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Current Singer 201 restoration. Singer is now running after lubrication (video to follow). Still removing dust dirt and grime, it seems like it has a layer of dried oil on the outside that is flaking off. Attempted to remove some rust on the bobbin plate and got some discoloration... don't know what that is. #singer #restoration #sewingmachine
in reply to AI6YR Ben

As soon as I get all the crud off the outside here it's moving inside. (can't move stuff inside until it's clean, LOL). There's a good layer of dried oil on the exterior of the case, not sure if they wiped it with oil on purpose and it all dried, or they were very bad at oiling the machine.
in reply to AI6YR Ben

The whole purpose of this machine is actually to reupholster this Eames knockoff chair. 1970's era. It has seen better days. I salvaged this for free off the side of the road in the trash when it had just one small tear in it. Now, it is falling apart. #reupholstering #furniture
This entry was edited (2 months ago)
in reply to AI6YR Ben

So, why did I go and pay $40 for this Singer? Apparently these things are well known for handling upholstery.. leather... canvas... Crazy capability (straight stitches only), rock solidly built, and maintainable. #Singer #sewingmachine

youtube.com/watch?v=AN3W0y0bc3…

in reply to AI6YR Ben

So, aside from the bobbin winder rubber o-ring, also ordered a (bright) LED lightbulb replacement from a random seller on eBay. Given most of the time I spend on sewing machines usually is trying to thread the needle, light would be helpful, LOL. I have been ordering from small sellers on eBay as much as possible instead of sending money to Uncle Bezos, even though I'm sure I'm filling some other billionaire's pockets with transaction fees. #sewing #sewingmachine #restoration
in reply to AI6YR Ben

Hmm, look, they have needle threaders for these. 🤔 Wonder if I should invest in one. youtube.com/watch?v=dDIDqztSwx… #sewing
This entry was edited (2 months ago)
in reply to AI6YR Ben

These are also needle threaders, and cheaper. Or make your own using a fine gauge wire.

Stick these through the needle eye. Hook or thread the sewing thread through the tool, pull the doubled thread into the eye of the sewing machine needle.

If the eye faces you, front-to-back.
If the eye looks sideways, read the manual.

The usual problem threading needles is fraying thread, with stray wild fibers.

Cut your thread blunt with a sharp scissor. If that doesn't work, a wad of beeswax work like hair pomade to tame the fly-aways into a pointy end.
When sewing delicate fabrics like silk, cut off the waxed end bit (half inch?) to avoid a stain.

Or vision, after 40ish. Drug store reading glasses work.

This entry was edited (2 months ago)
in reply to AI6YR Ben

You can also use generic needle threaders. They work on any type of needle, not just ones in this machine.

amzn.to/43NltDY

Here's my strategy for threading sewing machine needles:
1. Lower the presser foot.
2. Lower the needle, so it's about 1-2 cm above the plate.
3. Grab the thread between thumb and index finger in your dominant hand.
4. Scoot the hand along the surface of the machine, aiming the thread toward the hole in the needle.
1/2

in reply to Cecilia Mjausson Huster

The machine holds the needle in place and supports your hand while threading. That makes it easier to thread a sewing machine needle than threading a loose needle.

2/2

in reply to Cecilia Mjausson Huster

@mjausson Interesting. My issue is getting the end of the thread in through the small little hole. It's the little wispy parts not going through the hole and misdirecting the thread.