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How to Restore Sewing Machine Heads

While sewing is a practice that dates back to the Ice Age, the practice of sewing with a machine is more recent. The first machine was single-stitch and invented by Thomas Saint in 1755. It was in 1830 that Barthelemy Thimonnier made the sewing machine that more closely resembles the ones still in use today. Older sewing machines are still used today. In fact, the Mennonites and Amish still use treadle machines. Restoring an older machine for use is something you can do. Restoring the sewing machine head is one process that takes some time but is well worth the effort.

Things You'll Need

Screwdriver
Can of compressed air
Sewing machine oil
Rag
Soap and water

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the sewing machine head from the cabinet or the base. This may require unscrewing some screws or turning some knobs. The exact procedure will depend on your individual machine. Set it on your work table.
- 2
  Remove any metal plates, dirt, thread or bits of cloth that might be stuck in the machine. Blow out any dirt or debris you cannot dislodge with compressed air. Cans are available at any hardware store or building supply store.
- 3
  Work the sewing machine oil into any gears or moving parts and gently turn them with your hand to test how smoothly the action moves. Add more oil if necessary.
- 4
  Clean off any excess oil with a rag. Replace any plates you removed in Step 2.
- 5
  Dip a rag into a solution of soap and water and wring it out thoroughly. Gently clean the outside of the sewing machine head with the cloth. Do not rub to hard as you may accidentally remove any decals or painted decoration that might be present. Dry with a clean, dry rag and let air dry.
- 6
  Reassemble the machine, putting the sewing machine head back into its cabinet or base.

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