My sweet little flawless monster of a Babylock serger has been acting up. It will still make a beautiful chain of stitches, but will not advance the fabric as it stitches, leaving only a tightly tangled glob of fabric in the feed dog area. I can't tell at all what is wrong. It was suggested that I oil it, which I just about NEVER think about doing. Did that, and no improvement. I knew it was time to seek a professional.
So, the store where I bought it some 20 years ago still exists in the garment district, and I figured I would inquire about service when I was in the neighborhood the next time. I stopped in to this quiet little store with no other walk-in customers, strode in with an energetic hello, and had just begun to explain that I had bought a Baby Lock machine from them about 20 years ago, when I was abruptly interrupted at the name "Baby Lock".
"We only sell Juki and Singer here," The salesman, annoyed that I even began what threatened to become a conversation abruptly shut me out of conversation entirely, turned away, and bid me a good day. Yikes.
Okay, so no offer to sell me a new one, although I could see the walls were lined with quality Singer and Juki machines. No attempt at a sale, a conversation, no suggestion for anywhere else to go (although it was quite clear where he might have suggested I go...). I got it.
As I'm leaving, another employee enters, and I considered the possibility that this might be the employee with more charm than the first. I look around just a bit at the machines on the walls, and the new guy says "May I help you?"
"Just looking", I responded, because it was true.
"Can I help you?" The first angry man shouts from the back of the store, practically simultaneously.
"Nope just looking. I'm still the same person." I responded.
There was an audible huff, and he went back to whatever he was doing.
So here's the deal. If you're in the market for a Juki, Singer, Brother, or another brand they represent, or pressing or cutting room equipment, whether for home or industrial use, you can buy one in this store. They are known for great, fair prices, and have been in business for over 60 years. If you already know what you need, and don't need any help, you will be able to complete a transaction there, and they do have quality machines. No small talk, just an exchange of money for machinery. And sometimes, that's all you need. I have to admit, that despite my less-than-friendly experience, this is still where I'd likely go if I wanted to buy any of the machines or equipment they sell.
Sewmark Sewing Machine Inc.
315 West 38th Street
New York,NY 10018
