An exceptional and increasingly scarce International “Cutawl” electric cloth cutting machine, manufactured by the International Register Company, Chicago, U.S.A. This early industrial machine was designed for cutting stacked textiles in tailoring houses, garment factories and millinery workshops during the early electrification of industry.
The piece survives mounted on its original timber transit crate, boldly stencilled INTERNATIONAL CUTAWL, and retains associated ephemera including original instruction paperwork. The twin lamp heads, belt-driven motor, heavy cast construction and intact fittings make this a striking example of early 20th-century American industrial design.
Today, Cutawl machines are sought after as museum pieces, shop installations, window displays and loft-style industrial décor, with far fewer surviving complete with their original crates.
Key Features
Genuine International Cutawl machine
International Register Company, Chicago, Illinois, USA
Approx. 1910s–1920s
Early electric, belt-driven cloth cutter
Twin adjustable lamp heads
Heavy cast metal body in original finish
Original timber shipping crate with stencilled branding
Retains original instruction envelope
Strong visual presence and industrial patina
Condition
Structurally complete and intact
Surface wear, timber losses and paint wear consistent with age and industrial use
Electrical components untested; sold as a display or collectible piece
Crate shows honest wear, splits and losses consistent with age
This is an as-found, un-restored example, prized for authenticity and character.
