Little gem

This miniature Singer sewing machine, that once belonged to my grandma, has sat in its box on a high shelf in my room for a long, long time. I have got it out occasionally, just to look at it but, judging by the thick layer of dust on top of the box, that must have been some time ago.

For some reason, I decided to get it out today and I then of course got involved in internet searches and videos. I was fascinated to find the history of this particular machine and to find it is a collector’s piece. I spent a lovely hour or so in the sunshine cleaning it up, polishing it and oiling it (this photo is before).  I eventually managed to thread it up and got it sewing. The tension isn’t quite right, so it’s back to YouTube to find out how to sort that out. 

It’s a lovely little machine, I had not recognised the quality of the build or appreciated that it would actually do a decent stitch. 

The Singer 20 was first produced in 1910 as a toy for girls aged 4 and above. Then in 1914 a second one came out (the one I have) with added tension discs. It was then sold as a portable sewing machine for anyone. They were made to the same specifications as the full-size machine and to a high standard, in cast iron, enamel and chrome. No wonder they are collected. 

It had never occurred to me that the beautifully crafted box, with lid, and the stand beneath the machine were of course added afterwards. The machine would have just come in a cardboard box. So someone made the box and I suspect it was my great uncle, my grandma’s brother, as he was a highly skilled master cabinet maker and he made several pieces of furniture for his sister, things that I now have. 

I look forward to more fun with it tomorrow. 

Yesterday evening I was invited across the road to have a meal with neighbours. Delicious food and some excellent chat. A lovely evening.