My “new” old machine

Ever since deciding to try and start a sewing business, I’d been on the lookout for a sturdier sewing machine.  I had thought about an industrial, but they are VERY big, sew VERY fast, and are VERY expensive.  Then I got wind of vintage machines.  I’m sure it’s no secret that things were made MUCH better back in the day  . .. they were actually made to last.  Sooo, I started trolling Craigslist for a machine.  I kept seeing this listing, for several months.  After discovering that it was hailed as one of the best machines Singer made, I decided to take a look.

I, of course, sat down at the machine and was going to attempt to sew using different fabrics and needles.  Alas, I couldn’t figure out how to get the thing threaded correctly.  (As it turned out, the manual with the machine was for a different machine.)  I went ahead and bought it since it looked to be in good condition, and the mechanism was so smooth, like butter.  I was sure that it was user error and not a problem with the machine.  Turns out, I had the needle in wrong!

Anyway, that was on Sunday.  I’ve spent the better part of this week cleaning it up, taking it apart, basically, getting in touch with my inner gearhead=)  There were a few scary moments, “should I remove this screw or not?”.  So far, haven’t done anything I regret.  Plus, there is a vast amount of documentation available online for refurbishing old Singers.

The machine isn’t perfect just yet.  I’m having tension issues, so I’m trying to figure that out.  I also need to check on the wiring to make sure there are no faulty wires.  I live wire + a metal machine = major problems!

In any case, I’m totally chuffed about my purchase!  Oh forgot to mention that it’s a Singer 201-1 (I think).  So it used to be a treadle machine that was converted to electric.  The serial number indicates that it was manufactured in the 1930’s . . how cool is that!?!?!?

That reddish glow on the faceplate is the reflection of my shirt=)

All of my “refurbishing” tools.  I’m kinda thinking maybe I should something other than soap and water, but I’m not sure!

Oh, and it came with the VERY rusty, but original treadle table.  I’m thinking I’ll do something about the rust, refurbish the table, and replace the top so that it isn’t just plywood.  It should be a nice little table.