How to Repaint a Vintage Sewing Machine

Clean all surfaces on the sewing machine with kerosene or a spray lubricant to remove residual dirt and grime, particularly if it hasn't been used in many years.

Remove the hand wheel, throat plate and other accessible parts with a small flat-head screwdriver. Label and set aside. Use duct tape to tape off surfaces you do not wish to strip or paint, including the needle assembly, knobs and levers, and metal labels with brand and serial number information.

Prepare the surface for painting. Use a wire brush attachment on your drill and follow with steel wool, or have the sewing machine professionally sandblasted. Adequate preparation is essential for a durable and smooth finish, but there is no need to completely remove the old paint, simply rough up the surface so the primer and paint can adhere.

Prime with a spray-on primer designed for metal. Choose a primer compatible with the paints and topcoat you have selected. When the primer is dry, lightly sand with a fine grit sandpaper and wipe down well with a tack cloth.

Spray two to three thin coats of color on your vintage sewing machine. Follow the manufacturer's directions regarding drying time between coats of paint.

Apply sealer or topcoat to the sewing machine. As an alternative, buff carnuba wax into the surface of the vintage machine. Remove tape and use a spray lubricant to remove adhesive residue. Replace the throat plate and other hardware.