The Improved Eldredge Rotary Sewing Machine

Improved Eldredge Rotary Sewing Machine

Here she is, my first vintage sewing machine.  To place this in time, I bought this in a thrift shop in San Luis Obispo shortly after I got married.  I thought it was a cool little desk.  When trying to get in my car it seemed a bit heavy but no problem I got it home.  It was only when I went through the drawers did I note there was a manual in there and realized it was a sewing machine cabinet.  By golly, there was a sewing machine tucked inside!  How far I have come.

May I introduce you to the Improved Eldredge Rotary.  It is a sewing machine worth noting, as I do see these on occassion so they are still out there.  This model was made in the mid 1930's but I have yet found no confirmation on the actual date.  Eldredge at this point was affiliated with National Sewing Machines, and it bears much similarity.  The decals on this machine has been seen on other makes, notably the Greybar made by Free Westinghouse.  It is very "Art Deco".  Here is a close up of the pillar design again:

Manual, attachment box, one of the hemmers, bobbin case and bobbin.

Love this illustration, a girl with bobbed hair.

This machine came with a full set of attachments, bobbins and manual.  The attachment set are the basic rotary type made by Greist.  They are very high quality and have managed to stay perfect despite being in my damp former home near the ocean on California's Central coast.  If you need a source for bobbins and needles, here is where I get mine.
The bobbins can be ordered online here:  Eldredge Rotary Bobbins
It takes a less common needle, as Nationals do. The size is 20x1 and can be found here:
20x1 Needles
A manual if your machine did not come with one or you cannot find one: 
Improved Eldredge Rotary Manual

The standout feature of this machine and other Eldredge machines I have seen is the beauty of the cabinets.  There are others, and they are all really nice.  This particular one, like the machine itself, also has a Art Deco feel.  Check out these drawer pulls!

Bakelite insert

Using the Eldredge is much like other sewing machines but there are a few little things that are worth mentioning.  The thread path is a bit longer than most and so take care to check to make sure you are doing it right.   Because it has a few extra stops on the way, I always pull the top thread way out before starting a seam.  This machine has slipped it's thread more than any other.  This thread path set up does seem to have an advantage in that the tension is very sensitive.  This makes it able to handle all sorts of thread.  The one I like best is the clear nylon thread used for quilt tops.  It also handles very heavy thread like the yellow jean top stitch thread.  It is also is deceptively strong, it does not look like it would but this one can sew through heavier material quite well.

Stitch samples

 The stitches are adjusted by a sliding knob on the side, another different feature.  It is numbered from 1 to 10.  Number 1 being the longest stitch.  It is really long too, perfect for basting.

The strait stitch presser foot sews a perfect 1/4 inch.  That, combined with large area to the right (harp space) and the ability to handle the nylon thread  makes the Eldredge Rotary a good quilter.  The elegant style makes using it all the better.