I bought a vintage dressform years ago. The fabric covering was tattered, and when I took it apart, it was padded with cotton batting and old newspapers. The form underneath was made with paper tape. The newspapers are from Boston and WWD from Dec. 1930 to Jan. 1931. Pretty much dates the dress form. yes, I saved the papers!

You must always have your pressure foot down when adjusting your machine tension. If you just try adjusting it willy-nilly with the foot up it is sure to mess up your machine. I come from a long line of dressmakers, and have a degree in design. I got one of my sewing machines as a graduation gift in 1978, and even using the machine professionally, it has never had to be services. I just maintain it by oiling it regularly.