I live 45 minutes from the nearest sewing store, so I tried to make sure it would be worth my while before going. An email was provided, so I sent in my question early. I didn't get a response, so I decided to head up anyway to see if I could get some help. I needed to try a cable from the store to see if my Viking serger works, before I spend the money on a new cable. I hoped it would work, then I planned to buy a cable and go home.
It's a Viking serger, so I went to the Viking dealer. The sewing section is in the back of Jo-Ann fabric and crafts. The employee there spoke to me as though I was ruining her day by being there. I WOULDN'T have been there if she had bothered to send an email reply! She told me she was busy, selling to a customer it appears, and had no intention of addressing my problem for a very, very long time. She emphasized that it would be a VERY long wait, as though she was telling me to leave. Then turned her back on me and did not deal with me again except for one isolated dirty look.
I realize that a cable is under a $100, and a sewing machine will get her much more commission. I realize she was already willing to sell machines for as many hours as it takes, when someone asked her for 10 minutes of her time. I didn't even expect her to help me herself. But I DO expect her to get someone else who can simply look up a part in a catalog, and to not be such an agitated, confrontational jerk. She was unreasonably hostile and rude.
I left after 20 minutes of waiting. I went to two other sewing machine stores, neither whom specialize in Vikings. Neither had my cable because they sell mostly other machines, both suggested I try the crappy Viking store, but BOTH took the time to root through their entire inventory and offer to order the part for me. They were busy and I waited for them too, but they were kind and helpful instead of abrasive and snappy.
Viking AND Jo-Ann are now not at all my favorite place to go for all things sewing. I have a bad taste in my mouth. read more