Treasures from my Grandma

As I mentioned in my last post I recently acquired my Grandma's treadle machine.  My aunt had it at her house since my Grandma passed away in 2003.  My aunt was ready to pass it on to me and I was really excited.

The machine is a Singer model 15-88, and from the serial number I found out that it was made in Canada sometime between 1936-1948.  Sometimes you can find a very specific year for these old machines but so far this information that has eluded me.    

The decals have pretty much been worn off from all of the use this machine got over the years.   Clothes, feather ticking for pillows and duvets, mending, hemming - my Grandma did it all on this simple machine.  The belt is still intact and although treadling is obviously an acquired skill, I can say the machine sews perfectly. (It is the operator that needs work!)

I love the design on the end of the head.  I also find the tension knob to be in a very different location than what I am used to.

One of the really amazing things was finding all of my Grandmas tools and notions just as she had left them, neatly organized in each drawer, along with the manual in perfect condition.

The metal legs on the machine are not as heavy or as fancy as the ones produced earlier, but this cabinet still has some fancy wood trim to appreciate.

 As I said this machine was used, and the veneer on the top is certainly a little worse for wear.  I don't have any plans to try to repair it, as it isn't anything that a nice little quilt can't hide and protect from further wear.

This machine came with its own bench as well, and contain in it was yet another treasure.

My aunt passed on the tablecloth made by my Grandma.  So much work went into it and I feel very lucky to have it.

I love the crocheted trim around the edge!  Here  are some close ups of the applique and embroidery.

Look at all the beautiful hand stitching!  I wish that talent was passed onto me.  I don't think I will ever have the skill or patience for that!  

An on the back side you can still faintly see the lettering from the sugar bags that this work of art started out as.