Treadle vs Electric Sewing Machines: Which Is Better?

Hi all, sorry for the length of time since the last upload. I've moved and have had a few teething problems at the new place. Both internet and furry pest related! Anyway, today's video is about the differences between treadle and electric sewing machines. I cover the pros, cons and answer the question: Which is better?
Timestamps
00.00 Intro
01:27 People-powered sewing machines
03:31 An issue with treadle sewing machines
08:44 Electric-powered sewing machines
11:35 Which is better: electric or treadle?
12:43 Modern treadle sewing machines
Links to Videos:
Anatomy of a Singer Treadle: • Anatomy of a Singer Tr...
Comparing Singer 15 Raf Decals: • What Links a Vintage S...
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Olly
#Sewing #SimplyStitchy #sewingmachine #vintagesewingmachine #vintagesewing #vintageSingersewing #vintage #Singer27treadle #Treadle #handcrank #singer27 #sewingproject

[@SimplyStitchy]

Hi all, I hope you like today's video. Let me know in the comments if you have a treadle, a handcrank, or an electric and why you like using the one you use. Thanks for watching!

[@donnaf2666]

Thank you! Love the sound explanation. I learned very young on a treadle also. Treadle sounds and hanging clothes on the clothes line are two things I find relaxing.

[@SimplyStitchy]

You're welcome! I must admit, I still hang washing on the line... I just think it smells so much nicer when it comes back inside. Thanks so much for watching! 🙂

[@thisbasicstitch]

I have all three (hand crank; treadle; and electric ) and they all have a place and important roles in my sewing room. I love them all and their unique characteristics.

[@MikeDaveYapOfficial]

Thanks for this comprehensive video. Watching here from the Philippines and learning how to operate these machines that my grandma left.

[@4486xxdawson]

I started out with an electric and as time went by i got a chance to buy a 1895 model 28 hand crank and i love it , then i got the opportunity to buy a model 115 treadle from 1917 and fell in love again , i currently have a 1904 model 27 on my treadle as i restore the 115 and when ever i havea small repair i jump on my treadle , love the control of hand and treadle , just like you said its relaxing and therapeutic......👍👍

[@mamielantto671]

I have several sewing machines, electric and treadle. If I could only have one machine it would be my Singer 66-16 which I turned into a treadle. I love that machine! Today I sewed a pair of curtains on it. It is so relaxing!

[@SimplyStitchy]

That's so cool! I love how treadles and hand cranks force you to slow down. Everything is so manic these days, these older machines are a breath of fresh air. Enjoy your 66 - they are real workhorses! Thanks so much for watching 🙂

[@donnaf2666]

Definitely a Singer that is convertible between treadle and electric! (Round bobbin type) You can even do zigzag slowly.

[@AprilAiteen]

My treadle is still my favourite. I don’t have any fancy computerized machines, but I do have a 1970’s White that does zigzag, so, close enough, right? :) You just can’t beat the sound and movement of a treadle. And the stitches are amazing.

[@SimplyStitchy]

Hi Barb, I know what you mean. They're great! Thanks for watching! 😀

[@bonnieclarkson5674]

I saw a video of a modern treadle used by a professional sewist. She said she had it 9 years with no problems. Sewing parts online sell the Janome 712T brand new. It fits in 😊old treadle base.

[@joanneginever1890]

Love my old Singer 99K hand crank. Yes, very relaxing and a joy to use. It does take quite a deal longer to sew a garment when compared to my electric machines, but it's a fun journey, so happy to just take the extra time and enjoy the ride. If I want the extra stitches, buttonholes and invisible zips etc will use the Janome which is more precise and easier for these tasks.

[@SimplyStitchy]

Hi Joanne, totally agree! I also tend to use Jerome. my Janome for the trickier tasks. He and Grandma are becoming a double act! Thanks so much for watching 😀

[@carlabythelake8162]

I'm skipping around your videos (still). I have a treadle, okay 2, and a hand crank. I agree with every point you made, especially about an electric machine running away. I was glad to know that the sinking needle on a treadle is not the result of a broken part. I try to keep my feet on the pedal at all times to keep it in place. Speaking of which... treadling is great ankle exercise. Strong ankles help prevent falls as we age👍.

[@SimplyStitchy]

I try to keep my feet on the pedal too... I usually remember to do that after the needle has sunk. I think it's because my first machine was electric - It's been drilled into me from an early age - keep your feet off the pedal when you're changing a needle or removing your fabric... it's a hard habit to break 😆 Thanks for watching! 😀

[@tinamcnalley2575]

Learned to treadle when I was 8 or 9 years old.35 years later sat down at a treadle and continued as if no interruption. More like learning to ride a bicycle instead of driving a manual transmission. Stitch quality is why I use the treadle, as it does a true straight stitch. I think an electric is best as a basic machine, but for Jean's and upholstery the treadle is superior.

[@SimplyStitchy]

Having both is definitely how to get the best of both worlds! Thanks for watching 😀

[@brandyfranklin6339]

I just recently got a treadle singer gingerbread machine. When I first got it it was rusted and was told it didn't sew. With a lot of work it sews beautiful. My family is home a lot with me and my Electric sewing machines are Loud. I was very surprised how quite this machine is. I can watch TV and not have the volume up so high. And if I sew while they are sleeping I don't think it will be a problem.

[@SimplyStitchy]

That's so cool! I'm so glad you were able to get her working again. Thanks so much for watching 😀

[@lyshlysh9970]

Thank you for the informative video and the wonderful proper captions. I think I'll go with a treadle because the sound of an electric disturbs me. My grandmother also sewed on a treadle.

[@SimplyStitchy]

Treadles are definitely a great way to soothe away the stresses of the day! Thanks for watching! 🙂

[@daxxydog5777]

You may want to adjust when you engage the treadle belt so the needle is at the up position when the treadle is in the lowest position. That might help the gravity issue.

[@4486xxdawson]

Thank you , i was having this issue and didnt even think about adjusting the belt , i will try this now , great tip 👍

[@ButterDragonCreative]

Came here to say the same thing! With the treadle its natural low position, loosen the belt and turn the wheel until the needle is in the high position. That way the default "lowest" treadle position is the highest needle position. Hope it worked for you!

[@johnnydwicked]

Thank you so much for the informative video on the non electric sewing machines; quite fascinating.

[@SimplyStitchy]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching 😀

[@cliftonmcnalley8469]

For general garment sewing, I prefer my electric with a built-in buttonhole, zigzag, overcast, etc. The treadle does an excellent straight stitch, so I will use it to give my electric a rest for home Dec projects like upholstery work. Also looking forward to making my first pair of jeans on it.

[@SeinEichi.]

The better one is treadle

[@zinmaker2522]

Looks as if you can get more fabric through old Singers arm.... What I don't like about my treadle is the lack of stitch variations.

[@SimplyStitchy]

One of the reasons they are so good for quilting is the amount of space between the needle and pillar! I know what you mean about the stitches, older treadles can be a bit limiting when all you have is a straight stitch... they sound great though, which kind of makes up for that 😉 Thanks so much for watching 😀

[@sooohum]

Always had electrics but just got the most gorgeous table and now...have to put a treadle machine in it! Meanwhile, got a hand crank machine. So I have all three!

[@TheRoadoiler]

I’ve just discovered your program. I really like your presentation skills.👍 I have an heirloom Treadle, model 99. Just began getting acquainted, the machine belonged to my grandmother. Wish me luck.

[@SimplyStitchy]

You can do it! The 99 is a lovely machine to sew with... it's also beginner friendly so don't worry - you'll be working together nicely in no time! Thanks for watching 🙂

[@donnaf2666]

If you keep your foot on the treadle pedal, you can control the stop until you get your project out from under the needle. My treadle has a motor installed and the belt simply disconnected but ready to switch back. Treadle is great for quilting with a larger throat space, between the needle and the right side.

[@SimplyStitchy]

Unfortunately, I usually remember I need to keep my foot on the treadle pedal to help the stop... after I've taken my foot off the treadle pedal. It all boils down to sewing lessons at school where the teacher drilled into us the importance of... keep your foot off the pedal when you stop. Obviously, those machines were electric but - it's a hard habit to break! Thanks for watching! 🙂

[@donnaf2666]

@@SimplyStitchy Hahaha! True and likely why I forget sometimes also.

[@ceciliaohman185]

Treadle has no lamp, that’s a deal breaker for me. Nice video!

[@SimplyStitchy]

Thank you! I know what you mean about the lighting. I use a standalone lamp with Grandma but it's not the same as having a built-in lamp or a light you can get underneath the arm. Thanks for sharing and for watching 🙂

[@roadtriptovegas]

I bought a magnetic mini led lamp with a posable arm for less than $10 for mine. Makes all of the difference

[@coyotewilson]

My spinning wheel does the same unless I move the drive wheel to it's lowest position. Gravity will just drop it down.

[@SimonTekConley]

It's funny, i have a passive interest in sewing machines, I find as furniture, they are beautiful, and inexpensive. Although I do have a slight interest in learning how to use one, for backup, and a couple clothing idea's I have.

[@SimplyStitchy]

Embrace that interest and give it a try! You'll find vintage sewing machines a joy to sew with. Thanks for watching! 🙂

[@sus8e462]

I am just getting ready to try sewing on a 66 Red Eye (in a drawing room cabinet), I recently got, but otherwise all experience on electric--first on my Mom's Necchi SuperNova, then the first sewing machine I bought for myself was a Baby Lock (had a knife attachment so could edge finish like a serger, but I've never used a serger, though I was given a used one). After 25 years, replaced the BL with a Bernina with embroidery attachment (gave me sister the BL) and for my leather business got an industrial machine, too. And last year found a lovely vintage electric I had to bring home, and this weekend getting my Mom's Necchi again, as well as a Singer 15-91 in a #42 cabinet in lovely condition. Whew, the house is getting crowded! Though there are many advantages to modern machines, the older machines with limited needle movement often produce more beautiful stitches! And I loved your description of sewing with a treadle machine & looking forward to experiencing that!

[@SimplyStitchy]

The 66 is a lovely, smooth machine to work with. As it has a top loading bobbin, it's can be a little less clunky than the 15. Both do a great stitch though. The #42 cabinet is one of my favorites. Does yours have the ink well? I lost mine in a house fire a couple of years ago. Vintage machines tend to multiply - just when you think you house is full... there's always room for more! Thanks for sharing! And thanks for watching too! 😀

[@sus8e462]

@@SimplyStitchy the cabinet is newer (mid century vs art deco) so not set up for an ink well. Oh, well. Does have a nice bobbin/spool rack instead)... And in great shape--turns out the couple I bought it from restore machines & cab's for a hobby (so prices are great)! But finally today I did test out the 66 with thread and wow--really understand & appreciate your comparison to electric! And cleaning up my Mom's Necchi SuperNova now too--amazing with 4 kids the accessory kit is nearly complete & manuals still intact!

[@user-lx3th5on8l]

I got one crank and one vintage 50s electric both made in England I on the move for a third 😊

[@SimplyStitchy]

and then a fourth... fifth... Vintage sewing machines should come with a warning - they are addictive! They also multiply lol. Welcome to the world of collecting vintage sewing machines! 😉 🙂😀

[@dteasdale77]

I usually use both on projects. I prefer my hand crank for button holes with a button hole attachment I find both have advantages and I use them both regularly. My electric is a Janome, and my hand crank is a singer.

[@SimplyStitchy]

I love the Singer buttonhole attachments. I've used one on my electric 15-91 before now and it's just... nifty! Thanks for sharing and for watching! 😀

[@taddelbruhn2166]

Thanks for the nice video. I also know turning further after the sewing stop from one of my Singer 15-30 (called Lady Girdle) with hand crank. I think it is due to the flywheel mass of the rather large flywheel that it has. My other 15-30 (called Margarete (Steif) has a smaller flywheel, She doesn't do it.

[@SimplyStitchy]

That's interesting... so the size of the wheel may make a difference? You've given me something to think about! Thanks so much for commenting and for watching 😀

[@taddelbruhn2166]

@@SimplyStitchy also own two Pfaff 31, which are also Singer 15 replicas. The older one (built in 1916) has a very large flywheel (diameter 18 cm) I had installed an add-on motor and it could not be sewn because it continued to run so hard. When she was in momentum, she still turned the non-activated (pedal) motor. The younger Pfaff 31 (1938) is only 14cm in diameter. It does not run on with the same motor. My Singer 66 Lotus (1908) also doesn't run after with its 14cm handwheel either. Greetings from Germany

[@edc641]

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts on this! I don't have a lot of experience with sewing myself, but I'm so tempted to sew a backpack for my next hiking trip. If I do, I'll use some pretty tough and modern fabrics and I will sometimes have multiple layers under the needle. I'm debating with myself whether I should buy an old industrial (electric) machine for the job, or if the even older Husqvarna treadle machine my grandmother used back in the day would be capable of doing the job. What would an expert such as yourself do in my situation? 🙂 Personally, I'd find great joy in using the old Husqvarna just because of the fact that it's like a hundred years old, and of course also because the last person who used it was my grandmother many, many years ago.

[@SimplyStitchy]

An industrial will do the job but isn't really necessary unless you are going into backpack production. Your grandmother's Husqvarna treadle can do it. As long as it's in working condition. Older machines can sew modern fabrics. The key is to use the right needle, stitch length, and thread for the fabric. As well as slowing right down for the bulky parts. I have a video on sewing layers on a domestic sewing machine here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hpDQmXxjjMuCiMU My treadle from 1912 (called Grandma) handled them a lot better than my Janome from 2004! If it was me making the backpack,, I'd go with Grandma 😉Thanks for watching! 🙂

[@edc641]

@@SimplyStitchy Thank you so much for your reply! I think the old Husqvarna will need a service before I start using it. I don't have the machine at my place right now, but I know the manual is still in the drawer so I can probably do the service myself. At least give it a try 😀 The only thing I have to look up before I do anything is figuring out if I can use any modern needle with the machine. If it has to be some special needle I could be in trouble. On the other hand, my home is not far from the town Husqvarna (Sweden) so chances are I can get my hands on some original needles if I need to. Thank you again, I will check out the video you mentioned.

[@suzanneskirhav5742]

Hi! I am lucky because I have a handcrank Singer 28k 1896 and a Singer class 15 G Gingerbread Tiffany 1910 with an electric motor! They are so lovely to sew with and sew soo beautiful stitches for me...just love to relaxe when I take care of them, oil them and so on...I have a Husqvarna treadle too but its too difficult, cant find the harmony with this machine... The foottramp is not easy at all...

[@SimplyStitchy]

Very nice! I love the Tiffany decals, they are beautiful. Thanks for watching! 🙂

[@kats1788]

Hi, What kind of machine would you recommend for a child of about age 8? I was thinking that the hand crank might be a good entry because they don't go so fast so it feels that it would be safer. I'd love to hear your advice. Thank you

[@SimplyStitchy]

Handcranks are a good option due to the limitations on speed. And kids love them! I can't think of a better machine to captivate a child and encourage them to sew! But as most are made from cast iron, they are heavy and could be tricky for an 8 year old to move about. Not a problem as long as you are with them whenever they need to use the machine... but could be an issue if they try to 'play' with their new toy on their own... squashed toes are no fun. Handcranks can also be hard to find in some areas. They are sought after machines and can come with a hefty price tag. If all else fails, there are some electric machines that come with speed control. You might be able to find one on your local facebook marketplace. Something like the Brother CS6000i or Janome QC6260 for instance. They also have built in stitches and free arm capabilities which will help your child grow their sewing skills.

[@kats1788]

@@SimplyStitchy Thank you for your swift reply that's so helpful. I had a look on eBay and even see some children/junior vintage hand crank machines or even labelled as toys Goodness knows how well they sew however. I'll bear in mind the speed regulator possibility for the electric option thanks.

[@SimplyStitchy]

Check out my video on toy sewing machines: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oneyd4eId9JnhpY - I compare three different Singer toys from modern day, 1960s/1970s and one from the 1950s. That way you can see how they sew before you buy.

[@davideddy2672]

I’m trying to restore a Singer 16K 115 - can anyone please help?

[@SimplyStitchy]

There's a facebook group called Vintage Industrial Sewing Machines : facebook.com/groups/137241563337471. They might be able to give you some advice and tips.

[@AprilAiteen]

Also, on KZbin, there’s a channel called Vintage sewing machine garage. Lots of really helpful information about bringing old machines back to life.

[@daxxydog5777]

@@AprilAiteen I love him too, but I think AndyTube has a lot of info on older machines. He's very slow showing you how to do each thing, so he's easy to understand.

[@Doctor_Al]

There are better machines than that Janome to treadle. The Singer 237 is easily treadled and gives you zig zag and reverse. The are others. The Janome just took the motor out of an electric and they treadle way to hard.

[@SimplyStitchy]

Yes, the Singer 237 is probably better but they are harder to find. Although to be honest, I'd rather have an original treadle over a modern one. Thanks for watching. 🙂