Hello and welcome Mike! Nice set of machines you have and have given away! They will run for another 60+ years! Check the carbon brushes to ensure the motor its getting powered through the steel spring. It’s about the only thing that can kill one of these. Only because getting a replacement motor of similar quality is very difficult. We are hoping to add more videos soon. I had a huge project and then surgery. So life was forced to slow down. But we are nearly back up and running. Keep your eyes out for more goodies to come! Yep, Daffy is pretty cute! Very judgmental of my work though……. Lol😂. I hope you have a grand day!

​@@fixinstitchinmachines9217Boa noite! Tenho uma máquina Kenmore mas não sei te dizer qual é, só sei que é muito antiga e é verde. O motorzinho dela está saindo faísca, será que vai queimar?

On the stitch length lever it shows 1-7. 1, is stitches right next to each other. 7, is 7mm long stitches. Some call it 7 stitches per inch. But White was originally a European company, so it would be in mm. If a person needed to do a basting stitch or about one stitch per inch 25mm, then you would need to lift the pressure foot off the fabric, move it to the next stitch point and make one stitch. And repeat until all your basting stitches were completed.

I hope Google translate worked correctly. If your lever for zig-zag is on 0; then your straight stitch is not correctly set. There is a rod that controls your zig-zag motion. If what I said is correct; then it needs reset. When you do have it set at 0; is the zig-zag just very narrow?

Gracias pero no me supe explicar, mi aguja no queda en el centro de lanzadera sino al costado izquierdo de la misma. Hace la costura recta pero no puedo coser en el centro para poder guiarme mejor

Agregar pregunta

Buenos días hace días q le escribí y párese q no vio mi pregunta ,tengo la misma maquina y no me cose recta en el centro solo a la izquierda el sisas si lo hace bien quisiera q me explicara en una foto q me señale donde debo de tocar es la misma marca es una ( Kenmore ) modelo 148.12170 Sears ROEBUCK SIMPSONS_SEARS.

Por favor me pued3s contestar necesito con urgencia soy sola y no tengo como sustentarme para comer por fa tengo 70 años.

Hello Bill! I would love to help. Tell me what’s going on with the replacement assemblies? My supplier gives me a part number of MO-301. I have replaced tension units where the push pin had to be shortened. In-fact I just had a Nelco that I just had to do that to. A few strokes on a file and it worked just fine. As far as the diameter of the shaft on the assembly enclosure, do you have the original still? Many times they can be repaired. Please feel free to find my contact info on my website and we can even arrange a video chat or pictures to be more helpful to you. As far as sewing sailboat sails…. For a real boat or a model? If it is for a real boat, you should look into SailRite sewing machines to at least get thread type suggestions and needle size suggestions. Typically they tend to be a considerably faster machine, but the cloth type, needle size, and thread type are out of my wheel house. It could be possible the White will not support a needle that large? I truly don’t know. I would assume that you will have to have a sun-proof thread type, and the size of that thread if I am right you will need to adjust the bobbin case tension also. FixinStitchinMachines.com. As a side note, text me please first prior to calling, as I am just re-opening the shop and trying to get to all my missed calls. I had to have a surgery and life was forced to shut down for a bit.

Also, its not uncommon for suppliers to get part numbers for vintage and antique machines a little off. If you have a micrometer to measure things that can be very helpful! Sometimes it takes a phone call. Their profit comes from more fit-all parts or parts for current machines. Hope that helps!

Daffy is a little stinker and likes to judge me while I work! Everything gets “CAT SCANED”!! She makes my day!

I really appreciate that feedback! I took the video myself…. This work is too detailed and its hard to get some one to stand there and video you doing stuff. I did find a solution for that and have gotten a different way to be able to video myself. My other videos, my wife was able to take them and that’s why those videos look SO much better! This one however was all me and I very much NEED this kind of feedback so that I can video better in the future!!

The rubber ring is called a pulley. Its a whole piece, not just a rubber replacement like a bobbin winder. If you take it off and get the diameter of the motor shaft, then you can order a replacement either on Amazon, order one from a local to you shop, or you can call or email me and I can send one to you. They are usually about $13.00 plus shipping from me; I would have to know the diameter of your personal motor shaft to know pricing for sure.

I have yards of it! I use it as a "truther" because sewing on it can be tricky; it let's me know right away that I have made the adjustments correctly or not! But I bought it on Amazon. I usually buy enough for about 2 years at a time for the shop. I'm sorry I don't remember the price, but I know it wasn't expensive!

The spool hand crank is just to allow you to sew either way and it certainly can be removed. I hope to eventually get a lathe and make some custom handles that are much cooler!

Nice! I really enjoy a family heritage machine! The stories they could tell! A true memory maker! If your White is similar to this one, you can choose to ship me the motor and light and foot control and I can re-wire it for you. My website is FixinStitchinMachines.com

So you are asking about polarity. In 1931 they built stuff so that it didn't matter. However, if it was on my bench, yes I would use that as long as the white spots were for certain a part of the sheathing and not mold or fungus. If the outside wire's sheathing is rotting and falling off; then the same is happening INSIDE your motor housing and other points of junctions. The build-able plug systems they used back then ect. If your grandma's machine is similar to this one in the video; you can remove the motor, lamp, and foot control and send them to me and I can re-wire the system for you. I recently did exactly that for another subscriber here on YT. That way she didn't need to send me the whole machine. I have many color choices available for the cord! And different types of plug ends! Feel free to get my phone # from my website and we can talk! FixinStitchinMachines.com

@@fixinstitchinmachines9217 Thank you for the reply. Yes, her machine is a White series 77, I believe it was manufactured in 1931 according to the date on the owners manual. The electrical system appears to be in good shape, the main power cord was my main concern, the outer layer was a tad bit dry rotted. I did replace the power cord with one that has a ground wire. It doesn't have a foot pedal, this model has the pedal / knee lever. The machine has the built in wood cabinet with drawers. I cleaned it up and oiled all of the moving parts down, it still looks and works great. I will keep your info on file, and if we are ever in need of any repairs, I will most definitely reach out to you. By the looks of it, you do fantastic work. Thanks again.!

If your looking for an original, with some patience you can find one on eBay. Otherwise just about any foot control will operate the machine. Yes!! I can help with cabinet re-finishing questions! I do sympathetic restorations!

You're more than welcome to send pictures to my website and get advice on specific things! I am always happy to help. If the problem is a bigger or time consuming problem I can even arrange a paid scheduled video chat to guide you through the repair. I hope you have a grand week and welcome to the FSM family!

You can get a hold of me through my website/email and I can get parts ordered and shipped to you. FixinStitchinMachines.com or [email protected]

Yes you can. I recommend putting something under even the case. Some of the cases had metal feet and are all beat up and will scratch the surface you set it on. Once out of the case, the same thing will happen, you can scratch or mar the surface you have set the machine on. There is a lot of vibration in the machine while it sews. I sell a repair mat that works well for this! They are $45 plus shipping. Send me an email from my website and I can send you a picture and the information for the mat. On my bench I use 2 layers of leather, in the video you can only see the one. I hope that helps!! FixinStitchinMachines.com

I am a good repair man. But I am no historical genius…. I love delving into the history of these old machines! I could be wrong but this is where I got my information to date this machine. www.fiddlebase.com/american-machines/white-sewing-machine-company/dating-identifying-white-sewing-machines/ a little more than 1/2 way down; it shows the embossed machines at 1902. If you Google White Rotary model 31 you get smooth machines with the gold decals. If you Google White Rotary model 9002 you get the embossed ones. If you keep going under Google images you get a little of both…. Also the same when on eBay for buying parts, you get different parts for the 2 model numbers 31 and 9002. As far as electric motors first on sewing machines, Singer did that in 1889. Since White started (1860’s I believe) just a few years prior to Singer putting out the electric sewing machine and that for a while White was 2nd in place to Singer in sewing machine sells I would like to think that they too would be selling an electric motor driven sewing machine. The models that fell under the White Rotary category were being made in the 1890’s to the 1950’s. In 1960’s Husqvarna-Viking bought White. So its a bit of a tangled mess to be sure the date. The 1902 and it being a model 9002 was the best I could find. The manual I have says book No.31 of which ismacs.net doesn’t even have a copy of, so I did my best; but I would like to know more!! Learning I was wrong or right is always a good thing as far as I am concerned. I did find a list of model numbers and 9002 was not on that list but that list was not exhaustive of all the models that came under the White Rotary category. So though I might appear to sound confident in the 1902 dating I am quite certain it is obvious that there is definite room for improvement! PLEASE PLEASE send me any links as I love reading and learning more!! Thank you!

Also if it helps the serial number of this particular machine is 31X20783

It’s possible the machine is 1902, but that flywheel is for an electric machine. The pre electric machines had spoked wheels. I have the exact same machine that is electrified with a spoked wheel, and my grandmother bought it in 1926. So, she must have gotten a transitional machine. In any case, the White rotaries are fantastic, and this particular embossed model is my favorite. Thanks for posting!

Yes they are! Fantastic machine. This machine is also for sale! I hope to work on a bronze version of this machine someday! I have seen pictures but not in person yet. Thank you for your kind words!

It does have a neat style that goes well with the style of the ‘20’s doesn’t it!! But yep it was made 1902! Such style and workmanship from those days! True artisans! I sometimes wish my skills were arty rather than repairs, but I take great honor in being a part of the history of these machines to keep them creating family memories and heritages! Keep on the look out for a HUGE rejuvenation job we will be posting soon. Its a treadle machine I have been honored with making beautiful again. My client’s grandmother taught her to sew on this machine. Its why I haven’t posted in some time since this is a big project that needs a lot of attention!

Model 31's are mid 30s. The standard 31 is smooth and rounded. The embossed are special made in iron or bronze.

I wish this one was bronze! I have seen pictures that looked like copper! Stunning machines. Some day one will come across my bench!

Thank you! This one is still available for purchase! Normally $725 but this is part of my sale! $650 anywhere in the 48 states shipping included!

I have found several here in Michigan…two at St. Vincent’s …I have kept one ..in a lovely cherry cabinet. Check your local goodwill,St. vs,and market place! Usually sell for $30-80 dollars.

My little micro manager is my favorite tool on my bench! She keeps me company!

And thank you for the kind words. I am planning on starting an online school for repairing certain machines!

LOVE the feedback!! It is very appreciated; as I am just learning how to do all this video stuff. Its a lot to learn!! That machine is sold. Yes it did have all metal gears and the price did include the table. Many machines can switch between tables. Unfortunately there is no way to tell for sure till you just try it. That part kinda stinks because these machines are heavy. Yes some of the tables shake. Usually it’s because the legs have come loose either from a bolt or the glue came loose. If you need a really sold table, make a template of your machine out of cardboard and cut a hole in a better table. My work bench was $300 ish at Home Depot and it raises and lowers! If your on a tighter budget, check your local listings for used tables or work benches. Even thrift stores or garage sales. Lots of better deals that way.

Motor size is usually under 1 amp occasionally you’ll find a machine up to 1.5 amps until you get into more commercial or industrial machines.

Oh boy… That is a tough problem. But yes!! It is a lot of work. Its more involved than I can type here. So please go to my website and get my phone number and I am happy to talk you through the steps! FixinStitchinMachines.com. I am on Eastern Standard time and I answer the phone 10am-4pm. Phone calls are free! Video chats are also available to help folks with repair issues, usually I charge for them if they are over 15 minutes.

@@fixinstitchinmachines9217 Thanks! I will call during the week during those hours. Thanks again :)

Add the correct pressure foot, correct needle, tension, pressure foot pressure and you can sew through more things than people realize. Your absolutely correct, they will sew through just about anything!!!

It is removable, but it allows the sewer to use either the motor or as a hand crank! It is an efficient way of allowing the machine to be used under different circumstances. Whether the power is out, either temporary or for a long time. This machine is ready to do what is needed!

@@fixinstitchinmachines9217 I have a couple hand cranks. I like how you did yours too but did you have to drill out a hole or attach it another way? I have so many machines so using your method for a couple would be fun! :)

Yes a hole was drilled into the hand wheel. Its best if you have a drill press to do this on as frequently there is no flat spot to start the hole. Then too you can be a bit more precise with where you want the hole too! If your doing this, verify that the nut closest to the machine will not hit anything as it goes around!! The old wooden spools make for a quick handle. But I am hoping to get a lathe at some point and make my own handles, or find a source for pre-made wooden handles that are a better more ergonomically friendly to use.

This wonderful “memory maker” is still for sale! $780 end of year clearance will include free shipping and 20% off the price!!! Someone took the time to copper plate one??!!!!! Wow!! If you have pictures I would love for you to send me them please!!! My website has my business email. This one is painted. I simply washed it with a paint brush and some dish soap. Then rinsed it and pressure air dried it. The trick is getting it really clean and you have to scrub it and rinse the dirty residue off repeatedly. But having an air compressor to dry it off with really helps because you can clean those little crevices completely out of dust and debris!

@@fixinstitchinmachines9217 If I had that kind of money available I'd buy it in an instant. Sadly, I don't (sigh!) But painting this one; how brilliantly simple! It looks exquisite. Before sending this, I spent a while looking for that copper machine. I haven't found it yet, but I'm still hopeful. I did find a photo of a machine much like the one listed as "white bronze". It's not the same listing but the color is exact. I'll send it to you if you tell me how/where. Thanks for the info on cleaning and drying. I can use that to make my mother's machine look beautiful too. Did you use a stiff paintbrush or a softer one. Artist's or housepainter's? Love your cat! We have two cats and one large lovey-dovey female dog who's thoroughly intimidated by our male kitty.

P.S. Duh! Just noted that I can send photo to your website email - will do.

@@PibbleMom297 Well I will definitely keep my eyes open for those pictures! I dont know how far away you are…. Shipping might cause an issue, but email me and maybe we can make a deal on this beautiful White Rotary!!??

@@PibbleMom297I would love to see the pic of your machines! Also just to clarify I wanted to say that I simply used a paint brush as a cleaning tool. I did not paint this machine. Just a good soft bristle brush to get into all the crevices!

You know what, I also like that!! But not personally for sewing, for me brighter is better. But my favorite light source is fire like an old kerosene lamp! Such a warm inviting light! Makes me want a pot of chili cooked over the fireplace and a game of cards via kerosene lamp because the power went out on a winter day…….. I grew up in Montana and we made those days become fun days!

@@fixinstitchinmachines9217 absolutely brings it back to childhood memories

The lamp is intended to become warm... They were designed to work as an "iron" to press a seam open..

Happy to have been able to help you out with your “memory maker”. Let me know if I can help you with anything else. Welcome to the Fixin’ Stitchin’ Family! I hope you have a grand day!

I am so sorry you lost your Drew! That’s terrible. Not too long ago we lost our older cat Baby Girl. We decided to get Daphie and her litter mate Dorrie. They have become a big part of our family. I am honored that my cat made you smile with the good memories you have of Drew. Your right about these old Kenmores, they are great machines! I hear it alot though…. “They were just a cheap Sears machine.” Well I figure those people haven’t sewed on a very big variety of machines!!! They just dont know any better!!!! I hope you have a grand day!

@@fixinstitchinmachines9217 Back in the day before 1980's a Kenmore appliance was a very good piece of equipment. Things were built to last, and if a problem parts were readily available. I am talking more than just sewing machines. But people today don't know the experience of purchasing from large dept. store that stood behind the products they sold, and where workers were more than willing to assist you as well as being very knowledgeable about the profuct. No, we are not talking about Walmart, and made to fall apart products. .

@@jojosewist8921 Well said!! Just as a heads up though; if you have those old appliances and need a schematic, go to searspartsdirect.com and usually you can at least get a little better understanding of the appliance and possibly come up with a solution or find an aftermarket replacement part!!

Hello!! I am happy to help! I need to know the exact make and model of your machine. A picture is also helpful. Each machine can require a specific needle type. Especially from that time era. Please contact me through my website. FixinStitchinMachines.com

Those old Dressmakers are quite a nice machine! Occasionally, I have found that some have plastic stitch cams or gears or both. If yours does, a little M-kote EM-30L lubricant will help it a tiny bit from drying out and cracking. Use a small brush and brush the entire plastic part; IF there is one.

@@fixinstitchinmachines9217 mine came with a huge set of 24 cams… I cleaned and oiled the machine out when I got it then put on a shelf, but I think I’ll take it down today and have a good play… bit hard when I have 7 sewing machines - 2 daily drivers (cheap Brother machine and my beloved Bernina 1010), my bagmaking industrial that I use all the time…and then the Toyota dressmaker and a Husqy 21c which were just too pretty and cheap and good condition to not buy….and the other 2 are non-working shelf pretties (an Elna Grasshopper and old Singer 15-91) - to really have a play with them… but I should! I will!

You have a very nice collection!! If you need help with the Elna or the Singer 15-91 send me and email via my website. I am happy to either do the repairs if your close enough to East Tennessee, or I can also guide you via FaceTime or WhatsApp or other video chat service! A quote or estimate is always free!

@@fixinstitchinmachines9217 Unfortunately it’s because both plugs would need to be rewired… and I’m in New Zealand….. twice the voltage and twice as far 😂 But ty anyways

@@CazkiwiNZ The wiring process is the same, there’s just an extra power wire. There’s got to be a repair shop near you that can help get them safely powered again! I dont want to know what the shipping would be from New Zealand….. Or to think of the potential damage a memory maker could sustain in such a long trip!! I certainly can help you get them sewing again via turning the hand wheel. Then at least you would know for sure that it would be worth the $ to get them rewired. I have a few forms of vidoe chat available. Time zones might be an issue…. But if I can help, I would be happy to do so!

I completely agree. It is just a bolt and can be removed and will be for shipping. The spool is also a 100 year old-ish wooden thread spool. I am hoping to get a lathe at some point to make a more hand friendly wooden handle. I will always keep them easily removable. Some of the old wooden spools were made out of better woods like that particular one. No, I don’t know the wood species, I can just see the tight grain. Gino from Sew Much Hope does these kinds of changes to these machines. They work for many many years with it just being an old thread spool. So for now, its the best I personally can offer. I have never owned or operated a lathe, but I am sure a simple handle will be within a beginner’s ability. The length of the handle does look long, but when you leave a single rotation for a single stitch it’s easier to use long. When the machine can take one, I install a gear ratio handle that makes 3 stitches to one turn. Maybe you know of a cheap source for pre-made wooden handles that look better and will hold up? Getting bolts or whatever is the easy part. Though I like the look personally, a proper shaped handle would look better in my opinion also. And will make the hand crank stitching probably a little more ergonomic to use. Thanks very much for the feed back!!!