Kind of funny how I ended up with a treadle. I was looking for my first Janome machine, and this was the only one within my budget. I had no idea what a treadle machine was.... so I actually bought it by mistake. Turns out I'm keeping it, because I want to learn how to use one. I ordered a table, and it's out for delivery. I am soooo excited! All I need now, is the belt. Your videos have been super helpful... thank you.
Thank you for this video - the only one that made sense to me. Have old machine with no knowledge of it. It's sitting on carpeting now and not sure it will have full movement.
Jean, I know your comment is from a year ago. I had an interest in Treadles 20 yrs ago. Heidi's video series has renewed my interest in looking for one and learning about them Food 4 thought: if sitting on carpet you'll likely need to place a piece of hard surface underneath the units feet. Otherwise the carpet may infringe on the foot pedal range of motion. The hard surface will help mitigate that.
I found out simply because I felt certain somebody must be doing it so several years ago I went to hunt down a company that did and in a few minutes, I found Janome. So happy I did! :)
Love the humming sound of a treadle machine. Also the original name was New Home, so if someone finds a new home- it's just the old name for Janome. I have three Janome's- I do have a Singer treadle machine too!
So true! I found a New Home sewing machine at a thrift store for only $10.71!! It has all the bells, whistles, and attachments. Research shows it was made in 1980 and its selling price then was $3000!! I love it! PS I do have a model 66 Singer treadle and am sewing on it too!!! I was born 150 years too late. :)
To make a rubber belt you can use window washer hose that is used for the car sprayer. I start with a 6 foot length and then stretch it so the pulley does not slip and then cut it to length. Then use a 3/4 " long screw to lock the ends together. Cut the head off of a 1 inch sheet metal screw and then grind the ends smooth and round off each end. Turn the screw into one end and put the belt on the machine. Twist the hose counterclockwise then twist the end onto the screw clockwise. Put it on the small pulley first and then on the big drive pulley. It works great and does not slip like a leather belt does. I found that metal part that gets in the way so I took it off of mine as it is not needed.
Hi Heidi, this video has been a great help to me as my brother just gave me an antique Singer. I have been cleaning it up and will have to put a belt on it so the visual you gave is very helpful. Even if I never use it I want it in working order and besides it is a beautiful piece of furniture. Thanks for the tutor.
So glad this can be of help! Those antique Singers are so beautiful, I would still love to have one just as an art piece - and a back up if I ever needed it :)
I have the exact same machine...my husband made a very simple top for the wrought iron base, drilled two holes for the belt to go through and painted it white. Love that I can sew if the power goes out too!
Thanks for the visual. It helps a lot. I have an antique machine, I'm just looking for the cabinet and treadle right now. I can't wait to have one again. When I was young I learned to sew on a singer treadle. I'm coming full circle. I am totally excited about it! Peace and blessings.
always wanted a treadle. my grandma had one. love the sound. was afraid to purchase an old used one. never know if you can find parts or someone to fix
Thank you Barbara, trying to keep up here as my channel is multi faceted since there are many aspects to a more self sufficient life style. I get lots of requests for various things - which I do appreciate! :D Because of my very busy schedule, I have to make the videos when I am already needing to make or do whatever project. I will be starting a series on the basics of crocheting and I do have more how to sewing videos coming in the future.
Thanks to you...I learned about the Janome treadle sewing machine. I had never heard of them... until last week from one of your video's. I order one Sunday, and got it two days later. Today, I picked up the table for it. I was looking for the "how's to" mount the Janome to a sewing table. Do you also have a video that will help? My table does not say singer. The treadle machine is a Wheeler & Wilson. (side note: Both table and machine are beautiful. And the machine works. It came with the drawers full of old goodies from the 1800's including corset string. ) :) Thank you so much for your helpful friendly video's.
I do have a video on how to put on a new belt and I actually have a new how to sew on a treadle coming out next week and I did show one small thing about how the installation of it may be different for whatever table one has, but have yet to do one of the installation in general. That is a good idea for a video and I should put one together!
I was really interested and surprised to find that someone makes a treadle machine. I remember my grandma using one, but she went to the nursing home when I was about 4 and all of her belongings were sold.
Sad! I do wonder if there are other companies making them besides Janome, but they were the only ones I found. Had never even heard of the company until I went shopping for "New Treadle Machine". Love it though, great machine! :D
We have an antique treadle cabinet with no machine. I may need to look into the Janome. My concern is whether it would cause more pain in my back. Great video.
It would depend on what type of back issues you are having but I am guessing it may actually help as it has for me because of the movement and how it works the muscles across the lower back. It is a gentle rocking movement that should both strengthen the muscle while giving the joints the easy movement they need to be healthy
Hi Heidi, You did a nice job on the video. It was easy to follow and your camera shots showed us exactly what you were talking about. I have my Grandma's old treadle machine but I've never used it I. Where did you say you bought the belt? Are they universal or does the belt you bought fit only your machine? Thanks, ChrisDee
Thank you ChrisDee! I was concerned the camera angles were not great, such a tight space to get into there and feeling pressed for time, I wasn't sure how well I explained it all. I did put a link to a replacement belt in the description box. They typically come a standard size and you trim to fit by running through the machine as shown and around each wheel to determine where to cut it. Then you have to do it again as I did here once it has had time to stretch.
Have you ever tried a polyurethane belt? I wonder if that would work. I had a polyurethane belt on my spinning wheel. I’m expecting my machine tomorrow! I’m very excited!
I did not know they even made them out of that but no, I have not, I still have a nice stash of leather ones and I have not need to change the one on there since I shot this video years ago though I did have to take it off and tighten it
Some instructional videos simply have to be longer, but I do try to keep them as short as possible. Patrick's are the most difficult to do that with as there is so much involved and I spend a LOT of time editing his down from 3 hours or more to 30-45 mins by speeding up a lot of clips. I work to keep a good mix of content type and length as many people actually prefer the longer videos where I either just ramble or explain things in more depth. Doing my best to reach as many people as possible with different topics and styles :)
This video here was mostly about the belt replacement. I have another angle in my other video about how to use a treadle machine, see if this one shows it better for you, if you skip to 5:47 - it will take you to where I start showing how to use the machine: ua-cam.com/video/ryKtui7KRr8/v-deo.html
How much do you think is a far price to pay for a treadle machine? I've found two and it looks like everything is there but they want $175 for them...that's per machine.
That's not a bad price especially if they have all of the attachments (buttonholer, etc) and the cabinet. Make sure that you can get it fixed though, check with your local sewing machine repairer. You want to make sure the main shaft is not rusted in place and goes up and down. Sometimes getting replacement parts for the off brands is hard. Singer, white, etc are easier to find parts for.
I am assuming these are not newer machines like mine? If they come with the cabinets then it could be worth it but I have seen better prices at garage sales, but since I already had my machine when I saw them , I did not really look them over to see what kind of working condition they were in.
I have cleaned a 1912 Singer Redeye. Im trying to get it to work. Belt is on, needle works but for some reason its not catching the bobbin thread as it should. I have ordered vintage bobbins to see if that helps, but if not, what should i look at to determine the problem & fix it?
Not really sure what to tell you without seeing it for myself. Though between Patrick and I, we have managed to find and fix issues within my own machines, I cannot say for certain what the problem would be especially in an older model like that.
I guess I could add a list of typical problem it could be: Bobbin casing too tight or loose Upper thread tension to tight or loose Improper threading of the machine Improper placement of the bobbin
Rain Country trouble shooting all the things that can go wrong would be good. I know machine is threaded right. Found out the new 66 bobbins suggested by singer are different size from original bobbins, so getting vintage bobbins on ebay may help.
Good question and something I had not thought of. You pretty much want to get it as tight as you are able as the leather will stretch over time anyway. If it is loose at all, you will have slippage and causing little movement in the machine.
Odd, looks like it is still available to me and the link should be the same as when I clicked on this, it showed I had purchased it before: amzn.to/3JtSBDM
Kind of funny how I ended up with a treadle. I was looking for my first Janome machine, and this was the only one within my budget. I had no idea what a treadle machine was.... so I actually bought it by mistake. Turns out I'm keeping it, because I want to learn how to use one. I ordered a table, and it's out for delivery. I am soooo excited! All I need now, is the belt. Your videos have been super helpful... thank you.
Thank you for this video - the only one that made sense to me. Have old machine with no knowledge of it. It's sitting on carpeting now and not sure it will have full movement.
I worry about them breaking down need to be fixed
Jean, I know your comment is from a year ago. I had an interest in Treadles 20 yrs ago. Heidi's video series has renewed my interest in looking for one and learning about them
Food 4 thought: if sitting on carpet you'll likely need to place a piece of hard surface underneath the units feet. Otherwise the carpet may infringe on the foot pedal range of motion. The hard surface will help mitigate that.
Thank you for sharing, there was a problem with my cabinet and you helped me see the issue. Now it works great.
That is great! So glad my video could be of help :D
I didn't realize anyone even made treadle powered machines. Thanks for the info and another good video. Phil
I found out simply because I felt certain somebody must be doing it so several years ago I went to hunt down a company that did and in a few minutes, I found Janome. So happy I did! :)
Love the humming sound of a treadle machine. Also the original name was New Home, so if someone finds a new home- it's just the old name for Janome. I have three Janome's- I do have a Singer treadle machine too!
Ok, that explains it, had seen a New Home Treadle machine a friend had recently posted. I need to pass this info onto her.
So true! I found a New Home sewing machine at a thrift store for only $10.71!! It has all the bells, whistles, and attachments. Research shows it was made in 1980 and its selling price then was $3000!! I love it! PS I do have a model 66 Singer treadle and am sewing on it too!!! I was born 150 years too late. :)
To make a rubber belt you can use window washer hose that is used for the car sprayer. I start with a 6 foot length and then stretch it so the pulley does not slip and then cut it to length. Then use a 3/4 " long screw to lock the ends together. Cut the head off of a 1 inch sheet metal screw and then grind the ends smooth and round off each end. Turn the screw into one end and put the belt on the machine. Twist the hose counterclockwise then twist the end onto the screw clockwise. Put it on the small pulley first and then on the big drive pulley. It works great and does not slip like a leather belt does. I found that metal part that gets in the way so I took it off of mine as it is not needed.
Thank you! Greetings from İstanbul
Hi Heidi, this video has been a great help to me as my brother just gave me an antique
Singer. I have been cleaning it up and will have to put a belt on it so the visual you gave is very helpful. Even if I never use it I want it in working order and besides it is a beautiful piece of furniture. Thanks for the tutor.
So glad this can be of help! Those antique Singers are so beautiful, I would still love to have one just as an art piece - and a back up if I ever needed it :)
Grab this. Brother got it at Goodwill.
That's a neat trick placing the touch light where you did. It looks like it came like that. Great demo, Heidi.
Thanks Ellen, it is pretty handy there, though I do wish it were a bit brighter than it is. It works fine though :)
I have the exact same machine...my husband made a very simple top for the wrought iron base, drilled two holes for the belt to go through and painted it white. Love that I can sew if the power goes out too!
That is very cool! Yes, it is great to not have to worry about power outages - which we get frequently here :)
I've had a Janome for decades and I totally agree that it's a great company. I didn't know they made a treadle. I appreciate your informative video!
Thank you!
Thanks for the visual. It helps a lot. I have an antique machine, I'm just looking for the cabinet and treadle right now. I can't wait to have one again. When I was young I learned to sew on a singer treadle. I'm coming full circle. I am totally excited about it! Peace and blessings.
Thank you Chris!
always wanted a treadle. my grandma had one. love the sound. was afraid to purchase an old used one. never know if you can find parts or someone to fix
Very interesting. I would like to see how to determine length for belt replacement. Please show more sewing and crafts on your channel. Thanks!
Thank you Barbara, trying to keep up here as my channel is multi faceted since there are many aspects to a more self sufficient life style. I get lots of requests for various things - which I do appreciate! :D Because of my very busy schedule, I have to make the videos when I am already needing to make or do whatever project. I will be starting a series on the basics of crocheting and I do have more how to sewing videos coming in the future.
Thanks to you...I learned about the Janome treadle sewing machine. I had never heard of them... until last week from one of your video's. I order one Sunday, and got it two days later. Today, I picked up the table for it. I was looking for the "how's to" mount the Janome to a sewing table. Do you also have a video that will help? My table does not say singer. The treadle machine is a Wheeler & Wilson. (side note: Both table and machine are beautiful. And the machine works. It came with the drawers full of old goodies from the 1800's including corset string. )
:) Thank you so much for your helpful friendly video's.
I do have a video on how to put on a new belt and I actually have a new how to sew on a treadle coming out next week and I did show one small thing about how the installation of it may be different for whatever table one has, but have yet to do one of the installation in general. That is a good idea for a video and I should put one together!
I was really interested and surprised to find that someone makes a treadle machine. I remember my grandma using one, but she went to the nursing home when I was about 4 and all of her belongings were sold.
Sad! I do wonder if there are other companies making them besides Janome, but they were the only ones I found. Had never even heard of the company until I went shopping for "New Treadle Machine". Love it though, great machine! :D
Very useful, thanks!
We have an antique treadle cabinet with no machine. I may need to look into the Janome. My concern is whether it would cause more pain in my back. Great video.
It would depend on what type of back issues you are having but I am guessing it may actually help as it has for me because of the movement and how it works the muscles across the lower back. It is a gentle rocking movement that should both strengthen the muscle while giving the joints the easy movement they need to be healthy
That makes sense. I have ankylosing spondylitis, so the pain is in mainly in the SI joints.
Hi Heidi,
You did a nice job on the video. It was easy to follow and your camera shots showed us exactly what you were talking about. I have my Grandma's old treadle machine but I've never used it I. Where did you say you bought the belt? Are they universal or does the belt you bought fit only your machine?
Thanks,
ChrisDee
Thank you ChrisDee! I was concerned the camera angles were not great, such a tight space to get into there and feeling pressed for time, I wasn't sure how well I explained it all.
I did put a link to a replacement belt in the description box. They typically come a standard size and you trim to fit by running through the machine as shown and around each wheel to determine where to cut it. Then you have to do it again as I did here once it has had time to stretch.
Thanks Heidi. I will check your link.
Have you ever tried a polyurethane belt? I wonder if that would work. I had a polyurethane belt on my spinning wheel. I’m expecting my machine tomorrow! I’m very excited!
I did not know they even made them out of that but no, I have not, I still have a nice stash of leather ones and I have not need to change the one on there since I shot this video years ago though I did have to take it off and tighten it
now you have me trying to figure out how to drag my old treadle out of the far pit of the back room and into my bedroom. Wish me luck lol
Ha ha! Hope that works out!:D
Great video Heidi! ❤🙏
Thank you Teresa!
my mom got me that same machine for Christmas this year but not sure it will fit in my table
This one doesn't fit perfect, there is a piece we had to set off a bit but we got it to sit flat and works just great. I love this machine!
hello,, good video,, if I may ask do you every have to oil or grease your machine?,, thanks,,
No, not really, but I do spray a bit of WD-40 on all parts on occasion in order to help clean out fiber and dust build up
Well done and getting closer to the 10 minute mark ;-)
Some instructional videos simply have to be longer, but I do try to keep them as short as possible. Patrick's are the most difficult to do that with as there is so much involved and I spend a LOT of time editing his down from 3 hours or more to 30-45 mins by speeding up a lot of clips. I work to keep a good mix of content type and length as many people actually prefer the longer videos where I either just ramble or explain things in more depth. Doing my best to reach as many people as possible with different topics and styles :)
I know you are girl!
:D
Ok thanks heaps. Also what is the round silver thing on the inside of the machine
It is a light, I explain it at the 8:45 time stamp :)
Could you please do a video showing how to Treadle the best way focusing on the pedal when Sewing, thank you, Glenn in Aus
This video here was mostly about the belt replacement.
I have another angle in my other video about how to use a treadle machine, see if this one shows it better for you, if you skip to 5:47 - it will take you to where I start showing how to use the machine:
ua-cam.com/video/ryKtui7KRr8/v-deo.html
How much do you think is a far price to pay for a treadle machine? I've found two and it looks like everything is there but they want $175 for them...that's per machine.
That's not a bad price especially if they have all of the attachments (buttonholer, etc) and the cabinet. Make sure that you can get it fixed though, check with your local sewing machine repairer. You want to make sure the main shaft is not rusted in place and goes up and down. Sometimes getting replacement parts for the off brands is hard. Singer, white, etc are easier to find parts for.
I am assuming these are not newer machines like mine? If they come with the cabinets then it could be worth it but I have seen better prices at garage sales, but since I already had my machine when I saw them , I did not really look them over to see what kind of working condition they were in.
Is there a certain size belt I should get for this machine???
The belts should be pretty universal, you do still need to trim to fit your machine.
I have cleaned a 1912 Singer Redeye. Im trying to get it to work. Belt is on, needle works but for some reason its not catching the bobbin thread as it should. I have ordered vintage bobbins to see if that helps, but if not, what should i look at to determine the problem & fix it?
Not really sure what to tell you without seeing it for myself. Though between Patrick and I, we have managed to find and fix issues within my own machines, I cannot say for certain what the problem would be especially in an older model like that.
I guess I could add a list of typical problem it could be:
Bobbin casing too tight or loose
Upper thread tension to tight or loose
Improper threading of the machine
Improper placement of the bobbin
Rain Country trouble shooting all the things that can go wrong would be good. I know machine is threaded right. Found out the new 66 bobbins suggested by singer are different size from original bobbins, so getting vintage bobbins on ebay may help.
Rain Country how do i adjust bobbin tension, i dont see a tension screw.
How much give do you need in the belt for proper function? Your video does not show how tight or how loose the belt needs to be.
Good question and something I had not thought of. You pretty much want to get it as tight as you are able as the leather will stretch over time anyway. If it is loose at all, you will have slippage and causing little movement in the machine.
How tight should the belt be
Tight enough to be able to turn the wheel without slipping
You help I thought the frist hole was a break because it moves
The listing for your affiliate link is "Currently unavailable.
We don't know when or if this item will be back in stock."
Odd, looks like it is still available to me and the link should be the same as when I clicked on this, it showed I had purchased it before: amzn.to/3JtSBDM
Thank you!!!