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A Guide to Antique Sewing Machines
Sewing machines have been mass-produced
worldwide for more than two-hundred years. Early models featured
unique designs to add beauty and appeal to buyers. The wide variety
of styles and manufacturers make antique sewing machines a favorite
collectible. Because of the quality workmanship and heavy materials
of the early machines many of the antique sewing machines are still
working models.
The antique sewing machines will typically be made of cast iron and
feature the patent information in a visible location. The machines
may have a hand crank or a treadle, which was a flat pedal for both
feet to provide the motion for the sewing mechanism. The treadle
machines would be mounted onto their own table or cabinet, while
many other machines would be in a carrying case and the machine
would be placed on the kitchen table.
Miniature, antique sewing machines are some of the most desirable,
as they are smaller working models that served as salesmen’s
samples, used while traveling or for mending. These small machines
doubled as children's sewing machines specifically for use by young
girls, since they were expected to learn how to sew. Machines that
were intended to be marketed as a child's machine were often painted
in a different color or have floral motifs painted onto the body of
the machine.
Over the past two centuries many sewing machine companies were
successful for a time before closing operations, making for the wide
variety of machines to be found. Many companies were not able to
survive having their manufacturing facilities converted for wartime
use, but also lost to post-war Japan's ability to produce cheap
products.
Singer is the first sewing machine company and continues to have
antique sewing machines that are the most recognizable and most
popular with collectors. The Singer Featherweight model #221,
referred to as the Perfect Portable, continues to be a favorite of
quilters.
About the Author: D. Benjamin is the owner of
iapsales.com LLC - a family business specializing in HVAC products. We
are distributors of
Qmark Heaters,
electric tankless water heaters,
bathroom heaters,
patio heaters, electric heaters,
portable air
conditioners & electric towel warmers. Shop on line at
www.heateroutlet.com for these great home improvement products.
Iapsales.com LLC was established in 2003 and is the sister company to
Innovative Air Products located in historical Exeter, NH. We are a 2nd
generation manufacturers’ rep firm dedicated to providing residential &
commercial heating, ventilation and air-conditioning equipment. We offer
a great selection online at the lowest prices anywhere. We can also be
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