So a while back, I was working on getting some singer 66 sewing machines running, and here is the test run on the motorized unit using a new needle and a new bobbin
This is #12 tent/tarp/sail canvas folded to 8 ply, because I couldn’t fit 12 plies under the foot. She took it like a champ. Gonna make a tent, baby!
I’m gonna do so much stupid shit with this thing, like oh my god
I want everyone saying they want one to know that you can find one of these or something similar at just about any charity resale or thrift shop for dirt cheap. People turn the treadles into tables and discard the cabinets and machines. Which is crazy because the machines usually only need a good internal cleaning/oiling and a new needle/bobbin to be mechanically sound even if they look like a rusty POS at first glance.
I put this one on a base box from this gentleman and added/replaced a universal motor/footpedal kit for my local electric voltage like this one. Choose your oiling syringe, or use a wooden skewer or chopstick to dip and drop. Net result is this is now a portable (if heavy) machine that I can set on any table.
For less money than you would pay for a new plastic machine that is designed to break down in a few years, you too can put a vintage cast-iron beauty (or ugly duckling) back into service, it’ll handle much thicker fabric and even tarpage and leather, and it will still be running long after you and I have expired.
I just picked up one of these lovely machines! She’s in her original table, with manual, I’m just still learning how to make her tick.
I’ve got great news! The manuals are free to download from the International Sewing Machine Collectors Society!
Youtube university is also a great help for threading and lubing
