Welcome to the repair side..... (Kinda like the dark side but we fix things not break them...)

as far as your comment "I can do this, the problem is figuring out where to start and not screwing it up. "

1. Heck yes you can!
2. Not a problem, start where you feel comfortable.
3. It takes a superior will to destroy one of these, you have to REALLY try, fear not.

Enjoy the process! (and it is a treasure that you have your dad's tools to do it with)

If clamps arent affordable, google spanish windlass. Basically cord wraped around with soe slack, twist in moderate tension, then tape or tie or clAmp whatever you used to twist it. Put scotch tape where you dont want glue sqiueeze out. Cut up a plastic continer and fold the pieces to put under corners so the cord doesnt cut in.
Clamps are nice to have obviously.

I remember my dad telling me that he was sure that after he was gone, mom would just send all his tools to Salvation Army. I told him over my dead body, I wanted them. I run down to their house all the time to raid his tools. It comes in quite handy.

He truly would love that I am attempting to do this. For some odd reason, I like this stuff. I had a blender coupler shear off, with the help of the internet and utube, I found a replacement part and instructions on how to fix it. I was thrilled to fix my blender for less than $14.

Here is a post about one I fixed up. http://www.quiltingboard.com/vintage...r-t169127.html
and a link about 15 clones
http://www.quiltingboard.com/picture...p-t164361.html
Maybe you can try some of that stuff and if you have questions fire away.

Thank you everyone! I knew you could help guild me in the right direction. I promise to post pictures of my progress. I don't think the case is a goner and am greatly encouraged. All I need now is the time to tinker and glue. This is going to be fun.

WOW! There really is nothing to the case box, is there? Joe, I can see why you are repairing them. This morning, I pulled the machine and stripped off the fabric. It looks like mainly, I need to pick up the Elmer's Carpenter Wood Glue and some sand paper today. Oh and look for my dad's clamps.

If this picture is flipped, blame my iphone. :-)

I grew up when dads did not show their daughters how to do this stuff, they taught their sons. I wish my dad had spent the time to teach me.

A number of years ago, my garbage disposal needed replacing. My dad at the time was 80. I remember because we replaced my garbage disposal on his birthday. At first he didn't want to get involved. Me, the analytical and logical computer programmer was looking at the disposal, the instructions and thought "oh for god's sake, I program computers for a living! I should be able to do this!". I figured if I screwed it up, I could always call a plumber. It is such a good memory for me. Dad and I successfully replaced the disposal. When he caught me in the act of starting the replacement, he was running down to his house for tools. He just couldn't help himself. I smile every time I think about this.

Gail,

Once you get the old covering off and the machine out they are very simple.

Harbor Freight has inexpensive clamps if you can't find your dads.

Here's a couple threads I did about cases:
{ http://www.quiltingboard.com/vintage...r-t199606.html }
{ http://www.quiltingboard.com/vintage...d-t200795.html }

{ http://www.quiltingboard.com/vintage...x-t202882.html }

Joe

Joe, I am truly surprised at the simple construction. Why I ever thought I couldn't do this is beyond me. Lack of confidence really. All the replies are giving me the confidence to dig in and do this.

I am old enough that I remember life before the internet. I am so glad for the resources and information that can be found with a few simple clicks.

Congratulations on taking on this project. This was a fun "read" this morning. And pictures to boot. I have been a member here forever, and am only just now venturing into the picture showing section. Good luck as you tackle this effort, and your memories seem to be holding together really good for you. That's the best part of doing something like this.

Looks like you already have all the advice you need on the case. You're well on your way to having it fixed.
Rodney