Man restores rusted and worn-out 1894 SINGER sewing machine and puts it into working condition

Do you enjoy watching experts fix up old things for about 30 minutes to an hour? If so, this story is perfect for you!

A guy with a YouTube channel named “NATRA” restored an 1894 SINGER Sewing Machine.

Since 1851, SINGER® has been a leading brand in the sewing industry.

Isaac Singer’s invention of the first practical sewing machine marked the company’s official beginning, setting it on a path of innovation and leadership.

Today, SINGER continues this legacy by developing products for sewers of all levels, maintaining a focus on practical design and creative innovation.

The company has introduced numerous groundbreaking advancements in sewing technology, including the world’s first zig-zag machine, electronic machines, and the first sewing assistant app for mobile devices.

SINGER remains committed to empowering people to express themselves through sewing, whether for fashion, home décor, embroidery, quilting, or other creative pursuits.

Meanwhile, the video, posted in March 2023, has earned over 20 million views as of the time of writing.

“The machine, which was left in the henhouse, rusted and worn out, was restored and put into working condition. It was completed after 2 months of long work,” NATRA shared in the video description.

Old things, unlike their modern counterparts, have lasting durability owing to their quality materials.

Vintage machines from the early 1900s and late 1800s, even when neglected, can often be restored to full functionality, resembling brand-new items.

The 1894 SINGER Sewing Machine obtained by NATRA was severely rusted and worn out, with rust covering multiple crevices and bolts.

The entire machine had a coating of brown and orange hues, a sharp departure from its original gilded black design.

Restoring an old machine is both challenging and gratifying for restorers.

NATRA started by meticulously cleaning its surface, removing dirt and rust with a metal brush.

Then, using lubricant, he carefully loosened all screws and began disassembling the machine.

The restorer faced difficult screws, using a blow torch to loosen them.

Despite the machine’s state, most parts remained intact.

Remarkably, the wooden bed was saved with minimal damage, aside from a few small scratches.

Next in the process is a thorough cleaning, with each iron piece undergoing sandblasting to remove stubborn rust.

The satisfaction of seeing the rust fade rapidly as the nozzle passes over each piece is really satisfying.

After sandblasting, the parts underwent further sanding to ensure thorough cleanliness of the metal surfaces.

Moreover, certain screws and bolts were submerged in an ionized bath to completely eradicate rust.

NATRA then worked on the machine’s base by applying polyester putty to smooth out the surface.

Then, he primed the larger parts before spray-painting them black.

One of the most amazing tools in the restorer arsenal is the laser etching machine.

He magically carved a framing pattern and a new Singer logo onto the machine cover.

Finally, a coat of varnish was applied for shine and protection.

After putting the 1894 SINGER Sewing Machine back together, it looks brand new.

NATRA even lubricated the moving parts to ensure that it would work smoothly.

NATRA or NATRA Restoration is new to YouTube.

He has only ten restoration videos, featuring items such as the 1894 SINGER Sewing Machine, the 1886 SINGER Sewing Machine (with over 700k views), and the 1913 SINGER Sewing Machine (with almost 4 million views).

Additionally, he showcases other items like charcoal irons, vintage candy drops rollers, and various tools.

Sadly, he hasn’t uploaded any new videos after that viral sewing machine restoration, but his 135k subscribers would want to see more!

However, if you are wondering if the 1894 SINGER Sewing Machine he restored worked as it should, you can watch the video below:

If you want to see more restoration videos, visit NATRA.