Alfa Alfa Compakt 100

This is a mechanical machine built to take up less space than a standard domestic model: the manufacturer describes it as a quarter narrower and two kilograms lighter than a conventional machine, with a free-arm structure. It sews twelve stitch designs, chosen with a dial, and makes buttonholes in four steps.

Upper thread tension is set with a dedicated control, and presser feet are changed with an adaptor that simplifies swapping them. The kit includes a darning plate, a buttonhole foot and a half-shank foot for narrow 5 mm zippers.

It is a first machine, suited to someone just starting out or looking for a light backup kept within reach for small jobs: the few adjustments and twelve stitches are enough for hems and repairs, not for elaborate garments or demanding stretch fabrics.