Originally Posted by
Cecilia S.
A word to defend the people who convert old treadle tables into desks etc; while it is sad to think of it no longer being a sewing machine, I think that if a treadle stand/cabinet or machine table is otherwise destroyed, it is great that they are re-used, re-purposed, and given new life.
I don't think that all iron bases/cabinets-turned-home-decor should necessarily be milk-painted with the same brushes of disdain. ;-) I have seen a few (natural wood, oak, nicely refinished) that are tastefully done (read: not festooned with pumpkin and roses applique...), and I certainly think that this is a better thing than letting it rust as lawn decor, or go to scrap.
Just a thought.
I agree. I know of one treadle that the wood is so destroyed it looks like a paperback book that was dropped in the tub then dried out. The owner took the machine out, put it on display and the irons are waiting to be sandblasted (They're more orange brown than black for the same reason the wood looks like it does) and used for something else.