Old featherweight singer needle won't go up and down. Think pieces of thread may be behind bobben holder. What to do?

Lucky you!

First thing to always try is a brand new needle. A lot of sewing machine problems are due to an old, dull, bent needle.

Most likely the machine has been knocked out of time--the needle and hook are out of sync. Search for sewing machine timing or take it or service.

https://singer-featherweight.com/blogs/schoolhouse/how-to-thread-a-singer-featherweight

Don't know if this will help:

Singer Featherweight 221 Needle Clamp Thread Guide

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Hi. I did not have this exact problem with my Featherweight. My machine was not stitching properly (top stitch looked so-so, but lots of thread bunching on underneath side of fabric). I took it to repair shop and learned that I was threading the needle thread on the wrong side of the metal plate which is part of the take-up arm (I do not think that the threading instructions make this distinction). After the repairman pointed out the problem & threaded the machine, it made a proper stitch.
My suggestion for this issue: check the bobbin threading. My bobbin has to be inserted so that it turns counterclockwise in order to catch the down thread.

The top thread breaks
1. the needle thread is not threaded properly
2. The needle thread tension is to tight
3. The needle is bent or blunt
4. The needle is incorrectly inserted
5. The needle thread & the bobbin thread are not set under the presser foot when starting to sew
6. the threads were not drawn to the rear after sewing
7. The thread is either to heavy or to fine for the needle

sometimes when you break a needle it can cause the machine to
jump time, the machine would have to be taken to a sewing machine
shop to be checked by the technican

I tried looking up your machine by google, and what I think is yours is a Singer 319w. If, I am right, you can get a manual for it at www.sewingmanuals.com and download one for $10. They show a picture of it, and if it matches you will be in luck. If, that is not your machine, call Singer at 1-800-4singer and you can get a manual for it from them, usually $15. plus s/h. You can get parts for it at www.sewingpartsonline.com also. Good luck & have fun

Sounds like it is out of time. I recommend you take it to your local repair center.

The needle goes in with the flat side on the left and you thread it from right to left ,hope this helps

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check out this. good luck. thanks.

Hi Terry--

If your machine is 40-50 years old, it might be a Singer Featherweight portable. (If it is, you have one of the very best machines ever made!) On the Featherweights, the flat of the needle faces left (and the needle is threaded from right to left). The bobbin goes in a bobbin case; you'll see a small notch when you look down on the bobbin in the case. That's where the thread goes. I'll email you direct with more information.

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