Antique Sewing Machine Makeover
I have had this treadle singer for many years. It dates back to 1902. The top was not in good condition so it needed a makeover. After considering the options I decided to use chalk paint and update it's look.
I cleaned the piece thoroughly. I lightly sanded the top where there was damage. TSP does a great job cleaning the surface. That's the beauty of chalk pain. It usually doesn't require much sanding if any at all. And there are very few fumes with this paint. I did my project right in the hall and it didn't permeate the rest of the house.
Look at all the attachments including a button holer. And I have the manual.
I used a blue chalk paint. There were several places that didn't cover but after the second coat it was perfect I was still learning and didn't realize that the second coat should be diluted with water. Oh well. It still worked very well. Drying time is only about two hours between coats. Then the next day I used a white wax to finish it. Leave it another day or two to completely cute
And here is the finished product. I left the under side original because didn't want to pain the iron work.
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Jennifer Ann Mendez on Aug 03, 2019
We took an old sewing machine base and an old ammo box from the Korean War era and turned it into a desk or entryway table. All we did was attach it to the base. We purposely left the ammo box untouched because I wanted it preserved as original but it cost me the price of the sewing machine base and $20 for the ammo box. Love it.
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Catherine on Aug 04, 2019
Wi inherited my Great Grandmas treadle sewing machine and it still works...makes the best quilts!!! My husband has replaced the belt for me a few times. Antiques are what teach our children the past . this machine will go to my Niece....
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Karena Stetson on Jan 31, 2020
Where do you find parts for that? I was just given one my aunt had in her garage. I’d like to restore it as much as possible.
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Frequently asked questions
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Could you also just lightly sand it a bit and put a coat of clear polyurethane over it to make it look original?
Love It!!
Mine is from the 1850’s it doesn’t have drawers but It has the sewing machine still! What did you do with the sewing machine?