchasing the Featherlite machine if you haven’t already sold it.
Please reply,
Eva Ward
Sorry, Eva, wish I had more to sell, but that one sold soon after I listed it on eBay.
Hello, Dave – Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight, and thank you for being willing to share your Featherlite owner’s manual. If you still have it, you might want to consider uploading it to http://www.manualsonline.com. There are lots and lots of people out there who are in desperate need of this information.
Happy stitching.
Not really sure what the rating stars mean here…who am I rating? In any case, as suggested by “Vernelle” I went to ManualsOnline to upload the Featherlite manual there, but found no place to do it…unless I “sign up”? I do not wish to sign up. If some one has an actual email address I can send the zip file to, I’d be happy to do that. Thank you.
I have just purchased a featherlite on ebay. Would really appreciate a manual for it . My email is quiltedpainter@yahoo.com Thanks SP much.
I would love to get a pdf copy of the Featherlite manual. Please send to curtandjeanne.musgrave@outlook.com. I just found and purchased a pink Featherlite in Spring, TX while on vacation.
It was “frozen” but my husband was able to clean it. I decided to go ahead and take it in to be cleaned professionally because we were afraid that something other than good sewing machine oil had been used. Thanks!
Could you email me a copy. mrscdrom8@gmail.com
Hi Dave
My name is Steve, do you still have a copy of the Featherlite manual and if so could I get a copy please. I have a copy of a copy of a copy so it’s in bad shape.
Can I get a copy of this manual in pdf? Spurvis5@gmail.com
Hi Dave I inherited a cute blue Featherlight De-lux compact. Would it be possible to email a copy as well?
Oh I would be so happy.
Cathy146@msn.com
Dave if you have a copy of the Featherlite Sewing Machine, I would love to have a copy. snoopspi1@gmail.com
Do you still have the manual? I would like a copy if you do.
I want the pdf . Please
Please send me he scan of insteuctions or a link to it. thanks, Peg new owner
Good evening all, and I just realized that a dearly departed friend bequeathed a Featherlite to me. I’d love to get started with it but would like a manual first. I know from previous comments that there isn’t much to the manual, but any information helps. I hope they’re still available. Please email to me at kakerby@aol.com. Thanks so much!
I have started a Yahoo Group for owners & would-be owners of the vintage Featherlite sewing machine. Please join us and share your information on this darling little machine.
Thanks for the vote of confidence. I know there are other Featherlite owners out there. I wish you the best of luck with your new yahoo group.
Jinterested in joining group. Just bought a featherlite at a garage sale. It is crime/ivory color. It has no book, but does not seem hard to operate.
I have been looking on yahoo for the group and can’t find it. Can you tell me what the group name is please? Thanks
Have a featherlight model 222 white I picked up but no info on it .
I have a grey featherlite with the foot control that I like to sell. I don’t know what to ask for it. If anyone is interested you can contact me at texashealingarts@gmail.com. Thanks
Hi Veronica,
I just bought a featherlite machine and would like to join the yahoo group. I do have a question- mine was new in box and like it said in the instruction manual the bobbin goes in the bobbin case backwards from all other machines. The bobbin had thread and it was in the case backwards like it said in the manual. Is this right?
Hi Veronica, I just purchased one at Goodwill in pristine condition. Has the pedal, cover and manual. I was absolutely thrilled!
Hello, Faith –
There are so few Featherlights out there that I recommend you take yours to a professional sewing machine repair specialist for servicing. Yes. It threads from left to right.
As for the manual… I did a cursory search of machinesonline.com and came up empty. An internet search didn’t prove to be helpful at all.
I can only suggest that since the Featherlite is relatively easy to operate and maintain, you follow your judgment with this one. From all that I have been able to gather about the Featherlite and my opportunity to review it, I can attest that it’s a good, dependable machine. Because it is so rare, you may have problems finding replacement parts when the time comes, so you may want to use it as a back-up machine.
Happy stitching.
Thanks for the info Vernelle! In fact, your review here is the most information I have ever found on the featherlite. I have shared a link to your review on the group. So far, I’m the only member!
Faith
Vernelle,
Our little group on the featherlite sewing machine is growing. We now have six members and one of them was able to share her manual with us. We have a member who just got a pink one on eBay that was still in the original packaging! Lucky lady!! The machines came in black, pink, turquoise, lavender, powder blue and yellow. I’ve yet to see even a photo of a yellow one but they are supposed to be out there. We are still trying to find out who actually manufactured the machine. We have one member in Canada that says his is badged FLOWER instead of featherlite. It is so intriguing!
Could it be made by De Luxe Family possibly? It shows “de-luxe compact” right on the bottom of the faceplate in the same broken two-part wording as opposed to reading “Deluxe” as most people would spell the word…So exciting to have a mystery machine! I have a few De luxe class 15 Japanese made machines and it just rang a bell…hope my hunch is right, I’ll keep digging!
Was De Luxe an actual manufacturer? I didn’t know that. My machine has a gold sticker on it that reads “Taiwan”. I have read on the Yahoo Groups that it is believed they were manufactured in Taiwan during the 1980s.
Must be made in Taiwan then. Stumbled upon the distributor who owned the trademark, now abandoned, issued in July 1985. Distributed out of Miami, once the machines made it to the states from Taiwan I gather.
http://www.trademarkia.com/featherlite-73547435.html
And one other site with basically the same info:
http://www.logosdatabase.com/logo/featherlite_73547435
Wish there was more info out there for such a cute little machine.
Hi…I believe the Featherlite was made in Taiwan.
I have a featherlite that was given by my husband for christmas, brand new in box.The last time i used it was 23 years ago and now i’m planning on using it again, but i lost the manual:( where do you put the oil? i see no place for it only screws. thanks
I just got my new baby, Carrie Ann,..she was jammed up and needed oiling badly. Once oiled she started up and ran so sweetly. She is a little jewel. Quiet, great stitches and well built. I have 2 featherweights and they have no advantage on her.
I tried to join the yahoo group and am awaiting approval. I hope to have years of fun with her.
Just was given for my 9 year old granddaughter. Having serviced will pick up in a few weeks. Just in time for Xmas.
I bought my identical machine brand new in Montreal, Canada in 1986 but it goes by the name of Flower, made in taiwan .
I had left it unused for years and just took it out but it was seized. The grease on the moving parts had solidified so over the course of a few days I applied mineral spirit, it works just like new agin.
I love that machine because it’s even smaller than my Featherweight.
Please, Normand, share a photo of your machine with Flower badge! I am a complete hypocrite in asking as I still have yet to share a photo of my little blue Featherlite. It’s still sitting in the waiting line and with family and gardening season fast approaching, the sewing machine waiting room is an ever-patient place!!
PS – On the Featherlites Yahoo group of course 😉
Bare with me, I will try to include a photo, but can’t figure how to do it on my iPad.
N
No worries! If you haven’t joined the featherlites yahoo group yet, please ask to join and it may be the best and easiest place to share your photo. Not many members yet, but it is slowly growing one by one. 🙂
Regards,
Julie
I have a Featherlite that I have had for many years. I loaned it to my sister and she lost the power cord. Does anyone have one to sell or know where I can purchase one? Please help. Thank you.
Eva
texashealingarts@gmail.com. She had one for sale. Not sure if she still has it as it was a few years ago.
What size needle does it use?
I just acquired a little blue Featherlite. I did not get a manual with it and it seems to be seized up. Does anyone know if there is a manual online or where to oil the machine? I am excited to get it working and using it to teach my Grands to sew!
Hi, I have a featherlite I can hear the motor but it seems to be frozen. Repairman told me it not worth fixing not a good machine. I read in your comments that someone fixed hers with mineral spirits, is that the same as mineral,oil. Does anyone have other suggestions on fixing it.
You can clean it with kerosene. That will take off all the old grease.
I just bought one at an estate sale today. It was frozen so the lady sold it to me for $20. I clean Featherweights for out with kerosene so I know it will clean the Featherlite. Mine did not have the manual and I also would love a PDF of it if someone can email it please do @. Moenjanelle@yahoo.com
Mine was also seized up. I took it to a professional. Took lots of oil, but works so smoothly.
I have a manual if anyone is interested! I also repaired my machine from totally stuck to working in a night if you would like advice.
If you would like the manual, email me at sparkleponie92@gmail.com
I uploaded my manual to Imgur if anyone is interested!
https://imgur.com/gallery/SeLgX
I just purchased a Featherlite from Ebay. I’m excited and can’t wait for its arrival. It does not have a manual. Can someone please send me a copy. Thanks.
Dave if you have a copy of the Featherlite Sewing Machine, I would love to have a copy. snoopspi1@gmail.com
I HAVE A LAVENDER featherlite. Does anyone have a repair manual?