Hi, I have an 1881 VS2. I decided just to keep the wood nice with Old English polish and keep it in it's original antique condition. I do want to take the base off and repaint it, but it will have to be next summer....It is very fun to sew quilt blocks with it and if you ever lose power and have it by a bright window you can still have a productive day!
Here is a fun link, I love this lady.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6floSCAD_lg
Here are some pics of Shasta my treadle, I keep her bonnet covered because I have her placed in front of a very hot sunny west facing window: