Transverse shuttle with triple needles – in search of a better cover stitch

Skip to the updates: A project begins Vesta is here! Conversion to modern needles, single and twin The offset foot Intermission The stitiching test Additional tension units The final stitiching test The verdict A project begins 17 August 2017 Cover stitch is an extension of two-thread chain stitch where the top thread lies flat like…

Convert your vintage machine to modern needles – for needle clamps with side insertion

Many vintage sewing machines use old types of needles that are no longer being made. This is very annoying because it forces you to retire an otherwise fabulous machine for the stupid reason that you can't find the needles for it! But fear not, the solution is here. You can give your dearest the gift…

Thread tension for twin needles – inspiration

Domestic sewing machines typically have a single tension control unit for the upper thread. This is fine for sewing with a single needle, but is often insufficient when using twin or triple needles. Have you noticed how overlockers have separate tension controls for each thread? We need the same on a sewing machine! ​I have…

Low shank foot difference between antique and modern machines

Low shank foot fitting has been around since time immemorial, i.e., pretty much from the beginning. However, for some reason the foot height was raised by 1mm some time around 1920, and after that everyone followed that new standard. If you try to use a modern foot on an antique machine, thinking low shank is…

Lengths of presser bars

When considering a presser bar replacement, finding a new bar of exactly the right length may prove problematic. To help with the search, here is a list of presser bars I've encountered so far, with their lengths, as measured from the lower end of the foot mounting screw hole, and to the top. ​ 15.3cm:…

Changing foot fitting by replacing the presser bar

There can be several reasons for wanting to replace the presser bar on your machine, the main one probably being to change the foot fitting. Some machines have really odd foot fittings for which feet are hard to find, for example the old Singer back clamp or the White top mounting foot, or even more…