Great idea, but I’d need even more shelf space put up.

I have a November and it’s a lovely machine, mine is slightly younger about 1979.

Novum’s were made by Janome, but badged as Novum or New Home to make them appear less Japanese and more sellable to after the War

I would definitely get a qualified electrician to take a look at the wiring inside too. Take the oil drip plate off. It probably needs a good clean under there anyway. There are some really good videos on the internet.

They mostly have rubber insulation which perishes over time. Mine looked like all the wiring was plastered in oil, it was in fact sticky rubber. They also have a large capacitor underneath which was necessary in the days of radio to stop interference. These can now be removed. Definitely get the wiring checked. Also depending on the foot pedal, there may be a capacitor in there too. These can be the main cause of the sewing machine starting itself.

I love mine and it sews beautifully. Enjoy

When I started to sew again about 7 years ago, I couldn’t find what I was looking for in the fabric shops in Tunbridge Wells. However after several disasters and poor customer service I try to rely on bricks and mortar shops, although this involves travel, usually up to London.

My main fabric go to is Stitch Fabrics, either at his fabric sale in Hayes or his warehouse in Wanstead. Dragonfly Fabrics isn’t far and they either have open days, or if we can get a party together they will open up for us, as they are mainly online. Goldhawk Road and Brixton is usually a day out for our sewing group.

For the how, it’s buy what I like and try and buy a selection for my stash. 2 metres for blouses/tops and trousers, and depending on the fabric 2-4 metres for a dress. Rarely do I buy for a specific pattern and where I have, I usually change my mind. Then it’s oh dear, have to buy some more fabric.

The why, I’m my Mother’s daughter and like her have an addiction to fabric. As Oscar Wilde commented “ l can resist anything, but temptation “

The only Sewing Quarter I know of is the shopping channel. I have seen them demonstrating the Britannia overlocker. Their website says that the Britannia CS4000 is in stock. Big advantage is their P&P is £2.95 all day even for sewing machines. Not heard of the others.

I’ve recently made this too. I started a thread as I need to do a FBA. If you need to do one I’ll talk you through it as you have to alter the length at the back and reposition the pin tucks.

I agree with @Fabric Lover, make in a plain fabric as the pin tucks will be lost. I love the style and will make more. It’s very flattering and I’ve had some lovely comments.

Mine dates from December 1945 and is made from real curly sheepskin. Unfortunately, he has lost one arm altogether and the other is off. I don't know what those Repair Shop ladies would have done about that.

I bet they could put him back together and give him a new arm