redbugsullivan

Sometimes, thrift creates interesting solutions. Time after time, treadles require belts that are not to be found immediately. Expensive and often shorter than needed, an alternative had to be found that satisfied my impatient requirements! Yes, this will not make me popular amongst some crowds but I'd rather be unpopular and sewing than the rage and waiting to sew. ;-)

Screen spline to the rescue!! While it seemed to be a temporary solution, the result is amazingly worthy of a thread here on the QB. My original 5/16" spline- held together with basic Crazy Glue. Thirty seconds of holding has held up for over a year. Ok, once I had to re-trim because the machine I put into the base had a smaller handwheel...

Now, I am replacing old leather (dried, cracked, and brittle with age) with 1/4" black spline sealed with Gorilla Instant Glue. No slippage, no noise at the staple goes by, and less than 25% of the cost!

My treadles start and stop exactly where I want them to. That's what keeps us treadling and keeps me one happy quilter. I hope this helps someone, somewhere, find the means to keep using people power to stitch warmth and happiness into our future. I'd rather stitch with my own power than wish I could!!

juneayerza

Thanks for sharing your experience with us.

Sunflowerzz

Shrink tubing and a heat gun works well also.

maviskw

I hope I can remember this. I should put some notes onto the papers that are in the drawer with the manual.

miriam

I like this idea!

sews

[h=1]How You can make a Treadle Sewing Machine belt:[/h]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dax5tDB53jA

This is what we did when we got impatient - have not replaced this one yet :-)

mom-6

I've also heard that you can use those old pantyhose you never got rid of,,,

Farmhousesewer

Another alternative is 3/16 Urethane tubing with connectors. Have even used fish aquarium tubing with a smaller or rolled up piece for the connector.

Conartist1945

Thank you thank you! I've owned one with a broken belt for years. I will try this for sure.

redbugsullivan

Yeah!! I helped one! So grateful. May your sewing be filled with sweet stitches.