Please explain hand cranks
 

I bought a sight-unseen sewing machine this weekend. They couldn't get the case open, so I just took a chance! It turned out to be a 128 electric from 1926 with a knee bar. I'm pretty sure that the scary-looking cloth-covered wiring is original and hesitate to plug it in. The belt feels very questionable, too.

I keep reading posts that say people would like to convert their machines from electric to hand crank. I've never used a hand crank and I can't figure out how to manage sewing with one. I often use my right hand to help guide the fabric. Is it hard to manage the fabric with only your left hand? Doesn't your arm and shoulder get tired? After I clean up this new baby, I'd like to decide whether to rewire (clueless, but would follow directions) or try to find a hand crank (sounds like they're elusive/expensive). I'd love to hear your reasons for preferring a hand crank - and if using one is preferable for certain things.

Thank you very much!

I think my daughter said it best in that your right hand while turning the crank the feed dogs act as though your backhand was pulling the fabric your left hand does the steering of the fabric. It makes it very easy to actually have more control than electric.

I have two handcranks but as yet, have not sewn on them. My DGK love to turn the cranks when they visit.

Steve, I have a Jones just like your in your avatar. Cool little machine.

Lucky you! Mine is the smoothest stitching machine I have in my collection.

As long as the insulation isn't cracked or frayed where the wire is showing you're probably safe to plug it in. Got pictures?

I don't own a handcrank yet but I find myself constantly turning the handwheel when I need more control. I'm seriously considering converting a couple of my machines to handcranks for just that reason.

Reproduction handcranks are available as well as new wire sets at Sew-Classic.com. If you want to maintain the original look of the machine cloth-covered wire is available at Sundial Wire.
Rodney

You will not be sorry!

Using a hand crank machine is not that hard. I can do it and I'm not that coordinated. You crank with your right hand and in doing so control your speed. That controls the feeding of the fabric.

You use your left hand to guide the fabric. It's easier to do if the foot and feed dogs are in alignment and the fabric feeds straight.

I have one (1) hand crank machine and that is enough. Although I can and do use mine, I'm not infatuated with it. As a matter of fact I've been considering putting it back to electric to make it much more useable to me.

Joe

I'm working on a couple projects right now with plenty of sharp corners and short curves. Some of the stuff I'm doing is take one stitch, stop, turn, take another stitch. Not a lot of long straight stretches or gentle curves for me right now. Probably why I'm seriously considering the hand crank option.
The way things go for me after I'm set up to do intricate stuff easily I won't need to anymore. :)
Rodney

My DGKs love the hand crank...a. Box of scraps,a pair old scizzors...they are entertained for hours. Many Barbie dolls are warmer in their new clothes and quilts. I also don't worry about injuries. It's hard to keep the grown ups from getting too involved.

If anyone is searching for a hand-crank, I have seen many at auction houses that specialize in selling English/Scottish antiques they get in shipping containers. As I recall they were mostly "Jones" and many were in excellent shape. Seems like they went as low as $25-35.