Just as I know when it’s time to go to the clinic for aches or pains, I know when my model 1802 Kenmore sewing machine, that was new in 1968, needs to have some tuning up. It is sporting its third motor, but the problem is in the little rubber wheel under the housing that is responsible for assisting the winding of the bobbin. A trip north to the fair city of Bird Island and all will be well. I look at circulars containing new sewing machines and I check them out whenever I go into a quilt shop that sells sewing machines. I just can’t quite bring myself to replace what I have, as it serves me so well . . . for now. What would be the upside to a new machine? Well, I could quilt small items rather than taking them to a long arm provider. Also, the new machines have an easier aspect of getting the bobbin and its holder in place, and many of them thread the needle automatically. The new machines have the ability to do some computerized embroidery as well. I will be cautious when the time comes to make a purchase. The long time Brothers sewing machines that are touted to be the cats meow have plastic nylon gears, and we all know what happens to that after a lot of wear and tear. I don’t believe there would be a need for motor replacements on them. I know that my Kenmore is totally metal where it counts.
This is the first electric sewing machine I have owned since the Singer treadle sewing machine. That sewing machine is still in the family. Just in case, I have a new leather belt for the treadle to attach to the head if the machine is ever brought back into service.
I am not by any means scratching my head for something to keep my arthritic fingers nimble. Quite a few years ago an afghan was my current challenge using a beautiful soft, washable green wool.
This last weekend I was bestowed a plastic bag with the same green afghan peeking out. The afghan had been within reach of a puppy that was thought to be taking a nap. The puppy was actually using the afghan as a chew toy. Time will tell if I can repair it. Truth to be told, I have not as of yet even looked at the project.
Crocheted projects can be repaired once the trail of the yarn is figured out. Matching yarn colors is always a challenge. I am letting the bag with the afghan sit right where the owner left it for several days, for no other reason than to deal with the next wave of creative juices when they begin to flow. For now, I will be up a creek with no paddle, aka: my sewing machine is not in the house and it is too early to begin making Christmas cards.
This challenge, as with many others when dealing with crocheting, I thank my Lord for what my mother-in-law, Esther Schafer, had taught me. Those who have gone before us were true treasures as each of them had their specialty. Priceless.