Purchased a Pfaff sewing machine for my daughter a couple years ago. Received great advice re: the best machine to buy for a new-to-sewing enthusiast that will last for many years to come. Even gave my daughter a free tutorial on machine basics. Machine works flawlessly. Also, we find fantastic, high quality, good value sewing accessories when we visit the store. So worth it to go in for reliable, expert advice. Really can't beat the service. Also great repair shop for Miele vacuums! Kept my canister vac going for about 18 years, which is miraculous given the level of wear-and-tear imposed on various floor surfaces by my outdoorsy family and big dogs. read more

Unless you are a yuppy and wear expensive look8ng clothes, dont go in there to shop. My friend and I had just come from a funeral only to be ignored and not even asked if we needed anything. I had questions about what fabric to purchase. That's ok though, I went to Fabric basement who helped me tremendously. She answered all my questions. read more

After reading a Wirecutter review, I decided I deserved a great vacuum. I'd had great success at Sun Sew Vac when they repaired my circa 1964 Pfaff sewing machine. I visited Sun Sew Vac after seeing that they carried Miele vacuums. I'm SO very glad I visited. The delightful & knowledgeable owner steered me to a smaller, lighter, easier to handle Miele vacuum and let me test drive both. I left with the smaller vacuum & I'm so happy with it! Shop Local. You'll get great service and that human touch. Thanks Sun Sew Vac. You ARE the best!! read more

My mask making is now up to 700, and when my machine clogged up and begged for a spa day, I called Robert. It was around 3:30 when I called, and he said he was closing at 4 for the long weekend. I said, "I live in Arlington." He said, "I'll wait for you." Fortunately, it only took him 15 minutes to find the problem and fix it. I am so grateful to him for keeping the store open for me, and for fixing my machine so quickly so I could get back to work. I purchased my machine from Sun Sew Vac a number of years ago, and I will continue to be a loyal customer forever. read more

What a surprise! I always knew the shop had a focus on sewing machines but didn't realize they also had a specialty in selling vacuum cleaners (I thought it was only repairs). We went it to narrow down our options for a higher end vacuum and of course at a reasonable price point. The owner walked us through our options without any pressure to buy. Definitely recommend Sun Sew Vac when you need a new vacuum. read more

I originally met Robert and his staff a few weeks ago when my sewing machine broke. I was desperate for it to be fixed or buy another one because I had a few projects going at the time. Everyone was so friendly and helpful. I fell in love with their Pfaff machines. Robert personally took a lot of time to show me how this particular machine worked. I did not feel pressured by Robert or anyone else to buy a brand new machine that day. I decided to leave my machine there to be fixed. It was fixed perfectly in a timely manner. I was so impressed with the store and staff I returned two weeks later to pick up my old machine and decided to purchase the Pfaff that Robert had originally shown me. I was able to sit down that same day with a lovely lady who showed me the basics of the new machine. Robert again, was so kind and helpful. I also met another lady named Debbie, she was so knowledgeable, showed me some of her amazing work and I even signed up for a couple of classes! It was so refreshing to be treated like a friend and not just a customer. This is the difference when you shop at a small business. I am so grateful I found this place and I cannot wait to return to learn more and shop! I cannot imagine buying such a quality machine anywhere else or even online. It's wonderful to know that Robert and his team will be there to help and support for any of my future needs. -Allegra read more

(From yesterday) Day 12 of 21 - Gratitude Challenge to Rewire the Brain for Happiness. ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ Grateful for an exceptionally positive new sewing machine shopping experience at Sun Sew Vac on Richmond Highway.⁣ ⁣ My 25 year old machine was my very first credit card (Sears) purchase and so I was a bit sentimental recently to learn that it would cost more money to repair it, than to replace it. ⁣ ⁣ Not only did Robert apply the $35 assessment fee towards the cost of a new machine, he also sat me down for a thorough 20 minute tutorial, before also asking "would you like to say a few words for your old machine or shall I?"⁣ ⁣ 3 Steps:⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ #1 Notice things that move your soul. By the way, what does that feel like in your body?⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ #2 snap an image or post a line ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣⁣ #3 #21daysofgratitude Tag me for 21 consecutive days⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ Together, we rewire the brain for mental wellness!⁣ ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ Remember! 21 days to create change! ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ LET'S CONNECT!⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ #depressionconnection #sensitive #depression #wellness #ptsd #Aspie #openheart #gratitudechallenge #mentalwellness #kindness #mentalwellnesscoach #abundance #selfcare #selflove #light #reconnect #gratitudechallenge #endthestigmaofmentalhealth #grateful #gratitude #wellness #connect #gowithin #loved #gratitude #connections #decompress #sewingmachine #sewing #create #sew #machine #customerservice #sentimental read more

See all

Don't Walk...RUN!!! I was scammed by this Business. No way I would use them again unless there would be a change in ownership.

There are not a lot of experts in sewing machines and their servicing left, but even if there were loads, this one would still be my favorite! Good honest help and advice regarding your sewing machine needs. read more

I bought a used sewing machine that made a squeeky sound. I took it to get serviced somewhere and that individual could not get rid of the sqeek. So I then tried sun sew vac due to their reputation. Sun sew VAC ate MY MONEY. Robert at sun sew vac assured me he could get rid of the sound. after keepiny my machine for MONTHS It was returned with the sound still there and I was charged a pretty penny. I was assured Robert tried his best and that if he couldn't get rid of the sound it must be impossible. However, I took my machine to a third individual who DID get rid of the sound (and charges much less then sun sew vac) read more

I just wanted to share what I consider to be the epitome of customer service! I have purchased several Pfaff sewing and embroidering machines from Robert Hines, owner of Sun Sew Vac. I have also bought several Miele vacuums from Sun Sew Vac. I have always received nothing but exceptional and professional service when repairs or service were needed. Robert always is willing to go above and beyond to take care of any issues or needs. I would recommend Sun Sew Vac to anyone! Thank you Robert and Sun Sew Vac! read more

Believe the negative reviews on this page. Robert is definitely a rude person. I purchased a used top of the line Pfaff sewing machine from him as the new top of the line was just released and he was one of the only ones selling the older model. One of his big selling points wasthat when you purchase from him, not only do you get a year of service, but you get VIP service and that your machine gets moved to the top of the line above others who need repair and did not purchase a machine from him. This was my first time buying an expensive machine, so this was very appealing to me. In the end, even though is store is EXTREMELY far away from my house, I found the price relatively fair and purchased. After all, Robert said this machine was perfect and only had 50 hrs of sewing on it! It was practically new! This was when the problems started. For a machine that has only 50 hrs of sewing on it. Within two months, the needle kept falling out. When I bought the machine, he assured me that I could call the store to troubleshoot on the phone. Literally, if I have any issue, just call the store and someone will walk you through. This was important to me because I live very far away. I called him and explained the situation and he said he could not troubleshoot over the phone, but instead to bring the machine to the shop so he could look at it. So I brought the machine to the shop, which is about a one hour drive for me (without traffic), in which he doesn't even greet me when I get in the store, doesn't help me get my 40lbs sewing machine out, and simply just starts typing up a service ticket. He hands me the service receipt and simply starts moving my machine to the back. What happened to troubleshooting at the store? I asked him about it and he says that he doesn't do that and that I need to wait in the queue. Am I going crazy here? Did he not just say over the phone that he would troubleshoot it in person? A good tip when dealing with Robert is that you should probably record your conversations with him as he will twist words in any conversation and that Virginia is a one party consent state. Anyways, I just left. So, over a week later, after receiving no status updates or emails, I call him and find out that he still doesn't have the machine ready. I ask him why it's taking so long and he proceeds that he doesn't work on certain holidays and if the weather is bad and etc. and basically a lot of excuses. Now I do a lot of sewing so I need my machine and I don't think that for a simple fix of a needle dropping that it should be that long, especially since I was supposed to be offered VIP service since I bought a machine from him. I can't imagine what the service is supposed to be if you don't buy a machine from him. Would it be a month? A year? So anyways, I just wanted this nightmare service to be over. I wanted my money back. He had clearly had sold me a lemon. He said no refunds within a week of purchase. (Wow, that is a short time. ) In the end, I just had my partner pick up the machine because I just didn't want to deal with his attitude anymore. My partner said that when he got there, he proceeded to argue that his service was good and that all of this was normal. Pro-tip, if you have to explain your service is actually good, you probably need to realize that it's not. I've actually had further problems with this machine, such as my cutter not working, and I've actually just attempted to just fix the problem myself instead of dealing with the hassle of Robert. Never buy a machine from him ever. I've learned my lesson. It's better to wait and just support a local company that actually values their customers. read more

I had the best experience here! The staff were kind and personable. I'm so pleased with the service I got here-not to mention the price! They answered my questions on purchasing a new Pfaff sewing machine. I would definitely recommend this awesome Mom and Pop shop. read more

I could not be more pleased with the outcome of the service I recently received at Sun Sew Vac. My mother's thirty-year-old serger was locked and would not sew. Despite the owner's initial concerns that it was irreparable, against his better judgment, he undertook its repair. I was happy beyond belief when he called to report that it was operable. I highly recommend his services. read more

Sun Sew Vac is a throwback to the great mom-and-pop shops of forty years ago. They have great service, know their products far batter than anyone else, and offer after-purchase support that is second to none. They also have a great selection of products. Robert and the team are beyond professional. When we purchased our Pfaff, we received an incredible amount of post-purchase support. Debbie worked with my wife to teach her the machine. The training is unparalleled and made the process of learning about the Pfaff fun. And the price? Outstanding. It could not be beat. Forget about the chain stores, go here. . . read more

Took my 15 year old machine here for a tune up and she's working like she's new again. They also completed her very quickly and kept me updated on the process all the way through. The customer service was fantastic & if I'm ever in the market for a new sewing machine again, this is where I'll be going. read more

My machine had been carelessly tossed in a box of toys by our movers and I wanted Robert to make sure it wasn't broken. He had it checked out and serviced quickly and for a reasonable price. He was super kind about carrying the machine to my van even though I am very mighty. I'm glad I chose his shop. I would choose it again. read more

I brought my sewing machine in for repair (the handle was jammed into the machine and part of the shell had a really tiny crack. REALLY not a big deal. Still usable.) The person claimed that the repairman was not present but took a look anyways. He thought it would be okay to YANK the handle out with his bare hands. I know my machine and that's not how you treat it! There was a part to unscrew to open the machine but I thought I would get a repair man to do it. Instead he decided to be rough with my machine without even being a real professional. He proceeded to tell me it would be "too expensive to fix" and tried to sell me a new one (what?). I am both infuriated and shocked that he would treat my machine like this and try to sell me a new one. It wasn't even that broken! I'm definitely not bringing any of my machines there or give them the satisfaction of buying a new one from them. Never going back. AGAIN this is my review on sewing machine repair. I have no knowledge on their other services in their store. But, once again, ONE star. read more

This is the place to take your sewing machine if it's acting temperamental in sny way. I took my 30 yearold sewing machine in for maintenance (the stitches were erratic) & it's now purring and sewing as well as when I first bought it. read more

Sun Sew Vac is a wonderful, longtime business in Alexandria that sells and services high quality sewing machines and vacuum cleaners. I've been a patron of this shop for years, as was my mother before me! They also do top notch service and repairs on just about any sewing machine or vacuum cleaner. If you need a repair or service on any brand of machine, this is the place for you! They have excellent customer service and stand behind their machines. The owner, Robert Hines, is the backbone of this business. And he has a wonderful staff that takes very good care of their customers. They sell Pfaff sewing machines and Miele vacuum cleaners. These are some of the best on the market. (I'm sure Robert would say THE best--and I tend to agree)Very high quality machines! I recommend them highly from my personal experience on the machines I've purchased here. They also have great sewing classes, and you get 'Know Your Machine' classes included when you purchase a machine from them. The other classes provide added knowledge in using your machine, having fun and making friends as you create your projects. The classes and clubs are great fun and I have learned SOOOOO much from taking them over the years. Bottom line--if you want a great, high quality sewing machine or vacuum cleaner I recommend you check out Sun Sew Vac! This family owned business is fantastic! And if you are into sewing, and want to have some fun while you learn more and put your skills to work, check out the classes. You won't regret it! read more

Just when you thought customer service had disappeared, you find a place like Sun Sew Vac. The owner and staff at this business are the best without question! If you have a question, need an honest opinion or just want to chat about sewing machines or vacuums, this is the place. They also provide classes on their products too! read more

Found this place from "Angie's List" with great reviews. I have taken my vacuum there for service twice so far. The first time my vacuum needed a new belt and the second time it needed a full service cleaning. Both times very reasonably priced. Over all very Pleasant experiences! Both times when I picked up the vacuum, the man (I assume the owner) insist on carrying the vacuum to my car for me! The customer service was excellent! And they really know their business about vacuums! I am sure the same thing with sewing machines too! read more

I had a very aggravating experience with Robert the owner of this shop. About six weeks ago I purchased several sewing feet for an older machine I had bought for my daughter on ebay; Robert charged me $10 for each foot. I purchased about four (and some other machine tools) discussing the particular use of each one with Robert, who was well aware of the specific model of the machine they were meant for. Unfortunately, despite discussing the specifics with him, one of the feet was clearly not useable for the specific machine -- frankly, it should have been obvious to Robert. Today, after about a month, I went back with the unusable foot and explained the situation. By that time my receipt was long gone but Robert remembered our interchange when I purchased it. However, he initially refused to refund the $10 for the item that he had personally endorsed for the machine. I asked him incredulously whether he thought I was trying to cheat him out of a few dollars (assuming the item was sold to me for less than $10). He said he needed to verify the purchase and I shouldn't take it personally. Really? Not take it personally over a sale he knows took place yet he doesn't believe me that the item actually cost $10. He says that I should understand what it is to be a small business owner. In fact I have my own small business and would never ever treat a customer in such an insulting way, especially over a few dollars (the fact that he can't remember the item price in the first place makes me wonder if he makes up sale prices as he feels like, depending on the customer). Overall his attitude was rude. Before my recent experience with this shop, I last stopped by in 2010 for some advice on how to find a replacement power cord for my older model Bernina sewing machine. Apparently the manufacturer had a warehouse fire and there were no replacements to be found according to Robert, rendering my very expensive Swiss machine useless. At that time, I tried to discuss other options with Robert but he cut me off and said "get over it...buy another machine"....I remember his exact words since I was so astounded he spoke to me that way. Because of his attitude toward me, a customer, I vowed at that time never to use his shop again. I should have stuck to that vow. Apparently Robert's reputation for being rude to customers is well known among the trade; the sales staff at a near by fabric store cautioned me about dealing with him before my recent experience. read more

I was recently given a woefully ignored 10+ year old brother sewing machine, that while technically still working really needed a good servicing. In came Sun Sew Vac, who fully repaired/cleaned/oiled the machine and got her working like brand new again for much less than I was honestly expecting. The turn around on the machine was quick, and the staff was all friendly and attentive. I doubt I'll need to visit often, but if my machine ever needs anything I know where I'm going. read more

I do not recommend this shop. I really wish I would've read the review before buying from this seller. All the negative reviews are spot on. I went to this store at the recommendation of a fabulous seamstress/designer. When I first stopped in they were having a nice sale on Pfaff machines I originally went in for a serger. He offered to give me a nice deal in the floor model and I said I would think about it. After a few days I called back to confirm I would stop by to buy it along with an embroidery machine to which he said I would get 24 months interest free financing (but I did not because he forgot) He said he would clean the machine and get it ready for me. Well after sitting in 1.5 hours of traffic on that Friday I was too late. But finally I made it before closing on Saturday and picked up the serger machine which he had not cleaned nor gotten ready before I showed up so while he packed the machine in a hurry he forgot to include the electrical plug and the tools, something that I did not realize until I got home. I'm about 45 minutes away with out traffic. He did offer to fedex it to me but I was going out of town so it wouldn't have made a difference. At that time he also ordered my embroidery machine and told me it would arrive by Thursday. Of course it didn't nor did he call to let me know that I didn't arrive on Friday so I called on Saturday evening and left a message no response I called again that Tuesday and was informed that my machine had arrived I was unable to pick it up but finally got it that Wednesday almost 2 weeks after purchasing the item. For a 6k purchase I would've expected better communication and overall customer service. Honestly he should've just had it shipped to my home since there was no need to stop by the shop. I was so dissatisfied with the entire purchase experience that I really just wanted to return it but didn't feel like dealing with this shop again. If I ever wanted to upgrade to the top of the line Pfaff I will not do it at this shop. read more

This shop has been so helpful for my sewing machine issues. Great service and love the military discount!

Sun Sew Vac is a gem. The owner Robert provides excellent customer service that is hard to come by these days. We must support small businesses like this over the Big Box stores. read more

I have a high end decorative stitching machine. After 4 years of fairly frequent use, and regular servicing, it had a mechanical problem. The problem was not easily nor quickly fixed because of supply parts delays from the manufacturer. Sun Sew Vac championed my cause with the manufacturer, going the extra miles to deliver my machine back to me in working order, and in the meantime offering me a loaner. I think that with another dealer I would just have a dead machine instead of my favorite possession back humming along with me. read more

I have a 35 year old Filter Queen canister vacuum that needed service that was long overdue. I took it to Sun Sew Vac because I had it serviced there in 2008. When I took it in, the poor vacuum cleaner was in deplorable shape. It looked like R2D2, with many missing parts. The motor wasn't working, the brush head needed cleaning, the vac head light had been out for a long time, and well...Robert ordered new parts for it and made it shiny and new. They put in a new motor, lights, hose parts, cord, and tool/implement rack. When I picked it up, it looked brand new! The air it blew out even smelled good. The first motor they put in was defective, and I had to take it back in for a warranty replacement, but they replaced it quickly and apologetically with no issues. I would rather keep fixing this old workhorse of a vacuum than buying a new one. Sun Sew Vac did a wonderful job and I highly recommend them. I've never posted on Yelp before, so be certain that this place did a great job. read more