Straw Braid Sewing Machine

[MillinerJan]

I am the proud new owner of a Wilcox & Gibbs straw sewing machine (late 1800's). I know there are few people in the world left who know how to operate these machines...or are willing to give instruction. Does anyone out there have any leads, either persons or articles or books? Any info helpful! I have a motor and belt coming and the previous owner has threaded it for me. Interested in knowing how to tension it to made the straw shape properly.

 

[mayserwegener]

I know Optimo Chicago is putting together their Milans. Not sure what machine they are using. Maybe someone else will have more info.

 

[zetwal]

I just want to say that this is a really fascinating purchase. I hope that you will post some pictures of the machine while keeping us abreast of your progress with it ...

 

[MillinerJan]

I will, indeed, post any (any!) progress on this machine. Lots to learn!

 

[rlk]

I am the proud new owner of a Wilcox & Gibbs straw sewing machine (late 1800's). I know there are few people in the world left who know how to operate these machines...or are willing to give instruction. Does anyone out there have any leads, either persons or articles or books? Any info helpful! I have a motor and belt coming and the previous owner has threaded it for me. Interested in knowing how to tension it to made the straw shape properly.

Is this the hand stitch(box shape) or visible(standard). I can point you to parts list and info. I've had both.

http://www.sil.si.edu/DigitalCollections/Trade-Literature/Sewing-Machines/pdf/sil10-336.pdf

http://www.sewalot.com/willcox_gibbs.htm

http://www.ismacs.net/willcoxandgibbs/strawhat.html

 

[MillinerJan]

Wow! Thanks for these links! I have the visible type. Have you used these to make hats? If so, do you have any directives you'd like to give as to best ways to use for shaping the hats? ANY info is appreciated. Do you teach??

 

[Hatstruck]

I am the proud new owner of a Wilcox & Gibbs straw sewing machine (late 1800's). I know there are few people in the world left who know how to operate these machines...or are willing to give instruction. Does anyone out there have any leads, either persons or articles or books? Any info helpful! I have a motor and belt coming and the previous owner has threaded it for me. Interested in knowing how to tension it to made the straw shape properly.

My next blog post with be a basic tutorial on sewing straw braid.

Hatstruck
http://hatstruck.blogspot.com

 

[Hatstruck]

I am the proud new owner of a Wilcox & Gibbs straw sewing machine (late 1800's). I know there are few people in the world left who know how to operate these machines...or are willing to give instruction. Does anyone out there have any leads, either persons or articles or books? Any info helpful! I have a motor and belt coming and the previous owner has threaded it for me. Interested in knowing how to tension it to made the straw shape properly.

Just wanted to let you know that I just posted the straw tutorial (in draft). Sorry it took so long.

Hatstruck
http://hatstruck.blogspot.com

 

[zetwal]

Thanks for the link, Hatstruck.

 

[MillinerJan]

Thanks, Lee! I heard on facebook you had a new tutorial. Hopping over to your blog right now!!

 

[Hatstruck]

Thanks for the link, Hatstruck.

Just in case you missed my post on the straw braid machine, I put up two posts that may be of interest to you that include two tutorials, a few pictures, and instructions on machine oiling and threading.

Hatstruck
http://hatstruck.blogspot.com

 

[SALMAGUNDI]

Wow.. Great link!
Great work! Just made my day : )