What to Do With an Old Sewing Machine

By Christine Haynes

Sewing machine

As you get deeper into sewing, your needs and investment level may change with time. Maybe you started sewing on a family hand-me-down, and the machine finally bit the dust. Or maybe you learned to sew on a basic model, but now you’re ready to upgrade to something higher-quality and you need to know what to do with your old sewing machine.

Whatever the reason, you’re likely going to need to discard your beloved machine at some point or another.Here are a few ideas to point you in the right direction of what to do.

1. Keep It

Obviously, the easiest thing to do with an old machine is to just keep it. But to do that out of pure laziness isn’t a great idea; it’s a quick way to end up with a house full of random things you never use. Here are some considerations to make before keeping your old sewing machine:

Do You Have Storage Space?

If you live in a studio apartment, this is likely a resounding “no,” unless you have storage space elsewhere. If you live in a larger home and have a separate room dedicated to sewing, then maybe you can store the machine in a corner or the closet.

Will You Need a Backup?

If you need to have a machine available at all times (like, even when your main machine is getting serviced), it’s smart to have a backup. After all, the thought of going without a sewing machine for a week can be a little nerve-wracking.

Will Anyone Else Use It?

If you plan to sew with a friend or family member, it’s great to have a machine ready for them. And if you’re teaching a true newbie, it might be best to let them use one you’re not as emotionally invested in.

Is It a Family Heirloom?

Maybe you want to keep the sewing machine for sentimental purposes — this is a totally valid reason. Instead of storing it away, put it on display in your craft room.

Someone using a sewing machine

2. Sell It

If you’re going to sell, you can’t go wrong with listing it on eBay or Craigslist. You’re likely to get the most money there, but it’ll also require a bit of work on your part. Here’s what to consider:

Make Sure Your Machine Works

And not just work — it needs to be in perfect working order. If you haven’t had the machine serviced in a while, this is the time to do so. Sure, you’ll have to pay for it, but then you can bump up the price when you list it. A machine that’s in perfect shape will also be eye-catching to a new buyer, because then they can use it right away.

Research the Value

Don’t just randomly pick a price — you can end up selling way under what you should. Do some online research to see what machines of the same make and model are selling for. This can also vary based on where you live, so look at comparable locations to make sure you’re pricing your machine right.

Sell It With the Photos

Even if your machine is in tip-top shape, if your photos look dull and blurry you’ll have a harder time catching someone’s attention. Be sure to shoot quality, well-lit photos, and possibly even edit them to look pristine. (You can check out some tips on this in our class Product Photography at Home.) Also, make sure your product description is clear and accurate, so buyers know exactly what they would get.

Don’t Forget Shipping Costs

If you need to ship, don’t undercut yourself on the costs. Sewing machines are heavy and will cost a pretty penny to mail. Plus, you’ll need to package your machine well to prevent any damage from occurring en route. Get quotes on all those elements prior to listing the machine, or mark it as “pick-up only” so buyers know you can’t send it to them.

Look at Off-Line Options

If you don’t want to take the online route, go directly to a dealer. It’s a lot like selling a used car: you’ll probably get more money selling directly to a person, but you’ll likely have to show it to many buyers before someone purchases it. Whereas when you sell to a dealer, you’ll earn less but deal with less hassle. It’s entirely based on the amount of time you want to invest in making money off the machine.

3. Donate It

This is one of the easiest routes for dealing with an old sewing machine. You could drop it off at a charity reseller, such as Goodwill or the Salvation Army, or you could see if your community has any local charities or organizations that could benefit from a sewing machine. A few ideas:

  • Women’s shelters that teach sewing
  • Rehabilitation centers that provide clothing for people getting back on their feet
  • Creative reuse stores
  • Schools in need of a machine for their home economic or art department
  • International charities assisting lower income families or those hit by natural disasters
  • Homeless shelters that offer sewing to residents

Keep in mind that some charities won’t take a machine that doesn’t work, so before hauling it to the drop-off, call ahead and ask if they’ll take an out-of-order machine.

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138 Responses to “What to Do With an Old Sewing Machine”

  1. Paula Silvia

    Looking to donate or rehome a vintage Singer Sewing machine. It belonged to my grandmother. I estimate it is approximately 90-100 years old. The original peddle which operated it, was replaced with an electric peddle. Any suggestions?

    Reply
    • Customer Service

      Hi Paula,

      I would first goggle sewing shops in your area, they may be helpful in finding it a new home.

      Kind Regards,
      Joan

      Reply
  2. Sofia Mitelman

    I have a vintage sewing machine I would like to donate. It is Sears Kenmore Heavy Duty Machine in good working condition, suitable for think & thin fabrics with option to ship within 8 miles of zip code 60525

    Reply
  3. Cristen McKnight

    Free sewing machine with cabinet-4 drawers. Excellent condition. Must pick up in Laguna Hills, CA by August 26

    Reply
  6. Toni

    I have a 1955/56 electric singer sewing machine in cabinet that I need to value for insurance purposes (if it’s worth it). Anyone know the value of such an item?

    Reply
  7. Denise Olbert

    I would like to sell 2 sewing machines Janome 1600 QC and computerized Juki thank you

    Reply
  10. Barbara

    I have an antique Wheeler &Wilson treadle machine to give away. Functional, just tuned up. Must pick it up. New Jersey

    Reply
  11. Salmanu Abubakar

    I have manual singer swingmachine I sell it.can I get somebody to buy it.i am Nigerian if any please email me.

    Reply
  12. NAELA

    Hi I have 3 SEWING MACHINES and would like to donate to a charity which will make use of them they are good working order but the only problem is that I do not have the PEDALS but if you are interested please let me know when they can be picked thanks please email me

    Reply
  13. Judy Patterson

    I have an old Singer peddle sewing machine in rough shape, but I don’t want it to end up in the trash. What can I do with it?

    Reply
  14. Angela DeFlorio

    hello,
    I have an industrial Juki sewing machine that I would like to donate or sell. I also have a hemming machine
    I live in NY
    Thank you
    Angela

    Reply
  16. Frank Sam

    I would like to donate my mom’s classic Singer Sewing Machine. It is still in working condition. Please email me if you are interested. You would have to pick up the machine live in San Francisco.

    Reply
    • Customer Service

      Hello! Thank you for this generous offer. Unfortunately, we are not in a position to take advantage of this kindness. You may wish to contact local sewing guilds in your area to see if they would benefit. Local schools may also appreciate such a donation.

      Thank you kindly!

      Reply
  17. Dennis Yip

    Dear Sir, Madam,

    We have a vintage 1974 Singer Sewing Machine (Model 740). Would you be interested in taking it in? As it hasn’t been used for many years, it may require servicing.

    Thank you!

    Regards,
    Dennis Yip

    Reply
  19. pearl Nguessan

    i would like to donate my grand mother Orginial Singer Sewing Machine please e -mail me If you have any interest in this Thank You in advance pearl. You would have to pick up the machine live in NYC

    Reply
  20. Lynne Clifford

    Hello I have been donated to electric sewing machines… I haven’t used them myself but I just wonder if you would be interested in this? I live in Binley Woods , CV3 2BY

    Reply
  22. chris

    hey guys we run a tailoring training school in kenya, where we target the less priviledged in the community teaching them tailoring skills and how they can provide for themselves.we would highly appreciate if we could find donors for our project.thankyou.

    Reply
    • Kate Clark

      I have a treadle sewing machine to donate I’m not sure if that’s something that you can handle I don’t have any way to ship it and I don’t know where you are so let me know if it’s something you’re interested in it’s in good working condition.

      Reply
    • Sharon D Sanders

      I would like to donate 3 working machines, 2 of them are singers and the other one is a smaller machine, portable. Can be picked up in the Washington DC area or you can send me the postage labels to mail you the machines.

      Reply
    • Marlys Siegel

      I have two sewing machines I would donate. One is a computerized Elna (90 decorative stitches) and the other is a Babylock serger. Both of them probably need a tune up. I also have a large number of serger threads.

      Reply
      • Melissa

        Hello! good morning
        And Merry Christmas
        I see you add I would like to know if you have the sewing machines available please? By the way are there in Uk?
        Kind regards
        Melissa

        Reply
    • Annette Smith

      I have two sewing machines. One is practically new because I never learned to sew. The other was given to me by a friend. They have not been used in years but probably need oiling or some minor things like that.

      Reply
    • Theresa

      I have a sewing machine with the cabinet and a bin full of fabric and accessories. I haven’t used it in a few years but it works. Could you use this one?

      Reply
    • Maria Papas

      I have a blindstich Sewing Machine that has not been used for years. It I believe has a frozen motor from not being used. If you can repair it you can have it for your program. I am in Southern California Orange County specifically. Let me know if that works for you. Thanks.

      Reply
  23. Kumar

    Looking for a vintage sewing machine for straight stitching home use. Not feeling comfortable with new type machines.

    Reply
  24. Anna

    We have a sewing mashine model 1945 please contact me if you able to help.. Thank you

    Reply
  25. Tatenda Owen Maenzanise

    I’m kindly look for a heavy industrial sewing machine. I’m interested in craftsy work. I’m in Zimbabwe failing to raise money to buy one

    Reply
  26. Medina Bell

    I was gifted a singer treadle sewing machine in a wooden cabinet it’s from 1935 my aunt purchased it from new I have a book box of changeable feet and old sewing bobbins would like to donate to a museum,

    Reply
  27. Crissa Shaw

    I have a Singer Embroidery Machine that basically keeps giving me an error message. It probably needs a diagnostic.

    Reply
  28. K. Belden

    I have 3 industrial machines that I would like to donate. They all have tables and are workable. One zig-zag, blind hemmer and 1 straight stitch

    Reply
  29. Helen Rentz

    I have an older sewing machine and table I would like to donate. I live in Apex, North Carolina right outside of Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill Area.

    Reply
  30. Roz

    I have a 51 year old Sears Kenmore sewing machine in cabinet. It is in good working condition. I would like to donate it to someone who could get some use out of it. Local pickup only in Navarre, Florida.

    Reply
  31. Loretha Anderson

    I upgrade to a advanced machine and eager to sell my Singer 3500. I brought it Aug. 2011. All accessories included. $75, Atlanta area. 4042137281

    Reply
  32. Howard

    I have several machines that I would like to donate, and would need to have picked up in downtown Brooklyn

    Reply
  33. Annetta

    Hi I’m teaching a sewing class for my local community and the New York City area I am looking for someone to donate their sewing.machine so that way I can have a classroom where I can help young women and young men fulfill their dreams and sewing or whatever they would like to do our company is a non-profit organization we specialize in helping young talent to become the best industrial source that there is in the market my company specialize in holistic clothing which produce products made out of plants however this is one of my websites which you see above so that way you can see what I make myself and you see my work and how I would like to share my talent with others please feel free to contact me if you’re interested in helping us out without of us receiving free sewing machines thank you for your time and consideration I look forward to hearing from you

    Reply
    • Debbie Duncan

      I have a 1958-1960 Singer I’d like to donate. It’s in a cabinet but could probably be removed. Has not been used for a long time. Vintage machine

      Reply
  34. Polly Goldberg

    Hello — I have a Pfaff Expression Anniversary Edition 150 to sell (The only service shop is two hours away.) It’s computerized, has a needle threader, needle up/down setting, one-step buttonhole, drop-in bobbin, And many more features. I have everything that came with it, plus an extension table and extra feet. It sews beautifully. Average price paid online is around $1K, but I will consider offers. For health reasons, I would like pick-up only — I am in Otsego County, NY.

    Reply
  35. Supriya

    Singer Tradition 8280 Sewing Machine in good condition anybody interested to buy plz contact me 6360823332 I’m in urgent need money

    Reply
    • Annetta Williams

      Hi I’m teaching a sewing class for my local community and the New York City area I am looking for someone to donate their sewing machine so that way I can have a classroom where I can help young women and young men fulfill their dreams and sewing or whatever they would like to do our company is a non-profit organization we specialize in helping young talent to become the best industrial source that there is in the market my company specialize in holistic clothing which produce products made out of plants however this is one of my websites which you see above so that way you can see what I make myself and you see my work and how I would like to share my talent with others please feel free to contact me if you’re interested in helping us out without of us receiving free sewing machines thank you for your time and consideration I look forward to hearing from you

      Reply
      • Kara Lynn Rankin

        I have a 401A Singer – it works, would love to donate it. I live in Park Slope, Brooklyn, NY.

        Reply
      • Stephanie

        Hi Annetta,
        Congratulations! We are happy for you and your Sewing School! We have a Production Singer 660 that needs a little repair. We live in N.H. , if you think you could make arrangements to pick it up, that this would help, we are offering as donation.

        Sincerely,
        Stephanie &Chrissa Christo
        ss.christo1727@gmail.com
        603-724-5813

        Reply
      • Juan

        I have 2 industrial machines, one singer and one medow in excellent condition that can be picked up in Long Island, NY area.

        Reply
  36. Lois Ahntholz

    Have a portable Emdeko zig zag machine (Japanese made). I have two machines, a Kenmore purchased in 1963 and a Brother purchased in 2014; otherwise I would keep it. It is heavy and has a case. There also is a portable sewing table that she used which can be sold with it. Make an offer if your are interested. We live near Des Moines, Iowa.

    Reply
  37. Cathy

    I’m looking to sell a Baby Lock Soprano sewing machine. It is only one year old with little use. My husband has dementia and I just don’t have time to see. Machine has auto threader, auto cut, pivot feature. 8-9” throat, large extension table. MSRP $2600 will sell for $1900. Gammacate@gmail.com. Thank you

    Reply
  38. Cathy

    I’m looking to sell a Baby Lock Soprano sewing machine. It is only one year old with little use. My husband has dementia and I just don’t have time to see. Machine has auto threader, auto cut, pivot feature for sewing 90* seams. 8-9” throat, large extension table. MSRP $2600 will sell for $1900. Gammacate@gmail.com. Thank you

    Reply
  39. Sue Pipe

    I have a very old singer sewing machine that was my nans . I have had it serviced but it is now playing up . It would need a good overhaul . I have the manual and little box of extra feet etc . It was one of the first embroidery machines and has a little box of shapes that you attach to make the stitch . I have never been able to work that out. When it works properly it does a lovely stitch . I also have a singer hand sewing machine . It does a good stitch but has lost the little cover for the bobbin which is a problem . I would love to give them to someone who could get them serviced and in use . I am in England x

    Reply
    • Ellena

      How I wish I lived near you. I live in Africa- Malawi and so much want a heavy duty machine . I enjoy doing craft sewing and good to open my own school to teach informal tailoring.

      Reply
    • Annetta Williams

      I’m interested in donation.
      Hi I’m teaching a sewing class for my local community and the New York City area I am looking for someone to donate their sewing machine so that way I can have a classroom where I can help young women and young men fulfill their dreams and sewing or whatever they would like to do our company is a non-profit organization we specialize in helping young talent to become the best industrial source that there is in the market my company specialize in holistic clothing which produce products made out of plants however this is one of my websites which you see above so that way you can see what I make myself and you see my work and how I would like to share my talent with others please feel free to contact me if you’re interested in helping us out without of us receiving free sewing machines thank you for your time and consideration I look forward to hearing from you

      Reply
  41. edna stancil

    i have a bernina overlock machine and a bernina embroidery machine with all the parts and probably more than a hundred spools of thread to go with them i do not want any of it would love to donate it to a charity or a person that would use it

    Reply
    • Karen Hart

      Where are you located? I’d love to have these, or please consider your local refugee community.

      Reply
      • edna stancil

        i live in north carolina i also have knitting hoops and the manual that go with them i have the manuals for the machine also

        Reply
    • Maria Logan

      Hi Edna, I am really be interested in the overlocker and embroidery machine. Are they still available?

      Reply
      • edna stancil

        yes maria they are still available i also have some knitting loops i would love to give to someone would you want the thread i have

        Reply
    • Ellena

      How I wish I was leaving next to you. I live in Africa – Malawi and want to start my own craft business and at the same time teach informal talioring

      Reply
  42. SOFIE

    Hi everyone.
    I am looking for a serger. I have a very old sewing machine that does only straight stitching. If anyone has a serger that don’t use anymore please let me know. I really do appreciate. Thank you.

    Reply
    • Kristine Fernandez

      Do you still have this available by any chance? I run a volunteer drama club, and we would LOVE to have this for our musical. Thank you!

      Reply
  46. Neziwe

    Ukhokhelo-Lolutsha community organization based in Guguletu, We looking for help just anyone can donate with Sewing machine to train our community members.
    Thank you

    Reply
  47. Linda Ann Wilson

    I have a Sears Kenmore model 385.19153 sewing machine most parts are new with manual. It was my mothers before passing, I do not sew I don’t wish to learn. giving away to whoever will like to use it

    Reply
  48. Mandeep kaur Kaur

    I have singer machine for sewing and quilt its brand new want sell it

    Reply
    • Neziwe

      Ukhokhelo-Lolutsha community organization based in Guguletu, We looking for help just anyone can donate with Sewing machine to train our community members.
      Thank you

      Reply
  49. Pat Oberg

    Have a 1975 Kenmore portable sewing machine & carrying case. Needs cleaning and oiling.

    Reply
    • Edna Tyler

      I have Singer Sewing machine Model 362. It was probably bought in the 60’s. Want to sell. Do you know about what I should ask for it?

      Reply
      • Karen Hart

        Check on your Facebook MARKETPLACE for values. It’s a good place to sell. It’s easier if you don’t have to pack it and ship it.

        Reply
  50. christine kelly

    I have an electric Singer Sewing machine, older style but not vintage. Has all the accessories and was well looked after and maintained. Want to donate. I live in York. Any suggestions?

    Reply
  54. Sunshine

    I have a 1957 Singer sewing machine in a cabinet. Machine does not work. Thrift stores do not accept non-working machines. Free to a good home in St Pete.

    Reply
  55. Pamela Taylor

    I have two sewing machines to donate. I live in Brandon, FL and would like a reputable place to give these to.
    Let me know and thank you,

    Reply
    • Annetta

      Hi.
      I’m interested in donation.
      I’m teaching a sewing class for my local community and the New York City area I am looking for someone to donate their sewing machine so that way I can have a classroom where I can help young women and young men fulfill their dreams and sewing or whatever they would like to do our company is a non-profit organization we specialize in helping young talent to become the best industrial source that there is in the market my company specialize in holistic clothing which produce products made out of plants however this is one of my websites which you see above so that way you can see what I make myself and you see my work and how I would like to share my talent with others please feel free to contact me if you’re interested in helping us out without of us receiving free sewing machines thank you for your time and consideration I look forward to hearing from you

      Reply
  57. Jack ross

    1894 Singer sewing machine with cabinet built around it, I don’t want it or need it, if you want it come and get it, Tampa area. If its not gone I will just trash it.

    Reply
  58. Catherine Showalter

    I own a 1892 Singer treadle sewing machine in an oak cabinet with attachments to sell or donate to a good cause.

    Reply
    • Kristine Fernandez

      I know this is a long shot, but do you by any chance still have this sewing machine? I run a volunteer drama club with no budget, and we would LOVE to have this for our musical. Thank you either way.

      Reply
    • Annetta Williams

      Hi I’m teaching a sewing class for my local community and the New York City area I am looking for someone to donate their sewing machine so that way I can have a classroom where I can help young women and young men fulfill their dreams and sewing or whatever they would like to do our company is a non-profit organization we specialize in helping young talent to become the best industrial source that there is in the market my company specialize in holistic clothing which produce products made out of plants however this is one of my websites which you see above so that way you can see what I make myself and you see my work and how I would like to share my talent with others please feel free to contact me if you’re interested in helping us out without of us receiving free sewing machines thank you for your time and consideration I look forward to hearing from you

      Reply
  59. chrishargan@aol.com

    USE IT. . . the old sewing machines may look a bit antiquated, but they were built to last a lifetime. I have a 1903 Singer with a shuttle type bobbin, no electric needed it uses a treadle built that is built into a beautiful oak parlour cabinet.. The treadle has far more control than electricity and yes it sews far faster. . . the machine and attachments produce superb results in straight stitch. Yes I have a modern machine for for button holes etc and an overlocker for finishing. But the old machine knocks the modern machines into a cocked hat and it will still be working far after I have departed the planet. Seriously sewers don’t overlook the traditional machines, they are inexpensive robust and produce expert results. I’ve just purchased a 1940’s industrial machine to use on leather. Seriously guys don’t throw them out.

    Reply
    • Giselle

      One: Change the stitch types. Many times when you are using an old sewing machine, it will be boring because the stitches are the same or the process is the same. You can always just change up the stitch types. You can try something like running zigzag stitches or even just use different needles, which will change the overall condition of the machine as well.

      https://sewingarea.com/to-make-the-most-of-the-old-sewing-machine/

      Reply