When I was little, I loved watching my mom work on her sewing machine and would always beg her to teach me her tricks.
Unfortunately, I didn't inherit her talent when it came to transforming ordinary fabric into an amazing costume, outfit, or other fun project, but that only makes me more impressed by those who can. Of course, way back in the day, there weren't many other choices than to roll up your sleeves and crank out your own clothes.
And depending on the era, I mean "crank" quite literally — before electric versions became more popular, our moms and grandmas (and even some of the fellas) had to use their hands to both guide the fabric under the needle and spin the mechanism at the same time. I definitely would have ended up with even more snags than I already make any time I attempt to tackle a project.
Take a look to see some of the old machines folks relied on in the past, and let us know if you recognize any from your family.
And be sure to SHARE with your friends!
Thumbnail Source: Wikimedia Commons
1. 19th-Century Compact
This compact version is on display at the Regional Museum in Tuxtla Gutierrez, Chiapas, Mexico.
2. Sewmor 620
This turquoise beauty was manufactured in Japan after World War II and used predominately in Asian countries.
3. Sewing Machine Desk
Designs like this one found in the Catalonia region of Europe might seem clunky, but they were a popular way of staying organized while working.
4. 1955 Tula
This sleek design was popular for tons of appliances and devices throughout the 1950s and is especially reminiscent of toasters from the era.
5. Hand-Crank Machine
I'm sure this had to be a difficult one to maneuver back in the day, guiding fabric along with one hand while the other one was busy cranking.
6. 1950s Mini-Machine
This petite machine was made in Bolivia during the 1950s and was likely pretty handy for smaller projects.
7. Victorian Wanzer
I definitely mistook this 1870s contraption for a record player before noticing that needle was for fabrics, not albums.
8. 1970s Floral
The dash of red and delightful flowers definitely make this model an eye-pleaser while you work.
9. Industrial Overlock Machine
Merrow Sewing Machine Co. jumped on this sturdy design for stitching the seams and hems of clothing.
10. 1941 Singer Featherweight
At only 11 pounds, it's incredible to see one of these old standards still in working condition.
11. Necchi Supernova
Now owned by Singer, perhaps the most famous sewing machine company in the world, these long-lasting designs were popular in the late 1950s.
12. Manual Adler Machine
Shoemakers used this German design to work on thick leather, alternating between hand and foot cranks.
13. 1868 Wheeler & Wilson
I'll be honest: I thought this was maybe a paper hole punch from the Victorian era when I first took a glimpse at its Swedish design.
14. Furrier Machine
You obviously need something a bit more heavy duty than an ordinary machine to create clothing out of thick pelts of fur.
15. Pfaff Tiptronic
This boxy and durable design reminds me of what I would always see my mom using back in the day when she crafted Halloween costumes and other projects around the house.
16. Singer Genie
This darling machine looks like it fit right in with the swinging 1960s. Honestly, I'm pretty tempted to grab it for myself!
Did you see any that reminded you of your mom or grandma's machine from back in the day? Or do you remember using any of these yourself?
Let us know below, and be sure to SHARE with your friends!
