As you may know, a group of Ithaca-area sewing enthusiasts is on a quest to establish "sustainable sewing" classes and refashioning workshops in the community. As part of this activity, I have put out a call for free or cheap serviceable sewing machines. Rashly, I accepted three vintage Singers, dating from 1910-1925, rescued from a yard sale and not at all serviceable. Once I got the dirt off them, though, they revealed their beauty. For the most part, the mechanical workings are remarkably solid and smooth, but the wiring on the motors looks treacherous. I'm looking for books or instruction sheets on how to repair these babies, or better yet, someone who might want to tutor me. I don't know how practical these machines are for teaching sewing, but I have heard that many 100-year-old machines are still used and loved. I am certainly in love with these graceful goddesses, now posing in various states of dismantlement on my dining table. I'd love to get them working again. What a great example of reuse of durable goods!
Meahwhile, if you have a "serviceable" sewing machine, of any age, that you would like to donate to the project, let me know. Also, our group (which is discussing the formation of a sustainable sewing collective) is planning a fabric and needle arts rummage sale in the fall to help support the sewing classes. Maybe you could be thinking about something you could donate to the sale. If you'd like more info on the nascent sewing collective, efforts to organize classes, or another fashion reuse contest I'm cooking up, please drop me a note. And, as always, sustainability collaborators, supporters, and fellow travelers are welcome! Wendy [EMAIL PROTECTED] 277-7611 _______________________________________________ RSS, archives, subscription & listserv information for: [email protected] http://lists.mutualaid.org/mailman/listinfo/sustainabletompkins free hosting by http://www.mutualaid.org
