singer treadle question
 

Being sentimental I am thinking of finding a singer treadle machine in the wrought iron stand. I want one with no problems and working well. How much should I expect to pay for one of these? I have great memories of my grandmother working at hers. Alas it was later modernized as most were and I love my computerized machine.
Thanks, Frankie

First thing I did was study sewing machines at ismacs.net/ to figure out what models I would like. Then I went on the hunt at thrift shops and craigslist (there are other websites now that people use to sell second hand items). It took months of watching until I found one. There is no predicting prices, it depends on your area.

If you want a hassle-free treadle machine, you may want to look for a Singer 15; they are rather common (so less expensive) and most of the parts are still standard to many machines today (bobbins, bobbin cases, needles, even the bobbin cover sliding plate I think) and spares can be found inexpensively, even vintage ones. If you find a 15-88, you will even have reverse feed!

I have my ex-husband's grandmother's treadle. My grandmother wore out her treadle making clothes for her six daughters. I don't remember either of my grandmothers having a sewing machine when I was growing up. My mother's mother mostly hooked wool rugs. My father's mother crocheted.