Niche parts are tricky, you could try Helen Howes she may have dismantled a less desirable machine and have some.

I've been thinking about selling a Bernina 530-2, its a really cute machine in lovely condition, and I dont deserve it really because I don't love it as much as my 500a. But it is a sweet heart... does a handful of stitches really beautifully, and has all its parts. Drop me a PM if youre interested.

thats brilliant! thank you because because the 401 and the 500 are reasonably similar!

Yes please Roger. This machine will be a keeper so I will be looking out for any of the missing bits. That can be a challenge when you don't know what's missing. Lol.

I'll take a look tomorrow, and see what I have do you have a straight stitch (small round hole) or multipurpose (wide hole) throat plate?

I know I have a load of cams for stitiching

I should have some mixed and assorted feet too.

As an aside have you looked inside the case top? on mine there is a little set of drawers tucked in the lid that has all the parts in it. you have to lift the drawers as they are caught on a little bump. if you dont have I may have a spare set of drawers too.

I'll pm tomorrow with what I have.

Roger

I'm a little bit purist.. part of the enjoyment for me is trying to get the machines back to as close to showroom as I can (not especially close), disposable items like belts and cables I'm happy to replace but a lot of the notions and attachments are just better quality if theyre vintage.

Machines I'd love - err I'd love a 316 - a 320. and maybe a 531 (a natty freearm slant shank thats still a mostly metal build but does chain stitch. would I be allowed these? errr nope... and of course a 301 in beige 2 tone.... and a Lotus 66....

Take it slow Tim, as they say measure twice, cut once...

It takes a little practice. I’m not a great sewist but I’ve made a couple of things I’m proud of.

With belly dance kit, that is often heavily adorned and handmade - apparently the preferred freshening techniques are - throwing it in a freezer overnight or spritzing with a mix of water and vodka...