Hi Ninnie - I have actually seen pics online where they take handcranks to sewing group , these babies weigh a ton, so I can imagine what the logistics are of getting them there to group. You can convert a treadle to a hand crank by adding the handle. And a hand crank can also run as a treadle. I love the silver bit on the left hand end of yours at the top- that shape always gets me in :)