Singer 28
Last Update: 2024.07.10 Corrections made to content
The Singer model 28K in the gallery above is shown in “as found” condition. The machine was given to me as a locked bentwood case. The lock on the case was rusted so bad that it non-functional. I ended up working the end of the bentwood case loose to remove the cover.
As you can imagine the machine was frozen solid, but much cleaning and oiling later I got it moving. I had to remove and disassemble the hand crank to get it working.
Even cleaned up and working this machine is in pretty rough condition, but it runs smooth as glass. It’s not collectors grade, but this is one of my favorite machines. Partially because it was given to me by a friend, and partially because I was pretty sure it was going to be a boat anchor once I got a good look at it.
Original vintage hand crank
I’ll do an in depth article about hand cranks later, but since this one’s original and it’s a big part of what makes this specific machine interesting I’ve added a few photos.
Singer model 28 vs model 128
If you’re wondering what differentiates the model 28 from the model 128, it’s mostly the tensioner. The tensioner on the model 28 is manual… In the left photo above the spoon below the tensioner must be pulled whenever you need to release the tension. So, unlike the tensioner on the model 128, lifting the presser foot on the model 28 does not release the tension. Since the act of releasing the tension by lifting the presser foot has been the way almost every sewing machine has worked since 1900, the fact that the model 28 requires you to pull the tension release lever will often cause first time users a bit of difficulty. That said, once you get used to it it’s really not a big deal.
Specifications
| Brand | Singer |
| Model | 28 |
| Type | Vibrating Shuttle |
| Bobbin | Long Bobbin |
| Needle System | 15×1 |
| Foot Type | Low Shank |
| Construction | All Metal |
| Construction Drivetrain | All Metal |
