My Treadle Sewing Machine

Pfaff sewing machine

I’m sewing all my costumes and everyday clothes on this old mechanical treadle sewing machine which I inherited from my grandmother. She can’t do any fancy stitches; just straight and zigzag stitches. She was produced between 1920 and 1954 and according to the manufacturer she’s very durable like an industrial sewing machine.

Pfaff sewing machine, treadle, wheel, leather belt

She’s worked by a treadle. The treadle is connected with a large wheel, which is connected by a thin leather belt with the actual sewing machine.

At first, I had some problems with her: getting the thread tension right, get her to work properly, sewing different fabrics like jersey etc. But now I prefer her to electric sewing machines. I like that she saves electricity.  I even can sew during thunderstorms. 😉 She sews less noisy than electric sewing machines. I can sew everything from thin, slippery fabric to heavy wool as well as leather with her. I can sew slow or fast regulating her by the treadle. And she makes nice buttonholes. Lately, I’ve sewn thin silk for a dress, heavy wool for a coat,  a harness for my dog, and even leather for a handbag.

Pfaff sewing machine, treadle

2 thoughts on “My Treadle Sewing Machine

  1. Hi Lina,
    I’ve seen the nice pictures of your sewing machine. You seem to be very excited about sewing with this old machine. Isn’t it very exhausting to work with such a mechanical machine?
    Bye for now!
    Maluba

    1. Hi Maluba,
      at first, it was difficult learning to sew with this machine. But now, I’m rather sewing with this than any other sewing machine.

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