If you are interested in having your sewing machine serviced or repaired, you will need to contact Tim.  

07985 387223

Tuesday - Saturday

Tim, our sewing machine man has serviced hundreds of machines of all types. He has been sewing for 50 years and used many types of machines and got to know how they should behave. This experience means we can offer our services with confidence. We've rescued some that had been written off and others that have been given up on elsewhere. We keep our prices reasonable because we work in house and don't have to pay agents. We don't price repairs based on the cost of the machine - sometimes the more expensive machine is quicker to service than the cheaper one. We won't replace parts if you don't really need them and if we do you will get the original returned. Our work is signed off inside the machine to prove we've taken it apart if need be.

Once we have discussed bringing your machine in, there are certain items to include. Sounds obvious - but we will need the power lead and foot-pedal. Some people don't use a foot-pedal and just use the push-button start/stop but we will it to test for safety and function and to run the machine hands free.

A bobbin specifically for your machine. If you don't have one or have accumulated several different types and are now not sure which is correct, then include them all. We often see problems caused by the wrong bobbin being used. If you don't have one, we will provide one from stock

A foot capable of being used for any zig-zag or multi-stitch that your machine can do. We will test that the needle swing is not restricted by the wrong foot. If yours is broken or missing we can supply a replacement.

We do not need you to supply any other than the above so you may keep them at home or seal them in a separate bag as it is likely that your machine will be upside-down at some point! We use fresh needles anyway for stitch testing and our own threads. Ideally if you could supply a sample of stitching that shows any problems you may have, this would help.

If the machine and covers have been left for a while we would appreciate a quick wipe down before being left with us.

We base prices on known makes, models, types and problems. There are hundreds of makes, each with many models but we usually see 'the regulars' and know what makes them tick (or not). We cannot know the insides of every machine, but they follow certain characteristics and faults. Sometimes a fault won't be immediately obvious or freeing up an old machine will highlight a weak spot. If there's anything unexpected, we will inform you before doing further work or getting parts. Service prices include checking the operation of the machine and consumables such as needles, thread, grease and oil, cleaners, wipes etc. Items such as bulbs, belts and bobbins are extra if required.

Please note. Through experience we can identify those machines that can be time consuming to take-apart, access and remedy, as well as those that are prone to certain mechanical and electronic failure. It isn't always the cheaper ones either; some high-end makes come with known problems. A discussion with Tim will filter most of these out or at least let you know what you're in to. Sometimes we will decline to take a machine in if it looks like it will be uneconomical for you and us to service, based on past examples. Please be aware that on some older plastic machines the fixing points will be brittle. Whilst we take every care sometimes parts can break . This is often the case with hinged parts like bobbin access doors and accessory trays.

We generally only accept coverstitchers and overlockers that we have sold although there are a few exceptions. Unfortunately, there are some makes and models that are renowned for being troublesome. These might be fine when they're running well but almost impossible to fix if the timing or loopers have been put out. We often see machines that have had a repair attempted only to run for a little while and the cost of repairs has often got near to the purchase price (see my page on overlocker advice). We will let you know if your machine can be serviced. A service on an overlocker should include taking the machine casing off, cleaning, oil and grease on inside, checking tension mechanisms and clearances. If someone says they have serviced your overlocker without removing any covers it has not been done properly. (Oiling the 2 or 3 points as instructed in your manual is something you can do at home, and you shouldn't have to pay skywards of £75 for it.)

We can service Embroidery combination machines too although generally most of the workings are controlled electronically and if the circuit boards fail there's not much we can do. The regular sewing parts can be checked of course.

We like old machines! Classic Berninas and Frister-Rossmans, Vikings and metal Pfaffs, some Singers, New Homes and Brothers etc.etc. We try to buy good examples either to renovate or for the parts. If you have a machine that you would like us to look at then contact Tim.

Servicing of older machines is perfectly feasible providing they haven't been left too long. Although the build quality is far superior and they keep going longer, parts can be difficult but not impossible to get. The stitch quality of older machines and the ability to cope with heavier jobs makes them popular for upholstery, workwear and curtains etc. Even if there are a couple of scratches here and there is makes no difference to the operation. (see our Classic machine stock page)

Prices are given as a guide and do not include parts if needed such as belts and bulbs. If you would need a special part we would let you know before starting. Where your machine has a problem that is not easily identifiable and we have to do an investigation then this would be chargeable if you decide that the service or repair was not something you wanted to be done.

Our service includes checking timings, feed dogs, needle position, stitch selection, tension units, degrease and regrease, lubrication, winders, reverse, belts, motors, foot-pedals and electrics and levers and dials. We usually take the covers off but if your model is known for being difficult and lengthy to take apart we will service what we can access and reduce the price accordingly. You will get a proper report on work done (and a receipt!)

• £57.50 -£67.50 (guide) entry level dial-up stitch types, medium level electronic type, older machines with no issues. Some simpler stitch & tension issues can be fixed for £30-£45.

• £85-£95 higher end electronic machines, some more complicated mechanical Bernina.

• From £75 Overlockers sold by us.

• Older Pfaffs and Husqvarna - Vikings we would have to quote on as there are certain models serviceable but not always repairable due to parts (or the cost of them).

• Investigation work is in the region of £30, payable in advance and not refundable. However we will not charge full amount if the problem is reasonably obvious. This fee will be included in full or part in the cost of a service if you decide to have it done.

Please be aware that with older machines fixing one aspect may reveal weaknesses in other parts. E.g. fixing a machine to run at proper speed may effect older plastic parts.

Obviously there are many different things that will effect what your machine needs and the relative cost. If you have any questions please feel free to ask Tim on 07985387223