Whether you have a family heirloom or a thrift-shop find, sewing machines can last generations with a little maintenance and care. Knowing how to restore an old sewing machine is a valuable skill. A newly restored machine is more likely to hold up longer and work more efficiently than a comparable new model. Here are some tips and tricks for restoring an antique sewing machine.
First of all, is it worth the effort? With enough patience, you can make it sew like it did when it left the factory decades ago, or even upgrade it with modern features. It’s worth the effort to restore a machine you already own, or one that is especially interesting, unusual, or inexpensive. If you’ve fallen head over heels in love with a particularly beautiful machine that you cannot live without, it’s definitely worth the time and effort to restore it.
Gather all of the necessary tools before you begin. This includes scrub brushes, lubricants, screwdrivers (both Phillips and flat head), an Allen wrench, and a cog extractor.
Begin by carefully dismantling the machine. Take photographs of the parts for reference as you take it apart. Clean the interior parts, such as feed dogs, shuttle, bobbin winder and other moving parts with dry ultrasoft toothbrush and keep them aside. Use the brush to remove any lingering thread lint or debris stuck in the motor gears. Do not try to oil the gears yet, as most modern lubricants are not suitable for antique sewing machines.
Clean the exterior surfaces with a non-abrasive cleaner, like mild soap and water. Wash the painted surfaces gently but thoroughly. Aim to get the machine’s exterior to its original level of cleanliness and shine.
Once the machine is clean, you can begin reassembling it. Follow the photos you took earlier to ensure the parts fit back together correctly. Make sure to lubricate all of the moving parts with appropriate lubricants.
Finally, test the machine. Make sure it runs smoothly and quietly, that all of the stitches are even, and that the needle runs up and down properly. Adjust the tension and stitch length as necessary. If you aren’t sure how to adjust these parts, consult an experienced seamstress or tailor, or a how-to guide from an online vendor.
Replacing the Top Cover
One of the first things that often needs replacing with an older sewing machine is the top cover. Old covers may be cracked, warped, or scratched and they can detract from the machine’s beauty. To make a replacement cover, use a soft cloth to measure the dimensions of the existing cover, then use an appropriate material to make a new one. Many different materials can be used such as cotton, polyester, polypropylene, vinyl, and even wood for a more unique look. If desired, you can add decorative touches like appliques or tassels to make your machine truly special.
Choosing a Bobbin
An essential part of any sewing machine is the bobbin. It is important to choose the right type of bobbin for your machine to ensure it works correctly and smoothly. Older sewing machines may require special bobbins that are no longer manufactured, so you may need to look for one at a used sewing machine store or online. Make sure the bobbin you choose is the same size and shape as the original as well as compatible with the machine’s tension system.
Fixing a Stuck Bobbin Case
It is not uncommon for the bobbin case to get stuck when restoring an old sewing machine. This is usually caused by gummed up lint or dirt buildup. To free the bobbin case, take apart the machine and use a screwdriver or other tool to gently pry it out. If necessary, use a needle or toothpick to remove any lint from the bobbin case and slots. Once it is removed, clean the case with a soft cloth and gently reinsert it back into the machine.
Cleaning and Greasing the Feed Dogs
The feed dogs are an essential part of the sewing machine. They are responsible for moving the fabric through the machine, and in order for them to work correctly, they must be clean and well-lubricated. To clean the feed dogs, use dry ultrasoft toothbrush to scrub away debris and lint build up. Once they are clean, use a small amount of approved machine oil or grease to lubricate the feed dogs and other moving parts.
Caring for the Motor
The motor is the heart of the sewing machine and keeping it in good condition is essential for a successful restoration. The motor should be cleaned of dirt and lint buildup, and lubricated with a high-grade motor oil. If the motor is not turning when the machine is turned on, check all of the wiring and connections to make sure everything is functioning properly. It is also important to make sure the needle is positioned over the centre of the pin, as this can prevent the motor from engaging.
Replacing the Belts
Belts can become frayed over time or be damaged due to improper maintenance, so it is important to check them when restoring an old sewing machine. If a belt is cracked or frayed, it will need to be replaced with a new one of the same size, width, and thickness. The best way to do this is to contact the manufacturer of the sewing machine to order the correct replacement belt.
Testing and Adjusting the Tension
Once all of the components have been cleaned and oiled, the final step is to test the machine and make any necessary adjustments to the tension. For this, you can use thread and fabric of the type you plan to use for your project. Adjust the tension until the thread feeds evenly through the fabric without puckering or pulling. If the tension is too tight, it can cause the fabric to be stretched or distorted. If the tension is too loose, the stitches may become too large. Once you’re satisfied with the tension, your vintage sewing machine should be ready to sew.
