frauhahn

Belts for treadle are relatively inexpensive (less than $10)
You can find an adjuster's manual online. They are really simple machines-doesn't take an expert. They were designed so that the housewife could keep them running in the old days.
I'd also offer less than the asking price. I bought my treadle for $50 a couple of months ago, you can find them on shopgoodwill.com pretty cheap and look at the offering for the ones in your area, you can probably just pick it up, no shipping fees.

Tinabug

I would like to have a treadle simply because I could still sew even if the power goes out. In this day, you never know when that might happen

irishrose

I'd be concerned about the wiring on a electric machine that old. The treadle will clean up easily. I haven't sewn with my treadle yet, but I like having her available. I'd buy the treadle and keep looking for a vintage e machine.

Cyn

I agree!

Barb44

Those are priced too high. They are not in the best condition so I would pay 50 at the very most. I would take the treadle. Much more fun. I was sewing on a treadle at age 7 so you can certainly do it.

Check the tutorials for Billy's instructions on cleaning, etc. And he will answer any questions on the Vintage thread.

BTW, I've been to Monck's Corner. DD2 used to live in Summerville.

zaza

It really depends on what models they are. If it's a Featherweight verses a treadle, go for the Featherweight. Then again, if it's a Redeye singer treadle, I'de go for that one, even if I would just look at it. But, I have to confess, I have both and use them. I am a sewing machine collector, of sorts. Good luck in your choice.

zaza

Ditto!!!!!!!!!!!!

wannaquilt1

Oh wow really? Did you ever visit "People, Places and Quilts?" that's where I"m taking my quilting classes and it's the cutest quilting store I've ever seen. It's awesome!

Thanks i"ll go check out that thred :)

Sewing Joe

I'm with Barb44. I'd go for the treadle, but not at that price (although I'd probably go up to $75-$100 since it's in a parlor cabinet). I'd certainly pass on the Eldridge unless you're thinking about having it rewired.

I *love* to piece on my treadle machines. I tend to sew pretty slowly when I'm piecing, so a treadle suits me just fine.

wannaquilt1

ok so it turns out she is willing to trade me both machines for my baby clothes and items I have here! Should I take them and save the elderidge for "someday" if I want to get it rewired? I don't want to give up all my baby stuff if they are now good cuz I can sell my baby stuff later but if they are worth something and useable I'd love to have them both! Can you free motion if you cover up the feeddogs?