Collector Piece or Unloved Relic?
Are you planning on digging out Grandma’s old Singer treadle sewing machine? Before it comes out of retirement, you’ll want to know just how much it might be worth. Many Singer models that were made in the late 19th century or early 20th century alongside some newer models can be highly sought after by sewing machine collectors. So it pays to know what to look for when it comes to the value of an old Singer treadle machine.
Treadle machines are generally worth more than their electric counterparts, with value depending a lot on the condition. Many people find the charm and practical efficiency of treadle sewing machines make them desirable. The most desirable models will have been made from cast iron, particularly if the model has ornate detailing or if it is a mahogany model with mother-of-pearl inlay.
Singer treadle machines in working condition usually command higher prices than non-functioning machines. When evaluating the condition you should inspect for any rust, check for the presence of any original parts and assess any damage to the cloth, treadle, tension dial and flywheel. Even some of the signs of intense use can increase the value of the machine.
Mint-condition machines can fetch high prices, particularly if they are in their original cases with the original accessories. A Singer treadle machine that is free of rust in its original paint, with a working belt, intact decals and all original parts can go for much more than a restored machine.
If the machine has been restored, the price will depend on the amount of restoration that has been done and the quality of the painter, as the majority of value will be in the item’s condition. Poorly restored machines can often sell for not much above scrap value.
Manufacturing and Price Variance
The size, manufacturing date and model of Singer treadle sewing machine will have an impact on its value. Models manufactured at the Singer plant in Elizabethport, New Jersey, from 1880 to 1899 will be more highly valued than machines from other locations.
Price ranges for Singer treadle machines can vary greatly from around $100 up to more than $2,000, depending on the model, condition and rarity.
Identifying Special Models
An experienced collector will be able to spot items which have a special value. Special models, manufacturing years and locations have previously held great value, as well as models with rare features, special colours or other unique features.
Collectors who understand the model numbers of machines will be able to determine the exact model and its value. Singer machines all include a model number, and there is a resource that details all Singer model numbers, looks, and descriptions. Knowing the model number should give you, or the person appraising your machine, a good indication of its value.
How to Sell Your Sewing Machine
Unfortunately, not every treadle machine is going to be worth much to a collector – however, it doesn’t mean you can’t get something back off a machine that you’ve inherited. The best way to sell your Singer treadle sewing machine is to research the value and find potential buyers.
You can try advertising in the classifieds of local newspapers or use eBay or one of the many online auction sites to get a good price. If you feel you can do so confidently, you can consider getting an appraisal or attempting to sell to a professional antique or sewing machine dealer.
Understanding Market Fluctuations
As with all collectables, the prices of treadle machines can rise and fall. As this type of machine is considered a vintage item, the market for them is fairly niche. Much like with the stock market, it’s important to familiarise yourself with what’s deemed a ‘good buy’, even if the machine is one you’ve inherited.
If you ascertain that it’s a rare item, then the more you’ll likely be able to get for it. If you’re extremely lucky, you may even own a rare machine in such condition that it’s worth a fortune.
Pricing Strategies
The Singer name commands a premium price and while treadle models used to sell at a premium, they now tend to be cheaper than their electric counterparts in the same condition.
Quality treadle machines at auction can often go for prices many times the value of a new machine, but in order to sell a treadle sewing machine at a premium price, its condition needs to be perfect – any imperfections will most likely lower its value.
Educating Yourself
For ordinary everyday households, a treadle machine can be a great piece of history. Even if you don’t think your machine is worth much, remember that with proper maintenance, a treadle sewing machine can last for generations and can provide delight for many years to come.
In the end, buyers should do their research and educate themselves about any machines they buy. While the market for old Singer treadle sewing machines is fairly niche, there are still many collectors out there who actively seek out such machines. Knowing the condition and the value of the machine can help you much better understand its market worth.
Looking Beyond Vintage Design
Treadle machines are simple and fun to use, but they do still require periodic maintenance to keep them running smoothly. Any potential buyer should factor in maintenance costs when they investigate the machine’s value. The undercarriage of a treadle machine should be checked for metal fatigue and metal dust should be wiped away before oiling the treadle hinges.
The main benefit of treadle machines is their unique design, which many people will find attractive. But it’s important to consider the practicality of the machine before investing too much in a vintage machine as modern electric versions offer far superior performance.
Promoting Renewal and Preservation
In this digital age, it’s just wonderful to know that the crafts of the past are still be respected and valued by so many people. Even if the machine doesn’t find its way into a collector’s home, its parts can still be recycled and reused in other parts of a home machine or incorporated into other sewing projects.
Younger generations too may appreciate these vintage machines as a way of celebrating and preserving the skills of the past. These machines may even prompt renewed interest in the craft that our ancestors working on them, helping to contribute to a global pool of creative skill.
Contemporary Quirks and Trends
Some of the machines that are not so desirable, due to wear and tear, may still be valuable to certain buyers. A treadle machine, hooked up to an electric motor, can still offer a great deal of practical convenience as well as a unique look.
These old machines also offer a combination of modern and classic qualities that can be interesting to work with. The options range from machines with detailed decor, intricate features, decorative scroll work and unique style, to those that simply need a little bit of loving.
Flexibility and Versatility
Singer treadle sewing machines can be employed for a range of purposes from basic hemming to intricate projects. As the machines have a small footprint, they can fit easily into any living space, even those with limited space.
Some machines can be converted and adapted to become electric, creating a ‘hybrid’ sewing machine while others might be best off receiving some tender love and care to become a valuable collector’s piece.
Treadle machines offer a unique combination of flexibility, durability and reliability. While these machines do not come with as many bells and whistles as modern electric counterparts, they tend to have fewer problems and more reliable components, making them popular among sewers of all levels.
