Value of White Rotary Sewing Machine from 1927
People from all over the world cherish vintage items, especially those associated with the crafting industry. During the American industrial revolution of the late 19th century, a plethora of machinery was created for domestic use. The 1927 White Rotary sewing machine is one such unique example of the domestic machinery used during this renowned period in the United States’ history.
These White Rotary machines are known for their sturdy builds, rotary bobbin system, and the steady hum of their engines, bringing a sense of nostalgia to those who have used them and remembering the days when sewing was a much more omnipotent and mainstream hobby. But what is the value of these vintage machines?
Experts have valued the 1927 White Rotary Sewing machine at being worth around 500 dollars in good condition, due to its vintage status. This is a more moderate example among many online sellers and antique stores – some stores may even go as high as 800 dollars for a fully functioning machine. It all depends on the condition, whether all the components are in working order, the model, and other variations should be taken into account before giving an exact estimation.
Collectors, antique buyers, and sewing fanatics alike have gone onto the likes of E-Bay, Etsy, and similar websites in search of these rare antiques. Many have boasted of their experience, describing the ‘amazing find’ and the nostalgic atmosphere of using a White Rotary example. It’s no surprise that some people have invested a few hundred dollars for a machine, as finding a fully functioning machine is quite the achievement.
The brand of White was noted for its quality and longevity, being able to last centuries with proper maintenance and care. The White Rotary era was renowned for its capabilities and the sheer craftsmanship involved. It was quite plausible to be able to make something from their machines which failed to look amateur, having users marvel at the intricate patterns and stitches created.
This, combined with its overall rarity, makes the 1927 White Rotary Sewing machine an item of value, regardless of its price. Many passionate sewers and antique hunters state that the cheer, joy, and nostalgia they get from being able to use and even just see a functioning White Rotary machine is worth all the effort and money they’ve gone through.
Year Manufacture of White Rotary Sewing Machine
The White Rotary machines were first manufactured between 1934 and 1942, and the 1927 White Rotary machines followed shortly after. However the first rotary machines ever produced were quite expensive and designed for industrial use (often found in factories and textile mills), so it was not until the 27’ model when the machines were intended for domestic use.
The period between 1915 and 1955 saw the most success for White Sewing Machines, when their user base grew exponentially, providing a more economic experience for people looking to earn an extra income, requiring little to no knowledge of sewing and machine experience.
Since the 27’ model was quite the success, various updates and improvements were created by White. First came the 30’s updates where the bobbin system was improved and the motor was strengthened, resulting in faster stitch speed. Then came the 34’ model, when the machine itself underwent a casing and sort of cosmetic improvement. By 1935, the White Rotary machine was one of the most popular models used by households across America and earned the ‘Household Hero’ distinction awarded by the US Government.
Components and features of White Rotary Sewing Machine
The 1927 White Rotary sewing machine is one of the oldest of its kind. It weighs a modest 37 pounds and measures approximately 16 inches in both height and width. Its main purpose is for tailoring and mending, although it is possible to fashion garments with it as well. Its defining feature and the reason for its name are the rotating bobbin and shuttle, which create the chain stitch.
Some other components include a needle, side lever, tension adjustment, treadle, belt and drive wheel, rotary position lever, stitch guard, reverse switch, bobbin winder, and a dial for adjusting the speed. The needles for this machine can take a maximum thread size of 12 so more delicate fabrics can be used in its stitching.
The 1927 White Rotary machine is managed by a hand treadle and an electric motor, which allows the user to sew at variable speeds and have the freedom of sewing under direct sunlight, or any place with no electrical access. It’s features secures the machine with an overall user experience that is easy to manage and is easy to use, allowing anyone to become a pro at the machine in no time.
Maintenance of White Rotary Sewing Machine
Maintaining a White Rotary sewing machine is quite the chore, but it is much like maintaining any other machine from the era. Firstly, it is important not to use oil on any of the parts as it can make synthetic materials brittle over time. Try to use a cloth for cleaning, which avoids using any other cleaning chemicals at all. Oiling is only recommended for the parts inside the machine’s body, such as the shuttle and bobbin, where it is advised to use a a tiny drop inside these parts.
It is also important to clean and oil the bobbin holder often to ensure that the machine runs smoothly. Make sure to check and replace the needle as often as possible, since this is the part used to make the stitches, and should be kept as sharp as possible. Lastly, the motor should be cleaned and examined for safety every few months. This includes checking the electrical connections and making sure the belt is tight enough.
Restoration of White Rotary Sewing Machine
Many people have set out to restore a White Rotary sewing machine, with some having immensely successful results. People tend to order restoration kits from various online stores, which contain various replacement parts, such as new needles, drill bits, screw drivers and dremel tools, which all help with the entire process. However, the most important part is the motor, which requires complete inspection and cleaning before any work can be done.
To restore a sewing machine, one should first clean the surface, take care of rust spots, making sure all the screws are tight and checked for any rust spots. Next comes oiling the shuttle and shuttles, as mentioned above. All of the mechanical parts under the casing should be thoroughly reexamined, cleaned or replaced according to their condition. Next, it is important to make sure the electrical motor is working, and should be tested with a multimeter before securing the casing back on the main body.
Uses of White Rotary Sewing Machine
The 1927 White Rotary sewing machine was first intended for tailoring items, mending clothing and creating simple garments, such as shirts and skirts. This is primarily due to the needle size and the speeds that one can sew. It is possible to use thicker thread for heavier fabrics, however this is not recommended for the machines overall longevity.
By using the White Rotary sewing machine, hobbists and professional sewers can create intricate designs and patterns with the chain stitch – the unique pattern the machine produces. These patterns can be done with either a monochrome option or by adding several colors together in one stitch, making it aesthetically pleasing to look at while also containing multiple colors.
The White Rotary sewing machine has also been modernized, as antique followers have purchased these vintage machines and modified them to fit in with an aesthetic of a workplace or to become a decoration piece in one’s home. Many of the machines have been repainted and decorated, making one of a kind pieces for the collector to show off.
Facts about White Rotary Sewing Machine
The age of the White Rotary sewing machine puts it at a special place in the market, as it is a great example of the craftsmanship from the past, and gives a profound insight into the age of industrialization and how it moved the world of sewing forward.
Due to its age, the White Rotary machine has also been featured in various exhibits, such as an exhibit held at the Smithsonian Institute in 2012 which featured female inventors. Additionally, the machine was also part of an exhibit held by V&A in 2017, covering the history of domestic machines in the U.K.
Finally, the White Rotary sewing machine has also been featured in various TV shows and books, due to its importance in the history of crafting. It has become one of the pioneers of the era, inspiring many future inventors and crafters.
