CLASSIC sewing machines are threading their way around the globe as generous donations prove to be at the sharp end of fundraising at a popular hospice.
A rare Singer 222K, spotted by St Teresa’s Hospice eBay specialist Peter Bradshaw, sold for £650 reflecting its exalted status among the craft world.
The first ever portable electric sewing machine, it was one of a host donated to the charity’s string of shops and superstore.
Many find their way to foreign climes, particularly Italy, as the hospice’s eBay shop turns over around £30,000 a year to help serve the people of Darlington, South Durham and North Yorkshire.
“The 222K was the choice of professional seamstresses who would take them to customers’ homes,” said Peter. “If they come in their carrying case with accessories they are much sought after.”
St Teresa’s eBay department sells and sends items across the world. “China seems to like our hi-fis while we have sent quite a few sets of books, such as Dickens, to America, particularly Ohio, where there are streets of antique shops. Italy and Spain take our cameras.”
A railway station clock proved to be another rare find. A repairer’s ticket pointed Peter to a shop in Northallerton which confirmed that it was an original, with a fusee brass movement, and not one of the many reproductions in existence.
Peter said: “We believe it came from Peterborough station and had been presented to an employee on his retirement. It was one of the few pieces we put on eBay as an auction item, starting the bidding at £200 and rising to a final price of more than £900, which was great for the hospice.”