On Sunday, Chas, Nattie, and I took a day trip to Astoria and Long Beach. It was nice to get out of town and bum around. The weather was clear, crisp, and perfect for a day trip. We window shopped, visited Jake the Alligator Man, and ate old people food (because that’s all they serve on the coast). It was a lot of fun!
Plus, I got to bring home an awesome treat!
In some little antique mall in Long Beach, Chas stumbled upon this really awesome, old sewing machine. It practically looks brand new, and all the parts inside it are pristine. Plus, all the buttons on it just look so cool.
And it’s pink!
It’s a Morse Push Button Zig Zag sewing machine. Model number TZ7. It’s all metal, and weighs about 1,236,785 pounds. I’ve been trying to find out more about this thing, but I’ve had little luck. What I did find out is that Morse sewing machines were made in Japan and distributed by Morse Distributing Corp. of New York. Morse sewing machines were actually made by the man who started the Toyota Car Company, which cleared up why the word “TOYOTA” is stamped into the bottom of my machine.
I’ve stumbled upon a few message board threads about Morse in my research. Everyone who uses a Morse machine loves it. These things are supposedly heavy-duty machines that last forever as long as you take care of them.
I haven’t tried it out yet, but I’m excited to get it all set up. I decided it was worth $10 to order a 29-page copy of the original manual so I know how to operate it correctly and know what it’s capable of.
Did I mention it’s pink!? :)
You can see a gallery of other Morse sewing machines here, and if anyone knows any more information about Morse sewing machines, please drop me a line.
Flapper Girl 
Awesome! That is adorable. :)
I just purchased at fotomatic 4400 today, found your site, replied, and realized most of you have no manual, hope this helps
l. google search: History of Morse/Toyota 4400
2. DOWNLOAD MORSE 4400 SEWING MACHINE MANUAL…
3. Link: http://www.tias.com/173/pickpage/3923740417.html
He has more manuals them the 4400, another one I remember is 7200, and more.
I gave you so much info because I have dis-lec-see-ya, so you have 3 ways to look it up. Monkeydance – Peace
Its me again. I checked the link and it is correct, and there are hundreds of vintage sewing machine manuals to download, just put what you need in the sites sir-urch in-gin, You will still have to look thru the machines to find yours, but if you own multiple old sewing machines you just may have struck gold. I’m not sure but I think all of the manuals are $10.00. Have Fun with your machines
Just wanted to add – the company I brought the machine from also carries “morris/toyota carrying cases. I just got one and they are free (must pay for shipping), phone number is: 877-251-3334. Very helpful, and considerate. Have a nice day (or ngt :) )
ooooh… it is a beauty! Did you get it running yet?
Hi there,
Love your stuff! I couldn’t believe it when my hubbie pulled out a morse push-button he got at a garage sale. It was working, but the stitch length was sooo short, so we fidgetted w/ it, and now it’s no longer pulling the fabric through! How’s your doing? Can you refer me to some of those message boards you’ve had luck with ? Thanks so much :) Julie in San Mateo, CA
If you have a button above the foot petal, push it down, mine was doing tiny stitches and I figured out the foot pressure was not engaged. Once I pressed it down all the way, I could get it to do a basting stitch. yaa
My machine is a Morse 4000 does anyone know where to get a manual??
Katie in cold Mn.
Hello,
I just bought a beautiful very HEAVY, pink Morse today at an estate sale.From the photos I
learned that it is an R5L-P. It was just so gorgeous that I bought it even though I have an ok machine. Very happy to find your sight. I seem to be a bit obsessed with old sewing machines.
This is by far my favorite. I’m going to give it a test run tomorrow. Congrats on your find!
I am uber envious of you! That is the best find EVER! Have you used it yet, (since the post of course)?? And good luck with my giveaway!!! <3
Yeah! It works like a dream :) It’s even quieter than my Janome I bought brand new two years ago.
The only machine I have, that I sew and quilt on is a Morse 7200, that my mom bought for me new in 1969, as a high school graduation present. I have never found a machine I liked better, all these years.
I think I may be a loyal Morse fan :)
Hi Donna,
I found your post while looking for a manual for my Morse 7200 I bought off of eBay. Did yours come with a manual?
Liz
Hi Liz,
Just found your post. Sorry it’s taken so long to get back to you. I did have a manual, but lost it when I moved. I look every now for another copy, but they are hard to come by. Let me know if you find one, and I will be happy to do the same.
Donna
For anyone looking for a Morse manual, try Relics at TIAS. You can google your machine and it will come up. You can get hard copies or download for a price. I got a hard copy, and was very pleased. Well worth the bucks! And they were very prompt in sending my order out. I would highly recommend them.
i just saw a morse at the antique mall and wasnt sure if i wanted to buy it or not….it is $48. it appears to run well also. maybe i will have to run back and get it!
Wow! $48 is such a great deal! These old machines really are wonderful. You may need to take it to a repair shop for a tune-up, depending on how it runs, but it’s totally worth it to have a dependable machine.
oh good, i will go back then. i wish it was a pretty pink, but its an older model. its black and looks like the old singers with the wheely thing on the right
i work in a quilt shop and we have a repair man, so maybe i will bring it in
thanks so much
i will blog about it when i get it and leave a link
Awesome! I’m looking forward to your blog post :)
Thanks for this article
You’re welcome. I’m glad you find it useful :)
I have a Morse 6500 with a built in case purchased around 1975. Thought the machine was unuseable and my sister told me to oil it. Runs like new. I may need a tune up as it has not been used since 1995.
Nice :)
does this machine have 24 cams? I’m trying to find the one I lost – cannot find pics – but it is supposed to be the 6500 with a box of 24 cams thanks
I just bought a blue morse R5L-P in the cabinet at an auction for $5.25! The wires for the plug are shot, so I have not tried it yet. I actually bought it just for the cabinet, took the Morse machine out and it is sitting in my garage to go in the garbage – maybe not now! I was going to try to put my portable Brother LS-30 in the cabinet, but have not figured out how to do that.
$5.25?! Nice score :) Yeah, don’t throw it out!
Hi, I saw this machine while googling images, because I am trying to figure out what type the one I have is.
The one I have says pfaff calanda 650 but looks almost exactly like yours, but not pink. Mine also came attached to a table.
I was wondering if you figured out how to use yours. I am confused about some parts of it, and how to thread it. My standard bobbin is way too small for this machine, it falls right out, unless I am loading it wrong. And I cant seem to find a manual online anywhere.
Hmmm. I’ll send you an email and we’ll see if we can figure it out :)
I have a Morse Deluxe Zigzag 4700 but can’t find a manual for it to learn how to use it properly. Anyone know about these?
Try looking here: http://www.sewusa.com/Sewing_Machine_Manuals/Morse_Sewing_Machines.htm
You may have to go through the different zig-zag manuals, and identify your machine by the illustration, rather than the model number.
Heatherslp I have the same machine 4700 Morse and I have been looking online for the manual if you have any luck please email me at jhough1977carolina.rr.com
I have a Morse Delux Zig Zag 4700. I have the manual as well minus the cover. If you have not found your correct manual maybe I can help.
I am trying to use mine after 20 years non use. It is over 40 years old but looks pretty new. I made clothes for two boys when one was five and one was newborn. They were well dressed for boys until they grew up enough to catch on to the holes in the knees jeans. They joined the ranks of the other kids then.
My reverse is not working and the length of stitches is not changing when I use the dial. Anyone know how to correct that or is there still service for this?
The best recommendation I have is to oil oil oil.
That usually solves most of the problems that I run into when fixing up old machines.
oil, oil oil, I used spray silicone on mine. took two days but now wooks like new. spray and play with everything that moves. I’ll you will make it work. They just don’t wear out.
I received a Morse free off Craigslist and was getting tiny stitches . I was messing with all the buttons and twisted and then push down the nob above the presser foot and I managed to get the stitches to work, you might want to try that.
Hello everyone
I mention I have an old morse 4700 and i was test sewing, my fabric dosen’t move or slide it just sits there I have to pull it through. is that normal for the old machine, and I am pushing the feed button up and down and fabric just sits there, please help.
hi perused your site from the direction of my daughter who has a new passion for sewing and all things vinntage (she is 16) i recently picked her up a morse zigzag deluxe 670 pristine sewing machine, in case for a mere 10$ canadian and unfortunately do not have any user/owner manuals and am trying to track them down. she thought if i emailed you, you might point me in the correct direction. i have tried the links you have on this site with no success. any ideas you can toss at me would be appreciated!
thanks
=)
laura
Hi everyone! Still haven’t found a manual for the 4700 and have tried to get close with looking at illustrations on manual covers but none have the same buttons. We are having trouble with the bottom stitch (bobbin) being loose and we can’t figure out the right adjustment. Any suggestions?
Heather,
Do you need a copy of the manual Morse 4700 still? I have it minus the front cover. Just email if you would like me to scan it for you.
Joy
I would love a copy of a manual !
Chris
Spokenpoet21@gmail.com
There should be a small screw on the bobbin case, that little round thing the bobbin goes in, that you can adjust. When properly adjusted try holding the thread and giving it a little flick with your hand, it should deploy a couple of inches of thread and then stop. For best results adjust by quarter or eighths of a turn.
If the thread is coming out too easy you need to tighten the screw on the bobbin case. use your finger nail and turn it just a little to the right, till the thread comes out the way you want it.
We discovered that we had threaded the bobbin wrong and also went to sewusa.com and for tension adjustments. Works Great!! I also ordered the manual for the Fotomatic II from the same site. It appears to be the closest match to my machine.
Hi Heather! I’m glad you were able to find the info you were looking for. I hope the manual works out for you. Best of luck!
Hello, came across your awesome Pink Morse sewing machine. I recently found a Morse 4300 Foto-Matic machine at my local thrift store for $35. It was the first time I had ever heard of the brand. It is missing the bobbin case, I tried using one from my Brother machine and it seems to be ok. It took me 2hrs to clean it up oil and adjust, it looks brand new. At first, it reminded me of an old 1960’s Toyota with the blue and white colors and chrome parts. I have also discovered that Morse machines were manufactured in Japan at the same plant that Toyota’s were made. I love the beauty of it! I do need to get a manual for it.
I just acquired a Morse Model 4300 from my stepmother’s estate, it’s missing the foot petal and I’m having trouble locating one. Have any ideal? I saw a few sites with manuals, but I need the foot petal first!
I would suggest searching for it on eBay, and maybe keeping an eye out for Morse parts on Craigslist.
I bought mine online. just punch in the machine and part needed. That’s what I did.
Just love this pink Morse. What a great find! Hats off to Chas! Wonderful photos, too. Your comment about the Toyota mark is interesting. The man who sold me mine in the early 70s said it was made by Nissan, or so I remember it. Twas a long, long time ago.
I just rewired (from the foot pedal to the plug) my Morse 7200. Not an easy chore, and the little junction box was not meant to be rewired. But good luck finding a new one. Meme, I would take the machine to a sewing machine repair shop. They will be able to fix you up with a foot pedal. There are generic ones. Pretty tricky wiring job.
Mine’s been good to me. I’ve sewn clothes for me, my children, many curtains, tablecloths pillowcases…so many things.
Wow! I’m impressed you rewired it yourself. I wish I had that skill :) Thanks for stopping by!
I have an old Morse (2000) in very good condition, in a cabinet I’m looking to sell. I was going to post it up on Ebay, but I’m not sure what a good price is? It was my wives grandmothers machine, so it’s sort of got some sentimental value, but I know there are others who would really appreciate this machine. Still runs great according to my wife, and we have all the manuals and everything that came with and some accessories. If your interested send email to jasoncomito@gmail.com. Thanks!
Thanks for stopping by. I hope you found a good home for your machine.
Viewed your pink Morse. I have a blue Morse 105 Deluxe Zig Zag that I purchased in 1952. I had it serviced once in all of those years and it is still the best sewing machine. I would advise anyone to keep their old Morse sewing machines and for the ones who have just purchased one, ENJOY!!
Thank you for stopping by my blog, and sharing about your sewing machine :)
I have had my Morse since I think about 1955, still going, I had not used it for a few years and took it to the shop and it is working well all but the wheel on the right outside you loosen to fill bobbin will not come loose so the needle does not move when you fill a new bobbin, I guess I will have to call the service man to see why it will not work. Just getting started sewing again, fabric has really gone up since I last sewed anything at least 10 yr.
Did you get it loosened up? You might try Liquid Wrench in the joint. Or you could just take the needle out when winding the bobbin.
So glad I came across this site when I was searching for info and images on the sewing machine my husband just brought home. It’s a Morse Push Button Zig Zag sewing machine, model number TZ7 also but it’s blue. Can you believe that someone was going to throw it out? So glad he brought it home. I just ordered the manual and will need to get a tune-up but it looks great.
I’m glad this helped out, and you were able to find the manual :) Thanks for stopping by!
I have the Morse delux zig zag Model 4700. I have the original manual minus the front cover. I need some service on my machine, is it still offered out there?
Joy
I have a model 4700 also. if you’ve scanned it and are willing to share for a small fee please email me at bennettfly@yahoo.com Thanks
Hello all you morse owners i have recently bought a morse model 4700 deluxe zig zag and to i didnt get the manuel could someone plz help me out
Does your machine look like one of these?
http://sewusa.com/Sewing_Machine_Manuals/Morse_Manuals/Push_Button_ZZ_Instruction_Manual.htm
http://sewusa.com/Sewing_Machine_Manuals/Morse_Manuals/New_Push_Button_ZZ_Instruction_Manual.htm
HI!! So glad I found this site. Hope you are still reading reply’s. I am sooooo needing a manuel for the 4100 model, which is the same machine in the pic from your first link flappergirlcreatations. Any chance of an emailed copy?
Hi Joy….I was wondering if I could get a copy of your morse manual…I have a photo-matic 4100…Should be close to the one you have…Please…lol…love the machine
Hi all…
I have just been the proud owner of a green Morse R5L-P, I guess that is the model from what Ive read around here. I havent sat down to try out this thing but bdid plug it in and hit the knee lever…the motor was turning but the belt seemed to be slipping. I hope it works. I am not a great sewer and really just messed around with my mothers old singer when i was little. i loved that too. This machine came with the table too, not the case. If anyone has anything to add about this model please do. Im going in blind :) ..thanks
kathleen
…if anyone needs, i can copy the manual if they need it. (Morse R5L-P)
Kathleen,
I’d love a copy of the manual. I just picked up a blue R5l, no table, in the case. I’ll use it for redoing boat seats and other heavy jobs. I had to replace the belt, and would like to understand the maintainence part before I put it to work!
Thanks!
Hi. Hoping you still check in, as I could really use a copy of the manual as well. I picked up a green Morse R5L at a garage sale. Would really like to oil it all up before I try using it, etc.
Thanks.
Hello kathy…Could really use that manual…Can’t find anything and I love the machine….
Yes, I would love a copy of the morse R5L manual if you still have it. I have been looking for a long time. Thank you char
Im looking to buy any Morse sewing machines. i am in Washington state. if you have one and would like to sell please let me know. my morse is dieing :( and I just love these machines!
thanks
nikki
nikki_cupcake@yahoo.com
there is a Morse 4000 with free shipping on E-bay if you are still looking. No manual tho.
I would LOVE a copy of the 5RLP MANUAL.i can’t seem to get the top thread to catch the bobbin thread.It’s driving me CRAZY!!!
thx,
kathy
Kathy, I just was given a blue Morse Super Dial and am having the same problem with the top thread not catching. Don’t have a manual and can’t seem to find help. I’ve checked the threading and tension. Did you correct your problem? Any suggestions?
Thanks,
Gail
Silly me! I should have responded the next day. My problem was that the needle was in wrong. I checked everything & finally decided to take it out. Turned the needle around and it works beautifully. Love this machine – just wished it was lighter.
Went to a “Free Sale” (everything was free) There I saw sitting in the back of the room a sewing machine, It says Morse Push Button Zig Zag fotomatic sewing machine. Brought it home and plugged it in. Because it was so loud we oiled it then I tried it out. Works like a dream! Came with the manual, a ruffler all sorts of attachments, needles and bobbins. It is a blue color. Couldn’t have been used much as it still looks brand new.
My only problem with it is I need to sew small items out of multiple layers of heavy duty material and the pressure foot does not seem to go up as far as I need it to so as to get all the layers under the needle. Is there a solution for this?
I make Cat Toys for the Farmer’s Markets and for the local animal shelters. I have developed a Super Mouse that must be made from heavy upholstery material.
Any suggestions?
thanks
Linann
Hi Linann…I just bought a photomatic and love it but need a manual…Would you consider a copy…Please
Pound your fabric flatter with a hammer to see if it would fit under better, that is what I do when sewing jeans.
how much did you pay for this machine?
$80 in 2008.
did it come with all the different foots too
No. I bought a box of the Morse foot attachments on eBay later for $8 seen here: https://flappergirlcreations.wordpress.com/2009/04/23/ebay-my-vice-of-choice-since-2002/
I Have a Morse delux zig zag Model 4700 sewing machine but have been unable to locate a manual for this specific model. If anyone has one that they can scan I would greatly appreciate it.
Just had to let you know that we just purchased a Morse Deluxe Precision Model 672 at a local pawn shop. We paid $55. In researching it, I came across your website. Here’s a website that gives glowing reviews of the Morse machines. Thought your readers might be interested, too. Looking forward to lots of years with this pristine, heavy duty machine.
I was looking for a sewing machine cabinet, and happened upon a cabinet for sale with a Morse 15 clone attached for 25.00…on Craigslist. I knew nothing about Morse machines…so looked on the web and came across your wonderful blog…..and several other sites….Hurried to firm up the deal….brought it home….took me several hours to clean it, the entire machine has a fine coating of oily residue on it from sitting in a garage for many years, the wiring from the motor was so brittle that I dared not plug it in….so took the motor off, took it to an Electrical shop for new wiring….cost $31…oiled up the moving parts…it runs beautifully….it is a wonderful blue color….it hums…..it sings…….its wonderful……stitches are perfect……….of course it only straight stitches….I have sewed all my life ( well nearly…mom taught me on her Singer when I was 4…) and to this day I remember the hum of that machine and I have to tell you I have have a feather weight and I’m not at all sure that is sounds quite as good as the Morse!!! I am now a Vintage fan……I also have a Singer 301A another workhorse so to speak……
SO I found this site in my search for “WHAT THE HECK KIND OF SEWING MACHINE DID I JUST GET” and WOW I’m happy. I have the same model, as the pink, the 4100, but mine is white. I got it FOR FREE with table, a old school zip loc with all these feet and parts, and the manual. AND the woman was tossing it, it was her grandmothers. I just wanted the table, I have a working, cheapo brother from W-Mart and wanted a table, and free was the right price. I have no idea if it works, but the woman told me it does, that she used it, but doesn’t sew anymore and has no need for this ‘Ugly thing in my house” I’m SO GLAD I have her “UGLY THING” in my house HAHA.. Any advice, tips, resources anything would be appreciated. It’s SO pretty and looks like it is in amazing condition..
Hi Stacie! Wow! What a find. I wrote a little article for an online mag called Snippets that has a few tips for vintage machines. I hope you find it useful. http://www.cutoutandkeep.net/snippets/issue16/sewing_machines
xoxo
C
Hi Stacey…I have the exact machine and I need a manual…Would you consider a copy…Please…I love the machine….
Hey flappergirl~!
Just found you in a google search. I just picked up a Zig Zag machine, looks very similar to yours, although it’s an ‘arrow automatic’ and not AWESOMELY PINK! Lucky you!
Mine was $15 & the foot pedal is not attached. It is a cord coming out of the pedal, with wire sticking out the other end & we can’t figure out where in the heck it is supposed to be attached! And what is supposed to be at the end of the cord, a regular plug, or… ???
Could you let me know where/how your foot pedal attaches? Or maybe send a photo? It would be so appreciated! It really has us stumped & my hubby is feeling quite stupid right now!
Thank you :)
Sure thing, Charlotte! I just sent you an email :) I hope the photos help!
Would love a copy of a manual !! I have a Morse Zig Zag 4300 Fotomatic 3
spokenpoet21@gmail.com
Thank you for anyone who can help !
I just got a freebie for doing quilt repairs for a friend. It is a morse stradivaro and on the inside of box frame, stamped into the metal 598/s 1246 sewing machine
I have go to sewusa and there was no information or pictures that matched mine, plus I have googled it and have not found one like mine. I would love to have more information on this matchine, I oiled it and it runs so well, and is quiet as a kitten! Some pieces need to be fixed/replaced and would be nice to order parts and fix myself.
Thank you!
Robin
Hi, does anyone know where I can find pictures of the stradivario machines? thanks, Jane
I purchased a Morse Fotomatic III, Model 4300, at a thrift store. The reverse button sticks but by trial and error was able to release it by moving the buttonhole lever around until it hit “1”. Still having problems with stitch length (approx. 20 stitches per inch) but everything else works perfect and the machine is pristine inside (I tooks it apart to see if I could find the problem with stitch length). Don’t have a manual but plan to order one from www. sewusa.com in the near future. Any suggestions for the stitch length issue?
I have a Morse model 1094 TM with the same stitch length problem. The stitch length knob will not move! Have you received any advice on how to fix it?
Pumpkin, have you gotten any information on your stitch length problem? I am still messing with my machine but so far I have been unsuccessful getting a longer stitch. A friend showed me how her Morse will do a one inch tacking or basting stitch. Her machine skips every other stitch when she is basting to tack fabric together really fast and the stitching is easily removed.
After reading this site, I got out my Mother’s old MORSE machine. It is Blue with the number 600 on it followed by WORLD’s BEST Precision Manufactured, Made in Japan. It has the Good Housekeeping seal. It is solid metal (40 lbs) stamped inside with the number F7058291. It came with an optional case that is Black and White patterned with front and back Morse blue with the name MORSE on both sides. The foot petal is separate and has an AC plug. Located in the foot petal wiring is a duplex with spaces for the “light” and “motor” to plug into. I was a kid when my Mom bought this. I remember it was a huge purchase at the time and my Mom had to take a payment plan. That was late 50’s or early 60’s, I believe. I would appreciate any info that anyone may have. Thanks
I have a Morse #31435 bought in 1964 when our son was just a baby.
It is a wonderful machine. Mine is an off while and blue with a case like you described.
Mine has a manuel.
The separate plug is screwed into the side box. Then the motor plug is in one marked motor and the light is into the other marked light.
Mari
I purchased a Morse Model 4300 in 1976 and have had it to the shop twice in all that time. The store was full of Singers and the guy said he’d rather have a store of Morse machines any day. I was given a Singer as a Christmas gift years ago…….and got rid of it lol I love my Morse, you will too!!!
I came across a Morse model 1094 Zig Zag sewing machine at a yard sale and brought it home. Everything works on the machine except the stitch length adjustment knob will not move. I tired oiling the machine to no avail. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to free the knob up so I can adjust the stitch length.
i am from trinidad and just got my first machine and its a mose i just love it
love to know more about it
hi , i have been needing/wanting a sewing machine for a while now bc i love love love to sew. well my husband decided to get me one for mothers day. we went a few places and seen the 2-300 dollars sewing machines and i just wasnt sure what to get. but i did need some more fabric so like i usually do i hit the goodwill store in town looking for fabric and decided to check out there furniture bc i needed and end table. while checking out the furniture i had noticed a cute little wooden table that caught my eye went to look at it and the lady working said ”oh, thats some kind of sewing machine”… :)) i immediately went to it to see it but did not expect to find a beautiful vintage, all metal, white morse 4400. everything was there with it .. so i asked if i could plug it in to see if it worked.. well guess what… IT DID! i fell in love. told my husband this is the one i want and he paid a WHOPPING $15 for it.. its fast, precise and all the buttons work great! i would just like to know more about WHEN it was made and what its worth. if ne one can help, id very much appreciate it..
Hi Barbara, I have owned a Morse since 1964 when our first child was a baby. Mine is model 31435 and
I bought mine new with all the bells and whistles.
I can tell you you got a real great bargain.
According to another blog, it is made in Japan by the man who started the Toyota Car company.
But it uses singer bobbins and parts. It has a Fotomatic zig zag and everything you mentioned.
The foot pedal is made by Mercury Electric Products in the USA.
Hope this helps. Mari G
Today I just ordered a morse 4400 for $125.00 and shipping. I liked the fact that it is “Heavy Duty”, has had a repair job and maybe even new parts, and I could go to the seller with any problems. But I was scared to death because it is used. My husband (dose not know I purchased this machine yet) said I could get a Viking, Sears, Pfaff, because I’ve had two Brothers in a roll rip out on me. I wanted to look up more information on the machine on google and found you guys. Tell me more, tell me more, I’m getting very excited and can’t wait to use it. The seller said that he has been working on sewing machines since 1969. The machine is still listed on ebay, Mine is tan and green, like my kitchen. Didn’t realize, the match until I purchased it. What more could I ask for!
Barbara,
I have the same machine I think. Mine is a Fotomatic Zig Zag in white metal. ALL METAL, HEAVY.
I got this for free responding to a freecycle add. It had all the attachments as well as the manual, if you need anything from the manual let me know, I can email you it as a document. I didn’t try to turn mine on when I got it, I took it right into the shop to make any repairs if needed. I did come to find this blog first, and took the advice. This is what my sewing machine repair man said, He said these machines are AMAZING, work horses and you’ll never want to get rid of them. He said there isn’t much of a Financial need for them, maybe because the ones that are around still work? I don’t know, he said it was worth about $300 (My machine, in the condition) and I’d be lucky to get that.
I have one of those 2-300 Brother machines that I do love, BUT I’ve not touched since bringing home the morse. It’s AMAZING, I love it, it can do just about anything I want it to do, go through layers upon layers of fabric without any hesitation, It’s just perfect. The repair man said all it needed was a good cleaning, he saw some parts that just looked gunked and dirty (We’re in a beach community with a lot of damp air) so he just swapped those out and told me if I ever EVER wanted to get rid of it, he’d be HAPPY to take it off my hands. He made a big deal about it being all white instead of blue as well. I wonder if Blue was more common?
mines an all white fotomatic zigzag as well. ill post a pic of it soon.. do you know when they where made? id like to know how old it is.. but cant seem to find much info about it. i know they where made by a toyota company in japan and i think its from the 1970’s but id like to know the year.. thank you for sharing!
ok, not sure how i can post a pic on here if i can.. but if youd like to see it i can send you a pic in an email..
Hi Stacy,
do you still have the manual that you can send as a document please, if so please let me know what I need to do. thanks so very much
Here is my machine, you can email me too if you’d like, I’ll see what the manual says for year and such..
That’s my machine in a bad photo with huge so cal sunshine glaring in.
my email is Stacie.Finney at Gmail dot com
HI, There I have the same looking machine, but mine is blue. Any chance of getting a copy of your manuel? Many thanks!!
Would love a copy of the manual if possible !!
I have a Morse Zig Zag 4300
spokenpoet21@gmail.com
Anyone figure out if the feed dogs can be dropped?
I just found a Morse model 1692. It’s awesome! I’m pretty mechanical and after checking it out it seems everything is in good working order. But I’m new to sewing. Does anyone know where I can get needles and bobbins for this machine?
Thanks!
Mike
Hi… I’ve got the 6300…unfortunately when I inherited the machine from my mother…it only came with the zigzag foot and the zipper foot and no manual…I’ve had the machine now for 45 years…and I don’t know how it happened but the only two presser feet I ever had, have disappeared into lalaLand…can anyone tell me of a source for replacement feet and maybe a source to fill out the missing feet I never had…also, does anyone know if there are generic parts that are compatible with the MORSE 6300…??? thanks…
Ohhh…yes…I have just got to share this little horror story…
about a year ago…I took my trusty 1957 machine to be serviced (Cleaned)…the technician tried to sell me a new (plastic…???…not!) machine insisting that there were no parts available for it if it broke…and when I refused saying it only needed a cleaning because my perfect, indestructible, made of steel little machine was running like a dream..he serviced it in such a way that it no longer worked properly…the thread tension knob over the needle shaft was set in wrong…I took it back asking why…he fixed something that wasn’t broken in the first place…I got a smirk and a shrug and said I should buy a new modern up to date machine…it took six months before I finally caught up with the owner of the service shop who set things right…talk about nerve…now that took alot of nerve… I love my machine…when my girls were growing up I made their clothes, halloween costumes, school play costumes and more…now I have a newborn grandaughter and I want to do it all again
let’s hope someone comes up with a generic solution to my lost presser feet
thanks ahead of time
viviane miner
I am 99% certain your missing parts are “standard” as vintage Japanese machines, perhaps government driven, used many of the same basic parts. Get a hold of Cindy Peters,
She will have what you need or can get it. Most of what she has isn’t listed in her store:
http://stores.ebay.com/Stitches-in-Time
Ron
Hi! I wondering if you know what the machines are worth? We found one that used to be my grandmother’s and we are trying to figure how much it is worth, would you know of a way to do that?We think it’s a morse duomatic automatic zigzag
Use eBay and completed auctions. From $10 ~ $50 depending on the market. Special care MUST be taken when shipping.
The Yahoo group We Fix It has information in the files. And Vintage Japanese Machines. And answers for many of the the repair questions asked here. And parts.
Ron
I just bought a pink Morse Push Button Zig Zag sewing machine…just like the one you have! I can’t wait to receive it ;) Have you had any major problems with it and do you any advice for this particular machine? I have an Singer from the 60’s and its been a great machine..I just had to get this one as well. It’s a beauty!
Awesome! Congratulations. My machine is still incredible. I have had ZERO problems with it. Ha ha… I guess I better knock on wood now, right? ;) I wrote a little article about some tips and tricks for getting started with and maintaining vintage sewing machines. Please check it out here if you’d like: http://www.cutoutandkeep.net/snippets/issue16/sewing_machines
Thanks! I did spend a little too much for it…but I just had to have it ;) It’s being shipped separately from the original carrying case so it won’t get broken. I have bought another vintage machine in the past and they sent it with the original carrying case from the 50’s and it got damaged. My heart was broken!!! I hope you have a great weekend and Happy New Year!
I need some help. Was just give a White deluxe zig zag machine – no model number, looks similar to your pink one (which I love the color) I need to rewire the foot pedal. How did you do it?
Hi Susan, I’m not sure. Hopefully someone on here will be able to help :) Do you have a trustworthy sewing machine repair shop where you live? They might be the best bet.
Hi, I just aquired a Morris 4400. I would like to oil it but do not know where the oil spots are located. Can anyone help me out with this info? also what should i use to clean it? vinegar?
I just acquired a Morse 4300 at a thrift store ($25 – I could barely breathe until I got into my car, I thought the guy might see how excited I was and change the price! :) ) Anyway I was looking online and found this great site by Stitch Nerd. She explains how to oil a vintage machine:
Also, I can’t find the link to it but there is PDF you can search on Google about sewing machine maintenance that is very useful. It is called “Sewing Machine Maintenance Guide C-102” and is published by the Cooperative Extension Service College of Agriculture and Home Economics of New Mexico State University.
I am wondering if it would be a good idea to create a Yahoo Groups (or other) page and a FB page for owners of old Morse machines. We could all share tips.
Just oil every where that moves and no do not use vinegar just use a clean cloth to remove dirt and thread dust bunnys ..
I have a Morse 6500…no cams or manual…but she sews like a dream. If anyone out there has a manual for this machine…please contact me…I’d love to have a copy…There isn’t one on the net to be found anywhere!!! =(
tonysfdd@ymail.com
I think I saw your manual for the 6500 on Ebay – Cleveland or Akron Ohio area.. I am looking to replace a Morse 6500 I let go of 20 years ago – had bought it in 1974 – didn’t know it was such a good machine – it had a box of cams to change stitches patterns – rows of ducks, etc.. I have looked everyplace for another – do you have any idea where I can find one? Just started a home business with sewing – really want my Morse back !!!
Hi Gail
I too lost a Morse 6500 I bought in ’74 – had a box of 24 cams for stitch patterns – ducks, hearts, etc… I am trying to find one – not easy to do.. however – I did find a Riccar set of 24 cams the look exactly like my Morse did – it is also made in Japan… I am wondering if Toyota made other machines like the Morse and used other names – I have heard that is true… One way or another I have to replace that 6500 — it was the best machine ever and I didn’t know it..somehow I lost it when we moved…. arghhh If there is anyone who knows the answers to my questions please tell me…. and also where to buy one.. thanks!!!
I guess this is the place on the internet for rediscovered Morse machines. I just found a 4300 Fotomatic III yesterday at goodwill in a table for $10 (!) it looked new and seemed like everything was there and working but a little tight. I got it home and adjusted the knee lever so that it wasn’t on all the time.
The mechanical nature of this machine is awesome, it looks like it will last forever and based on other comments it might. I recommend that if you get one of these, oil it up first- each bearing has a tiny hole that can accept a drop of light oil.
For those with a stuck stitches per inch dial you can probably fix it with a flat blade screwdriver. My model has a decorative plate on it which I temporarily removed, then there is a set screw on the dial itself, just back it off a bit to remove it. The reverse button just pulls off and you can remove 3 screws holding the dial internals.
The dial is fixed to a wheel that turns a spiral shaped cam inside the machine. The wheel that the dial turns had bound against the housing so I oiled it and worked it with pliers until it moved freely and then put everything back together making sure to align the dial correctly. Now it turns as smooth as butter.
I’m looking forward to seeing what I can make with this.
Ty !! this post helped alot, I also found this same Model at a Goodwill but for 12.99. Looking for a manual for it since I’m a first time sewer. Think i figured out the bob, but still a little unsure on how to get everything just right.
If you have any more tips, please don’t hesitate.
Chris
spokenpoet21@gmail.com
My husband just bought me a morse 600, and every time I try to sew it bunches up down in the bottom spool. With sometimes clumped up stitching, and not so much stitching at all. I am a beginner in sewing, and is Sadden I can’t get it working
It sounds like you might not be threading the machine correctly (which is a really common thing to do when you are just learning to sew). If you can’t find a manual for your machine online, try taking it to a sewing machine repair shop and ask a technician to show you how to properly thread it. Your machine may also need a simple tune-up. Good luck! xo
Hi, I just purchased a Morse 300 deluxe and am excited to try it. Does anyone know what year this model was made?
let me know how it works. Just picked up a 300 delux at a thrift store. Looks to be mint condition. Even the little oiler can is still in the plastic bag.
i just picked up a morse 4100 in great condition, does any one know if this will sew jeans or even leather
I was gifted an old Morse Zig Zag machine. I’ve been trying to find out what these are worth so I can sell it and not get completely ripped off. I don’t know how to sew and it is crazy heavy or I would keep it. Any responses would be helpful, thanks.
I recently acquired a Morse 300-F Zig Zag Sewing machine. I have no idea how to use it (or any other sewing machine) or where I could take it to have it cleaned up. I plugged it in and it makes a loud noise but nothing moves. It came with extra accessories and decorative design cams. I can’t seem to find any information on this model on the net. Any help would be greatly appreciated, thank you.
I bet it needs oiling and cleaning do a really good job top, bottom, and inside and then try turning the the outside wheel to engage the oil. go real slow so as not to damage the gears.
I love sewing machines. My mother and a designer friend made our clothes. How lucky we were! Excellent post.
I have what I believe is a rare Morse Power Stitch the same model as Pictured on http://www.sewusa.com/Sewing_Machine_Pictures/morse_sewing_machine_pictures.htm I have tried to find a manual but no luck any help would be appreciated. Have taken it to be serviced after I ve owned it 3 years and will finally use it. Thanks Tim
So my grandfather, Phillip Morse, was actually the man who started Morse sewing machines and he was not the man who started Toyota, but the machines were manufactured at the Toyota plant. He was a jewish refuge who escaped from Poland and eventually made it to America, where he worked in a sewing machine factory and eventually started his own company, Morse Sewing Machines. Glad you like it. He made a good product with a lot of style!
Loved hearing about your grandfather. I’ve been having trouble with my machine and have asked friends if they knew a good sewing machine repairer. They right away tell me to get rid of it and get a new one. I tell them “no way, I love this sewing machine”. I’m addicted to it, the sound, the feel, the way it is so heavy and feels like a little sparkly car. I can’t wait to get it fixed and going again, and now I have the story of Phillip Morse to go with it, he made the best machine around!
can anyone help me find a manual for a morse zig zag modle number 38540
I have a Morse push button duomatic zigzag sewing machine model number TZ7 in a 3 drawer desk/cabinet along with its original 29 page instruction manual all 16 rainbow discs all the original attachments and accessories including the ruffler. Its an aqua color. It is in really good condition you can tell it’s been taken good care of. I’m trying to find out more information on what it’s worth because I’m considering selling it. I really like it but in reality I will most likely never use it and it’s too good of a sewing machine to just store. I know there’s somebody out there that would really enjoy using it. Please get back to me if anybody knows any helpful information. thank you
I have this same machine that I picked up on Craig’s list. I am 100% in live with it. It purrs like a kitten.
I have this same machine that I picked up on Craig’s list. I am 100% in love with it. It purrs like a kitten.
Howdy there!! I need help. I have this same machine. Morse Model MZZ… and my 4 year old took the tension knob apart(we have a debate going whether he will grow up to be an engineer or work in demolition). I dont have the manual, my mother in law is looking for it. Is it possible that anyone can help me?
Hi my son just found me a Morse at the thrift store where he works for $5..they tried it out and it sews nice even stitches..so exited to read your comments here as i had never heard of Morse..i was a Singer girl…also i read that many machines have Toyota stamped on the bottom because the person who invented the machine is also the man that started the Toyota car company…anyone have toyota stamped on the bottom..i am assuming that the story is true.
I ‘m still trying to find the disk (cams) set that goes with my Morse – does anyone have any ideas on where to find it….? $5 is incredible to get a Morse…Recently I found mine in a closet – thought I’d given it away 20 yrs ago – unfortunately I did get rid of the cams – didn’t know what I had !!! I had replaced it with a computerized Singer that was expensive and awful – I actually stopped sewing for awhile because it was such a pain – the Morse is the best machine I have ever used (50 yrs of sewing)
My cam set had a white case and somewhere from 18-20 cams – it would make rows of ducks, hearts, squares, all kinds of cool things- made many gifts for baby showers – edging sheets and clothes… sooooo fun. The Morse machine purrs. Hope you love it.
I need help locating a manual for MORSE super dial machine. Dated 1957. It was my grandmothers and I would like to oil it but I cannot find instructions to oil my particular machine. Also the stitch length dial is missing. If u have any suggestions of advice feel free to email me anytime! :-)
Stephanie Altman
Most machines have red dots at places to oil, if not just oil any part that moves. Rotate the side wheel and oil what moves when you do that. Needle shaft parts, then lay on side and oil what ever moves under the machine. After you have oiled everything that moves place a paper towel under machine and under needle and presser foot to absorb extra. Hope this helps. Don’t forget to oil the bobbin case and the post it goes on. Oil on a Q-tip helps with this job.
Hi, I think what you have is a Fotomatic model. I got really lucky and found one in a Value Village for almost nothing. Hope that helps you.