dmc_2008:

the last few times have been outragious.

Some stores always think they are selling priceless antiques. In one of those boutique malls near me, there are sellers that have the exact same things for sell that they had 6 years ago, with the same high prices. They are paying rent on those booths; you'd think they figure it out that they are losing money instead of making a profit. Edey

I had to laugh when I read your post, thanks for that.  Priceless Antiques!  Its funny. 

I read and also have come to realize about Garage sales.  People have them for two reasons, the first is to make money and the second is to get rid of stuff.  You can def. tell right away what kind you are walking into.

;-)

JennyC:

My best find so far is my sewing machine (also found in Atlanta, at a GW) -- I was looking for a sewing maching table that would fit my old portable machine, and I thought I'd found a real bargain when I got one for $30. Imagine my surprise when the "junk" machine in the table turned out to be a fully functional high-end Singer!

That is a great find!  Someone who is competent with sewing checked one out for me at GW and I bought it for $25, took it to someone in the next county for oiling, and a complete going over, etc. and he always puts in a new needle.  It's not a really new machine, probably 1960's or so. 

GW here has a color of the week ($0.99) and a Half Price Color.  Changes every Sunday. 

SA has a color of the week where items are half-price and then Wednesdays they have four or five colors half price.  Furniture is not usually included at either GW or SA on the deals.  SA had pre-Labor Day sale everything in the store 50% off, then a post-Labor Day sale, also everything 50% off.

Prices vary, depending upon which GW is owned by which "chain".  Also, some GW and SA are selling on ebay.  Many have advisors that are antiques dealers.

Here's a picture from Needlebar.org. Is this like yours? The picture makes reference that this could be a dual electric/treadle drive. Singer did make some machines similar to yours that could be adapted to put in a treadle. Edey

http://www.needlebar.org/cm/displayimage.php?album=145&pos=0

stopped at value village, picked up  a bunch of Victoria magazines and some thomas tank engine books.  that value village has buy 4 get one 1 free on books.  spent $21

JennyC:

Do you know of any resources on converting it?

JennyC

I will have to check mine since I haven't used it for awhile, but this also looks very similar to the one I got.  I think mine is labelled a Kenmore, though.  My late brother used to work for Sears and he said their machines were made by the major sewing machine companies.

Picked up a beautiful (newly crafted) Ann and Andy; should have picked up two of each for Christmas presents.  Also picked up tagged colors (50% off) clothes that had sequins and beads with some damage to the work.  I will take the sequins and beads off and have spent less than buying new at the craft store.  Missed out on one dress that was literally dripping with them all over, but glad someone got it who will be able to wear it!  Picked up a big Ziplock of Barbie/Ken/Skipper accessories, shoes, hats, etc.  A delight for a great-niece!

Your wedding dress was an excellent find. Congrats on being so thrifty!  Personally I think several thousands for a wedding dress if foolish, and the industry really takes advantage of the emotional bride.  Edey

When you get into thrift store shopping you have to train your eyes to see things differently than when buying new. You have to look at everything for the many different purposes they might have, like seeing a beaded dress - the material for one thing, the beads for another, buttons and zipper for something else.  Edey

I like going to thrift stores, but I rarely have any luck finding clothes.  Apparently only very small ladies clear out their closets here, lol.