How to Use Singer Treadle Sewing Machines

Singer treadle sewing machines are more than just a collectible. These machines work by foot action and don’t require any electricity. They were produced by the Singer Manufacturing Company around the end of the 19th century. Many of them still exist today, some in service and others in collections. Key features include a flat face plate and split side plates. Most models look very similar. They were painted in Japan black lacquer and decorated with nondescript floral patterns and eye catching decals.

The most popular type of treadle sewing machine produced by Singer was the 127 “vibrating shuttle.” These machines were equipped with a treadle stand and featured various gold decorations and a long bobbin. Singer treadle sewing machines were manufactured between 1885 and 1912. Some models had three options for power, including an external electric motor, a hand crank, and a foot treadle. Early treadles were for just one foot.

Keeping your treadle machine sewing smoothly takes some practice. Raise the presser bar lifter to lift the presser foot while sitting in front of the machine. The fabric must be placed under the needle. The chair should be at a comfortable height for your machine cabinet. Place your feet on the treadle pedal. Treadle the sewing machine to fill your bobbin. Make sure the feed dogs are raised to the surface of the machine. Prepare some fabric samples such as heavy denim, medium-weight twill, and lightweight cotton fabrics. This will help you work on feeding fabric evenly.

Turn the balance wheel towards you using your right hand. At the same time, move your feet in a pumping action. Try to establish a continuous movement by alternating the pressure of the heel and toe of both feet. Allow yourself some time to get used to the movement. Keep the hand-wheel spinning and let your feet continue the movement. Put a piece of fabric under the presser foot. Try to make your sewing machine work smoothly in a forward direction until you reach the end of the fabric. Practice with the bobbin and upper thread removed from the machine to get the rhythm and feel of the treadle.

Become familiar with the parts of the sewing machine. Don’t run the machine unless you have a piece of paper or fabric under the needle. Learning how to use Singer treadle sewing machines is a rewarding experience. These machines make stitches that are superior to those of a modern electric machine. Think in terms of five to 10 minutes of practice at each stage.