He got my baby lock up and running again! He was so nice and willing to try to get my machine fixed.

TL;DR Bad communication Dishonest practices Lies rather casually I don't think they are trying to be a dishonest business, I think they are very disorganized and used to lying to customers to move things along. With a customer base made mostly of women, I think they've been getting by on being patronizing to an underserved client base. I have been taking my machine into Ray's for about 10 years for tune-ups. It was only when something was actually wrong with my machines that I found problems with the service. I sew for a living and have several home and semi-industrial machines. They have a habit of keeping machines for a very long time after they are finished, and do not call you. It's only by calling repeatedly (they do not have an answering machine) that you can find out a status. I brought my machine in for a tune-up in early August, nothing was fixed so I brought it back in early September (they told me "oh, the part is out, it'll be in soon", but they didn't tell me until I brought it up to them). I've just gotten it back with none of the issues fixed. But even with a service number (given when you drop off) you can't be certain they are giving you information on the correct machine. When I was able to get someone to pick up the phone, I was told the display sensor on my machine was broken and it would be "just a couple of days". They hung up on me before I could ask how a fully mechanical machine could have that problem (they had told me about a different machine.) I tried calling for days, and when I went in person they had closed the shop early. When I came in to pick up my machine (which they said was "done" when I called), none of the problems were fixed. I recorded the whole conversation because I have had Ken lie to me before. He likes to have a quick answer, but it is not always an honest one. When I asked to test the machine before leaving (always do this at Ray's), none of the problems were fixed. I asked why this was, and he said, "We didn't call and tell you?" Ken does not understand caller ID exists, as well as times and dates of phone calls are automatically saved. So, they will lie to you, and they may not fix your machine even when they say they have, and you've given them money. It's only after a few years dealing with this I've finally cut ties. I no longer recommend them to my sewing students or other artists. read more

I inherited two older machines from a family member. Neither worked well and I hoped one might be brought back-to-life. So pleased I asked for their help. After the machines were evaluated, I had one repaired and I've been using it for a couple of months now. I appreciate the effort and straight-forward evaluation and the reasonable pricing. Thanks! read more

Ken (Ray's son) was an absolute dream to work with! I brought in what I thought was an old sewing machine, frustrated because I couldn't figure out how to thread it. Turns out, it wasn't even a sewing machine--it was a serger, meant for finishing sewing projects, not starting them. Ken was incredibly patient and knowledgeable, walking me through the difference and teaching me so much in the process. He then showed me the machines they carry, and I ended up choosing one with an auto-threading feature (aging eyes for the win!). On top of that, he offered free sewing lessons and a five-year maintenance warranty--try getting that level of service from Amazon! He even demoed the sewing feet he and his father invented, which was such a cool touch. I think I've found my new favorite hobby! Supporting small businesses feels great, especially when the customer service is this amazing. Highly recommend! read more

Great service. Was recommend to me by two differnt peiople Hard to get them on the phone though.

How shopped at Rays for over 10 years. Reliable repairs and sales. Very knowledgeable on all things related to sewing machines. They also have classes. The teacher is excellent. read more

I really wanted to support this local business, but my experience has been incredibly frustrating. I came into the shop on June 13th to inquire about purchasing an embroidery machine. I was told the machine would be in within two weeks and that I would be contacted when it arrived so I could come in to purchase it. When I didn't hear anything by June 24th, I called to follow up. The owner barely remembered our conversation and had no updates but said he'd get back to me within two days. He didn't. I called again on the 30th and had the exact same conversation. Again, he promised a follow-up. Again, nothing. After yet another two days with no call, I followed up for a third time and explained my frustration and disappointment with the lack of communication. I was promised, once again, a call within two days. That call never came either. Today, I called once more and spoke to a different employee, who told me I would receive a call back within the hour. It's now the end of the business day--no call, and now they're not answering the phone. I understand that shipping delays are often out of a business's control. That's not the issue here. The problem is the complete lack of follow-through, accountability, and communication. I've been more than patient, but I'm beyond frustrated--honestly to the point of tears. It's disheartening to be strung along and constantly promised updates that never come. What's most upsetting is that I want to support a small, local business instead of just ordering the same machine off Amazon and getting it in two days. But this experience has made that feel impossible. I expected to be treated with basic respect and honesty, and I haven't received that. This is no way to run a business. read more

Ken at Ray's sewing was great. I came by to have him look at my new sewing machine. He did a quick look & saw that it was the cheap thread. He was kind & helpful. He did not charge any fee for his time. Ken sold me a few good quality spools of thread. He simply had me pay for the thread...$6. Thank you, Ken! So thrilled to have my new working sewing machine back! read more

I have an old Singer 600 series machine that my mom handed down to me. I do only light sewing but when I need it fixed, I really need it right away! Ray fixed in by the next day. He was very kind and professional, and I never felt pressured to buy a new one, though he has an amazing selection. When I got the machine home, I couldn't believe the difference. My machine seems quieter and SO much smoother. I want to thank other reviewers that led me to Ray's. His work is truly exceptional! read more

Servicing my Janome machine: 5 stars Related service: 2 stars When I picked up my machine after a routine service, which turned out to include a need to replace the bobbin case, I didn't look in the carrying case. That was my bad. I got home to discover that part of the machine was missing. We live in Santa Cruz, so it's a 45-minute drive to the shop in San Jose. Ken said he would be closing up early the next day to leave for a show. He agreed to meet me at the shop at 10:00 (an hour earlier than he normally opens) to return the missing part. I made the drive; arrived at 10:05, but he wasn't there. I called; no answer. Finally reached him an hour later and he gave me a lame excuse about tire problems. He could have called. Since he'd be gone for the next several days, I asked if he would please mail the missing parts before he left town. He said he would, but I have little expectation that he did. Ray's is an authorized Janome service center, so I really wanted to use his business. He did a great job servicing the machine and his price was more than fair. I know others who swear by him. Sad that my experience in other respects hasn't been the best. Will I try again? Not sure... read more

I took my serger in for be service, he told me it would take one week I called 2 weeks later and he said he had to order a part, then he said they sent him the wrong part, I call several time no answer during working hours. I left 3 messages no reply, After I just went to pick up my serger They could not find it, so I finally got it back so I took it elsewhere to be serviced. I would never go back or send anyone there read more

Ken in incredibly knowledgeable and very helpful. So far, we've bought two Genome machines from him and have had some Juki heavy duty machines tuned up. The store also offers classes. We recommend this store! read more

So nice to get expert passionate service and advice about sewing machines and repairs.

I went to Ray's Sewing Center because I needed a new bobbin case for my sewing machine. I called ahead of time to check if they had one that would work with my sewing machines model and low and behold they did! The person I spoke to on the phone (who I believe was Ray) was incredibly friendly and helpful. When I showed up to the shop he had already gone into the back and had the bobbin case ready for me and was nice enough to install it into my machine. When I was there he was very friendly and even gave me a few helpful tips for my machine. I will definitely be coming back here again!! Thanks for the great service! read more

Reprehensible Customer Service, at the Very Least -- Dishonest, Very Likely How can a sewing machine service center "lose" your machine?' I wish I had read the many negative reviews of Ray's Sewing Machine Center before I brought mine in. My 1960's Italian-made Necchi Mark II Super Nova's handwheel wouldn't disengage the motor when the bobbin was winding. My mother had died of cancer when I was 30, and had given her machine to me. It was my treasured possession. Made of iron, it was almost industrial in purpose, it worked perfectly otherwise, and I had made drapes, upholstery, pillows and altered my clothes over the decades since she gave it to me. Pink and beige, it fits into its custom walnut table, drops down and is hidden when not in use, and I have all the original instruction books, special accessories and carrying case. Similar ones sell for up to $800 on EBay. Never a call from Ken, current owner and the son of the celebrated original owner, Ray, to tell me the status. I had to call so many times, and each time there was an excuse. The first time, "the factory was closed." Ok, so it was Covid early on, that made sense. Then, "Factory still closed." Then, "I've ordered 148 parts for machines and none have come in yet." Still probable. Then, "25 of the 148 parts have come in, but not yours." Then, "100 of the 148 parts have come in but not yours." Then radio silence. I called again. "I can't find it in the shop." I called again and spoke to Melissa, who said she would look for it. I emailed a picture of the machine. Never heard back. I called again. "It might be at my other facility," he said. Never heard back. I called again: "It isn't over there, either." I came in and spoke to Ken and asked him to look again both at the other facility and the shop. I never heard back. I came in again, and he showed me the spot on the shelf where it had been. Did he look at the email with the picture of the machine? "No I haven't read my emails," he said. I handed him a huge color picture of the machine with my phone number on it. Still haven't heard back. So - where is it? Was it mistakenly given to someone else? Was it loaned to someone? Was it stolen? Given to, or worse, sold to someone? Ken never expressed any remorse, nor has he offered to reimburse me for my lost machine. He's had over a year to find it, fix it, or explain what happened to it. His callousness was astonishing and heartbreaking -- almost as if he has done this many times before. He certainly does not deserve to be in business. Perhaps someone who reads this review will know my Necchi's whereabouts. Perhaps it will suddenly "turn up" on the shelf. But I'm sure my mother is also very angry at him from her perch above. read more

Ray's Sewing Machine Center - Appliances & Repair Near Me - San Jose, California

Great prices on machines. Been in the business for years and really knows his stuff. Signed up for sewing lessons. I was afraid to see and Ken broke my fear, now I'm excited and looking forward to challenges. Can't go wrong here. read more

Ken is a true gem and real person who is super knowledgeable and helps you not only repair the machine that you have, but shows you a better fit for a new machine without much high pressure to get a new one. I truly love this place and highly recommend them for your sewing machines repair and new units. read more

In 2022 purchased an expensive overlock machine from an authorized dealer in Santa barbara. I had nothing but trouble with this machine and spent a lot of money over the last two years trying to make it work correctly. Finally frustrated with the dealership, I decided to take it somewhere else...to Ray's. Eventhough I had to drive from San Luis Obispo to San Jose, it was well worth it. Ken was amazingly knowledgeable and repaired the machine to an excellent working condition. Thank you! read more

Brought my seldom-used Brother PE100 embroidery machine in after the 'arm' started making screeching noises and a metal piece fell out of the machine. When I tested it at home, it makes the same screeching noise and a piece of the needle threader fell off! Now I have to pay another repair shop to fix the embroidery machine because I'm not bringing it back to Ray's. I also brought in my serger to be re-oiled and a new knife installed. I was told it needed a part from Japan. After 5 months of being given the runaround, I brought the serger to another repair shop and it was serviced in two days. No new part needed. read more

This is the best place ever. Ken is always there and willing to help, fix, or just have short conversation. Thank you for being my go to.... read more

woman who brought my Vintage Singer to Ray that a friend had given to me. I remember the repair was expensive.....I did not want to do but was talked into it. Erics review was the purchaser of my machine....it was done soooo wrong. I do remember spending over $200 for repairs and tune up and feel completely done in. Ray should return my $$$$$ and make things right. I would not recommend Ray ever....I guess the Dad ran the business forever and then son took over and might just not know his stuff...... So sad-ripped off! read more

This shop has been around for years! My mother sewed and always counted on Ray when she needed help with her machine. Sadly, my mom has passed and I don't sew. Ray tuned up my moms sewing machines to make sure all was in good order so I could donate to vocational training school. Also, stop by his shop to see all the memorabilia! I love Elvis! And, Ray is a talented musician that actually played with him! read more

This is not really a review......it's more of a cautionary tale. My experience at Ray's Sewing Center has been 40% good and 60% not so good. I'm going to list my experiences and you can take from it what you want. *I bought my first Janome from Ray's 13 years ago. They went over the machine with me and gave me some good tips. Great experience. *Took my machine back to Ray's for servicing multiple times over the years. Good and bad experiences. Sometimes customer service is awesome and sometimes it's lacking. *I recommend you put your name on everything you take to this shop. I took my nice metal foot control and power cord when I dropped off my machine and when I picked it up, they gave me a plastic foot control and different power cord. They couldn't locate the ones I brought with my machine. *I recommend you don't take any accessories, including presser feet. My machine went in with a nice Janome presser foot but when I picked it up, there was a lesser quality foot on my machine. I asked for mine back but it couldn't be found. *Please pay attention to this one. When I dropped off my machine, I knew it hadn't been serviced in a while (mostly due to COVID). I was told the motor had seized but they took it apart and soaked the parts in an oil bath. The parts were put back together and the motor was running smoothly. I took my machine home and began quilting a quilt top. About two minutes into sewing, a bunch of oil spilled out onto my quilt top. It was everywhere....my quilt, my clothes, my table, etc. I still can't get rid of the oil after multiple cleanings. So I'll be taking my machine to another repair shop to see if they can help me. Good luck. read more

I rarely post reviews but I needed to do this. I brought in a Janome 500E that I purchased from Ray's. Ken said he would not problem selling it it for me. It's been nearly 3 years and nothing. I keep calling and get the run around. My advise is don't let him sell your machines. read more

Extremely disappointed to learn that Ken gives out dangerous and misleading information about the COVID-19 vaccine. The sewing machine repair shop is no place for "medical advice" and Ken should not comment on other people's medical decisions. read more

I've been going to Ray's & seeing them at the show for almost 20 years. I can highly recommend them for service, selection, and quality. They can service any type of sewing machine. Don't bring yours to the others just because they claim they're the only ones who take care of Pfaff or Elena. When you're ready to buy a new product, they'll back it up with training, and support. I've seen them answer questions for people who bought their machines 15 or 20 years prior. They're a family outfit and service what they sell. And just to note, they've moved. They're now on Meridian. Check out their home page to get directions. read more

So far so good! I called Ray's on Saturday to see if they had a zipper foot for my machine. The guy on the phone wasn't positive he had the exact one I needed so he put me on hold for someone else. (I'm glad he didn't just give me a random answer, because I hate when that happens) When I went in today and explained what I was looking for, the guy knew right away what I was looking for. He even explained how it worked. The store had a lot of machines set up, so it seems like a great place to go buy one if you're unsure what you want. Great service and good stuff here! I'd definitely come back if I need more attachments or if my sewing machine needs adjustment. read more

I called the store and spoke to the owner. I told him I had an older sewing machine that was "frozen" i asked him if I should try and fix because I didn't spend much money on it. He said bring it down he won't charge to look at it. I brought it down and he tooo it back to his shop. My machine was dead !! I pointed out that he had another one in his shop "like mine!" He said it was his and he just had it there. We had made small talk and then "out of the blue" he said "you can have it"!!! I said what ? He said I could have it I offered him some money for it and he refused. I didn't think there were still nice people around!!!! He showed me another sewing machine with "no sales pitch"! He said if the one he Gave me broke down I should consider that one!! I would go back there in a "heart beat"!!! Thank you for your good customer service !! Dave read more

Ken was so helpful helping me select a new machine that is durable and easy to use. My 17 year old machine had died while I was sewing masks for our community and I needed a new affordable workhorse. read more

Super knowledgeable, very nice and not pushy about buying a machine, great upgrade policy, ongoing customer support for life of machine. So glad I have this resource so close by. read more

Bought a vintage sewing machine from a woman in San Jose. She said that it had been serviced/tuned by Ray's in San Jose a couple years back and had not been used much since. The "Rays" sticker placed on the machine confirmed that it was serviced there. I took the machine to my sewing machine specialist for a check-up right after purchase. It turns out that the motor had been oiled (a no-no!) which led to the need for cleaning out the oil and to replace the bushings. The tension mechanism had been taken apart and reassembled wrong. The needle bar (?? -Think that was the term they used??) was set too low, and needed to be raised so the needle was not striking the base below. The belt that was supposedly replaced two years prior was cracked. The manufacturer's label on the belt was from a company that has not made belts since the mid-1960s. (It doesn't take a genius to figure out that the belt was not replaced.) The oil pad (I think this is what it was called) had never been replaced as is pretty standard so I understand. My repair person asked who had done the work on the machine. When I told him Ray's, he was quite surprised because he said that his family had known the founding father who was really quite good in the business. He knew that the son had taken over the business and was surprised with the work improperly done on this machine. read more

Went to High School with Ken, such a nice guy. My wife needed a new sewing machine about 10 years ago. So, I took her here. And, Ken picked the right one for her needs. My wife has been using it ever since with a hugh smile on her face. Occassionally, I have her repair paragliding gear of mine and the machine makes short work of it. Happy wife = Happy husband. Thanks again Ken for your expertise, much appreciated! R. Craig Gamma read more

Ray took my neighbors sewing machine that she bought from him because she upgraded and he said he would sell the last model for her. He had it over a year, sold it for installments and never paid her. So many excuses! Now I am filing a small claims action to get her money! Never answers the phone! You will regret buying anything from this place! read more

This place made my day recently, I found an old sewing machine in a thrift store and bought it for myself since it was my birthday. I had never down before but it had a sticker with Rays number on it, I called and that same day I stopped by the shop. Ken was so awesome he took a look at it and showed me some of the basics and even gave me an old manual. I got so excited I asked about sewing classes and he handed me the flyer for Michelle's sewing classes that she does there. I just got done with the class and it was awesome, so informative and best money I have spent in a long time. This shop has such cool old timey vibes and has me so excited about sewing, I can't wait to go back for more classes with Michelle!!!! read more

Terrible customer service. I wiill no longer be doing business with this company. I have tried for two weeks to get the owner to to call me back or respond to my emails and nothing. Every time I call the store (5 times) the owner is not in and the employees can't do simple things like, properly take my name and number down or look to see if the have specific parts in stock. It's a joke. Why is it the owner is the only one who knows if they have parts in? I spent a lot of money on a crappy machine and terrible customer service. I won't ever buy a machine from them again. There are a lot of other great businesses in the area where the employees, not just the owner, are knowledgable and available to assist. read more

4.5 stars. I would have given this place a 5 star rating but I'm bitter that I didn't get any rumored discounts. I was told sometimes they'll give you discounts depending on your personality/salesperson's personality and title/the rising position of your astrological sign. Since I didn't receive any, perhaps I should rethink my entire life ... that deserves a minus .5 for the place. I strolled in yesterday to look at Janome machines. I was looking for something simple and easy to use because I know nothing about sewing. I was given a quick demo, left alone to play around with the machines a little bit and ended up getting the most basic model for $249. What's comforting to know, as Jane mentioned, you can upgrade any time within five years and pay the difference. The warranty is also for five years. Any time you have problems with your machine, bring it in and they will fix it for free on site (as opposed to other places that might have to send the machine elsewhere). Typically, if you bring a machine to be fixed, it'll cost anywhere from $40 - $80. I didn't receive any information regarding free intro classes. I'm not certain it was because they were busy or just forgot to mention them. Guess I can always read the manual or go back and ask questions. read more

Ken and his staff have a strong understanding of sewing and quilting, inside and out. Customer service is strong and they're helpful, direct and will not sell you anything you don't need. They've saved the day for me so many times when I've searched everywhere for random parts for various machines, and they're very reasonably priced! They've resuscitated my Juki, Husqvarna, Singer, Kenmore and Berninas! Thank you to all at Ray's Sewing! read more

NOTE: This is the same place as the other Ray's that was on Park. They need to merge their other 5 star reviews onto this one. They are actually located on 545 Meridian Ave, SJ, CA 95126 if you need directions. I went to them because of the great reviews about them and I wasn't disappointed. Lyndsay was super helpful and answered all my questions. I brought in my old Singer to get repaired. After turning it in I asked about machines that could handle lots of layers of cloth at once and Lyndsay ended up showing me one that had a ton of feet, stitches and could do all the things I wanted. I loved it so much I ended up not getting my other one repaired (I will do that later and give it to my daughter) and bought the one she showed me. I must stress that she in NO WAY pressured me into anything. She showed me all the stitches and how much fabric the new model could sew and the machine sold itself. I was so impressed with the machine I had to have it. She unpacked it for me, showed me how to wind the bobbin and threaded it for me. She also said that they provide free classes and I can call them to schedule when it is convenient. I am to bring my machine back and get hands on instructions. Fabulous! Her father was there and another nice woman (whose relationship to the others I didn't catch). On the whole I have to give my experience a enthusiastic five star rating. I will certainly come back and tell everyone I know about these nice people. --Gal on the Go read more

I'm a very beginning sewer, I appreciated the warmth and quick assistance given when I stopped to pick up an accessory for my sewing machine. When I expressed interest in the store, the owner walked me around and showed me where classes are held. I look forward to getting to know this store more, as I plan to return. read more

Personalized service at its best. I went on a Saturday afternoon and spent two hours fooling around with a machine, and got tips from the owner and his daughter. I went back three days later and bought the machine and some extra feet, and they tossed in an extra foot and a bunch of free bobbins. I absolutely love my new Janome 3160 and I won't hesitate to buy another machine from them in the future. fantastic service :) read more