I went to the newly oped Richmond store today. Jack was patient and answered all of my questions. I took my BabyLock Melody machine that has been serviced by another local shop. I used it for the first time yesterday and thread became tangled inside. Part of this may have been my fault but the previous service did miss something. I think I have found my new service company! Babylock owners check out this store. read more

I do not sew but would like to learn. The ladies were so helpful! Sold me a nice machine without and pressure. Great price and helped me choose the correct machine based on my zero skill level. Free one on one sewing lesson and excellent customer care. read more

My Brother Stellaire embroidery machine broke while working on a project for my granddaughter. I live in southern Delaware and the only authorized Brother sewing and embroidery machine repair is 2 hours away and they couldn't service my machine for possibly 8 weeks. Since we had a trip planned to Norfolk I looked into Brother authorized sewing machine repair in that area, calling the corporate office of Tidewater sew and vac initially and speaking to customer service. I was directed to call their location on Fordham Drive and I spoke with Jack. He assured me that they would prioritize the servicing of my machine during my visit. And Jack is definitely a man of his word. My embroidery machine was completely serviced and repaired in 1 day. All my calls and interactions with Jack were handled with such support and also, knowledge. I highly recommend this store, Jack and the service repair person who repaired my machine. The best service ever! read more

I had a Husqvarna Viking serger that only worked sometimes and though I consider myself to be pretty handy I could not figure out the problem. I finally decided that it needed professional help so I took the serger to Tidewater Sew-Vac. I was told that this brand of machine was often difficult to repair and sometimes the parts was unavailable. However, the staff there were very helpful. They sent my serger to another one of their shops and ordered the parts. Though it took a while for the parts to arrive, they were able to repair my machine at a reasonable price. I was happy with their service. And the store has fabric! That's always a bonus for me.. read more

I have been a customer for many years and have always had wonderful service on sewing machine sales/repair and vaccum cleaner repairs. I recently took my Babylock Unity there for service and was asked when I would like it back, my answer was yesterday! They called me the same afternoon and told me it was repaired. I cannot say enough great things about Eric and Tidewater Sew & Vac. Eric has a wealth of knowledge and I am very satisfied with my experiences. Keep up the wonderful service! Tricia Capone read more

My seven year old vacuum quit. Within two days it was fixed, despite the fact that parts are no longer made for it. Very grateful that I don't have to look for a new vacuum... I like the one I have :) read more

Like many humans with lots of hair, my vacuum decided to start smoking on me one day. I knew part of the problem, but couldn't fix it on my own. That's when I found Tidewater Sew-Vac. At first, I was planning to bring my vacuum to the Norfolk location -- they have 8 in the area. I called to ensure they serviced my type of vacuum, then learned they would need to transport it as the only person available to service vacuums worked from this location. So, I decided to bring it straight there. After rolling my vacuum inside, I was asked to fill out a form and prompted to verbally share what the problem was. The woman quickly brought it back to be checked out, and within minutes she explained the issue and showed me the part I would need replaced. I was told I could walk around the store as the man servicing my vacuum installed the new part. I was fully prepared to drop my vacuum off and pick it up another day. I suppose I didn't suspect it would be a quick fix, so this was a nice surprise. I was in and out in less than 30 minutes. I purchased new bags for my vacuum, grateful they had the right kind in stock. The woman told me they wouldn't be charging me for the installation, which I greatly appreciated! During my time there, the woman (I regret forgetting her name) gave two mini "interactive" demonstrations of a vacuum and a carpet cleaning solution. I didn't have a need for either, but should I have any other needs related to vacuums (or sewing perhaps?) I would definitely return to support this local business. read more

Ok if you have to have your brother machine fixed. Not much else in town. 200 to fix a 4.50 part so you know catch 22. read more

I recently purchased a Janome Continental M17 and sewing cabinet. Eric was so helpful. He was prompt in fulfilling my additional requests. The location is clean and organized. read more

Quick turn around anytime we have needed it. Always high-quality service. Highly recommend!

Excellent customer service and repair. I was the victim of bait and fish with a vintage Singer 306W. The machine I purchased was delivered was not packaged properly and arrived broken. I was sure it was going to the trash. I took it to Tidewater Sew & Vac, Kempsriver for a last ditch rescue. Erik fixed my broken parts and returned a working beauty. It works beautifully. Thanks Erik, you're Awesome. Ps. My husband restored the base. read more

Tidewater Sew-Vac - Fabric Stores Near Me - Virginia Beach, Virginia

My older Brother machine broke a needle then started looping bobbin thread yesterday. Took it in this morning for service. Told the sales person what happened, and she started her sales pitch that sometimes a machine just has to be replaced. Agreed, but a machine acting wonky after a needle break is not uncommon. Wouldn't know without serving it, but she was set on replacement. I even asked specifically if she was saying to not service it and just replace. She was. So off to find a place that services machines who will service rather than just push sales. If I need to buy, it will now not be with them. read more

If you order something don't play. On it being here when they tell you it will. Been waiting 3 weeks for stuff I ordered.

I brought my sewing machine in for repair, but I was forced to get a $89.95 tune-up. I knew my problem was a simple thing and it might have even been a user error because I am new to sewing. They won't look at it to see if it was a simple user error. (The stitches were not tight) It was put down your name and phone number, we will tune it up. The machine wasn't old enough to need a tune-up but that didn't seem to matter. read more

I love Tidewater Sew-Vac. Erik is a super manager. He goes beyond the call of duty to render outstanding service. If he does not have what you need on that day, he will try his best to get it. I have been doing business with Erik for over 25 years . He has relocated to other locations and I have followed him. I send my friends and relatives to him. He sells the best products. Don't buy cheap buy the best! His products last. He stands by what he sells! (Barbara Nicholson) read more

I bought a high end brother sewing machine and also bought a carrying case to go along with my purchase. There were two bags that I bought. One bag, I took with me the day I purchased. The other one is supposedly still on order. It has been over a month and I still have no bag. When I call, I always get, "Let me call and check and I will call you back." Well, I've called multiple times, and even stopped by to ask about the status and get NOTHING. Don't depend on this business to give you updates on orders, you will be waiting forever. If I would have know customer service would have been this bad, I would have purchased my machine and supplies elsewhere. read more

I give this place rave reviews. They have a gentleman in the Portsmouth location who works on Roombas. They fixed it and it looks brand new and the charge was very reasonable. Professional guy runs the Portsmouth store and they were amazing. The beach store got it over to the Portsmouth location with no extra charge. Saved me a road trip! Everyone was super in both locations but most importantly the service was excellent! I highly recommend this company. Roomba even seems to be more powerful since I got it back! read more

This is a full service business. I love them! I found a better sewing machine at a better price here. It has been wonderful. Until I had a snag I couldn't fix. That was today. My sewing machine is home already. There is nothing like a neighborhood business! They are so helpful and friendly. I am so pleased. read more

Purchased a Maytag vacuum cleaner in mid-2018 from this place and it is an amazing cleaner. It clogged once with a writing pen when my kids were using it. Brought it back in and he fixed the issue without charging me. I appreciate this business. read more

The KempsRiver Crossing Tidewater Sew-Vac in Virginia Beach is great! They have great staff members, customer service, and response times. I have been a patron for the past five years, receiving Kirby vacuum cleaner repairs, maintenance and supplies. They educated me on a home-use steam cleaner a couple of years ago, while picking up Kirby supplies. It has taken me two years to realize I will actually use a steam cleaner and began researching online for the best price. Although I am a HUGE Amazon.com fan and customer, and found the exact steam cleaner model on Amazon for the same price, I have decided to purchase my steam cleaner from the KempsRiver Tidewater Sew-Vac location. While I am not fond of Sew-Vac's no refund policy, I would rather purchase this type of item from a local brick and mortar location. The following are statements taken from the respective websites. Amazon.com Return Policy: Items shipped from Amazon.com, including Amazon Warehouse, can be returned within 30 days of receipt of shipment in most cases. Some products have different policies or requirements associated with them. Tidewater Sew-Vac Returns & Replacements Policy: We will gladly exchange any product* for another product in stock of equal value, or extend a shopping credit, within 30 days of purchase, provided the product is returned in the same condition as purchased. Sorry - no refunds. *Books, Cut Fabrics, Design CD's, Patterns & Software are excluded from returns. I am not an employee, family member of an employee, nor receiving any benefits for this review. Just truly believe in proving good feedback when a local company exhibits quality social responsibility. read more

Walked in and just needed some bags, manager was very helpful and polite. Great customer service definitely recommend coming here.

Both Eric and Seth were so kind and helpful over the phone and in the shop when I broke a button on my machine. I would definitely recommend this shop and the one on Great Neck Road. When I initially called, the persons listened and helped me even though they have been very busy with the COVID issues. read more

My 34 year old serger was having problems with the feed dogs not moving. I have had it tuned up and repaired in the past at another place, but eventually the issue returned. Finally, about two years ago, the feed dogs seized. I had given up getting it fixed, and I had read many online comments from people whose Baby Lock sergers from that time were no longer repairable. I decided to give repairing my serger one last shot, and I called the Tidewater Sew Vac in Kempsville. After describing the issue I was having, the person on the phone knew exactly what the problem was and had the part in stock! I got my serger repaired in a few days! I would definitely recommend this location. They did a great job! I should have made that call sooner! read more

BEWARE THE BAIT AND SWITCH ON REPAIRS. If there were a zero I would use it. I took my 40 year old sewing machine in for repair because it was seizing up and stitching very slowly and there seemed to be an issue with the bobbin. Paid $89.95 plus tax plus a small fee for a bobbin belt. When I got it home the machine was still seizing up and stitching slowly. I called and talked to the repairman, Eric, who said that the problem was that it needed some parts that he did not have but I could buy a new machine and apply the $89.95 to that. I felt it was a bait and switch operation so found another repair shop, Sewing Machine Sales and Repair, who actually fixed the machine without the need for any parts. I used to be a real fan of TSV at Kempsriver but this experience has really disappointed me. read more

I am so happy that I brought my machine to this shop. I had the nightmare experience of accidentally knocking my machine off it's table. The machine was not feeding my fabric easily. The technician fixed that and the machine actually ruins smoother than before I brought it in. read more

This is a wonderful store. The people there are very informative. I bought a serger elsewhere and needed parts. The tech there was able to help me get the right needles and bulbs for my machine. read more

My granddaughters take sewing lessons here. The instructor is friendly and helpful. The people at the counter that assist me when I signed them up always very friendly. read more

Many years ago I had bought a vacuum from this location and is still very happy with it. Why I love this place is that it's close to my house, it always convenient to just drop off my vacuum to get cleaned and service then it'll be ready to be picked up a day or two later. No hassle. They stick a label on the side of my vacuum to remind me when the next service date will be and always replace my vacuum bag as a courtesy. Due to the maintenance, this vacuum is still the most powerful vacuum I've ever used even after almost 7years. The owner(I think) cause he's always there is very soft spoken, gentle and very knowledgeable about everything they have in the store. This store even offer sewing classes for any projects you have and have a lot of choices for sewing machines, sergers, and vacuum. I will definitely recommend this company to anyone and will continue to be their customer in the future. read more

Very knowledgeable staff. Extremely fast service. And fair prices. Took my vacuum cleaner in there to be fixed. 60 bucks later and same day it worked good as new!!! read more

I had a great experience today at the store today. I've been researching vacuum cleaners for about a month now and decided today was the day to day to purchase. Erik and Cynthia were great. Looking at a Miele at first, Erik asked me some great questions and asked if I was set on a Miele or would I consider another brand. Open, I said sure - what do you have? After letting him know what my needs were (had to do a great job on pet hair) he suggested a Simplicity Moxie - was actually a bit less expensive but more heavy duty. Erik said take it home and try it out. I did, called and said charge it. Ultimately, I needed a great vacuum. What I received was excellent customer service and advice. Working for the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore, customer service is key to being able feed those who need help. It was great to have wonderful service. Erik and I discussed the theory of treating customers well, as for a business like his, you look for a customer for life. They are well on their way! Kudos to you all! read more

This is the place you are looking for. You know they are legit if they can fix sewing machines and vacuum cleaners, not just a couple kinds of sewing machine. I called around and tried to find someone to fix my Juki serger and one place was like "uh oh can't fix a serger" and two other places were like "Woah no way we could do that today" and some places were even unfriendly. Well Erik and Cynthia really saved the day. They didn't just take care of the problem (and fast!) they understand customer service. No less than three other places I talked to before didn't seem to really get the concept. They gave a 30 day money back guarantee on their service, which means they are confident in their work. I would recommend this to anyone who wants to buy a sewing machine or vacuum or get one repaired. Check the stars on this one. They will take care of you. read more

As a Professional Organizer it is very important to have a reliable business to service my machines and obtain the latest supplies. Eric is top notch, very informative, quick service on mine and clients machines. We are very lucky to have Tidewater Sewing Vac in Hampton Roads. read more

Call ahead to see if they could fix my machine, and the woman told me on the phone that they could basically fix anything to just bring it in. So then I come in a few days later to get an estimate, and the same woman who spoke to me on the phone, Laughs at me and asked me if the sewing machine had sentimental value? At this point I'm confused because I specifically called and asked a few days ago to see if they fix the model that I wanted to bring in, and I told her the machine was vintage to then walk in and be laughed at. Which I didn't quite understand like you either say you don't fix the machines and keep it moving, but no, she tried to sell me a machine, and offered me financing which I thought was weird because I came in to get the machine fixed which they couldn't do, though she told me they could over the phone: so go there to waste your time the worst. read more

I brought a sewing machine in for repairs less than a year ago. Rather than offering to fix it, they were more interested in selling me a new machine for hundreds of dollars. I explained to them that I was very happy with my machine, and I did not want to purchase another one. The price they quoted for repairs was so high that it did make sense to just buy another one, so I did...somewhere else. Then, this week, my new machine broke. It seems like it should be a fairly simple repair, but again, they wanted to sell me a new machine rather than fix mine for less than $100. Fortunately, I've found another repair shop, and I will not be returning to Tidewater Sew-Vac. By the way, I received a post card from them today thanking me for my interest in their BabyLock machines. That just irritated me...I thought I made it clear I'm NOT interested in buying a new machine from them. read more

It's a little known fact that I used to channel my domestic goddess powers into a small home cleaning company. So you might say that I know my way around a vacuum. But I have been struggling with a chronic pain condition and my old upright just wasn't cutting it anymore. I went here with my mother, since she has been taking her sewing machines here for years. While we were there, Eric demonstrated the Simplicity Moxie to me. He was patient and knowledgeable and explained all the features of the machine in great detail. I spend a lot of time cleaning my home, so I wanted to make sure this vacuum wouldn't be a waste of money. I have never spent so much money on a vacuum. But you know what? The Moxie is worth every penny and then some. I no longer have to stoop,hunch my shoulders and stop to relieve the pain while vacuuming. The Moxie was just what I needed and I can now vacuum three different types of floor coverings without stopping.My kids even enjoy using it! Yesterday I took it outside and cleaned out the car and vacuumed the mats...perfect suction and nice cleaning from the brushes. I am not a seamstress, so I can't speak to that side of the business. I do know that if I were in the market for a sewing machine, this would be the first place I would turn to. It is so refreshing to buy a product from a company that stands behind their products and services. 100% read more

I came to tidewatersewvac as a customer back in April of 2017 for a sewing machine repair. And I was treated with such respect that i decided to apply for a part time job with the company. I love my job and I love passing my sewing and quilting knowledge onto others. I have also recently bought another machine and I am loving it. read more

Let me start by saying that I do not normally write reviews of my experiences, however, the young lady that helped me this week was so kind in asking if I might take a moment and evaluate my experience with Tidewater Sew Vac here online that I felt obliged to do so. I have never experienced such wonderful customer service as I did this week while picking up my mother's vacuum cleaner which had been repaired. Not only did the young lady (Cynthia I believe) carry the heavy vacuum cleaner out and load it into my vehicle, she educated me in regards to a future vacuum purchase, listened to my health complaints, offered sewing lessons, and had a friendly smile. I don't know but the last time I checked, I couldn't get this one of a kind help with quality products at Wal-Mart. Thank you Tidewater Sew Vac at Fordham Drive in VA Beach. read more

Took in a New Home machine for a free estimate, to get an idea of how much it would cost to service it. I left it with them for several days. I called twice and each time was told they would call me in a few days, that it was the next one on the bench... but they never called back. . When I went to pick it up I was told gears were bad, timing was off and would cost at least 200$ to repair. Told him no thank you and left with my machine. Found out after leaving that my shank, bobbin and presser foot had been replaced by them with the wrong ones therefore the machine would not work properly. They had also put the needle in backwards. They also excessively oiled it to the point that the oil was dripping all over the bobbin and needle. I took the machine to a reputable repair shop that I had used before and he put the correct shank and other parts back on and he cleaned up the excess oil and made a few adjustments and it worked fine. It appears that the repairman at Tidewater Sew-Vac was attempting to have us believe the machine would cost the same it not more to repair and therefore get me to buy a new one instead. At no time did I give them permission to service my machine, to replace parts or to make adjustments. I do not think this is a reputable repair shop, and I do not feel they had my best interests at heart when they made me a quote to repair my machine. I feel they put bad parts into my machine with the intent to defraud me when I paid them 200$ to repair it, or to break the machine to force me to buy a new machine. I would never recommend this shop to anyone. read more

I have been using Tidewater Sew Vac for over ten years. I bought my sewing machine from them and have had them service it. About two years ago, I thought my machine had died. I brought it in, Eric serviced it and it has been running fine since then. I would not take my machine anywhere else. The employees are friendly and share knowledge of new machines. The store is growing - adding fabric and sewing notions. Tidewater Sew Vac also offers a great selection of sewing classes. I trust Eric and his staff, and I would not take a sewing machine or a vacuum anywhere else to be fixed. read more

Erik is truly a professional in his field. My wife had her sewing machine and serger serviced after many years of sitting in the attic. Erik serviced both at a reasonable price and answered many questions. He knows his business and has "customer service" as his priority. Can' ask for more. read more