ELNA Supermatic Basics - The Beautiful, Classic ELNA Sewing Machine

Basic operation of the classic Elna Supermatic.
These machines are not only beautiful but practical as well.
I go through bobbin winding/insertion, needle installation, basic sewing, zig zag, Elnagraph cams, button holes, twin needle, darning, free motion sewing and more.
Molly the cat show us how annoying cats can be when trying to film a youtube video!
Pulley replacement video - • 1950's Elna Supermatic...
Motor removal video - • Motor Removal - 1950's...
Web Site - www.institches.co.nz
Patreon - / sewingmachines

[@darcieprusak1074]

My grandma and I had a really hard time with this machine about 25 years ago. Now because of your video it’s running great, wish she were here to share that I finally figured it out. Thank you so much for such a great tutorial.

[@cyncyn747]

I’ve never used this machine but couldn’t believe that one was available in my area- I grabbed it and I am in awe

[@vaccavo]

You should get a prize for your videos!

[@freyja8384]

I inherited this type of machine from my grandma and I had no idea how it worked. This video was a lifesaver, thank you so much 😊

[@InStitches]

Glad I could help!

[@marlykurtzernarvaez3514]

I bought an Elna Supermatic largely based on this video. According to the date on the bottom, it's from 1957! Sure enough, the old pulley had not 1, but 3 flat spots. Three! But I got a new pulley and now I LOVE this machine. It's so smooth and quiet and sews through multiple layers like butter. I still had to refer to this video to insert the bobbin properly the first couple of times. I wish I'd bought one sooner. Now I'm holding back from getting an SU as well. I live in a small NYC apartment and don't have the space. Anyway, thanks for the video!!

[@InStitches]

Thanks. It's great to hear you now own one of these beauties.

[@alicearmen5601]

I bought one on Craigslist. It’s in great shape. It’s a bit loud. I ordered a new pulley wheel and look forward to following your video to replace it. One question: the stitch length knob doesn’t seem to turn. Maybe not in the particular model? Th problem is the stitch length is too tight to run the double cams. How can I adjust it? I love your videos. You do so much good!!!!

[@nonnymouse1196]

Thank you SO MUCH for this Elna Supermatic video! Have had four star models. Just found a Supermatic 3 (1963only) This presentation is the most informative I have seen. I was trained at the London college of Fashion in 1968. You have taught me things I never discovered in 55 years of using Elnas!

[@lorrainelegaultloiselle8505]

Hello, a word to thank you for this tutorial which allowed me to operate my mother's sewing machine. this sewing machine hadn't worked for 40 years. With your advice, I can start sewing again.Thank you Lorraine

[@InStitches]

Glad I could help!

[@moniquegroom2353]

This is awesome! I've recently been obsessed with getting one of these. And had wondered how they worked, how to fix and maintain and if they are worthwhile to own. It reminds me of the "newer" version my mom taught me to sew on in the early 70's. Miss that machine.

[@deborahnugent3852]

I have just taken possession of my late Aunt’s Supermatic. Thank you so much for these videos, they will assist me in operating the machine. Thanks also to Molly for her fantastic input 💕🐾 she is so entertaining 💕🐾🐱🐈🐈‍⬛

[@ChristopherRuthVDO]

That needle break...thank you for taking one for the team. Your sacrifice is greatly appreciated. (It'll still happen to me, I'm sure.)

[@sherienochs8137]

Fantastic video. I have been using this ol’ girl for thirty years and learned a few new tricks, and a couple things I have been doing entirely wrong. Thanks to you and Molly.

[@barbolson8768]

Wow, this was a walk down memory lane. I learned to sew as a child on my mother's Elna Supermatic and now that I sew myself (many years later), it was interesting to see the machine up close once again. My mom is 88 years old and still has her Elna even though she hasn't sewn for many years now. One of these days when I'm visiting her, I'll have to sit down and try out her machine again. Your video was so helpful. Thank you.

[@MelArchbold]

Thank goodness for this video! I had no clue how to use this at all. I had never seen a knee bar before. I couldn’t figure out how to make it sew lol. Thank you so much ❤

[@ScarlettRose7221]

Wow! So thrilled to have found this wonderful video! I have such fond memories of sitting in and enthralled with the canister for hours while my mother sewed and mended. I have all the different foot feeds, cams, bobbins, too.

[@postpunkmmma]

Thanks for this immensely helpful video and Molly was extra helpful ❤😹

[@franrobertson9024]

Thank you! Very comprehensive. The bobbin can be quite tricky to load, so it was great to see it demonstrated so clearly.

[@InStitches]

Pleased it helped.

[@darwinortiz6394]

I am currently using the super magic sold green model. It was given to me as a gift. Had it tuned up a professional sewing machine store. Totally love it .Works so great can’t imagine not having it.Love looking forward to my weekends so i can use it. Thanks so much for your helpful video. Learned a lot. You have helped me and many other people. You did a great job.

[@cherylsteverson6603]

Thank you so much for this video! My sister is gifting me this machine, this was the kind of sewing machine my mother had when I was a child. I am very thrilled to be getting it but I am not familiar with it at all so I am so happy to find your post!

[@DOMINICANASOY121107]

What a thorough demonstration ! I just acquired this model in an auction and I am so grateful I found this video. Thank you!

[@InStitches]

Glad it was helpful!

[@daniellebrown2165]

Thank you so much for this highly informative video! Just brought one off of trade me as my first sewing machine and thanks to this video can actually use it. Wonderful machine and wonderful video!

[@donnawarren2424]

This is a amazing video! We will be searching in an old sewing cabinet for cams and feet! I am sure they’re in grandmothers stuff

[@ToddHakala]

Thank you so much for this video! I'm 58 and have never used a sewing machine before. I inherited my auntie's mono color 1955 Supermatic and had no idea how to use it properly until I watched your video. This is such a finely made machine, and I was afraid that I would damage it due to my inexperience. You gave me the confidence to move on to doing a real sewing project!

[@InStitches]

Glad it was helpful!

[@kaiataitano7864]

Oh my goodness! Thank you for doing this video. I couldn't figure out how to make the machine I was given work...ends up, I was doing absolutely everything wrong :/ Now, it works! :) So awesome! Thank you for taking the time!

[@InStitches]

Glad I could help!

[@carolyncavanaugh7249]

I'm picking up a Supermatic tomorrow, this has been very helpful.

[@xan3775]

I had absolutely no idea what to do with this machine. I even thought about throwing it away 💀Thank you so much for this video! I know how it works now and you saved me money 👀

[@catmilk3883]

Thank you for your video! Such a great resource to help me figure out my grandma’s machine. I still can’t get the bobbin thread to catch in the needle to start sewing, anyone else having this trouble?

[@vaccavo]

You have TWO Elna's! What a lucky guy you are!

[@InStitches]

Hmmm, the collection is always growing. :) Thanks.

[@siobhanseifert5516]

Thank you so much for creating and sharing this video!! I just picked one of these up from Trade Me and am ecstatic to start using it! Your video was so informative and helpful. Really sold me in the machine. Thanks again, from a fellow kiwi.

[@ChryslerPTCruiser]

Really appreciate the amount and time and effort you put into this video! My grandma has moved into a retirement facility and I got this machine since she couldn't bring it with her. I found the receipt from 1957 for $300 CAD, put that into the bank of Canada inflation calculator and that comes out to just over $3000 in today money! I found your camera angles to be extremely helpful for seeing how things work, and of course please send my regards and thanks to Molly for her excellent supervision :3 edit: just saw your other video with the news on Molly, rest in peace

[@crystaltaylor138]

Well my modern machine stopped working last night, and I have found one these a few hours away. I am thinking of definitely getting now. Thanks for your video. 🧵🪡

[@user-sj7gp1hs5t]

Excellent video on an amazing machine

[@rozennpoirier8404]

Thank you so much for your video, that was very helpful! I just got that machine from my grandma and didn’t know anything about it. Hi to Molly :)

[@InStitches]

I'll pass that on to Molly when she wakes up. Thanks.

[@JanetScholten-oz2xo]

You are so patient and thorough in your explanations thanks so much for this video I just got a two toned Elna not sure of the year but similar enough to get a lot of info. Thanks from Canada 🇨🇦

[@user-sw7rl8rn9v]

Thanks for this video, just got my grandmother’s machine out to test. Might need to watch the video about the pulley next since needle is not going up and down… thanks again from Wellington NZ

[@woolandwaterknits4801]

Thank you again for posting such an informative video! This machine makes beautiful decorative stitches. It would be so fun to do a comparison of decorative stitches between this, the Necchi Supernova with cams and the Singer 319 with cams. They are all the only ones that went to and fro and zig and zag!

[@Nina-to1px]

Amazing video! Bravo! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@daphneblake7889]

I've learned things about my machine I never knew! I was given a two tone supermatic about 23 years ago. I hate to use it because I had one cam break on me. It would be great if someone had 3D prints available. An overlock cam would be a bonus. (Maybe that's what broke) also I don't have the buttonhole attachment. I have a universal attachment

[@Dickard66]

Thanks so much for this video, great production and priceless information. I am a hobby engineer and sewing machine enthuiast. I have designed and produced a replacement drive wheel for this model in my home workshop. I needed one for my own machine, but apparrently a flat spot on the rubber drive wheel is a common problem. I think they will help others to restore their machines to smooth running. I would be happy to send one to you for evaluation and comments.

[@InStitches]

Thank you for your offer. I can buy a replacement pulley for a very low cost.

[@user-qw6fj1ls4s]

Wow! Thank you for this video! I'm excited to be able to use this machine now.

[@alp-1960]

Molly's determined to get on youtube lol. Two of my favorite things, old sewing machines and cats. Thanks!

[@kimnguyen1227]

Molly made me laugh so much. More of her please!

[@edwardfalk9997]

I too have broken needles on that feed dog cover. I find that the machine works just fine if you take the cover away and set the stitch length to zero. The feed dogs still hit the fabric, but they don't do anything.

[@monkeybeak2056]

This is by far the most informative sewing video I've ever seen. Great job! I love the kitty "assistance".

[@1bighubba]

Love the feisty cat!!! I have one that lays in front or behind machine when I sew.... Can't tell you how many times I've saved her tail!!! LOL!!

[@lindamorgan2678]

Excellent review. Had no idea they came with a button hole attachment and capability. Lovely machines just like that sweet little grasshopper little gem I would take it over the singer featherweight Thank you

[@sandranoisewater6093]

My Granny, had the Green one 1952, I located the tan version, in new condition, I bought it for $12. The Thrift shop thought it was broken. Reciept in hand, I let the owner of shop, it wasn't broken. She got so mad 😂

[@susanfriesen818]

Also I loved this video. Thank you!!

[@budact4837]

Espectacular el vídeo, muchas gracias !!

[@rociobach4642]

Thank for you video, EXCELLENT!

[@vandaantonia6032]

Eu acho por ela ser antiga ela é uma máquina de costura MT boa, MT resistente da até gosto de ver pessoas mecher nela, da gosto pra ver ela funcionando parabéns pra quem tem ela😘

[@gearhead3041]

I have a table mounted Elna I just got from my grandmas sewing club it hasn’t been used in so long the owner didn’t remember how it worked thanks for the video. It’s a little different but I haven’t seen it any where in my searching

[@InStitches]

Thanks. Is your one the grey coloured sewing head?

[@iranoliveira684]

Thanks from brasil. All The Best...cheers

[@juliebailey-todd6243]

You’re so very good easy to listen to and you stay on point

[@InStitches]

Thanks. I've been known to ramble at times :)

[@byrontorres8947]

Elna es una máquina de coser super linda, se ve que fue bien construida hecha para durar

[@mr.v7904]

hi, i just got one of these and it appears the bobbin housing is hanging up on itself under the foot. i cant get the machine to turn over & operate the needle. its gear jammed. thoughts on how i can fix this? thank you

[@jtmarin1]

Hello, this video is really amazing! I didn't have the manual! Thank you so much. Last year I found an Elna Supermatic machine at my mother's house. It belonged to my grandmother and it is fully operational. It is the same as described, but it has an electric foot control instead of the knee lever. It also has two shades of grey. It says model Type 722510, but I don't know what year it is (maybe you can help me with the year). (1962?) I would just like to make a small correction to the video: in the part where you indicate the pressure control of the sewing foot, the greatest pressure to the sewing foot is to the left, contrary to what is indicated in the video. The least pressure is to the right. This is noticeable by putting your finger under the sewing foot and feeling the pressure. Greetings from Chile and thanks again!

[@irmar]

Excellent video. I'm also one of those people that learned on this machine (the all-green one) as a child, and it was my mom's first and last sewing machine. It still works, but unfortunately it seems we hadn't been taking proper care of it (I was too young for much of its life of use) and some parts have some irreparable wear - so the old technician told me.

[@InStitches]

Oh, that's a shame. You may still be able to find parts for it. Thanks.

[@096zeo]

Tengo una igual y funciona perfectamente. Gracias por el vídeo 🥰

[@InStitches]

Thanks.

[@elmarquezdelcampomarquez8363]

Tengo una igual desde hace mucho, la guarde hace algunos años en el trastero con tan mala suerte que unas fuertes lluvias inundaron gran parte del vecindario y quedó bajo el agua embargada durante varios días, eso fue hace unos 6 años, hace unos días la abri y comencé a limpiarla pero no estoy a la altura en cuanto ha conocimientos para hacer que funcione, me gustaría llevarla a alguien que realmente pueda hacerlo y reemplazar los que necesite, sabría usted de alguien que pueda hacerlo?

[@cleideoliveira9959]

Nunca vi dessa máquina linda parabéns ❤️💓🙏

[@vincentlegros9319]

thanks a lot, to you and Molly, for the clean explanations, easily understandable even for a frenchie like me. I found one in a recup-shop in belgium for 20 euros. unfortunately, the rotative selection button for left/center/righ the needle is broken . Very difficult to find, i will try with superglue, or find a fab-lab for may be make a 3D copy. i wonder if i can try to use it without his part without danger for the mecanic? I just need the center position

[@Mialinna7]

Thank you. Love the cat 😄😍

[@kasperbuurmadsen8251]

Hello. Thank you so much for the amazing video. I AM trying to get My grand mothers old machine up and running, but i'm having a bit of trouple, and wondered if i could pick your brain. When i try to sew two things happen. Nr. 1 the bobbin thread gets tangled around the bobbin case. Nr. 2 the top thread doesn't catch the bobbin thread

[@deboramunoz1084]

Great video! I have a Supermatic that the feed dogs don’t move. Do you have video for how to repair that? Thanks

[@k.g.saturn]

When we bought our house I found one of the older models in the utility closet. I tested it, and it sews smoothly (no flat spot on the drive pulley, right?) I was making face masks last night, and the tension went wonky on the last one. I managed to finish the job and put the machine away for the night. This morning I watched your video, learned a lot about the machine, then went to troubleshoot and noticed that the spool that I had left on the second spindle was winding around the spool that I was seeing with. Low tech user error! Still that brought me to your informative video, thanks!

[@InStitches]

Great to hear you sorted it. That's a common problem and I'm pleased you liked my video.

[@k.g.saturn]

@@InStitches There's something more going on... the top thread seems to be catching as it's carried about the bobbin housing, wrapping multiple times around it... I had something similar happen on my old Kenmore and discovered that the top thread was slipping off the thread take up. However, Since the Elna has an eye on the thread take up that can't be the cause. I'm stumped for now.

[@katecobain5721]

well i was getting really excited! started using this and was following ir video, it was whirring away and then suddenly it stops! the knee lever just won't do anything, I'm panicking ! can u help?

[@TineKeller]

Any idea on how to fix a stuck stitch regulator- at double cam is currently located in the machine

[@colleensievers9442]

Thanks for the video. Can this machine sew vinyl or cork. I'm make straps and top stick through several layers.. wondering how heavy duty it is.

[@esperanzaamorochoparra7574]

Sr Yaque estás esplicando me podrías desir cómo algo para que salga la costura recta la verdad esa máquina no la e trabajado gracias muy amable

[@u007foshay]

Do you have the 150 cam? If so, can you share a video on what the stitch looks like in motion? Thanks.

[@treemoon999]

Useful video... thanks.

[@InStitches]

Thanks.

[@JuanAlvarez-oe3iq]

Hola buenas tardes habla mary tengo una pregunta donde venden las piezas para esas máquina que compre una gracias 😊

[@adammekki-lp1pz]

من فضلكم القماش لا يمشي جيدا حتى ادفعه بيدي ماهو الحل تحصلت على واحده ولما رايت فيديو اعجبتني كثيرا

[@nancypollard4531]

Love your cat 🐈

[@Lucyverre]

Hello I live in the Netherlands and have the Elna plana automatic (1963) with a foot controller. That was later adjusted because I couldn't get used to that knee "thing". I want to change the lamp on this machine. do you have a video of that?! The light is under the top cover, but I can't get the top cover off. The light therefore shines from under the middle part of the machine, which is indeed not really handy because not directly on your sewing. Thank you in advance if you take the time to read this

[@micheymi5949]

The machine wouldn't pick up my bobbin thread after following this very carefully. Any ideas?

[@topcuisine2023]

السلام عليكم اخي هل استطيع الحصول على نسخ من كتب الالة وشكرا

[@cutiedoggy475]

It has a nice sound to it

[@juliebailey-todd6243]

You’re the best

[@aureliaingelvide6312]

Such an informative video Thank you! Question: On my Elna Supermatic I don't have that hole for the bobbin thread when using a twin needle. It doesn't work to use a twin needle as it is now, the machine makes long stitches with one needle and short with the other!

[@InStitches]

I don't think not having the extra hole for the bobbin thread is a deal breaker. It should still work I think. Maybe try a brand new twin needle if yours is not new. Try lowering the top tension maybe. Other than that the timing may be slightly out.

[@Janeiac]

The Elna Supermatics take a twin needle that is slightly angled in its base, and it’s no longer made. Unless you have a vintage original Elna-specific twin needle (or the needle clamp that takes two single regular needles to be used as a double) it won’t work. Flip your machine over and look at the needle clamp; you will see the angle.

[@vishasajan5563]

I saw your video. My grandma has this machine she had lost the tools and the embroidery discs.where could i purchasethose lost discs.

[@munkhan3785]

Thanks

[@InStitches]

You're welcome.

[@susanlehnen593]

This is great. I refer to it often, along with others you’ve posted. I’m in search of the button hole attachment. Very hard to find. Do you have a resource for this part? Did it come with the machines originally, or as an add on? Thanks.

[@hacerbayram5816]

Merhabalar videonuzu çok beğendim açıklayıcı olmuş bende bu makinenin aynısından var Tanıtımını yaptığınız ikinci makineden bende var Kendi imkanlarımla bu makineyi çalıştırmayı öğrendim çok sevdim makineyi ama üzgünüm çünkü makinemin voleni çeviren kayışı gevşedi ve makinemi kullanamıyorum bu makinenin parçalarına ihtiyacım var bana bu konuda yardımcı olabilirmisiniz😢

[@gregoryoliveri3478]

Hello from Philadelphia, Thanks for the video on these beautiful machines. I discovered this and the other videos on the Husqvarnas just as I am in the market for a vintage mechanical decorative stitch machine (and preferably a free arm). How do these compare to the Necchi Supernova? If you were to choose one or two decorative stitch machines from this period which would they be? Thanks again, Gregory

[@InStitches]

We see a lot more of the Elna machines here in New Zealand as opposed to the Necchi and I have only had a quick play with the Necchi so I can't really comment at this stage because I don't know it well enough. I do intend on doing a video on the Supernova as I do have some of those.

[@Hhhiii2233]

I was wondering if anyone would have a time stamp to the pattern timing adjustments my current problem is when using the zig zag disc the needle is pulling the material side to side instead of moving side to side above the material

[@Hhhiii2233]

It sews perfectly fine in a straight line

[@esperanzaamorochoparra7574]

X favor mi máquina no avansa se queda pegada me puedes esplicar veo q le entiendes a ese tipo de cosas gracias

[@GamingKing-ql6fq]

How is this machine for leather crafting?

[@alcas7864]

Any opinions on the Elna Transforma.? All I know it is the straight stitch only version of the Supermatic. I am only interested in straight stitch so I am curious if anyone has ever owned one of these. The only problem I read is that it is a direct drive motor and the rubber that turns the hand wheel can become uneven. Thank you

[@sunshynegirl7429]

I just got a Elna Supermatic. Your video has been very helpful with running it and understanding exactly what I’ve gotten. I enjoy the knee lever. I only have one zig zag cam and I’m missing the plastic knob on the stitch width selection. I don’t have any of the manuals either. If you have anything extra that you’re interested in selling I’m willing to buy! Thanks for all the great information!

[@rgrocafort]

Just Google it you can find the basic manual then print it

[@sunshynegirl7429]

@@rgrocafort I was able to find it and have it on my phone. I’m working on getting more accessories for it at this point.

[@rgrocafort]

@@sunshynegirl7429 where did you buy it? We cannot use the machine without manual can you share where you found copy of the manual,thank you

[@sunshynegirl7429]

@@rgrocafort I got it online. Don’t remember exactly where.

[@twinma0454]

Would this machine handle bag making? Decorator fabrics and interfacing layers?

[@InStitches]

It really depends on the thickness of the fabrics and the construction of the seams. It's difficult to say without actually trying it.

[@izildossantos8398]

Eu tenho mas está sem correia onde posso arruma tem aqui em SP endereço

[@user-jf5ti5id4q]

Hello please what is the number written on the middle? Mine just Brock

[@marcosantoniogoncalves402]

Very good my Friends ;Marcos, Brazil

[@shonaaitken7635]

Thank you so much for these videos. I live in Switzerland and see these green beauties at secondhand shops often. I always wondered if they were worth picking up (my other machine is a modern, cheapest Singer). I will grab the next one I see and give it a go. Oh - one question - how are these machines with denim or lighter leather?

[@outdoorsun05]

I am hoping to learn this to use it on denim too, if possible. Good question!...I'll be interested to know the answer too! :-)

[@irmar]

My mother in the 70s sewed a fake leather coat - it was not very light. The machine performed brilliantly on it, as always.

[@barbaranamuche4183]

Thank you! I have a question, if I do not have de Elna discos, it would work?

[@InStitches]

You don't need any disks to make the machine work. Thanks.

[@dian81]

Can u repair elna sewing machine model 6200.

[@ewcamaewcama]

Great video, wondering if you have video or manual on the Elna Automatic #722510. Thanks

[@InStitches]

Try having a search on the internet. Manualslib often have the correct manuals and they're free.

[@brittneywick2735]

I absolutely love this video. I hope that you make another few videos for this model. You're an excellent teacher and I would have watched the whole video even if it was two hours long. :) I do have a question about how you store your machine. I know that you've talked about it quite a bit, but I understand that you have one of these machines yourself? Do you take off the whole fly wheel when you store it? What if you are using it day to day or every few weeks? Or can you simply just unscrew the coupling knob and pull the flywheel out just a slight bit? Also, how long would you say it takes for the flat spot to form?

[@InStitches]

Thanks. Unscrewing the coupling knob is probably sufficient for long term storage. Not sure how long a flat spot would take to form but maybe a matter of months?

[@sorokasoroka590]

Большое спасибо! :-)

[@ineslopez1069]

Disculpe, me ayudo mucho el video pero quisiera saber como le pongo reversa al terminar la costura!! Gracias!!

[@InStitches]

Move the stitch length lever towards the rear of the machine, past the zero point to sew in reverse.

[@esperanzaamorochoparra7574]

Mirá dónde tiene los botones de número hay echas reversa y luego la vuelves a poner en la numeración q tenía o si quieres alargar más la pintada

[@billiecorbett5824]

Does the light go on automatically or is there a turn on/off button? Where can you find the bulbs if it needs replacing?

[@6thmichcav262]

The on/off switch for the light is on the right over by the cord plug. He shows it at the beginning of the video.