Episode 9—My Love Affair With Necchi Sewing Machines

My collection of vintage sewing machines began with a Necchi BF purchased locally. This petite machine once belonged to a professional seamstress, and I'd like to think she is happy that it is still being used. I cover the history of this Italian sewing machine manufacturer and talk about the various models, many of which I own.

StyleArc Linda pants pattern
5 out of 4 Patterns Nancy Raglan
Jennifer Lauren Handmade Juniper Cardigan
Lark Tee

Necchi website
Necchi history
Necchi sewing machine models
House of Gucci—scene with Lady Gaga and Jared Leto with Necchi machines in background

Necchi Facebook Group moderated by Sharon McCarthy Keithley—the group is private so you have to submit a request to join.

Sharon notes the following about the Necchi models and dates I mentioned (I knew she would come through for me!): I 'm not sure that the BD was the first NECCHI. I try to wrap my wits around why V. Necchi would have made a class 15 machine and then gone back to a vibrating shuttle in the "V" model - both V models, one in the 20s and one in the 30s. My Vs use the same bobbin spindle as a Singer 27 VS2 from 1900.

For the 1950's models, there were the Noras, maybe Lelia series and Mirella, but Supernovas started in the mid 1950s right on top of the Miras; replacing them and continuing on into the 60s. I also think that the BU and BF were both from the 1940s and probably around the same time. I don't have time to dig in on the dates. WWII 1939-45 was probably a dead spot in sewing machine production for NECCHI. There were Nazi concentration camps in Italy during that war. I take that into account when trying to figure out the timeline for the NECCHI machines.

I try to find manuals dates and other clues for when machine models were introduced. I think Vittorio tested the waters early on, not venturing too far out in deep water. He copied a lot of successful Singer features, as did other manufacturers. I'm glad of it for the sake of needles, bobbins & cases, bobbin tires, belts....

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Janet will be teaching knitting classes at Sew Expo 2024 in Puyallup, Washington!

Janet is teaching at A Clean Stitch in Missoula, Montana in November and December. The Lark Tee class is scheduled for November 14-15 and the Harper Cardigan class is scheduled for December 8.

Janet is teaching a pants class at Regal Fabrics and Gifts in Spokane, WA on Friday, November 17.

Janet Szabo’s website
Big Sky Knitting Designs website—Purchase digital copies of Janet’s knitting patterns and order copies of her books.
The ‘Suck It Up, Buttercup’ Blog—Janet’s commentary on life in Montana