A Stitch in Time: Conserving Antique Sewing Machines

Antique sewing machines are not merely functional devices; they are historical artifacts that reflect their time's technological advancements and artistic sensibilities. Preserving these machines involves a meticulous process that maintains their functionality and history. The Antique and Fine Furniture Department at The Conservation Center recently conserved two antique sewing machines, a detailed process showcasing the careful work involved in this type of furniture.

These two Singer sewing machines, with serial numbers indicating they were manufactured in 1897, are characterized by their unique and ornate cabinets. With brass legs and intricate woodwork details, these cabinets are high-end pieces from their time. The client's research showed that only as few as 100 to 200 such cabinets were produced, making the two surviving examples exceptionally rare.

Interestingly, the client acquired the two sewing machines at different locations and times, and they had led vastly different lives before then. One machine had been well-cared for by past owners, with sensitive and skilled repairs periodically performed, preserving its generally good condition. In contrast, the other machine had endured much harsher conditions, having been stored in an environment with significant humidity fluctuations. This resulted in the laminate groundwork becoming highly unstable, with separations, distortions, and losses throughout. Moreover, it had been subjected to heavy-handed repairs, most notably an aggressive treatment of the bronze base, possibly sandblasting, which left the surface pitted and matte.

Upon examining the first machine, it became evident that it had accumulated a layer of particulate matter, which dulled its original polished surface. The veneer exhibited multiple losses, with some pieces loose and needing attention. The barley twist molding at the bottom of the left door was partially missing, and both doors were missing barley twist modeling at the top. Additionally, the pitman - the wooden rod attached to the pedal - had an area of loss, and the plywood on the left door was delaminating. The hardware, including replacement screws, was not period-appropriate, and the metal base had lost its original patina. Despite these issues, the textile on the pedal remained intact, albeit worn, and metal wreaths displayed cleaning residue. One of the drawer knobs was missing, and the ball catches for the doors were absent.

The second machine presented similar challenges. It had a layer of particulate matter, and its polished surface was not original. Veneer strips obscured decorative skirt moldings, and the beaded molding had sections of loss. Like the first machine, the replacement screws for the hinges were not appropriate for the period, and the metal base had lost its patina. The textile on the pedal, although worn, was intact.

Rob Kleeman, Senior Conservator of Furniture, expertly conserved these two sewing machines. The conservation process began with thorough documentation, capturing photographs for in-house records before and after treatment. Rob carefully separated the ormolu (the gilt bronze decorative elements) and wooden cabinets from their metal bases and partially disassembled the sewing mechanisms for detailed cleaning. Surface cleaning employed appropriate conservation methods to gently remove accumulated grime from the cabinet, stand, ormolu, textile, and mechanism.

Addressing the veneer and molding issues involved securing loose pieces, patching areas of loss, and re-veneering the back of the left door of the second machine. Missing sections of bead molding and turned moldings were replaced, and the damaged barley twist molding was meticulously patched. Structural repairs included securing the delaminating plywood, repairing the wooden rod, and fabricating missing drawer knobs. Replacement of non-period screws with age-appropriate ones and installation of missing ball catches restored the hardware's authenticity.

The wood structure of both pieces was stabilized, and unsuitable previous repairs were reversed and re-treated using conservation-grade materials, with sensitivity to the objects' age and significance. The decision was made to remove the later coatings from the lower leg sections and reproduce the color and nature of the retained protected coating layers in a manner that would blend with the original.

The metal bases underwent re-patination to match the remaining areas of the original patina. Corrosion was carefully cleaned from all metal surfaces using an aqueous solution. The bronze bases were polished to minimize surface irregularities, and a specially fabricated metal varnish was applied to seal and protect the cleaned hardware. Both pieces retained their original finish and coloration on the metal elements contained within the cabinets' interiors.

The pieces were reassembled, with all components cleaned, repaired, and preserved. For the finishing step of this conservation, Rob applied a protective wax coat to safeguard the restored surfaces and ensure the longevity of the conservation work.

Antique Singer Sewing Machines after treatment

Both sewing machines are now back on display at the client's home, one on each side of their fireplace mantle. The client shared their satisfaction with the completed conservation, saying, "We're delighted to have them back in our collection and in such good condition after the conservation."

The conservation of these antique sewing machines required a delicate balance of historical knowledge, skilled craftsmanship, and respect for the original materials and design. The result is a faithful preservation of these machines, allowing them to be admired and appreciated for their historical and aesthetic value. Now part of a cherished collection, these machines are a testament to the enduring importance of careful and informed conservation practices.

Carissa Tonner