Great store with only quality options. They helped me pick out my first sewing machine and give a free class to teach you how to use your newly purchased machine. It was very helpful! They also help you pick out needles and threads for your needs. Photos of some of my first projects. read more

See all

Found this shop on Yelp. They had good reviews and have a history with Bernina sewing machines. My Bernina machine broke on a Saturday in the middle of a project and I had to wait until Tuesday to drop it off. I dropped it off shortly after opening on 6/16. I left it with white thread stuck on the take up lever and dangling from the machine. I couldn't turn the handwheel at all. It was stuck and the thread was tightly jammed. They told me that it would take a week and they would "contact" me when it was ready. I waited a week with no update. I called on Wednesday 6/24 and they told me that the machine was ready. Who knows how long it was ready? Was it ready sooner? Who knows... I get to the shop and there are literally dozens of machines waiting to be picked up. Maybe they're also all sitting there because their owners don't know their machines are ready? I asked them about their typical notification process. They told me that they never call and they always email. I told the person at the counter that I didn't get an email. She confirmed my email address and said a message was sent. I left it as that since I was in a hurry to go somewhere else since I wasn't planning on picking up the machine that day but needed it ASAP to finish my project when I found out it was ready. I also didn't check the machine or turn the handwheel. I did notice a pink fabric with blue stitching under the needle but thought it was just there to test the machine. I get home and there is thread hanging from the machine. It was loosely dangling just like I had left the machine. This time, though, the tread is blue. I tried turning the handwheel and it was jammed. I then try to pull the thread out and it is tightly jammed on the take up lever EXACTLY as I had left the machine with the exception of it being blue thread instead of white. I sent an email. I got no response. I immediately bring the machine back shortly after their opening time of 9AM on Thursday 6/25. Apparently they tied the tread very tightly around where a spool of thread normally goes. I asked them why they would leave thread like that on the machine. It looks unprofessional and exactly like I had brought it in (with the exception of the jammed thread tied around where the spool goes) when it needed to be fixed. They told me that it is there to "help" with the treading of the machine. They untied it and the machine worked. I asked them why they didn't tell me that is what it was when I picked it up? When I picked it up the person knew I was a new customer and hadn't had the machine serviced in 25 years. Their communication is horrible. I also checked my email and got no email about my machine being ready or no response to my issue (which I included pictures) with the stuck blue thread. They also stuck their business sticker on my machine. I now have to peel that off and the residue left behind as I will never be coming back here. I live in Oakland and it was a complete waste of time and gas. I should have gone with a company closer to home but trusted their expertise. My mistake. I would give one star but so far at least the machine works. Edited to 1 star... I started sewing and once again the thread got jammed in the take up lever. I tugged at it and it broke off into to the take up lever and I can't get it out. I am now 9 going on 10 days behind on my project so will keep on sewing. Who knows when it will jam again? Feel like it is inevitable at this point. They did not fix my machine and will never allow them to touch it again. In the picture you can see the white thread that is stuck and I've switched to black thread for contrast. Update 7/6/2026 - Machine is significantly worse. I have no idea what they did to it but my machine now does a lot of nesting, the thread gets stuck and jammed I can sew only an inch at a time. It took me forever and a lot of very late nights and hand sewing to finish my projects. BEWARE!!! I will be taking my machine elsewhere AND will seek a full refund. Complete waste of time and money. read more

The Sewing Machine Shop - Sticker with their business info that was stuck on my machine. - Appliances Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

See all

I searched high and low for a Baby Lock Meridian (original model) and the Sewing Machine Shop had 2 of these machines at a phenomenal price. I did some research on the shop and was really impressed by other reviews, along with the history of the shop and the owner's experience and knowledge. After getting more info on the machines from the staff, we made the 3-hour drive up to Walnut Creek to check them out in person. It was everything I hoped for, and I ended up taking home Myrtle the Meridian. The staff here is very friendly and knowledgeable. It was also a relief to walk in and see so. Many. Machines. Most places around me are quilt/machine combo shops, and there's nothing wrong with that. But this made me feel like their specialized focus was in the repair, restoration, and maintenance of machines, and nothing else. I would honestly make the 3-hour drive again to buy another machine from them! read more

The Sewing Machine Shop - Myrtle the Meridian! - Appliances Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

This is by far the best sewing machine shop I've ever been to! The customer service is top tier. The staff are extremely knowledgeable and super helpful and friendly. The person helping me went above and beyond and I'm super thankful. They have amazing products and great service. This is my new go-to sewing machine shop in the area. If you're looking for a great shop with staff that care this is your place! read more

I'm a retired lady who is over 70 years old. I have an antiquity "Breother" sewing machine that brought from a garage sale twenty years ago. It often has some minor problems, but by tightening or loosening certain screws, it could still work. This time, the upper and lower threads in the machine are not connecting. I've never seen this before, I tried many ways including changing the needle, replacing bobbin and bobbin case, but all failed. I have to called the store for help. Ms. Allegra Buch answered my phone. She listened to my ideas with great enthusiasm and patience: I don't want to spend more money on this too old machine, and don't want to buy another one either, due to my eyesight having deteriorated rapidly lately. I want someone to see the machine to make a diagnosis. If there is a big problem, I won't keep it anymore. This is what makes Allegra so admirable. From the beginning, she didn't make excuses or try to brush me off. She knew this deal wouldn't be profitable, but she was still willing to let me bring the sewing machine to the shop for a diagnosis. This proves her kindness! She is willing to help those in need. Ms. Allegra Buch used different colors for upper and lower threads to confirm the problem. After she tightened some part (I don't know how to call that in English) the machine works! Me, her and onlookers were all happy. Also, this proves her Job-related knowledge. She isn't a technician but she works in a same professional way ---using color coding, knowing which area the problem is in, instead trying things randomly here and there. I don't think her success in solving the problem was a coincidence. I praise Allegra Buch. I think she is a very good employee in this very good store! read more

Thank you to Dan for fixing my Brother Aveneer. I was in the middle of a huge project when a large birds nest knocked the machine out of time. They took my machine in right away and worked on it. I had another issue the next day and Dan had me bring it back to fix while I waited. I appreciate your help!! read more

Super helpful, knowledgeable staff. I asked one million questions and they were so sweet and patient! Great shop, great people

What a delightful store tucked away in a small shopping center. I went in today set in a Juki TL-18. I was immediately greeted upon arrival and asked if I needed help with anything. I received a thorough demo of the machine and did a little test run. My partner who knows nothing about sewing was even paying attention to the demo intrigued. I feel like since I knew what I wanted I was in and out in like 15 minutes. I loved how homey the store felt, I could have easily bought this online. However nothing beats incredible customer service and the instant gratification of taking your purchase home same day. I will definitely be back here for any future sewing needs I have. read more

Super helpful and informative as we're new to sewing; great selection and prices, and no pressure. Great shop--and their line machine reviews are beyond helpful. read more

Great staff and products. The Sewing machine Shop is the best in Walnut Creek and everyone looking for the best in sewing machines should visit the store. read more

I sent my girlfriend in there and she loved the help she got from Dan the owner and the rest of the crew. She bought a beginner setup and couldnt be happier. They had a class she took that got her started and everyone was knowledgeable and helpful! read more

Great store and staff. Prices are very good and service on machines is a plus. plus, plus.

I broke a part off my sewing machine that they were able to replace with something different, but probably even better. Also, my feed dogs weren't working appropriately and they fixed it rapidly with no charge. I would definitely come here for repairs again, and if I was to replace the machine. read more

Wow! Great team at this shop. I came to get my sewing machine problem fixed but forgot to bring my machine. Argh. I went in anyway to see if they could help me understand. Louis very graciously showed me a way I might fix it on my own. It worked! I will definitely go back here when I buy a new machine. These folks are committed to customers. Thanks a bunch! read more

Got my machine back in several days! That is unheard of! Nice people machine works great.

I believe avid hobbyists already know about this establishment, but if you're new to the area these are the go to folks for sewing machine sales and service. My wife has a Bernina and they keep it in tip top condition -- even after I accidentally dropped something on it. Highly recommended! read more

Excellent, thoughtful service. I'll definitely be back and recommend to everyone I know who sews!

Covid got me motivated to sew, The sewing Machine Shop has helped me grow as a sewist. My first machine from them was during lockdown, so they delivered it to my front door, no extra charge. since then, I have purchased three more machines from them. Cale is patient and very knowledgeable, his dad Dan is a wizard and everyone there will be helpful and honest about what will work best for you. Today I bought A Juki TL18 QVP specifically for bag making. I was able to get a great overview from Cale and so happy to have found this shop. They have the best prices, definitely call them if you were thinking of buying one online. More importantly, they are very knowledgeable and and deliver great service, and are super nice. read more

I bought this beauty from the Sewing Shop. I called first and spoke to Cale, he's was very informative and gave me most of the information I needed to make the decision to buy my Juki. So I went in the next day and was able to test the machine before buying it. Not only were they super helpful, but the price was the best I could find. I highly recommend this shop. read more

The Sewing Machine Shop - My beautiful Juki Hakura - Appliances Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

I was looking for a straight stitch machine and after some research, had my sites set on a Juki. I didn't want to order it from the internet, even though the model I chose is available from internet dealers. I called the Sewing Machine Shop to ask some questions, and they answered all of them. I drove the hour there, and they encouraged me to demo the machine -- letting me explore and learn everything about it. "We are happy to answer any questions by phone, but you live far away, and we want you to feel comfortable with the machine before you buy it." Not only that, the price was the absolute best around. One thing to know -- call them about the price to double check. It's worth the inquiry. I'm really happy with this little work horse, but even happier with the service I received. read more

I made a road trip from Citrus Heights to Walnut Creek yesterday just so I could buy a sewing machine from this store - they had what I wanted in stock and they had the best price of the 3 other businesses I had contacted who could deliver in "about a week." Today, while trying to learn how to operate this complicated machine, I could not get good thread tension. I decided to send an email, which I had been encouraged to do if I had questions. I expected to hear back, maybe, Monday but . . . I got a phone call in just a couple of hours and, of course it was an (embarrassingly) easy fix. I took advantage of having someone on the phone by getting a 2nd more complicated, but less critical, question answered - there is so much yet to learn and it is comforting to know that they are there for me. I could not be more pleased! It was worth the 4 hour round trip. read more

Well worth the drive from Oakland. So helpful and knowledgeable. They are so welcoming I just want to hang out there.

Great customer service and very fair pricing. I will use them again. Nice and easy parking too

I recently decided that I would finally attempt to learn how to sew, and I was referred to three different Bay Area shops including this one. When we arrived, we were promptly helped by a woman, whose name I don't recall anymore. I let her know that I had no knowledge of machines or sewing. She asked me what was I interested in sewing and I let her know that my first attempt would be a vest for a Halloween costume. She asked for additional projects that I was interested in and feeling the pressure, I mentioned maybe quilting. She went ahead and showed me a sewing machine and listed some specs. I'm not sure where the conversation took a turn but she eventually said something like "I can tell by your eyes that you're not enthusiastic about sewing". I was really surprised by this comment because I knew I had every intention of purchasing a machine. I let her know that maybe I didn't come across as the most enthusiastic person, but I really was interested in learning how to sew. She then mentioned that I should look into hand stitching and how it was making a comeback, etc. At that point, I mentally checked out. I wouldn't consider myself to be that sensitive but her comment felt disrespectful. It was enough for me to start crying in the back of the shop after she left us to look around. I had spent the last couple of days looking at sewing machines only to find that places like Jo-Ann's were sold out. I considered purchasing something off of Amazon but I'm trying to be intentional and want my money to go towards supporting small local businesses. I'm sure that the staff here is knowledgeable about their product but don't assume you know your customers after speaking to them for all of 5 minutes. My enthusiasm was the reason that I decided to drive out to Walnut Creek in the first place. While my experience in this shop was a negative one, I'm still on the market for a beginners sewing machine and I hope that I'll have better luck elsewhere. I would encourage this shop to re-evaluate their customer service approach. You may have a loyal bunch but you definitely won't gain many new customers with these kind of interactions. read more

This is pretty much the only place I would go for sewing machine needs. They sell a wide variety of sewing machines -- standard, embroidery, quilting, sergers. You could go crazy here. They do an excellent job of not "upselling" you to a machine that doesn't fit your needs. Plus, I found their prices to be much more competitive than trying to buy online. Here's the real few bonuses: 1. If you return anything, they are happy to give you a store credit that you can use on anything else in the store. 2. Newly bought machines will come with a lesson on how to use your machine. My family purchased two new Janomes (Magnolia and Hearts Truth), and they taught us how to use the different machine feet, how to thread, how to wind the bobbin, how to care for the machine, the different stitches the machine was capable of, ergonomic best practices when sewing, how to care for the machine, and other helpful info. They even passed along the name of a wonderful sewing instructor who can teach beginners through the most advanced (see Jane Foster Design Studio on Yelp.) All-in-all, I would label this place a must if you have repair or new machine needs! read more

What a wonderful experience! Of course with Covid restrictions my interaction was via the phone. Staff very courteous and helpful. I also emailed with a zillion questions about the machine I was interested in buying. Misa was awesome. She answered all of my questions, explained the features and differences in the two JuKI machines I had narrowed down to in my search. I arranged to go to the shop on Saturday to try them out and make my final decision. I was hoping to get the TL-18, But my sneaky daughter enlisted Misa's help in purchasing the JuKI TL-18 QVP and have it delivered to me on Saturday instead of me having to drive the 45+ miles. Early Saturday morning I my daughter makes up the excuse of not feeling well and needed to come over to stay with me( she had received her first dose of Covid vaccine on Friday) so it seemed reasonable so I agreed to foregoing my trip. Later that day I answered my door and there she was! My JuKI TL-18 QVP! I was shocked and happy. I asked my daughter how she knew which one and where she got it. I truly wanted Misa and The Sewing Machine Shop to get my business. She says I looked at your notebook by the computer and called them. Misa helped me pick out some other things on your list and arranged for the delivery. You can't get better customer service than that people! I have since called and thanked Misa and had a good laugh about her and my daughter being so sneaky! What a fun lady. I hope to visit the shop in person when things get less crazy. Thank you "The Sewing Machine Shop" in Walnut Creek and of course Misa! read more

I took my machine in for a service 2 days later it was done! they did not pressure me to buy a new machine , very honest ,helpful and knowledgable . Only sell Good Solid machines. would recommend to new sewers as well as experienced . Reasonable repair prices. Love this shop. read more

This place is great! I bought my sewing machine in to have the tension adjusted, and the button hole sensor looked at. Initially they told me it would be a week, but they got it done in less than a week and at a fair price. They checked the button hole sensor but didn't have a problem, but still offered to set up the machine in the shop and have me try it out. I didn't have time to do that so they told me to bring it back if I have any more problems with it. Everyone was helpful, friendly and professional. I highly recommend The Sewing Machine Shop! read more

I bough my Janome sewing machine at this shop. I took an introduction to the machine class which was a great help. I have been in numerous times with questions about the machine and have had excellent service and help. I highly recommend this shop for purchses and support. Joanne H read more

I had called The Sewing Machine Shop to order my first embroidery machine from Baby Lock. I talked to a nice lady named Toni over the phone. She informed me that the machine that I was inquiring about was in stock and that I can order it online and pick it up whenever I was ready. Before she started the process of purchasing the embroidery machine she then asked me if I had experience with embroidery and informed her that this would be first time getting into embroidery. She encouraged me to come into the shop to gain some knowledge about embroidery and what type of embroidery machine will suit my needs. I made an appointment for Black Friday (today). Upon arrival they greeted me warmly. They had me hand sanitize and checked my temperature due to COVID-19 guidelines. Toni had asked me if I had a sewing machine and I said yes. She then showed me the Baby Lock Flourish II (not the machine that I was thinking of purchasing initially) and provided me a demo. She answered all of my questions and informed me what I would need to initially get started with embroidery. Toni encouraged me to just get what I need to get started, which I did. From start to finish, I could tell that this shop truly cares for their customers and wasn't just making a sale. They truly care about their customers' happiness. They take their time with each and every customer and they don't rush. They provide quality customer service. I went into a sewing machine shop a few years back that was closer to where I live and this place exceeded my expectations. I will gladly drive 30 minutes to come to this shop for all my sewing and embroidery needs. You have a new customer for life! Thank you! read more

They were so helpful and patient in diagnosing our issue (which was simply a newbie mistake!).

The Sewing Machine Shop did a good job servicing my machine in a fairly quick time frame. The personnel are pleasant and helpful. I will go again. read more

Absolutely next-level expertise and service. I called The Sewing Machine Shop with questions around buying an industrial Juki, and over the course of a week or two I spoke with three people - all of whom were kind, prompt and well-informed. They referred me to Dan, who called me and spent plenty of time walking me through the various options after asking what kind of things I sew, and what my preferences around my setup might be. I had questions again later, and he called me back and spent plenty of time answering every last question with nothing but patience, consideration and kindness. I've been sewing garments since I was a child, and when Dan asked for my history with sewing he didn't try to up-sell me after hearing this (which I'm used to in most shops) and instead proposed a handful of less expensive models which might suit. I wanted a machine with a table and relatively few digital features, so we agreed the Juki DDL-8700 would likely best suit my needs. Despite the fact that he builds the tables himself, he arranged an incredibly prompt home delivery where he and his very polite son set up the machine for me and walked me through its operations -- masked, distanced, and COVID-aware. He even brought extra bobbins, and an extra perk is my machine lacks the cosmetic details one might expect if it had ever been shipped freight - it's pristine, and truly a beautiful piece of kit. A note for newer sewists: when they ask what kind of things you sew, they're trying to specialize their advice for you because sewing machines are very specialized these days! And this is a full spectrum type shop. If you don't have an answer for them I imagine it becomes difficult for them to give you a good answer in return, so think about what you want to make and come prepared because these folks are the real deal. I'm a customer for life. read more

My mother and I were looking for my first sewing machine and decided to start at The Sewing Machine Shop! Mom read their website and liked that it was a family owned shop that stuck to selling machines they really believed in, not just the big names and/or the easy sells. Jackie greeted us warmly as soon as we walked through the door and gently asked what I was looking for in a machine. She spent like 2 hours with us, both demo-ing machines and giving me random sewing lessons/advice. I REALLY appreciated how much she taught me and her approach! In the end, we ended up with a very nice Janome that I'm truly excited about and can't wait to start using it. They also offer a free class on how to use your machine! My experience with The Sewing Machine Shop was truly 5 stars and I look forward to continuing business with them! read more

I ordered a Koala sewing machine cabinet from The Sewing Machine Shop and had a wonderful experience. The staff at The Sewing Machine Shop were friendly and knowledgeable. Because of COVID, I did not want to come into the store, so Misa talked me through the options and helped me figure out what would best meet my needs. She knew the answer to most of my questions but when she didn't, she researched it and got back to me very quickly. Plus, she was so nice through the whole process! Once I decided on what I wanted, I got an estimate as to when the cabinet would arrive. Misa kept me informed while we were waiting for it to come it. It was delivered today and I could not be happier. The cabinet is just what I wanted! After it was delivered, Misa even called to make sure I was happy with it. Such great customer service! I highly recommend this store. read more

Excellent customer service here and they have classes on how to use your sewing machine if you're a novice. Staff is very knowledgeable but I didn't like that she threw out some of my thread without consulting me first, hence I docked a star. Lots of accessories and supplies here from pins to needles to different thread scissors. Awesome place! read more

Wonderful experience at The Sewing Machine Shop... Sheila was kind, patient and knowledgeable in showing my 94-year-old Mom how to use her new sewing machine. Mom has been using a sewing machine since the 1950's, but her new electronic sewing machine had her apprehensive and stumped. Sheila took her step-by-step through the basics of the new machine until Mom gained confidence. I recommend this shop to everyone who sews; the customer service is absolutely terrific! read more

I was told machine would be ready in a week. I hadn't heard anything so after 10 days I went down. Machine was ready but embroidery function could not be tested because of a lack of a hoop. So my machine sat there. I was told when I brought the machine in they had no hoop. I should have brought one but at 83 years old, I'm not as sharp as I once was. This is a Janome authorized repair facility. No hoop? So when I told the young man who waited on me that I was told that the machine would be ready in a week he had to know who said that. I told him 2 people told me but I didn't ask for ID. So, after some debate (felt like a college debate match) my machine was ready (?). I paid the 140.00 and learned a valuable lesson. "You can't judge the quality of workmanship by reviews and past experience." I'll find another place to buy supplies and get service. read more

I had a problem with my sewing machine in the middle of a project. I called to see if they were open during this latest covid shutdown and if they were taking repairs. They were open and instead of me having to bring in my machine this amazing person, Toni (spelling? ), talked me through trouble shooting and helped me solve the problem! Then Toni asked me about my project and gave me so great sewing advice. It is rare these days to find such amazing customer service. Thank you!!!! read more

I bought an expensive overlock machine here, complete with all the extras. I decided soon after, I really did not need the machine. Took it back for a refund, as I had not used the machine (that was obvious). The owner was not happy with that, but did agree to take it back, AFTER deciding to charge me a hefty "re-stocking fee". After I pointed out nowhere in the store is this posted, he says "I've never had anyone return a machine before". To re-stock the machine, required he take 10 steps and set it on the floor. They do not have more than 1 or 2 of any machine they sell. It's not right to invent charges on the spot, or to punish customers for anything. I won't step foot in this store again. read more