Mine are just quilted cotton - 2 layers w/ batting in between. I guess plastic (like vinyl) could be a problem if your machine is hot when you cover it or if you have a moisture problem. My covers are just to keep off dust & cat hair, but usually the cover is in the corner with a cat on it and the machine is out in the open! :)

Donna

CJ--I meant to reply to you over at Vintage Treadles, but this will work, too. I make my sewing machine covers from old pillow cases. Turn the pillowcase inside out, sew a seam across it at the halfway point and cut it apart. I cut them with a pinking shears and save the plain half for dust covers in the studio, where I don't really care about looks. You have a nice lightweight dust cover that won't hold moisture. If you have some vintage cases that are getting past usefulness as pillowcases, this is a nice way to save and display the handwork on them.

You could also make covers from border-print fabrics.

Annie

Thanks for your comments, Annie and Donna. Am trying to "stashbust" and have no quilted fabric on hand-at least I have not unpacked any yet! LOL. But in looking over the 'get-rid-of pile' noted one of the dtrs med wt linen mini-skirts. Am planning to stitch the waistband across the top and add gussets of some wild fabric at the sides, CB and CF seams. The length is perfect.

DH is helping me set up a counter so all my portable machines can be in 'ready to work' mode as well. As a result, I hope to get all of them covered with something neater this year.

So far, most of my 50 year plus embroidered pillow cases are still holding up-but a wonderful suggestion. The worn pillowcases were recycled into quilts a while ago. However, I think I still have a few pieces of dark candlewicking that did not get pillowed that would be fine for machine covers.

I know this is a REALLY old post, but I just became a member, and had an idea for a sewing machine cover that I want to make for my vintage machine. It is a really beautiful machine, and I hate to cover it, so I am considering making a cover out of a sheer fabric so you can still see the machine, but it will be protected from dust and dirt.

jjflamingo, know what you mean! Made sheer covers from dacron sheer curtains for DH's band saw and sander and am amazed at the amt of dust they do not allow thru the fabric.

Still using recycled skirts and shirts and all machines are happy!
cj