Treadle sewing machines are beautiful and reliable tools that can make mending, quilting and other fabric projects effortless and enjoyable. They employ classic and robust mechanical parts, so they require a bit of maintenance. Oiling a treadle sewing machine is one of the main steps in ensuring its longevity and smooth performance. This short guide explains the process in detail, provides some useful advice and resources for further research.
Before you start, make sure your sewing machine is clean of any lint or any threads left from your last work. Cleaning should become a habit after every project, as dirt and particles pile up over time and form a protective blanket that can interfere with the proper functioning of the sewing machine. It’s recommended to put a drop of oil in all important junctions that are reachable without dismantling the machine.
The most important thing is to use the proper kind of oil. While searching for a lubricant, look for the words ‘singer machine oil’. This type of oil is created specifically for use on Singer treadle machines, and it works better than generic sewing machine oils.
To oil the treadle sewing machine, you need to prepare a rag that will absorb the excess oil during the process. Grab the bigger parts of the machine carefully and slowly apply oil to all rubber parts while pedaling. Make sure to use a surgical grade brush with bristles as small as possible to avoid flooding the machine with oil.
Next, apply oil to the gears and the main shaft. Make sure to turn the flywheel in both directions for an even application. You might notice some scraping or creaking sounds coming from the machine – that’s perfectly normal and it indicates that oil is doing its job and lubricating those parts.
The next step is to oil the bobbin and bobbin case. Oil comes usually with a little squeezable bottle, so use it sparingly. To reach the bobbin and bobbin case, open the needle plate, remove the bobbin case, add a few drops of oil and reassemble the machine. Lastly, carefully slide the bobbin up and down and turn the hand wheel a few times.
The most important reminder is to cover the work area with a drop cloth or other protective sheet and always be prepared for the possible mess that could happen. Make sure to avoid oil coming into contact with fabrics, as it can cause discolorations and can also damage some types of fabrics.
Further Maintenance
Aside from oiling, other maintenance tasks might be needed in order to guarantee the perfect working condition of the treadle machine. One of the key components you should pay attention to is the tension spring. If you’re confident with taking apart different parts of the treadle machine, the spring could be easily changed – although some specialized assistance is usually needed for machines of advanced age.
Aside from the replacement of certain mechanical parts, threads, needles and other sewing accessories should be frequently changed in order to avoid the eventualities resulting from wear. Depending on the frequency of use, treat these components like a consumable and always have a few spares on hand.
Tips & Tricks
Thread a treadle sewing machine can be tricky, as there’s no handy thread spool, but the process is rather simple once you know the basics. Have a handkerchief or a cloth close by for collecting the leftovers and place the fabric in the back part of the machine, as the thread tends to slip away too often in the opposite direction.
Singer roller bearing treadles tend to be the preferred mechanical machines for professional stitching, as they allow a smooth rotation of the hand wheel and provide a perfectly stable platform for intensive projects. A Singer treadle machine is a great tool for sewing with medium-weight materials such as cotton and canvas, but you can also process wool with the right combination of needle, thread and skill.
Supplementary Resources
A Singer treadle sewing machine is a century-old mechanical stalwart, but luckily you can still find tonnes of resources with practical advice and useful tips. Free downloadable manuals, videos, tutorials and maintenance advice abound on the internet. Also, a vast array of accessories, tools, spare parts and unique thimbles are available for customizing the Singer treadle machine.
In conclusion, Singer treadle machines are resilient, reliable and efficient tools for sewing enthusiasts and professionals. Knowing how to oil and maintain these masterpieces is essential for achieving excellent results when working on a project. Take your time and enjoy the timelessness of a Singer machine, without worrying about potential mechanical hiccups.
Accessories & Tools
In order to provide a guaranteed service over time, it’s important to ensure that all accessories and tools for the treadle sewing machine are in working condition. You should have spare needles and bobbins of the right make and size, as well as a set of extra tools to make adjustments or fix accidental breakages.
Another useful way to be always prepared is to use a bobbin winder – a nifty machine that can rewind the thread in no time. Customization with tattoo-style needles, elaborate thimbles and other tools is a great way to add an unique touch to the Singer treadle machine.
Safety Protocols
It’s essential to be careful when lubricating and taking apart the parts of the treadle sewing machine. Safety first, so make sure to keep your safety gloves and reading glasses nearby. It’s also smart to keep a first-aid kit in the same area where you’re oiling, in order to be prepared for small accidents.
Be aware that certain components might be sharp, so you should keep them away from children and other unauthorized persons. Prevention is the key for enjoying your Singer treadle machine for many years to come and without worrying about potential damage.
Final Thoughts on Oiling Singer Treadle Sewing Machines
Keeping your Singer treadle machine regularly oiled is crucial for its performance, but also for preserving its aesthetics. While oiling, take care to use only the right kind of lubricant and apply it sparingly to all moving parts. If you’re looking for advice on how to oil a treadle machine, there are plenty of resources on the internet that provide useful guidance.
When oiling, remember to take your time and be mindful of the possible mess that could result if oil drips on the fabrics or other parts of the machine. Lastly, have all necessary tools, accessories and spare parts on hand to ensure a great stitching experience for many years to come.
