In Stitches

On a brighter note... I had sent my beloved and well used Leatherman Charge off for service and some TLC as I had worn out the diamond file, the carabiner clip and flat screwdriver had broken from my own use and abuse, and the jaw's cutters were also worn. Today I received a brand new TTi at no charge, this is the new upgraded model with improved wire cutters and in Canada sells for more than $200.00... A Leatherman costs a lot more than most other multi tools but the warrany and service are second to none. This is probably one of my most used tools and it travels with me daily...

I am gonna try and slow down a little this week and take proper breaks as the neuropathy in my legs and feet has flared up from spending too many hours in the shop. If I am not mindful of this I will end up falling down as I lose feeling and coordination in my left leg first, and my right foot starts twisting up in vicious spasms. A good time to update the website methinks.... As I always say, I still look good standing still... lol

Thought a little thread stand test was in order, on what is a really fast sewing machine... these feed the thread so beautifully.

My brother found this Singer 306 at the re-store at a bargain price since it had no pedal, cord, cover, or accessories... basically a poor little orphan. Installed a new bobbin case and needle, a new belt, led light, gave her a wipe down, and a proper oiling and she's zooming along. And stitching perfection.... I might have a spare cover here somewhere... and if you are looking for a nice running 306 that is a tad scruffy, but a total joy to use, send us an email.

Am gonna make a few little pins...

For Sale: A gorgeous Kenmore 1045 "Kennyweight" that has been serviced, tested, and upgraded to an led light. It came without a case but I had this little padded case from the UCLA Medical Centre which was a perfect fit, the pedal and lead cord fit in the side pocket.... The 1045 is the least common of the 3/4 Kenmore models and the lightest, still packs 1 amp of power, has a great range of stitches including stretch for knits, and would be an ideal travelling machine. Price: $160.00 (a pdf manual will be included).

Due to some overwhelming demand we will start taking orders for the Ultimate Thread Stand (U.T.S). They will be made by hand (in solid brass) and I am just waiting on some new tooling for the shop before I kick off a production run. The brass base will weigh 28 grams so will double as a perfect test weight for most bobbin cases.... I will also be making some in 6061 aluminium for the weight weenies... but those bases will not weigh 28 grams. Introductory price for the U.T.S - $45.00 Order two stands for $80.00 (a 10% saving). Extension arm for cross wound spools - $5.00 Please confirm your order by email.

Made up my other Elna tool to extract the old friction wheels with another pin made for re-installing them... figured I should wrap up this job before I start on thread stands.

Tooling up to do a lot of drilling tomorrow as I start that run of new thread stands... mounted the lathe chuck to some brass bar for a more secure clamp, and also allows for lateral movement.

Since Monday is a holiday we are gonna take an extra long weekend and will be away from the main shop until next Tuesday. For those of you in Alberta. I hope you have an awesome Family Day and that we get a little break in this nasty weather. It must be quitting time now...

Made a few tools, a mock up for a pin extractor for old Elna friction wheels and a tool for installing the new ones. Made that screw by hand...

A great video on the use of a 29k78...

Amazing skill with the most basic of tools...