Disadvantages of a treadle sewing machine?

Answer 1

The disadvantages are that it isn't quite as fast as an electric, and depending on it's age, they may not make the bobbins for it anymore. (the very, very old ones from pre-1870 may even need a special needle!) The White Vibrating shuttle for example, they don't make bobbins for them anymore. Another disadvantage is that there aren't any decorative stitches to them. Unless you find a zigzag attachment, and that's about it. Another is sometimes it can be hard to find attatchments without the 'collector's' price tag on them. They are also heavy, so you may need help to get them up a flight of steps, unless you know how to break a treadle down and reassemble them. Most treadles can not reverse, so when they stop, to back stitch, leave the needle down, and turn the goods around and sew a few stitches.

The advantages are that they are very solid machines. It takes a lot to make them stop working, and often are pleasing to the eye with gorgeous decals. I call them "A Clydesdale in the clothes of an Arabian" Another advantage is since they don't use electricity, it does not matter where you put them. They also stop as soon as you stop pedaling, so speed is easier to control. They are simpler, you don't have to worry about buttons to press, or touchy electronics to mess up.

If you are looking for a treadle to use, I recommend looking for a Singer 66 side clamp model, or a similar one. (Back clamp model 66 is a bit harder to find attachments for.) The 66 is the most common so it is easier to find, it has a simple drop bobbin mechanism so it's easier to load a bobbin. Since it's most common you won't have to worry about 'ruining a valuable antique.' Majority of low shank attatchments will fit (with exception for zig-zag and buttonhole foots meant for zig-zag capable machines of course, ) so finding attachments is not nearly as hard. Bobbins are much easier to find, as well as parts for it. When looking for a treadle to use, as opposed to sitting and looking pretty. make sure you can get 'hands on' with it. Try turning the hand wheel. If it sticks up slightly but mostly runs OK, it just means it needs cleaned and oiled. If it can't turn, or is very very hard to turn, it's too frozen up for most people to deal with. It's only valuable as a display piece, or as a parts machine, depending on decal condition.

If you find you are displeased with a treadle, you can mount an outside motor onto the head, especially if its a 66. Simply screw on and put the belt in place and you are ready to use it as an electric.