Part 1: Choosing a Singer Treadle Sewing Machine
The Singer Treadle Sewing machine is a highly sought after and popular option for those who love to sew. It is a manual machine, rather than electric and often called a ‘tractor-style’ as the machine has a wheel-driven pulley system. Dating a Singer Treadle Sewing machine can be difficult, as the Singer Company used a number of different manufacturer codes from 1851 to the 1970s to date the machines.
Before settling on the purchase of a Singer Treadle, consider checking for a few key features that all Singer Treadles should have. Firstly, look for a Singer cast iron base, as this is a key indicator of an original Singer. Additionally, examine the Singer logo, as machines made post-1920 should have a ‘zigzag’ logo. The classic Singer machines had an antique rounded shape and black japanned finish.
When it comes to getting an exact date, however, the best way is to examine the serial number. Singer label all their machines with a serial number, also known as a ‘style-number’ and this can be used to determine the age. The serial numbers are all published on the company’s website and the original style-number can usually be found on a plate on the bed of the machine.
In addition to these features, it’s important to check that all the parts are in good working condition, as the machines can sometimes be temperamental and require extensive servicing and repairs. But if taken care of, the Singer Treadle Sewing Machine can be a great investment, enabling users to work with great precision and accuracy.
Part 2: Making Use of a Singer Treadle Sewing Machine
Most singers who use a Singer Treadle Sewing Machine will use it for making garments and performing alterations, but this is not the only use for it. One of the great things about the Singer Treadle Sewing machine is its versatility.
Singer Treadles can also be used for embroidery, from simple hand embroidery to highly intricate machine embroidery designs. Additionally, Singer Treadles can be used for more basic sewing tasks such as quilting and hemming. Treadles can also be used for creating patterns for custom garments, thus providing singers with a more personalised and bespoke look.
Moreover, Singer Treadles are also a great way to get in touch with the past. Artists can make use of the Treadle’s machine to make their own garments, to create modern pieces while still using traditional tools.
Part 3: Advantages of Singer Treadle Sewing Machine
One of the main advantages of using a Singer Treadle Sewing Machine is its reliability and robustness. It’s easy to maintain and troubleshoot, and many of the parts are interchangeable. As a bonus, the Singer Treadles are also quite affordable.
Furthermore, speed and accuracy of stitching are also two significant benefits of Singer Treadles. As there is no electricity needed, it allows singers to work with a more uniform stitch. This is especially beneficial for making buttons, which typically require a more precise and even stitch than many other garments.
Finally, the noise generated by Singer Treadles is much lower than with electric sewing machines. This low noise output makes it possible to sing and work on garments simultaneously, creating a more relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.
Part 4: Precautionary Measures
When buying a Singer Treadle Sewing Machine, it is important to take a few precautionary measures, as there are a lot of counterfeit models on the market. This is especially true of older models, as the company continued manufacturing these machines after they became obsolete. Look for the Singer cast iron base, as noted previously, in order to check the authenticity, as this is a key indicator.
In addition, it is important to also to familiarise yourself with the Singer Treadle Sewing machine in order to prevent any damage and save time in the future. Therefore, it is important to understand how the treadle works and how to operate it properly. As the Singer Treadle Sewing machines are manual, the singer must know how to use the foot pedal and the treadle.
Part 5: Caring for Your Machine
Caring for a Singer Treadle is essential, as this will ensure that it stays in perfect condition and lasts for a long time. It is important to clean the machine of lint, as this can accumulate and cause clogged moving parts and faulty stitching. Therefore, regular cleaning and lubrication of the machine are necessary.
It is also essential to use the correct thread, needles and presser feet. Singer machines have specific needle gauges, thread sizes and presser feet, and using incorrect parts can damage the machine or cause faulty stitching. Therefore, it is important to consult a specialist to select the right parts for your Singer Treadle Sewing Machine.
Part 6: Tips and Tricks
When using a Singer Treadle Sewing machine, it is useful to remember a few tips and tricks. Firstly, when stitching a long seam, be sure to move the needle up and down while sewing. Doing this allows the singer to keep the machine running smoothly, and prevents the machine from becoming overheated.
It is also a good idea to make use of the hand wheel, as this allows singers to make very small adjustments when stitching, which can be very helpful when making tailored garments. Moreover, when sewing curved seams, it is helpful to let the needle down by hand, as this will help ensure an even stitch.
Finally, it is important to remember to practice before starting any project. It is always useful to practice on scrap fabric, as this allows singers to get to know the machine, to practice different stitches and to become comfortable with the treadle.
Part 7: Troubleshooting Issues
As with any sewing machine, things can go wrong, and Singer Treadles are no exception. But with a few basics ideas in mind, many of the issues can be quickly fixed.
A common issue is that the machine is noisy, this can be fixed by lubricating the gears with special machine oil. It is also important to remember to clean the lint from the machine, as this can interfere with the moving parts and cause more noise.
Sometimes the treadle will start to skip stitches, this is usually the result of a worn bobbin or needle. But this issue can also be caused by tension problems or the usage of the wrong presser feet.
Finally, another common issue is when the machine jams, this can be caused by too much lint in the machine or incorrect threading.
Part 8: Maintenance and Upkeep
The Singer Treadles require regular maintenance, as the parts and mechanisms exposed to the elements can become rusty, or damaged by dirt or dust. The exposed parts need to be cleaned and oiled regularly, in order to keep them in good working order.
Additionally, the Singer Treadles need to be oiled every few months, as this will ensure that the parts continue to move smoothly and don’t become overworked. This will also enable the Singer Treadles to remain in good working condition for a long time.
Finally, the presser feet and needles should also be changed regularly, in order to ensure accuracy of stitching. The correct presser feet and needles should be selected according to the project being undertaken and can help to ensure that the Singer Treadle Sewing Machine remains in peak working condition.
Part 9: Repair and Servicing
When a machine breaks down, there are options for repairing it, but it is also possible to take it to a professional repair service. Many Singer Treadles can be serviced and repaired, and there are specialist engineers who can do this.
Whilst there are some repairs, such as fixing jammed mechanisms, which do not require a specialist, more complicated repairs, such as repairing faulty wiring or worn gears, should be handled by a specialist.
It is important to note that this type of repair and servicing can be expensive, so it is always recommended to check the condition of the machine before committing to a repair.
Part 10: Accessories and Supplies
When selecting accessories and supplies for a Singer Treadle Sewing machine, it is important to remember that the original parts and materials are the best. Singer offers a range of accessories and supplies, from bobbins and presser feet to needles and thimbles, that are specifically designed for Singer Treadle Sewing machines.
Using original parts and accessories is important, as these have been designed to work with the machine and can help to ensure accuracy and precision. Furthermore, original parts and supplies are usually more durable and last longer than non-original supplies.
It is also useful to remember that some parts, such as the needles, need to be changed regularly and so it is important to stock up on these. But when buying Singer parts, it is important to check the style-number, to ensure that they are compatible with the Singer Treadle Sewing Machine.
