Took my sewing machine in for it's first servicing in 10+ years. I only started sewing more 2-3 years ago. Lyndsay was nice, and took in my machine. I got a phone call a week later, and tahdah! It's like new! I was a little put off by the telephone etiquette & actually considered never coming back, but I let it go, thinking it was more me than anything. When I picked up my machine & spoke to Lyndsay a little more, she was nice & friendly. Answered my weird "newbie" questions & welcomed me to come back again. I like that they put a little sampler patch of the stitches to show you all is well.I don't know if that's something they do everywhere, but for my first time I'm happy. I will definitely go again. It's only a couple blocks from home & I can actually just ride my bike on over. I was also given a 25% off coupon when I dropped off my machine, so the damage $ wasn't too bad. I totally recommend you go in & just stop by to see what they have, and what they offer if you've never been in. read more

I recently purchased a used machine off Craigslist for a great price and took it to Rays to get a few supplies for the machine. I brought the machine with me so I would make sure I got the right parts. While i was looking at parts, Lyndsay was checking out the machine, finding that the feed dogs didn't function properly, and fixing the problem all before I had even found what I needed and without any charge. She answered my questions about the machine and appeared very knowledgeable. Another great thing about the shop is that I felt very comfortable there with my five young children. She offered them candy canes, a promotional sewing kit and even let them check out old, unrepairable machines. Lastly, their prices were comparable to online pricing I had done before I went to the store. Put their prices with great customer service and I'll definitely be back when I need something else for my machine. read more

Whether you are looking to purchase a Janome, or get one repaired you will have a very pleasant experience. I have a home based sewing business, at times during the year use my Janome 10+ hours per day for weeks. Love Janome's and how you are treated and the knowledge this establishment has. read more

I am a professional sewing instructor and have known them since our kids were little together(26 years). They are very friendly, helpful. Ken fixes the machines well and always has more work than he can do. They sell gently used machines as well as state of the art. I now have 8 Janome machines because of Ken and Lindsey's help. They also offer classes. read more

I have purchased 2 Janome sewing machines from Ken. Ken and Lindsey surely go the extra mile and are very knolwedgeable. However, the classes offered are limited on the use of the machines. Although, I can catch on after my one hour demo with Lindsey, you really don't learn the true functionality of the machine. It's fortunate I'm fairly technical and knowledgeable with computers - otherwise I would really be lost. The craft classes offered are nice, but of interest to the older audience - very dated crafts. The emphasis seems to be on eating food, socializing vs. doing some really neat crafts. They need to set up a real training room, eliminate the food in the sewing area, and come up to speed with doing crafts of interest to the younger sewer. - Couture Sewing - Different technique on finishing e.g. zippers, applique designs, button holes (various style - when to use) - Actually sewing a pattern in class - various finishes (adding serger demonstrations to the class so those that don't have a serger can view the benefits) - Fabric overview (discussions on various fabrics) - demonstration on what each can be used for/samples - dying of fabrics/tie dying, etc. - Offer patterns for sale at the store I could continue to come up with more topics for training - this whole area is a weakness for the shop - which is unfortunate. Although, there are many sales people in the store many seem to just wander - possibly they have been around since Ray - but don't add value if they cannot demonstrate, sell machines -- not good.. Overall, I would rate the store a 4 - due to Ken, Lindsey and the overall quality of the machines -- cannot beat a Janome and their overall work ethics are the best - they are true professionals. read more

I took a class at PIQF on machine quilting. Rays provided the Janone machines. They were provided with a cheap walking foot and a cheap open toed foot from a generic brand. These did not work. At least half of the class were not able to do the projects. Ray should have given us all our money back. It is a great embarrassment for Janome and the instructor. read more

Did a good job fixing the bobbin which was stuck but was very overpriced. The person working there was clueless. Had no idea what was going on. read more

The absolute worst sewing machine repair shop! We took our sewing machine in for repair on 11/21/15 and I was told "it should be about a week, we'll call you." A week and a half goes by and I had to call them and the female who answered the phone promptly says "did we call you?" I said "no, that's why I'm calling you, they told me it would be about a week when I took it in" and she said "oh no, it'll be more than a week." I waited another week and heard nothing and called again and a woman answered the phone and said, "did we call you to tell you it's ready?" I said "no, but I'm wondering how much longer you'll have my machine?" The woman said "I don't know, we'll call you." Another week and a half goes by and I don't hear anything and I call again, another woman answers and tells me that the sewing repair technicians aren't in right now and will be back in the afternoon and I could call back then if I wanted. I told her that I wanted to know what was going on with my machine because they have had it almost a month and I haven't heard anything. She told me that sometimes they have to order parts that have to ship in from out-of-state. A month hits and still no word on our sewing machine and so we drive over to the store and go in and calmly say, we are here to pick up our machine because you've had it for a month and we just want to get it back. The lady that helps us asks if we have our claim ticket and we say "yes" and my spouse notices it right away sitting in the same spot they put it when we dropped it off. THEY HADN'T EVEN LOOKED AT IT TO TROUBLESHOOT IT OR TO ORDER PARTS, they had done NOTHING in the entire month they had it. I think they actually know they have poor repair turnaround because every time I called they NEVER asked me for my claim number so they could check to see what was going on with the machine. They just kept giving me standard answers like "they probably had to order parts." When we first took the machine in, the guy who had us fill out our repair slip said to us "it'll be about a week." Had they not said that to us, our expectations would not have been to think it was going to be fixed in a 1-2 week time frame. On our way out the store with our "never looked at, never touched, nothing done to it" sewing machine, the lady who had assisted us when we came in said "come back to see us if you need to buy a new machine!" We both walked out laughing to ourselves knowing full well we would NEVER go back to that store for anything. read more

This review should have been written a few weeks ago, but today's experience reminded me how fabulous the service here is. A few weeks ago I brought in my Husqvarna Viking Emerald sewing machine for service - I do costuming for theatre, so this machine is a workhorse that SHOULD have had service a while ago. Well, that didn't bother Ray's Sewing Machine Center - the woman I described my issues to was thoughtful and kind and seemed to know exactly what I was talking about. They called for me to come pick it up, and wow! it was like a new machine. It works better than when I brought it in. They know what's going on there. However, my Babylock Imagine serger started acting up. So back to Ray's. I talked the gentleman at the counter and while he was listening to what my problem was, he picked it up, looked at it and got his screwdriver out and fixed it right then and there! He says that happens to sergers often and didn't want me to be without my serger if that was the only issue. And free of charge! And a nice smile and a well wish! Take those machines to Ray's - they know what they are doing and they do it with skill. read more

After Googling "Singer Stores San Jose," Ray's was the only shop I could find that seemed reputable (thanks, Yelp!). I had a big sewing project planned for this weekend but could not for the life of me find the power cord for my machine. I was running late to get there before closing time, but the girl who answered the phone was happy to wait for me to get there (I'm pretty sure that she was the daughter of the owner). She helped me carry my machine because I had my two young children with me. She tested the tension (for free!), made sure everything was working properly, replaced the needle for me (for free!), sold me a power cord for much less than I had anticipated, and even let me have a dust protecting bag for transporting my machine home. She was also really sweet and knowledgeable about everything I asked. I'll definitely go to Ray's for ALL of my sewing machine needs in the future. Way to make a fantastic first impression! read more

When I had accidentally called the wrong number yesterday to check on my machine, this guy immediately started trying to upsell me on a Janome. When I asked him if my machine could be repaired, he acted like he had worked on it when it was at a completely place. He said he had tried to order the parts and they were on back order from a place in Chicago. When I started putting two and two together, I realized I had called the wrong sewing machine repair store to check on the status of my repair. Moral of the story - this is not the first time this guy I have heard about this guy telling people that your machine is not repairable and then try to upsell you on a Janome. An absolute snake. That's why I had not taken my machine to him for repair in the first place. There are other good sewing machine places around. Do not trust Ray's to fix your machine. He won't. He will try to sell you a new one. read more

I have been sewing since I can remember. I was raised with a Singer sewing machine, and thought it was the best machine ever....until I went to Ray's Sewing Machine Center to get it repaired. I met with Ken (the owner) and his dad (when he was alive) and felt so welcomed into the store. They told me I could get my machine repaired, but also offered to show me the Janome machines they carried. There was NO high pressure sales pitch here. They let the machines sell themselves. They were professional, helpful, kind, and very well informed. I ended up buying two machines for myself - a regular sewing machine AND a serger. I love to sew, and the Janome machines have made my projects so much fun. I have subsequently bought 3 more machines, for gifts (daughter-in-laws) and daycare provider (she loved borrowing my serger, so I bought one for her). I love going into the store, to see what new gadgets they have to fit my machine. Ken and his dad INVENTED special sewing feet for the machines, and they are amazing. If you do end up buying any machine from them, they provide FREE sewing classes. As I said, I have been sewing for over 40 years, but recently took a class from Ken. I learned SO MUCH from this short class......I can't wait to take a few more classes to see what other tricks he has up his sleeve. THE place to go if you want to buy a great sewing machine (prices are very reasonable as well). Thank you Ken! read more

Going to Ray's is like stepping back in time. Very friendly family shop and they have classes. There probably aren't many shops left that specialize in just sewing machines so I think they're the experts. I need to take my machine in to have it checked out for a minor problem so hope that they are as customer friendly as when I bought it. It's been hard to get through on the phone, so the only drawback is having to drive all the way to San Jose without talking to someone on the phone first. It doesn't look like their classes have been updated on the website and I woud like to go see what I have been missing on my machine and take the class and have my machine checked at the same time, but I haven't been able to get through on the phone to find out when they are being held. Otherwise, nice place! read more

I have referred several people to Rays Sewing Center. Their staff is friendly knowledgeable and helpful. I've purchased machines for my business here and got exactly what I needed. I brought a personal machine another shop told me was unfixable (and tried to oversell me on a new machine) Ray's was able to fix the machine with little or no additional charge to the servicing. It just doesn't get any better than this! read more

I wish I could give them 10 stars! They helped me choose my first machine with no pressure to buy the most expensive one they sell. She even honored a sale price that was going to start two days later. I felt welcome and comfortable even though I am a complete novice in this field. If you want a new machine this is the place to go!! read more

I am a SUPER FAN of Ray's Sewing Machine Center!!!! I had been going to another triple AAA (hint) sewing machine center and after having my Singer CE 200 (OK, no more snickers folks) serviced every year for the past 4 years, Joesph finally put his hands up and said he was not going to fix my machine anymore because he couldn't get parts any longer (what??). I personally think that after his many attempts to get me to purchase one of his Brother machines he finally realized I wasn't giving up on my current machine even though I personally think its a piece of junk...but it's my piece of junk and I have not been in a position to purchase any of his pricey machines. Soooooooo I find Ray's Sewing Machine Center and from the first phone call (Gloria) I knew I wouldn't be laughed at, persuaded or pressured to ditch the junk and was invited to bring it in and that's just what I did. Ken, the owner had it back to me quickly and even took my machine out to the car for me (ya gotta love chivalry) and told me to not hesitate to call him if there are any more problems with my machine. Well my piece of junk didn't fail me and I had it back within two weeks. I brought it back today and Lindsay (Ken's daughter) greeted me with "Good morning Jennifer, your machine giving you problems again?" She remembered me!! I know it didn't hurt that I had my name tag on from work but hey, just the same, she remembered my situation and deadline and get this...even offered me the use of their machines to finish my project while my machine was being serviced!!! Now come on people, who does that anymore??? Well, Ray's (they should really change the name to Ken's) Sewing Machine Center does!!! I can't wait to start taking classes on my future new embroidery machine!!! You all are sew fantastic!!! read more

Brought my Singer in for repair - Ray fixed it on the spot, showing me how, and charged me nothing. I knew my Singer was a toy and inquired about a better machine. Was showed a Janome, no pressure, decided to buy it since the price was good (checked Amazon on my smart phone - the price was the same, and the reviews were high!). The Janome has been great, and I've gone in a few times for advice (like how to get a hemmer foot to work), and each time the staff has taken time to show me on a machine, and watch while I try and eventually succeed. No cost. THAT is why buying locally is important - you build a relationship. read more

Great service! I bring my machine in about once a year. The last time they didn't even charge me because they said the repairs were minor! Every time I've called or gone in with questions, I've received great, knowledgable help. I'm definitely keeping this shop as my regular for all things sewing. read more

Great place to buy a sewing machine. No one knows more than this family who has been selling sewing machines for generations. Lindsay was absolutely awesome. They get 4 not 5 stars only because I was a little irritated that the owner kept stopping to help people who came after me and dragged my transaction out another ten minutes when I had already been waiting for him 15 minutes already (it wouldn't kill the people who came after me to wait 5 minutes for me to be done.) But it was really nice that the owner checked out my machine, made sure it was set up right, and then carried it to my car. You don't get service like this online or at a Sears. I want to give them a good review because they deserve our business. Buy a machine with them (they price matched one of the machines I bought) instead of Amazon which is trying to take over the world and close the doors of every small business in every industry. That's the reason I came here to buy my machines instead of buying them online. read more

We originally purchased a Janomi Memory Craft 9000 from Ray's some time ago. We then upgraded to the MC10000 via a trade in, when they became available due to the compatibility with more computer hardware. The machine say frequent use for about 6-7 months and then more infrequent use. This year it was being used to sew Christmas Presents. We started early, before Halloween. The MC10000 malfunctioned. We took the machine to Ray's. Not trivial since it is a 200 mile round trip from where we live now. After returning home with the machine it suffered an identical malfunction within 1 day. It also had a failure of the embroidery function with the machine refusing to even operate in that mode. This was supposed to have been checked but was also not working. Another trip to Ray's (200 miles remember) to drop off the machine to have both items fixed. We have not seen our machine since early-mid November. It is 12/12/2016 as I type this review. We want our machine back. I don't even care if he has fixed it at this point. When called Ken the son of the original owner has told us several times that he will check on the machine. We have not received a return call with status on either occasion. The MC10000 is a multi-thousand dollar machine. While it isn't the latest machine from Janomi, for what it costs it should run into the next century. I have been finishing sewing Christmas presents on a 1945 Singer Ultra light portable machine. At least that machine still works. Bill an MJ. read more

I had a similar experience to Eileen above. After 3 tries to get him to repair my Pfaff, he really trashed Pfaff machines. Ray's is just up the street from me and convenient so that's where I went. I said perhaps I should take my machine to the Pfaff dealer for repair. Here comes an out-an-out lie in order to get me to buy a Janome. He said, Oh, the Pfaff dealer sends his machines here for repair. Well, what could I do but buy a new Janome? I recently (too late) checked it out with the Pfaff dealer who was very professional but gave me a look like I was nuts and just said politely that they have never sent any repair work to Ray's. I don't regret buying the Janome since it's a low-end lightweight machine that I can take to classes and retreats. But, I do resent being lied to. Bad business practice. I'll not darken the door of Ray's again. read more

I have taken my sewing machines here for years, when they were on Race Street. I have always been very pleased. Now, suddenly, they are barely a one-star for me. I have taken my current machine in to them no less than FIVE TIMES, the first time paying nearly $100 for a "tuneup". The belt had broken so they replaced that and oiled some stuff. It still would not work when I brought it home. Tension was messed up, the wheel wouldn't turn. How can they give it back to me unless it is sewing perfectly after service?? I took it back. VERY nice people, who supposedly looked at it again. Got it back again. STILL the same old issues. It went back 3 more times and the last time I didn't check it. Now, months later, I need to use it and it - GUESS WHAT - will not work. I opened up the side and it has the wrong belt on it, with no tension on the belt whatsoever. They have adjusted it and adjusted it and adjusted it but if it has the wrong belt it will not work!! DUUUHHH I think they took it in the back and kept it for a while, then called me to come get it, all the while w/o doing a thing. Am VERY unhappy and now must go somewhere else and pay again to get this done correctly. I will never patronize Ray's again. Too bad a great business went kaput. read more

Extremely helpful staff and great classes. I bought a sewing machine from them 4 years ago and came back last year to upgrade it. They have a great upgrade policy. I have bought 3 machines from them in the past year (sewing, embroidery, serger). Ken and Lindsey are extremely knowledgeable and go the extra mile in customer service. Highly recommend! read more

I called the shop on a Friday morning and asked Ray if he would service an old sewing machine that I was about to purchase at a thrift shop. He said he would be happy to take a look at it. Within a couple of hours, I took the machine to the shop and he immediately opened it up, cleaned up a knot of tangled threads from the bobbin and bam! The machine was running in less than 5 minutes. When I inquired about his labor charge, he said with a genuine smile, "That's OK! There is no charge." What an honest, generous, and kind individual! Undoubtedly, his is the best shop in the Silicon Valley. read more

Mixed feelings on this place. I've brought 3 machines here in the last few months and they're 2 for 3. They're generally friendly and polite but have problems with follow-through. They cleaned and tuned up an old New Home serger I acquired with no problems, got it back in a little over a week and it still works well. Then I brought in my Bernina 1000 for tension problems and skipping in zig-zag mode. The tech sat on it for about two weeks until he called and told me it needed a part from Bernina to fix the skipping. Fine. I waited and waited and waited for them to get the part in. Placed three phone calls, didn't hear back. Finally after 2 months, the tension on my backup Singer went bad, and I left a message for the tech to just fix the Bernina's tension and put it back together, because now I had no machine- I'll just live with the bad zig-zag and bring it back when the part arrives. I brought the Singer in and picked up the Bernina. When I got it home, the tension was still awful- he hadn't really done a thing to it. Brought it back ASAP. The guy said it was just the screw on the bobbin casing, so he tweaked it as I waited, and assured me it was good. I got it home and the tension hadn't improved- I still have to crank it all the way to 11 to get a decent stitch. The Singer still works acceptably. Now 3 months later, I still haven't heard word one from them about the mysterious part from Bernina, so I've given up and learned to work with a crippled machine. read more

The sad thing about writing this review is that years ago I would have had a different story to tell. I have purchased 4 machines from Ray's in the past and I used to tell everyone about them. However now their customer service that I came to appreciate is a thing of the past. I brought in a machine recently just for a tune-up, they gave me a turn around time of a week. After 2 weeks and no call I called them and got a rude reply that Ken would call when it was ready. After 2 more weeks I called again, this time I was told another week. I called after that week and someone spoke to me and told me that he came in to help with the backlog of work and he would get right on the machine next. I finally got a call 4 days later to pick up the machine, when I asked about the delay I was told about a shipping strike that held up parts for repairs. I didn't need parts, it was a simple tune-up! When I got home with the machine I found that they had forgotten to give me the foot control back and I had to drive all the way back to get it. I asked Ken what was going on with the customer service and all he said was that they were busy with shows. No once did he apologize for the poor service or for me having to return for the foot. What good is selling machines at shows if he can't provide the good service for them his father did when he had the store? read more

Good price and good, quick service. The shop was busy with people looking at machines, and getting training on their new machines, yet still I got help right away. I needed a second sewing machine for my daughter as we were going for her first quilting retreat. I saw an advertisement for a Janome jem at Best Buy for $200, but my friend convinced me to go to Rays because I would be able to get good service if anything went wrong with the machine. We didn't have alot of time, since we were heading off to the retreat from Ray's. Ray showed us a last year model of the Jenome 525(?) series, and showed us how some specialty feet (the 1/4 inch with edge, and the hemmer) would help my beginner daughter with her sewing. For $300 we got the machine, two specialty feet (as well as the standard three, bobbins, tools, etc.) and a large extended sewing platform. I ended up in love with the machine since the I was sewing 42" fabric strips together all weekend, and the 1/4 inch foot with the built in edge just zipped through all those long seems. Deb Bragen read more