An antique solution to an everyday problem

The spray hood needed mending. My ancient Singer hand sewing machine handled it without complaint. Find out why I chose it and how to thread a needle here.

An antique solution to an everyday problem
1932 Singer sewing machine, not sure if WD40 was around back then

Over the years we’ve realised it would be useful to have a sewing machine capable of minor repairs to canvas. Things rip, stitches give way and using an awl is hard work if you've not done it very often.

We are lucky that Burnham has a sewing machine shop. The window is full of ancient machines, reconditioned and gleaming.  The owner had worked wonders on my moody electric machine so, trusting his knowledge, I decided to go there rather than risk eBay.

The shop is a treasure trove. I said I needed a heavy duty sewing machine for boat related stuff. I thought he'd recommend one of the commercial machines. Instead he pointed me to a compact Singer hand machine built in 1932, covered in gold leaf and embossed silver. 'That's what you want, it'll handle anything'.

Sensing my scepticism he folded a piece of canvas into eight layers. The machine stitched it perfectly. It was £60.  I took it home and marvelled at its beauty.

Today was the first time I've used it properly.  The stitching on the spray hood had deteriorated and some seams were coming apart. I set to work.

Once I found the instructions in the 90 year old owner’s manual (included) the most awkward task was threading the needle.  As the layers of canvas had been glued they left sticky residues so I  wiped the needle with WD40 then poked it with another needle to clear it before rethreading it.

Hint: drag the end of the thread over a candle (unlit, of course). A small amount of wax will coat the thread and keep it compact and steady to go through the eye easily.

The first few seams were awkward due to the weight and size of the spray hood. Igor gave me a hand manoeuvring it which really helped. The other areas were more accessible so I could sew them unaided.

By now I'd stopped swearing and was enjoying myself. When the boat was new I’d repaired a small rip using an awl. I'd left an area with about 4 layers of canvas, plus webbing and plastic for the window as it was just too difficult.  Would the machine tackle it? A bit of effort but the answer was yes, much easier than the previous effort.

Missing stitches in the mock leather trim around the edge? The machine handled everything I threw at it.

I am in awe of the engineering skills that made such a functional and beautiful machine so long ago. I wonder which modern appliances will be working perfectly in 2113?

Not only is the machine beautiful, it is practical. It is compact, doesn't need electric power, using it is straightforward. It will be important to keep it dry and oiled when on board, but with care it should be good for years to come.