HoovesandHarvests

Hello! I stumbled across this site while trying to determine what kind of machine I have. It was my at least my great grandmother's and my mother gave it to me a few years ago. It hasn't been used in decades and I want to fix it up and get her goin' again. Any ideas on where to start? I apologize in advance for the poor picture quality.

Thank you!

SteveH

Looks like a Bartlett Rotary. (Made by National I believe) Also marketed as OVB (Our very best) Good solid machine.

Read the "sticky" posts (the ones that stay at the top of the list)
[h=3]: HOW TO CLEAN UP and use a vintage sewing machine - videos by Muv and Fav[/h]

Rodney

Welcome!
Pretty machine! I don't know the make, others here will. Spend some time playing in here: http://www.quiltingboard.com/vintage...v-t167789.html

Also, Glenn has a couple good tutorials on restoring the finishes on these old machines too:
http://www.quiltingboard.com/vintage...restore+finish

http://www.quiltingboard.com/vintage...restore+finish

Use sewing machine oil or Tri-Flo (a light synthetic oil) only unless following Glenn's or Muv's instructions otherwise. Sewing Machine oil is safe on any finish and won't gum up the works like other oils can. You can start by oiling everything that moves or looks like it should move, then do the hard part: Walk away for a couple days.
That will give the oil a chance to soak in and work it's magic, making things easier later.

Once you know what you have, there may be more info at ISMACS or needlebar.org too.
Please keep us posted on your progress,
Rodney

Rodney

Steve is faster than me.
Rodney

HoovesandHarvests

Thank you both! I will read through the links provided. Disclaimer: I know less than nothing about this machine or how they work. I *think* I have the treadle base, but when I search them online, they look like they stand alone - mine is in a cabinet.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]468813[/ATTACH]

My mom says I need a belt at least, the chain is not attached and I haven't gotten into it yet to figure out what is wrong. Cleaning it up seems to be the first step - so that's where I'll start!

Thank you again for pointing me in the right direction! I'm excited to learn how to use grandma's machine!

SteveH

That looks like what is called a Parlor cabinet. Designed to do the same job in a smaller space.

oldsewnsew

I have a weakness for oddball rotaries. Looks like an enjoyable challenge ahead of you! It can be very rewarding

Christine-

I have the same toenail polish on!

Prim Quilts

What an awesome machine!

tropit

I love those, "butterfly," treadle footplates. Didn't Wheeler and Wilson do those?

~ Cindy