Quick Start Grants - Individuals

I am requesting for help to purchase a 1920 Singer leather treadle machine. This beautiful piece of equipment belongs to my current landlord. As of right now the Singer is resting in another property my landlord owns, and this spot will be rented out come mid-April. She has requested to sell this machine for $650 before the new tenants move in, for she no longer has any use for it and the new tenants don't want it in their space. This property that will be rented out is next door from my own (about 100 feet) so $50 has been allotted to hire muscle to move the cast iron machine to my home, which is where my studio is. The remaining potion, $150, has been reserved for a tune-up. The Singer needs a leather strap for the treadle, a new needle, bobbin and basic tune-up. I was shown some previous items this machine produced. She's capable of some magnificent work and am eager to put her to good use. The reason for the need to purchase this machine is my preferred living/studio situation. My studio is located in a small cabin that is completely off the grid. I find that by living without the distractions of electronics I am much more prolific in my creative output, however there are hurdles to jump over to ensure that I can meet product deadlines and keep an inventory of the things I produce. Since I cannot run a standard industrial sewing machine, the treadle provides the perfect solution. I have seen some of the items this treadle has produced and know that it will be the perfect companion for the leather goods I already make. To see my inventory grow much faster than just my hand-work can produce would be the ultimate reason for this machine. Not only that but to honor a sustainable way of creating beautiful and artfully done bags would honor the way I have chosen to live the last two years of my life. Beyond this, with the help of the sewing machine, I would love to finally see my items on display in boutiques and to create more of an online presence.