How do you restore or refurbish a featherweight case?
 

I have recently aquired a 1936 featherweight. The machine is in excellent condition, but the case is another story. I would really like to restore the case or even pay someone to restore it. However, I am having difficulty finding information on how to do it myself, or someone who who does restorations.

Does anyone have information that might be helpful?

Thanks!

Depends on what kind of shape yours is in. With mine, I reglued the loose fabric with Elmers wood glue, then polished it all with a shoe polish called "Kiwi Instant Wax Shine". Did a great job and it had been six years since I did it, still looks great. Now I need to do it again to the one I just got.

Kim

I took a 1939 case and stripped the fabric off of it, re-glued w/wood glue and then sanded it down until it was smooth. The metal I cleaned w/metal cleaner, oiled the lock mechanic and cleaned the rust spots. Several spots on wood had to be filled w/wood filler and then sanded when dry. Then I found some decor fabric and covered the box, glue w/ white Elmer's, cut the fabric very careful around the locking area and handle. The handle had to be covered also. That was hand stitched. It took me around 3 weeks to fix it up. It was fun to do but I do like a challenge.

I did the same. Washed it with 50/50 bleach and water, reglued the torn fabric and corners with Elmer's school glue, the polished the metal bits. I polished the case with black kiwi shoe polish. The hasps are missing and one hinge is broken, so I ordered replacements from Glenn Williams. They came yesterday and I'm hoping to put them on tonight. I spent about $30 on fixing it up, but with how well built they are, it seemed worth it. It's amazing how much the shoe polish improved the appearance. Mine is a little smelly so I still want to heat treat it. I'm thinking of doing it in dh's work truck on a super hot day... His truck is kind of stinky already. Shhh....

Heat treat it? I think I heard the smell is related to the glue? Does putting it in the hot car get rid of it?

heat will kill the mold growing in the case and in the horse glue so the smell doesn't come back quickly. You can use a work light inside the case, or some have had success with a hot shed or car.

Good to know. Thanks