When you're stepping away from your sewing machine for an extended period, proper preparation is crucial to ensure it stays in top condition. Sewing machines are meant to be used, not to sit. To keep them moving properly, theres a few things to remeber on how to store your machine correctly, focusing on the essential steps of covering and oiling.

Long-Term Storage for Your Sewing Machine: Cover Up, Oil Down

A sewing machine is a finely tuned instrument. Like any precision tool, it needs specific care when it's not in use, especially for long-term storage. Whether you're taking a short break or retiring your machine indefinitely, neglecting these few simple maintenance steps can lead to costly repairs down the road.

The two most important tasks before putting your machine away are covering it and oiling it.

1. The Power of a Cover Dust is the number one enemy of a…

I know this topic is talked about a lot, and I see the word "timing" used and thrown around in different scenarios. While there are many different timings that make a sewing machine work, there is only one as a sewer that you really only need to worry about. That is the hook timing, the relationship between the sewing needle and the hook.

If you are experiencing sewing issues that aren't resolved by simple fixes like changing the needle or rethreading, your machine may be "out of time". This means the delicate synchronization between the sewing

machine's needle and its hook mechanism is misaligned, leading to a variety of problems.

What is sewing machine timing? Inside your machine, the needle and the hook (or bobbin case) must perform a precise, coordinated dance. As the needle rises after hitting its lowest point, it forms a small loop of thread. The hook…

When your cherished vintage sewing machine begins to falter, the hope is that a skilled technician can resurrect it. However, while many all-metal vintage machines are well-built and repairable, there are some tough realities that mean a shop may not always be able to fix them. A combination of missing parts, specialized knowledge, and age-related issues can sometimes lead to a dead end for even the most experienced professionals.

Here’s an honest look at why a repair shop might not always be able to save your vintage sewing machine. I always try to be upfront and honest with clients about repairs but sometimes the more you get into a machine, rhe more problems appear.

The Search for Unobtainable Parts

One of the biggest obstacles in vintage machine repair is the hunt for the right parts. I say its all about time, because you never know when others put parts or…

When buying a vintage sewing machine, focus on mechanical function, necessary accessories, and, most importantly, electrical safety. A machine that appears beautiful but has been neglected internally or has dangerous wiring is a poor investment.

Here is a basic list on what to look for and consider when buying a Vintage Sewing Machine, a VSM.

1. Mechanical condition

• Handwheel and internal movement: The handwheel should turn smoothly and without resistance. As you turn it, observe the needle bar, feed dogs, and bobbin mechanism to ensure they move in coordination.

• Rust: Inspect the machine thoroughly for rust, especially on the underside, in the bobbin area, and the handwheel. While a little surface rust can be cleaned, extensive rust can indicate significant damage and neglect.

Here I've compiled a quick list of insightful tips and tricks that I've learn along the way while servicing and repairing vintage sewing machines. Some of these may not be as important as others, but I find them all to be useful in their own way. If you have more useful tips or tricks feel free to leave a comment, we would love to get this list as big as we can. Knowledge is power! And of course, who doesn't like a fully working beautiful vintage sewing machine.

Tips & Tricks

1. First and foremost, when in doubt, clean your machine. A dirty machine will not function at 100%, a clean machine is a happy machine. Try to perform self-maintenance machines after every project, deep clean monthly, and professionally service once every 1-2 years.

2. Never keep a vintage machine plugged in when not in use > it prevents fires/ older foot…