Kenmore 158.18023 No. 3

Some machines exist such that upon purchase, a legitimate question might be whether their purchase is machine or reputation.  In my case and just two days ago, I yet again seized the opportunity to buy another Kenmore 1802(3), my third.  Is this a blog or a confessional?

I'm not even very good at sin but the virtues of the subject at hand are about as straightforward (and now, straight-stitched) as one might wish were a habit, Catholic or no.  The 1802 series of machines are legendary amongst the Kenmore faithful.  After an Annunciation of sorts on CL, I scurried to that modern manger (the suburban office park with no room for the Subaru and a hike in the rain) and middle manager who accepted the pittance for my Indulgence, this mint green beauty that came home with Papa:

The machine is in near-mint condition except three tiny paint dings on the bed, another tiny one on the pillar, and a missing plate insert: the niftiest Kenmore contribution to ornament our cultural firmament.  The 1.2 amps are suitably smooth, yet slightly growly.  The attachment tower is complete: presser feet, tools, monogrammer, 30 cams, buttonholer.  It even includes the chain stitch attachment.

Why did I buy it?  Because it's in great shape, was inexpensive ($35 for this much mass-produced sewing greatness may not seem a screaming deal until one sews with an 1802), and it was close -- just 15 minutes and a bitter, officious receptionist away.

Besides the missing insert, the width knob needed a slight tightening to keep its place without vibrating to a smaller or wider stitch while sewing.  The seller informed me the machine has, like, totally major tension issues.  I smiled and agreed that the problem was potentially gnarly.  With my stash of odd thrift store fabric remnants growing each month, this machine will be put through its paces.   

I confess to an adrenaline rush every hoarder feels to his/her bones.  My drug of choice, I suppose.  I recently read a CL advertisement for a Bernina whose author stated she felt bad owning 3(!) machines.  What a strange world we live in.