Wednesday, September 12, 2007

Look what I did today!

I bought a featherweight last November and the machine itself seems to be a nice little machine. It sews well, and has all it's parts and is in really good condition. The case though - smelled so musty that it had to be stored outside. I tried everything I could think of. I joined a Featherweight Yahoo group recently and one suggestion is to put a 150 watt lightbulb in the case for about 8 hours. Apparently the glue that was used on the American made Singer cases will degrade and mold if the case is stored in a damp area. The other suggestion was to strip the case of all fabric and refinish it, sanding and staining the outside. I saw a couple of examples. So -- in a flurry of activity this morning I pulled all the fabric off my case!!


This is the beginning of the removal of the outer fabric. Most of it came off very easily and left very little glue on the wood. The top and bottom had quite a bit of black glue left though.




I pulled all the fabric off the inside as well, which is where most of the musty smell comes from. I plan to paint the inside with a nice black lacquer or Varathane. I removed the little black tray. I will order a new one. I am thinking if I can I will order some nice shiny new latches.




This is where I am at so far. It really sanded up nicely. It needs a bit more sanding and I need to find out about new latches. If I can get new ones then I can take these off and sand under them. Jim has lots of stain and Varathane left from the window molding -- and he tells me they are going up this weekend!!
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9 comments:

  1. What a beauty, terrific job on the sanding.

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  2. I never would have guessed that these cases could be sanded down and refinished, but I hadn't really thought about it. As many 221s as I've run across, they do all have their own distinctive 'scent'-- something akin to a moldy, musty undertone (some much stronger than others) but I never had thought about the glue contributing to the problem. I'll be eager to see how this case finishes up, great job, Pam!

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  3. When I first started reading the post - my first reaction was oh my goodness no! don't do that. But after seeing your after picture, wow, you are certainly brave, and it looks so beautiful. Definitely worth your effort.

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  4. If yours turns out well, I can see another project in Robert's future.

    Hope you enjoy your 221 as much as I enjoy the Duchess.

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  5. Oh Oh....have you changed hobby? now do you do bricolage?
    You are good

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  6. Huge work, and a splendid result. The case looks great as it is. You are a DIY lady ;)

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  7. Wow, you've been busy! That case will look brand new very soon. Great job, Pam!

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  8. Wow, you've been busy! Next thing you know you'll be telling us that you've taken up woodworking! lol it's looking good!

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  9. OK, you'll have to keep us posted on the progress. My case is a bit worse for wear and might have to be refurbished like this too!

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