Expert: Irene Schwall - 6/7/2010

Question
QUESTION: I have inherited alot antique fabric etc. from my grandmother in law. I found something called a Jiffy Stitcher in its original box- instructions included. Can you tell me about this item and perhaps its worth?

ANSWER: Hello Melissa,
The little Jiffy Stitcher was a hand-held sewing machine. I do not have much information on it, sorry.  I believe it was an item that was popular in around the 1940's.
I am sorry I have no idea on value.
I'm going to ask a few collector friends to see if I can come up with a bit more information for you.  Question:  does the instruction sheet have a patent number or date anywhere?  If it was patented I can put you in touch with the patent research site and they will have all of the information that you are seeking.
Regards,
Irene


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Irene- I checked everywhere on the box-instructions-even on the tool itself- but no dates or patent #. It does say Jiffy-Stitcher Company, Inc. Offices: Los Angeles, Calif. And under the product name on the front of the directions it says Trade Mark Reg. Thanks for checking for me.- melissa

Answer
Hi Melissa,
I'm in CA so will follow up on the LA info. if still available.
Irene

Hi Melissa,
I found a short blurb about the Jiffy Stitcher:
From the BILLBOARD Vol. 61 No.12 dated March 19th 1949
A Hollywood ad agency called Smith, Bull and McCreery for Jiffy-Stitcher. They were quoted as saying -- see attached.
It seems that this little sewing gadget sold for $3.95
I'll keep looking.
Irene