Before the dawn of electric motors, the sewing machine depended on human power. This usually took the form of foot or hand drive mechanisms.



In recent years, I have had the opportunity to repair and refurbish over a dozen antique treadle sewing machines. The cast Iron Singer and White machines were covered with rust, and their tables showed the undeniable wear of time and abuse. Yet, these amazing machines once more were made to sew producing beautiful stitches. A few of these treadle machines are still manufactured by Janome International for Pennsylvania Amish and third world situations.

Electric motors revolutionize the sewing machine. It enabled the sewer to sew with far less effort, but also to sew faster and with greater control. The modern sewing machine has advanced to a point where electricity and electronics are enhances with full fledged computer operations. The days of the treadle and hand crank are left to the age of nostalgia.

Electricity costs less today, you know, than it did so long ago. At least that is what the little bird said in the old ads for Edison Power And Electric. When it came to the sewing machine, it actually cost a bit more money than those old treadles, but it sure did save on human efforts. Sewing machines added electric motors that drew their power through a cord plugged into the wall. So easy! The United States used a 120 Volt AC system, while the Europeans used a 240 Volt AC system. The important thing is that the cord and motor match the power source. Otherwise, watch out for sparks, shocks, and smoke.

Accommodating the different power systems is fairly simple. You may purchase a power transformer to alter the power system to match the power required for your sewing machine. Plug the transformer into the power outlet and connect it to the sewing machine. If everything is in order, you are ready to sew.

It may seem a small thing, but the sewing machine power cord is a very important and delicate part of the sewing machine. Over time the sewing machine power cord may become worn. The insulation may crack or even brake away from the wire. The two wires may become exposed to each other creating a dangerous electrical problem. Not only can shorts or opens cause your sewing machine to fail and cease operating. Shock and electrical discharges can cause fires, ruin motors, destroy circuit boards, and generally mess everything up.

Be alert. You need have not fear, when you have prevented problems. Examine the power cord frequently. Feel it. Look at it. Flex it. Do you see any cracks? Does it have any cuts, or spots that are pinched? Does it have wires exposed. Are the prongs straight? Be proactive.

Many of the problems with electrical cords can be repaired quickly and easily. Small cracks and even small cuts may simply be wrapped with electrical tape. Wrap it securely above and below the blemish.

When you see a major spot of damage on the power cord, it may be repaired or replaced. If there are several bad spots, it is best to replace the cord. If there is only one or two bad spots, you can usually repair it quite easily. First, once you find the bad spot, use wire cutters to cut out the bad spot. Cut above and below the spot. Then separate the two wires and their insulation by cutting between them an inch or so. Trim off the insulation for all four tips of the wire and connect the wires in sets of two. In other words, you need two paths for the electricity to flow. Do not allow the two paths to touch. Solder the tips, join them with wire nuts, or twist the tips together. Cover all exposed with an insulated or electrical tape.

If the cord is badly worn, replace it. Do not continue using faulty sewing machine power cords. In most cases, you can install a new power cord without replacing the foot control. Yes, many cords do attach to the foot control, but the foot control may be disassembled and the ends of the new cord installed.

Replace it or burn. That has got to be your thinking. If the cord is bad, replace it. You can get new cords through your local independent sewing machine dealer. Or you can contact wholesale parts suppliers like Tacony Corporation to get what you need. Generally, do not worry about getting the exact same brand or model cord or foot control. Generic after market products will do a good job, and they are more likely available.

The key is: do not use faulty sewing machine cords or foot controls.