7 replies to this topic

[shady]

...or is that being completely sexist
Just wondering if anyone has ever had a sewing machine adapted and if so, how did you do it?

[MTB John]

Domestic or industrial?
If domestic you can but the little foot pedal anywhere. Under the left elbow is probably your best bet. Just play around and see what works best. Or perhaps you could attach it the the front of the table and lean into it, might not be to good for your posture though..

[goose]

Hey Shady

I'm C4/5 so you probably have alittle more hand function than me. I'm still able to sew simple things. I can put my sewing machine on my island/table which gives me plenty of space to work on. The foot pedal goes between me and the sewing machine. I use my right forearm /elbow to depress the pedal and guide the fabric with my left hand. I think they now have machines that have push buttons instead of foot petals. I've gotten pretty good at it. If you can't follow my instructions, give me a PM and I'll try to more clear.

At first it was alittle difficult,but soon it was fun again. Practice on straight seams first. You should catch on pretty fast. Good luck.

[McRobb]

I will agree with the other replies. After my injury, I literally gave my good sewing machine to my daughter as I thought I would never be able to use it again. Two years later, my mom passed away and I got her old machine. Both were Ulna's - very good Swiss machines.

Playing with my mom's machine, I learned that I could sew! Use my right fore-arm to push down on the button, placed at edge of table between me and the machine. I found if I laid something larger on the button, it made it easier to control. So, cound an old woman's wallet about 6 " long and about 1" think. I can press on it anywhere and it will make the button depress so machine runs. Use right hand to steady material below the needle and left hand to guide up closer to the needle.

Would not want to do any complicated sewing that way but have hemmed some things, patche, made pillows, etc. Not sure how I would be able to do sleeves, etc that require lots of control. Keep trying and you will figure out what works for you.

[shady]

Thanks for your replies. I dont have my own machine but used to do quite a bit of sewing on a friends. Was just interested to see how others managed and how possible it was before I buy one. You've certainly inspired me

[Trinity]

shady, on 08 June 2011 - 06:31 PM, said:

...or is that being completely sexist
Just wondering if anyone has ever had a sewing machine adapted and if so, how did you do it?

Speak to Ems she has 1 or 2 (or 9 or 10!) sewing machines (I think they all have names too!) She'll be able to point you in the right direction!

[ulsterkeith]

at first i read it as screwing machine and got excited.. dont know anything about sewing machines. lol

[Andromeda]

Gotta love those Freudian slips, huh, ulsterkeith?