I was cruising Craig's List tonight. I found this photo in an ad.
The machine is lovely and the treadle irons look to be in great shape. I don't know if it is a 31-15 but it certainly is an industrial strength. But one could never, ever sew with it. Unless a little carpentry were involved. Or it is possible that the top is just sitting on the treadle irons and all it would take would be a quick switcheroo ????
Oh dear, sometimes the ignorance hurts me, sooooo much.
This pic makes me feel dizzy!
ReplyDeleteI had to take a second look before I 'got' why you said you couldn't sew with it, there is no 'gap' in the top for the treadle belt, right? (see - I am learning!) Was it possible once upon a time someone just used the hand wheel to sew?
ReplyDeleteNot quite. The wheel on the treadle stand must be positioned under the balance wheel on the machine. The machine is mounted backwards on the treadle stand. An easy fix.
DeleteIt looks exactly like my 31-15, which is going to a friend. I had to look over at my machine before I noticed it was backyards, LOL!
ReplyDeleteD'oh! :P
ReplyDeleteThat would take the longest treadle belt EVER. Hopefully they just screwed the top on backwards. 4 screws, easy peasy.
ReplyDeleteIs there a hole in the table for the belt to pass through? Even with it backwards, I don't see how thats going work. I've never seen an industrial with decals either. Can't wait to find out more.
ReplyDeleteI don't see holes. Yes, some industrials had decals. I may call about it while I am in Asheville. Maybe not. Just to see if there are holes.
DeletePlease could you do, or link to, a post which tells us the jobs that should be done on a vintage machine before using it? I have a 201k which looks in reasonable condition, but I don't want to damage it. ( not what's in the table at the bottom of the stairs, lol, I still don't know what that is) thanks for sharing your enthusiasm, you gave me confidence to believe that a vintage machine is still a viable option as a workhorse. :-)
ReplyDeleteJoin the Yahoo groups WEFIXIT and look through the files. Lots of info there. When I can I will write such a post. It's a great idea.
DeleteI do believe.... it is mounted backwards on the iron. Seem to recall when you look at a Singer treadle from the front the Singer on the iron would be left to right ie readable with the handwheel over the treadle wheel. The holes should be that spot just under the handwheel and the other should be close to the BW (other side from the camera) Just turn the table 180 and perhaps it will look normal
ReplyDeleteYou are correct.
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