“I have an old White sewing machine around here somewhere.”
I don’t know much about the White brand, but I have several Singers from the mid 50’s. 401a is the model I know the best. My mom always sewed on one when I was a kid and I’ve found several of them at thrift shops for my kids. They almost always work, even if they are dusty and need some lubricant.
I insist that my brood all know at least the basics and have their own machines, both sons and daughter. You never know when you’ll need to mend a ripped duffel bag or create a carry case for your new whatever. And then there are all of the numerous upholstery projects I have completed all over the house. It is very liberating to know you can do that for yourself.
And it is not that hard to learn. It just takes time, which we now evidently have, and patience. Sewing can be very relaxing, if you have the right mindset about it.
My mother sewed on one of the White machines until shortly before her death in November.
She set the example, unfortunately not many people in the family followed it.