Cleaning and Repairing a Singer Crocodile Case - Vintage Sewing Machines

[@loriannpayne4483]

What is it that mesmerizes me when I see someone clean and polish something? I just sit here glued to the screen cheering you on silently while a case comes back to it’s former glory. Yes, I enjoyed the video Tony along with your rye sense of humor! I’ve never seen a case like that in the USA. Very nice!

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

I believe they are rare over there. I have 2 99K machines and 2 201Ks in this style of case

[@LoonsterSr.]

To remove paint, gently rub Dawn dishsoap with your finger on the paint and let it sit for an hour and then use a damp (not wet, just damp) cotton cheesecloth to wipe (dont scrub! Just wipe, rinse the cloth, wring it out, and wipe again, repeat until the paint comes off. You wont run the risk of cutting up your case with a razorblade. Works on ducks, old sewing machines (my Redeye Singer from 1923) and it doesnt remove the finish. Best wishes and keep up the good work!

[@viviennebolton4358]

Thank you for your great video! I've followed your approach using dye followed by a coat of dark briwax. Mine has plenty of wear scratches but it's polished up really well. I didn't use any acrylic paint after all and am content with conservation rather than restoration! Such a good video, so can't thank you enough!

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

You're welcome!

[@TheLballou]

Brilliant!

[@CarrieMtn]

Nice job!

[@lynna7556]

I watched your video and am now inspired to work on refurbishing my case, too! My case has a couple of issues besides just the aesthetics, though. First, there's a strip of wood with hooks on it that I think needs to be reattached to the cover. It looks like the hooks are supposed to fit into some hardware on the main part of the case that would connect the cover to the main part before the latches are closed to secure the lid completely. Unfortunately, the hardware that the two hooks connect to is missing. Do you have any idea where I might be able to find replacement parts or purchase something that would work in place of the original hardware? Any ideas or suggestions you may have would be much appreciated!

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

I'm having the same issue! Unfortunately the hardware on these cases was not standard and varies quite a lot. I may have to resort to making something.

[@janevacani6789]

Thank you for being the guinea pig 😂 Great video, thank you! I've been looking for advice on cleaning my 201 case.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

You're welcome!

[@denniswoodhouse3351]

I’ve been given one of theee with Machine in it It needs repair Where are you based ? Would like to get it repaired or learn how to do it

[@emilieworksinchanel]

Hi, Wonderful job on the case. I have the same one, and I wanted to know how you protect the hardware from rust after cleaning them? Would linseed oil do the job? Thanks

[@Акула-б3х]

I'm using black phosphate coat (from gun/hunter store, thin layer of paint should works too) and oil.

[@4486xxdawson]

That case may have came out earlier then you think , my 1939 singer i just purchased is in a case just like this but lighter brown so in 39 they were here ,may even date back farther back ? also noticed the latches say made in England and thats cool they stamped it on them , love knowing where stuff is made , and more so whens its not made in CHINA lol .....

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Also these cases are meant to be carry cases - unlike bentwood cases, where the handle should only be used to lift the cover off the machine.

[@4486xxdawson]

@@CurioByBSpokeDesigns mine is in need of repair before im brave enough to carry it by the handle , you will see why in my video where i show my case and its damage, lucky for me i have the pieces to fix it and found a good video on how to repair the crocodile case , you may know the guy lol , Tony i think is his name ........

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

@@4486xxdawson Ha ha ha ha - Can't wait to see it!

[@alangilbert-voss7379]

I have a Singer 99k, from 1937, in the same case. Bought it online & the case was damaged in transit, due to the machine being insecure inside. Anyway the plywood now has a crack, kind of pushed out from inside & I've no idea how to fix it. Any ideas?

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

It's difficult to tell without seeing it, but if it is on the flat part of the case I would use wood glue and clamp it between 2 wooden boards, if that makes sense.

[@alangilbert-voss7379]

@@CurioByBSpokeDesigns I might just be able to get a clamp on it, yes. I'll give that a try, cheers!

[@viviennebolton4358]

What was the colour of the die you used?

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

I used a medium oak wood stain. Hope this helps.

[@viviennebolton4358]

@@CurioByBSpokeDesigns Thanks - my case is very badly scratched and have oddly enough tried that very colour of stain. Not so sure it's going to do the trick though. Am tempted to mix a little hookers green, brown and a little Payne's grey acrylic paint and touch up the scratches. Do you think that could work? And then once dry, to polish over it all....Your video gave me the confidence to try it, otherwise I wouldn't have had a go

[@dwderp]

The safest way to remove paint from a cabinet like this is with a single edge razor blade. And a very sharp one, not a dull one. Very gently scrape at the paint until it begins to come away and stop just short of it being gone. The remainder should come off with a cloth and gentle soap, but if it doesn't, continue scraping very gently until it does. A bit of care will leave you with a covering which is absolutely without blemish.

[@rich-f-in-tx6388]

Another excellent project done very well, Tony. Always enjoy watching what you'll do next. Cheers from the USSA (United Socialist States of America), formerly 🇺🇸 USA - Rich in [the once-proud Republic of] Texas. (:

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Thank you!

[@GaryT1952]

Beautiful case Tony...looks a bit more sturdy than the grass cloth trapezoidal cases from the '50's-60's in the US. Especially like how it's made to accept the wooden base.

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

Clever - not having to design and manufacture a new base.

[@teslaandhumanity7383]

Magic sponge 🧽 are good

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

They can be but they are micro abrasive and could affect the finish on the fabric. The paint was very old - and rock hard!

[@ChrisTheSparky]

Are these worth anything please?

[@CurioByBSpokeDesigns]

it depends where you are and the condition