Gifted with Minnesota Model B that needs restoration
 

I was gifted with a Minnesota Model B machine. The hand wheel and the foot base move like it was new. And the bobbin/shuttle is included. But the machine head is terribly peeling and there is some rust. Sadly, it will need a new paint job. Additionally, I know nothing about this machine or it's worth. And, the cabinet is in sad condition also, as if it was left out in the rain. Is it worth restoring? How do I find someone to do this for me? I've called around and asked around, but can't seem to get any traction. I'm located in Michigan by the way. Any suggestions?

For sure, it's not worth the cost of paying someone to restore it for you. If you enjoy doing the work for yourself, then it's a labor of love.

if there is sentimental value, then it might still be "worth" the cost. it's way too easy to find one in nice condition for an affordable price. It really is worth what you paid for it.

Thanks for your honest opinion, Macybaby. If I junk the machine and cabinet, is there any value in keeping the bobbin or any other parts?

How about offering it on a local sales list or group to someone who might enjoy the challenge?

Cari

If you don't have an interest in doing it yourself, please consider passing the machine on to someone that does. There is always value in the parts. You don't say if it's a treadle, the cast iron part is usually saleable, but most likely to someone that has no interest in using it as a treadle.

Some machines are very good candidates to be donor machines. The parts could keep another machine going a while. The cabinet may have good parts as well. Even the hinges are nice to get when one needs a hinge. But if it sews, it doesn't have to be perfect... why not use it? I have some crummy looking machines that I just love to use. A bit of clean up and who knows you might have a diamond in the rough. Shoot a pic of it and maybe we can see what it needs to be servicable. It isn't worth anything but there is satisfaction in making an old derelict go back to work.

It sounds like someone didn't appreciate the fine art of sewing - also sounds like you have an item to sew with if you don't mind the look. If it bothers you, use it as a decorative item someplace in the house?

This machine goes way beyond overlooking its beauty. It is a treadle. the problem is that the paint is in huge flakes, the rust, and it will need a new belt. I just think it is beyond my talents.

I'm not knowledgeable about treadles, but yes, there is value in the shuttle and bobbins. I have a hand crank machine that needs a shuttle. It is $65.00 from Helen Howe (and she asks you not to buy it if you aren't going to use it). I assume that was plus freight. I don't think it included the bobbin.
bkay

I do think I am going to bite the bullet and give it a go. I appreciate any and all advice. I'd post a photo if I can figure out how.

On Facebook someone posted that they had used Goof Off to strip the old paint. Any experience here on the board with this product? Any other products I should try?? First tho I have to figure out how to disassemble it so I can put it back together.

Hey Everyone! Today I got stitches from my Ugly Duckling Minnesota B. It has been a over a year with many many obstacles to overcome and wait for. But I want to thank everyone that helped me get things going. I posted some photos of before. When the cabinet comes back I'll post another set of after photos. Good things come to those who wait. Right?

congrats! it's surely been a journey

Oh, and the saga continues. The machine cabinet (it must have been a beautiful parlor cabinet) for my Minnestoa B needed some restoration. We had already had some cabinetry made by a local man, so enlisted his assistance. Oh and he was very excited about being involved in the project! Then he got a divorce. Then he moved across the country. It has been over a year since I took the cabinet to him. And now instead of half done he tells me he never started it and may not know where all the pieces are! But he promises I will have it back before Christmas--in its original condition. That condition was fairly sad so anything is better than nothing. Wish me luck. This has been a very long process.

I can't see any photos on this thread. Is it somewhere else?

bkay, What do you need the shuttle/bobbin for?

Actually, I thought I needed a shuttle for that hand crank I sent you. I didn't look in the compartment.

So, I no longer need one. Thanks anyway.

bkay

It has been a very long haul to get this Minnesota B working, but It is 99% done.
The person that was going to fix up the cabinet moved to Arkansas. After almost 2 years I find he hadn't so much as dusted it off. So we made a quick trip from Michigan to Arkansas and retrieved the cabinet. Almost immediately we found found an Amish person close by that fixed up the cabinet and repainted the head. It is in the cabinet and makes a stitch. Not perfect but at least now it is assembled, looking pretty, and I can work on the functions. Thank you all for your encouragement.[ATTACH=CONFIG]599804[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]599805[/ATTACH]

Whew! I admire your dedication to getting it back into beautiful shape. That's a long trip. Even for a parlor cabinet.

That is beautiful. A long journey but oh so worth it. I personally thank you for taking the journey instead of scrapping it.

Cari

That's such a pretty cabinet!

It's so pretty!

Grammahunt, I have the same machine and cabinet!

Thank you all for the smiles. The person that gifted this machine to me will be here over the holidays. I am eagerly anticipating her reaction when she sees it. I bet she cries.