Repurposed Singer Sewing Machine
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Today I will show you a very easy project with a repurposed Singer Sewing Machine. I went through a dry spell, not getting any sewing machines, then found myself with 3.
The first one I transformed into a makeup table vanity.
This was a freebie from a neighbor. I’ve never seen a Singer sewing machine or cabinet in such bad shape.
Dismantle the Singer Sewing Machine Cabinet
see? Even the machine was in a pitiful condition! Someone had stripped the poor thing of her parts.
Clean the base of the repurposed Singer Sewing Machine
I got busy removing all the wooden parts, which was very simple. Just four large screws hold the Singer Treadle to the wooden cabinet. To make it easy, turn the treadle sewing machine upside down.
It was difficult to tell the base’s shape without cleaning it up. I used a degreaser called Krud Kutter. It does all the work for you. Spray it on, wait a few minutes, then hose off the dirt. I did that twice.
After the base of the repurposed Singer Sewing Machine dried, I realized that I couldn’t leave it in its original condition. It needed to be hit with a wire brush.
This antique sewing machine T.V. table had some rust, and I used Vaseline!
After I bought all of that wood from the Peddler’s Mall, I had to do some reorganization in the garage. I had a large plastic shelf holding all of my paint. I could not slide in the larger pieces of plywood because the shelf was in the way. So, I ordered this handy wire shelf from Amazon. It’s not as wide or as deep, so it works perfectly.
You can see that I could not slide my wood in and out of my lumber storage bench in this BEFORE shot.
Maybe I have an issue with spray paint? Can one really have TOO much spray paint?
Spray paint the base of the sewing machine
I decided to use some of that spray paint on quick and easy projects! That last singer treadle was spray-painted black. I wanted to do a fun color for this one. After all, it’s only paint! If it doesn’t sell, I can repaint it. 
I was initially going to use this table top that came off a pub table for the repurposed Singer Sewing Machine. But I didn’t love the colors together. I decided that the top needed to be darker.
I decided to use some of this reclaimed fencing as a tabletop. Because I was in a rush, I didn’t take any pictures.
I used three fence boards cut to size and used two smaller pieces to connect them all. (see below) I wanted them to be black, but I didn’t want to paint them, so I used some Minwax Gel Stain (classic black)
Add Reclaimed Wood Top
After the stain dried, I did a quick dry fit on the repurposed Singer Sewing Machine to see if I liked this better than the one above. I decided it would work for now.
In this picture, you can see that I made sure to space the brace boards to the correct distance from the base. I used the original screws from the Singer sewing machine to attach the top to the base by drilling pilot holes first.
This machine was missing one of the original casters. I ordered one from eBay. It was easy to put on; I did some touch-up spray painting.
Pretty Repurposed Singer Sewing Machine
Do you like the pop of color on the repurposed Singer Sewing Machine? Or do you think it’s too much?
I’m happy I was able to find the extra caster online. I thought I was going to have to remove the other three. I’m still loving my chalk painted cage lamp.
I still have one more treadle machine; it’s been painted green. I’m not sure what I’m going to do with it.
If you’ve done a Singer sewing table, please leave me the link in a comment below. I’d love to do a roundup sharing other ideas.
gail
PS UPDATE! I have re-done this sewing machine table. I used the top to make a Christmas Sign.
Related Content:
Singer treadle sewing machine repurposed into a dressing table or vanity
Sewing Machine Drawers into a table
Gail,
In asnwwer to your question, I would like “my machine” with black painted metal bottom, and a “natural cherry stain” wood top. I like aqua, but not on the metal.
I do like how you show us each step of the cleaning and painting to the wood used for the top. You’re a good teacher!!!
Barbara
Oh my! What a pop of color.. perfect!
Thank you so very much Tamera!
gail
Hi Gail, I am just seeing this now and it appears as though you posted this a long time ago! Do you think if I made my two treadle machine bases into a potting bench, they could be left outside (not in winter)…?
Anne,
Thanks for reaching out! I appreciate you stopping by.
If there is no rust present, and you paint them with a good paint, say an oil based paint…. they should be fine.
If there is rust present, in my opinion, it will return if moisture is present, even if painted.
I think it’s a great repurpose to make the base into a potting bench! I’d love to see it when you’re done.
good luck!
gail
I would love to have that front drawer if you are not using it and if you still have it. I wouldn’t mind having the other drawers as well. But mostly the front one. Please get back with me on price.
First of all I would like to say that your repurpose is wonderful! And I do see that your machine is about beyond redemption. However I do belong to a group on Facebook called, Vintage Sewing Machines, & I have come to realize that some of these old machines, & also the cabinets, are very valuable. Though they may no longer work, or are missing a few pieces, or the cabinet is in rough shape. many can, & are sought after, & expertly saved by many people who truly love the machines. The machines, & cabinets are yours to do with as you will, but before you sacrifice Grannie’s machine, for a cute table, you might want to do a search, & learn the true value. The cabinets, machines, parts, manuals, or the accessories which come with them are all sought after items. And this includes many other varieties of older machines, not only the Singer. Please don’t take this as criticism, I honestly don’t mean it as such. You are free to do whatever you want with your machine, I only wanted to make people aware & offer a word of caution.
Bev,
I thank you for your comment, and how kindly you worded it. I have often wanted to pass along bits, pieces and parts but didn’t know where to do so. I would never part out or repurpose a family piece. But the items that I’ve come across for free have been less than desirable. I currently have one more machine in my stash that I think is in fair conditon-but it won’t open, so I’m not sure. I can’t even remember what brand it is.
thank you,
gail
Your welcome……….I truly am amazed at the things that you, & everyone repurposes, which otherwise would end up in a landfill, somewhere. Thank you for all the inspiration.
Hi. I was wondering if you still had the front center drawer? I would love to have the drawer. I wouldn’t mind having the side drawers too, but mainly the front center drawer. I am restoring a vintage singer sewing machine and the front center drawer is exactly the same as the one in this picture, but mine is in pieces and not all the pieces are there. Trying to find a replaeement drawer. Please let me know and if you do have it, what the price would be. Thank you. My email is slroot@twc.com
Hi. I was wondering if you still had the front center drawer? I would love to have the drawer. I wouldnโt mind having the side drawers too, but mainly the front center drawer. I am restoring a vintage singer sewing machine and the front center drawer is exactly the same as the one in this picture, but mine is in pieces and not all the pieces are there. Trying to find a replaeement drawer. Please let me know and if you do have it, what the price would be. Thank you. My email is slroot@twc.com
I have emailed you.
gail
Truly, so many things could be saved – IF WE COULD ONLY GET THEM. Just today, I bought an identical machine, complete with base; as the one described as “being stripped of her parts”. It’s in really good condition, and will operate with a little love.
The one part not stripped from Ms. Wilson’s, showing in photo, is the one part my machine lacks – the bobbin winder. Any chance of negotiating for that rusty thing?
I don’t throw much out, but I would have no idea where that part might be. If I ever have one, it’s yours!
gail
Hi Gail,
LOVE the pop of turquoise on your sewing machine base makeover! I have a vintage sewing machine table sitting on my patio, begging for a transformation. Waiting for the right inspiration and time. You’ve definitely given me the inspiration. I did repurpose a sewing machine base for my daughter last year. Here’s the link to my Instagram photo: http://bit.ly/1SNZ7Cv
how fun your repurposed sewing machine base is Doreen! ๐ Thanks for sharing with us!
gail
Hi Gail,
Thanks for sharing another fab project.
My question is about the spray painting- you mentioned that if you end up not liking the shade of blue you used, you’ll just re-paint it.. With Krylon and Rust-o-leum paints, would you sand the treadle before repainting it another color? Will the new coat of paint adhere well if you don’t sand?
Thanks for your time.
Carmela
Carmela,
No, I wouldn’t sand if I repaint it. I’m still debating it. In fact I was just talking to a friend about it a few days ago. IF I do repaint it, I will either use my diy chalky paint primer in my Finish Max, or a primer in a spray can. If for some reason the paint doesn’t adhere, I’ll work it to my advantage with a little distressing to let the turquoise show through. ๐
gail
Love the old sewing machine bases.
Just wanted to share………many years ago in a beachside cozy restaurant …..
all their tables, of various sizes, had a sewing machine base and unmatched old
chairs around them. I loved that homey atmosphere.
Judi,
That sounds like a really cool place to visit. I appreciate you sharing that with us.
gail
I love the pop of colour. I was going to do mine in reverse, but now I’m rethinking it to do the base turquoise instead. It’s a possibility!
I recently acquired an old singer which looks identical to yours before you repurposed it. Mine is missing 2 drawers and I have been unable to find any that match. If you still have the draws, would you be willing to sell 2 of them?
Alicia,
I do have 3 drawers, but plan a project with them, so I’m on the lookout for #4. If I can’t find a fourth drawer, I would happily share 2 of them with you for a nominal charge plus shipping.
gail
I love that gorgeous blue colour. It’s different and brings a pop of colour. Just perfect!
Gail,
LOVE this super cute makeover…GREAT color too!!
Blessings,
Linda