- 1). Find out if the antique sewing machine is rare. A machine's age can have little affect on its value if a manufacturer made thousands of a model that are still available. Some of the earliest machines were made in the 1840s and they are rare.
- 2). Consider decorative value. Some antique sewing machines were painted with appealing flowers and scrolls, and they may have fancy, cast-iron parts. Collectors and sewers are often interested in buying these decorative machines even if they aren't functional.
- 3). Appraise a machine based on historical significance. An antique machine can be more valuable if it was owned by someone significant in the nation's history. A machine's value also may be increased by its historical significance in the industry. For example, Singer made a sewing machine to stitch up wounds in the field during World War II.
- 4). Remember collectors often focus on certain models. Therefore, the value of an antique sewing machine may be higher if it's needed to complete a collection of models made by a particular company. Some people also collect only hand-cranked machines, while others prefer treadles that are operated by a foot lever.
- 5). Learn the history of the sewing machine. This will help you pinpoint when certain models were made and what they look like. Knowing the history also will help you determine a machine's rarity, which affects its appraisal.
- 6). Invest in a sewing-machine guide or encyclopedia that also includes prices. Appraising an antique sewing machine based on auction site or antique shop prices can be misleading. That's because the range of prices can be dramatically different as some sellers incorrectly assume an antique machine is valuable because of its age.
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