The Upholstery Forum

Hello all. I want to learn how to sew to ultimately get to the point I can do automotive upholstery on my vehicles.

I can go out and buy a commercial machine but wanted to know if my grandmother’s old Singer I have down stairs could ultimately be upgrade to handle the task of sewing suede and alcantara. It has a number on it G4112656…but I’m guessing that’s a serial number?

https://photos.app.goo.gl/sFRWSTqr2jRmj7ns9

https://photos.app.goo.gl/z1c3dusrAgf9e8Er8

https://photos.app.goo.gl/xee2Aj5P4i7coGecA

In a word, no.
You could sew light weight residential upholstery with this, but not heavy Vinyl or automotive fabric with a glued on foam backing. These are garment weight machines with a 1/4" foot lift and handle only light weight thread. John has a great, free, publication on what machines to use for automotive upholstery work. There are many old ones available, but you need to be careful if they work well or not.

I sure like the looks of those old machines. Made to sew and look kind of artistic. Don't see that any more.