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Question re Treadle Machines

16 years ago

I have been wondering something since Annie first started posting about using Treadle machines, and then when I saw the thread today on converting an electric machine to treadle.

What is the benefit of using a treadle machine to quilt? Is it easier to control or do you just prefer the "old fashioned" way? Or...?

The little free motion I've tried was very frustrating, but I am intrigues again when I see such beautiful results. Still the idea of having to manually pump/spin something sounds really tedious to me. ???

Enquiring minds want to know! Thanks guys.

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Comments (6)

damascusannie
16 years ago
I find that the slower needle speed that I get with the treadle makes FM quilting very easy to do. Just my opinion. I use my treadles just because I love them. Once you get used to the treadling motion it is nearly effortless as long as you have cleaned and lubed both the head and the irons. For someone like me, who tends to be a bit edgy, the gentle movement of treadling allows me to work off excess nervous energy, and I find sewing much more enjoyable because of it.

Annie
laurainsdca
Original Author
16 years ago
Thank you, I thought it had something to do with slowing down the process some. I have definitely felt "out of control" when I tried to FMQ. I am currently quilting one of my cow quilt tops (huge). I am using a walking foot and just doing straight lined, but trying to outline each cow, so a lot of stop, start, turning, shoving fabric around, etc. I am trying to slow down and enjoy the process the way I do piecing. I'm doing a LITTLE better at that but mostly just want to be done with it, LOL!
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grammyp
16 years ago
Laura, they also have a lovely stitch, and you can sew when the power is out!

beverly
laurainsdca
Original Author
16 years ago
>>>...and you can sew when the power is out!...THAT may be the clincher right there!
damascusannie
16 years ago
It is nice to be able to sew when the power's out--but remember you still need light to see by. 8^) For me, the real reason that I use treadles is two-fold, control and they're just fun to play with. Add to that the fact that most of them are SOOOO pretty, why wouldn't you use one if you had it?

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suellen_delawares
15 years ago
I have to agree with what others have said. The slower speed gives me more control, the treadling motions is some how
soothing after a busy day, they are very pretty and when the power does go out I can still sew. We have solar power and wind power for parts of the house and the barn so I could use my electric machine but I wouldn't want to use up the stored power. LOL when I don't have a deadline I would rather use the treadle.
Laura Have you tried a treadle if not you really should.
Suellen

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