Where Can I Sell My Old Sewing Machine?

So you have an old sewing machine sitting around collecting dust. Maybe you upgraded to a newer model, or you just don’t sew as much anymore. Either way, that old sewing machine is taking up space and not being put to good use.

You’re probably wondering: where can I sell my old sewing machine?

The good news is you have several options to sell an old sewing machine, whether it’s newer models just a few years old or a true vintage sewing machine. This guide will walk you through the pros and cons of various places to sell, plus tips to get the maximum value.

Online Marketplaces

One of the easiest places to sell a sewing machine is on an online marketplace like eBay, Etsy, Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, Letgo, or Craigslist. The major benefit of these sites is exposure – you can reach a huge audience of buyers.

Some drawbacks are you’ll have to handle shipping logistics and may encounter flaky buyers. Be sure to take good photos and write an accurate, detailed description of your sewing machine’s condition, features, and included accessories.

eBay

eBay is the largest online auction site and gives you access to millions of buyers. You can auction your sewing machine for maximum exposure over several days or do a “Buy It Now” fixed price listing.

Be sure to calculate shipping costs beforehand. Only accept secure payment methods like PayPal. Require immediate payment upon auction end to avoid non-paying bidders.

Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace allows you to list locally to sell to buyers in your area. This avoids shipping costs. Meet in a public location and accept cash payment. Inspect the machine thoroughly before the buyer takes it.

Etsy

Etsy focuses on vintage, handmade, or specialty items. Listing fees are inexpensive. Great option for selling vintage sewing machines to collectors.

OfferUp

OfferUp is a local buy and sell app. List your sewing machine for free and communicate directly with interested buyers. Meet locally so no shipping hassles.

Letgo

Similar to OfferUp, Letgo is a local marketplace app. List your sewing machine for free to sellers nearby. Meet in public for the transaction.

Craigslist

Craigslist has free local classifieds. Create a detailed post about your sewing machine and be prepared to email or call responders. Ask buyers to meet at your home or a public place.

Sewing Machine Shops

Local sewing machine dealers may be interested in buying your old machine, especially if it’s a quality brand and model. The benefit here is speed and convenience – you can get cash immediately without dealing with packing and shipping.

The drawback is sewing shops won’t pay top dollar like you could likely get selling online directly to buyers. But for a quick, low-effort transaction, it’s worth getting a quote from a couple dealers.

Pawn Shops

Pawn shops are another local option. They specialize in buying used goods and making loans with the item as collateral. As with sewing machine shops, pawn shops will give you cash quickly but won’t pay premium prices.

Pawn shops are best for quick cash in a bind, not maximizing profit. Call around to a few pawn brokers and see what they’ll offer.

Antique Dealers

If you have a truly vintage, antique sewing machine, consider specialty antique shops or dealers. Make sure to research your model’s manufacturing date – generally 100+ years old qualifies as an antique. Rare, collectible sewing machines can sell for high dollar amounts to the right buyer.

Antique dealers can assess your machine’s history and help connect you with serious collectors. This is an ideal route for very old and valuable sewing machines.

Garage Sales

Having a garage, yard, or estate sale is a time-tested way to sell household items locally. Advertise your sale around town and in local newspapers.

Price your sewing machine competitively but fairly based on its age and condition. Garage sales work best for more common, affordable machines. Unique vintage models would be better sold through other methods.

Sewing Machine Collectors

A niche option is connecting directly with sewing machine collectors. These enthusiasts may pay generously for rare, coveted models.

You can find collector groups online through forums and groups. Describe your make/model and request a fair offer. Meet locally with the buyer to complete the sale.

Scrap Yards & Metal Recyclers

If your sewing machine is broken beyond repair or extremely outdated, scrap metal recycling may be the way to go. Even old machines contain some salvageable metals like steel, copper or aluminum.

Scrap and recycling companies will assess the weight of your machine and pay you a few cents per pound. It’s not much but better than throwing the machine away. Remove any attachments first if possible.

Factors to Consider

Before choosing where to sell your sewing machine, think about these key factors:

• Condition – Better condition means higher selling price
• Rarity – Vintage or rare models have more value to collectors
• Brand – Well-known brands like Singer, Kenmore, Brother have higher resale appeal
• Testing – Fully test machine to confirm all functions work
• Age – Antique 100+ years old commands higher prices
• Attachments – Include all original attachments and accessories
• Photos – Good visuals attract more buyers
• Shipping – Calculate costs if selling online and shipping
• Documentation – Include original manuals if possible

Knowing details like these will help you choose the best marketplace and set your asking price accordingly.

How to Take Photos of a Sewing Machine for Sale

Great photos are essential when selling a sewing machine online. Follow these tips to take stellar shots that attract buyers:

• Take photos in bright, natural lighting. Outdoor shade is ideal.
• Get eye-level with the machine. Avoid overhead “bird’s eye” shots.
• Capture multiple angles – front, back, sides, close-ups of details.
• Open compartments to show attachments, accessories, features.
• Photograph any damage or flaws for transparency.
• Shoot on a clean, solid backdrop like wood or concrete.
• Use a camera or smartphone with high resolution/megapixels.
• Edit photos to improve lighting, crop and straighten as needed.
• List photos in a logical order highlighting best features first.

How to Write a Good Sewing Machine Listing

Your words can make just as much impact as photos. Follow these tips to write an effective online listing:

• Headline – Make it short, descriptive and keyword-rich (the brand, model, features).
• Description – Thoroughly detail condition, age, functions, flaws, attachments.
• Keywords – Include key specs like stitch count, motor type, dimensions.
• Accessories – List all accessories and attachments included.
• Condition – Be honest about cosmetic flaws and signs of use.
• Testing – Note that you fully tested the machine and all features work.
• Meet-up – For local sales, specify you will meet in a public place.
• Shipping – For online sales, provide shipping costs and your policies.
• Returns – Define your return/refund policy.
• Payment – Specify your accepted payment methods.

How to Clean and Prepare a Sewing Machine for Sale

A clean, well-prepped sewing machine is infinitely more attractive to buyers. Here are some tips:

• Wipe down the exterior with a mild cleaner and lint-free cloth.
• Use compressed air to remove dust from crevices.
• Clean old oil and lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
• Test stitch at multiple settings to check functions.
• Oil moving parts like foot pedal hinges.
• Replace old needles with new ones.
• Check power cord, foot pedal, drive belt for any wear.
• Make sure light bulb works if machine is illuminated.
• Include accessories like foot pedal, power cord, manuals.
• Fully wind a bobbin so machine is ready for sewing.
• Cover machine with bag or packaging for transport.

Taking these steps makes your sewing machine shine and shows buyers it was well maintained.

Pricing Your Sewing Machine

Setting the right asking price is key to selling your sewing machine quickly. Consider these factors:

• Check completed eBay listings for sold prices of similar models
• Seek appraisal from sewing machine dealer for fair market value
• Consider original price, accounting for depreciation over time
• Factor in condition – excellent, good, fair or poor
• Vintage machines may sell for higher than original MSRP
• Common entry-level machines have lower resale value
• Rare or collectible models can command premium pricing
• Minor flaws and signs of wear and tear bring price down

Price on the higher end of your range to leave room for negotiation. You can always go down but it’s harder to increase an initial low price.

Where to Sell Sewing Machines Locally

If you prefer to avoid the hassle of selling online and shipping, here are some options to sell sewing machines locally near you:

• Sewing machine dealers – Shops focused on sewing machines will assess your model and make a cash offer.
• Pawn shops – Quick cash option but typically only 20-50% of resale value.
• Thrift stores – Those accepting sewing machine donations may purchase items outright.
• Antique stores – Shops with a vintage focus are ideal for older models.
• Flea markets – Rent a table for a small fee and sell to shoppers.
• Garage sales – Advertise your sale around town to attract crowds.
• Classified ads – Local online groups and newspaper classifieds.
• Craigslist – Post on the For Sale section but vet buyers carefully.
• Facebook Marketplace – List your machine for local pickup only.
• Nextdoor – Hyperlocal app connects you with neighbors.

The key is finding buyers convenient to your location so you don’t have to worry about packing and shipping logistics.

Should I Get My Sewing Machine Serviced Before Selling?

Having your sewing machine professionally serviced can maximize your selling price. It’s a good idea if:

• Your machine has been unused/in storage for many years
• It’s been having issues you can’t personally troubleshoot
• You lack the technical skills for tuning up machines
• The model is rare or antique and needs delicate servicing
• A serviced machine will give you peace of mind of quality and condition

The cost of a servicing may eat into your profit margin. But a fully functional machine in “like new” condition after servicing could actually increase the price.

At minimum, be sure to clean the machine and test all functions beforehand. Disclose any issues you can’t fully resolve.

Is it Worth Selling a Cheap or Old Sewing Machine?

For very inexpensive or extremely old sewing machines, selling may not make financial sense after factoring in your time and effort. Consider donating old machines if:

• Machine is in poor condition and needs repairs you can’t do.
• Brand has low resale appeal and limited buyer interest.
• Model is outdated or obsolete and lacks desired features.
• Your local market is already saturated with similar machines.
• The hassle of selling isn’t worth it for less than $50 profit.

For these cases, look for charities, schools, or organizations seeking sewing machine donations rather than trying to sell. You’ll still free up space while supporting a good cause.

Key Takeaways

Selling an old sewing machine is convenient and lucrative when you use the right methods. Keep these tips in mind:

• Research online marketplaces like eBay and Craigslist to reach the most buyers.
• Local options like pawn shops and sewing dealers offer quick cash.
• Maximize value for rare vintage or antique sewing machines.
• Price competitively based on market value and condition.
• Photograph and describe the machine thoroughly in listings.
• Prepare the machine by cleaning, oiling, and testing before selling.
• Disclose any existing wear, damage or functionality issues upfront.
• For common low-end models, consider donating rather than selling.

With a little effort you can give your sewing machine a new home and make some extra cash too. Just choose the selling method that aligns with your goals. Happy sewing machine selling!