Dishfunctional Designs: upcycled decor

Wednesday, January 20, 2021

Antique Treadle Sewing Machines Upcycled & Repurposed

50 years ago if you were to ask anyone you knew if they had a treadle sewing machine in their attic there's a good chance they would've said yes!

Considered antiques even fifty years ago, treadle sewing machines--the classic wood and wrought iron machines that used a pedal or "treadle" to make them run--are classic pieces of history.

These machines are still collected, restored and used, so before you decide to repurpose one, please check with a collector or group beforehand (there are a few on them online and on Facebook) since some parts are greatly valued and needed for replacement parts.

As for upcycling and repurposing vintage Singer and other brand treadle sewing machines, you will most often see them turned into tables, utilizing the iron bases as table bases. There are other options for use too, as you will see below. Take a look and see how these creative folks transformed their old treadles & sewing machine bases into unique new creations.

I love the display of vintage books on the treadle

Wall shelf made with upcycled Singer base by Gadget Sponge

and don't forget to visit their Etsy Shop

Upcycled sewing machine transformed into a stool via Pinterest

This old treadle Singer sewing machine is now a bath cabinet with sink

A new kitchen island chopping block from a vintage repurposed Singer sewing machine

Singer Sewing Machine Grill by Cunnings Oven Builders of Victoria, BC

Here's another grill in a different style

In vibrant turquoise paint

Sewing machine base integrated into a kitchen ceiling lighting fixture

Here's an unusual use for an old Singer; a doorway gate

Table from just a little joy

In bright sunny yellow via

Table from Enjoying the simple things

Iron sewing machine base transformed into a garden trellis

From Cozy Little House

A marble-top table adds elegance

Angie from Knick Of Time created this cool repurposed antique sewing machine stand wall bins

Table with natural wood tabletop Via Batixa

Rustic charm image via Olivet

Benches constructed from treadle sewing machine bases (above and below)

Whitewashed barn wood creates a simple tabletop

In white paint in the kitchen from Country Calling

Table from Strawberryshortcakexo

Used as a plant stand

Beautiful Upcycled Vintage Christmas Decor

There are so many different types of old items that can lend vintage charm to your Christmas décor. As a matter of fact, you may only have to look as far as your attic to find the perfect compliment to your home's holiday look...

No matter if your personal decorating style is Vintage, Farmhouse, or even Bohemian, you can transform some simple vintage household items into new-to-you upcycled Christmas décor.

Check out these great ideas for inspiration and use them as a springboard for your own creations.

Holiday assemblage clock from Richele Christensen at California Art Girl shows you that small details can pack a big punch

Here's another with directions from Joanne

Upcycled vintage clock winter wonderland DIY from Little Vintage Cottage

Scavenge your shed or workshop for leftover architectural odds & ends that you can turn into a Christmas tree like this one from Pillar Box Blue

Vintage tins make great ornaments! like these made from Diane at Saturday Finds

Garden gate with wreath from Kris at Junk Chic Cottage

Hit your favorite craft store's miniature section to create all of the small details for this diorama made with an old candle lantern.

Transform an old teacup and saucer into a magical floating Christmas scene (above and below)

To do this project, I recommend using E6000 adhesive and not a hot glue gun. Make sure your saucer is heavy enough to support the cup, which should be lightweight.