I wanted to accomplish a few things with this purchase:
1) a machine that I could sit in front of the television with next to DH that wouldn't make noise,
2) a machine I can still use if electricity goes out (lol),
3) a great piece of history I've fallen in love with, and
4)a project for my DH and the boys to "bond" over.
A special note, DH was thought of to head this project (other than now that I have it I've become afraid of it) is b/c he used to do a lot of woodwork and talks of getting back into it but never seems to get around to it. Boys and he need to bond more and they are interested in helping me or him or both of us so it's a win-win if DH goes for it. I hope it will accomplish getting him back into working with his hands while getting good time with the boys. My biggest hurdle is letting them do it how they want if I get his help.
Which goes back to the $50 I bought this for. Chances are, it will not be refinished to look like a 108 year old machine and base should look for it's age, but will wind up with replacement part & wood which will make DH want to make it all look the same in age & condition and I'm okay with that if #4 is accomplished in the process! I think it will also help later when I want to get one but have it restored to what it should look like for it's age to have this less expensive starter project out of the way. (I know, it's a bit wacky that I just called this a starter project!)
I don't know if that made sense, all I know is I have this idea and I hope DH is interested but if not, I'll roll up my sleeves and get to work this spring. Wish me luck. Here's the current before pictures (along with those two boys I mentioned).
ps - I told J if he touched that machine or table with the hammer, he'd better run so he said I had to post the photo!
Hi!
ReplyDeleteRead your post through OST and even though I can read, I can't post. It says I'm not a member :) Anyway..
I've done my share of singer restorations and I do have some tips for the machine itself but I'd have no idea of the cabinet! Old Singers' finish can be cleaned up with baby or mineral oil..and if the machine doesn't move you can douse it good inside with WD-40 until you can work the handwheel. Make sure to wipe this off, however..re-oil with fresh oil when moving.
As for the cabinet, that's something only a husband and two strapping boys can do lol. Good luck!
Lori PC
Congrats on your purchase! The machine's decals are gorgeous - it will be wonderful once you get it all shined up.
ReplyDeleteAnd the woodwork? It does have a long way to go, but I think it's super that your first priority is your menfolk ;-) and not necessarily the glam factor!
I can't believe it was only $50. SCORE!
thanks Lori! The machine parts do move, but sluggishly. It's got dirt and grime everywhere. Even the base is starting to rust. It looks to me like part of it, although not all had some water contact (couldn't go so far as to say damage) which enabled warping and rusting along the way.
ReplyDeleteDH used to do carpentry work so I'm hoping his long buried expertise will find it's way out of the memory cobwebs.
I think overall, we will have fun with this and that pleases me as much as the price! :D
that is just gorgeous!!!!!! $50 - gee can i go shopping with you!!! what a find :D :D :D
ReplyDeleteyou'll have to post pics of the restoration and blog it - i would LOVE to follow your journey with her
hugs
g