Sewing machine repair costs: How much you’ll spend in a nutshell

Sewing is an underrated life skill. Knowing your way around a sewing machine is practical nowadays, from fixing snagged threads to making quilts out of pretty fabrics. This is also because of the rise of sustainable and slow fashion. 

However, since sewing machines have many moving parts, they will eventually need maintenance and repair work. If you want to determine your budget for this, it’s essential to know your area's average sewing machine repair costs. This way, you won’t be surprised by unreasonable fees.

So how much does it cost to repair a sewing machine? Minor repairs can cost around £4, but major ones can go up to £100. Many factors can also increase the cost, so it’s essential to do your research. Whether sewing is your hobby or you have a collection of sewing machines for your business, you should consider several things before hiring a repair specialist.

What kinds of sewing machines can I repair?

You can find different kinds of embroidery machines on the market. Repair rates, however, will differ since each has specific needs. A computerised sewing machine requires more skills to fix than a busted foot pedal of a mechanical device.

A close-up view of a sewing machine needle in motion. (Source: iStock) Here’s a sewing machine repair price list to help you with budgeting:

What do sewing machine repair services include?

Most Taskers have a flat fee for routine maintenance and repair servicing. These are good options if you’re unsure what is wrong with the machine. They include:

• Machine disassembly
• Lint and dust removal
• Part lubrication
• Mechanism calibration
• Tension checks
• Part replacement, if needed (with additional charges for new parts)
• Final quality checks

How often should I request maintenance services?

Regular servicing is vital to prevent significant issues with your sewing machine. While the costs add up over time, they are much more manageable than unexpected expenses. Depending on your purpose, you might need to increase the frequency of your visits to the repairman. Here’s an overview:

Remember that older models need more maintenance than new ones. For example, the cost of repairing an old Singer sewing machine will be high. Of course, the expense will be worth it if it’s a family heirloom or a vintage piece you restored. Routine servicing can prolong the service life of your machine.

A seamstress works with an industrial sewing machine in her home workspace. (Source: iStock)

What are the common problems with sewing machines?

Sewing machines can have minor issues, but you can fix or prevent most of them. Here are a few things to look out for:

• Thread issues
  • Clumping or knotting
  • Breakage
  • Fraying or shredding 
  • Wavy, puckered, and distorted seams
• Needle issues
  • Bent or broken pins
  • Unthreading before sewing
  • Unresponsiveness even when the machine is on
  • Skipping stitches
• Fabric issues
  • Bunching at the hems
  • Inconsistent fabric feed
• Machine issues
  • Erratic bobbin case tension
  • Strange noises
  • Malfunctioning decorative stitch settings
  • Broken bulbs
  • Jammed foot pedals
  • Broken fuses or plugs

A Tasker specialising in sewing machine repair can resolve these issues if you detect and report them early.

Should I replace or repair my sewing machine?

Minor repairs are affordable and only make up a small amount of what a new sewing machine will cost you. It won’t hurt to get an accurate quote before throwing your device away.

However, if the repair expenses cost more than a new machine, definitely opt to replace it. If it has sentimental value, you can always keep it in your home as decor. This doesn’t apply to vintage machines, though. Older machines that still work, though not as efficient as modern ones, can appreciate over time!

Switching to a different model will require you to relearn some stitching techniques. There will be a learning curve, especially if you’re upgrading from mechanical to computerised.

Can I repair my sewing machine on my own?

It’s a good idea to learn basic repairs for sewing machines through video tutorials or books. However, it will also take a lot of trial and error. Be prepared to risk your machine. Otherwise, it’s best to hire a professional instead.

How can I prevent sewing machine damage?

Aside from routine maintenance, you can do other things to prolong the service life of your embroidery machine. General cleaning can go a long way in preserving it. Here are a few suggestions:

• Prevent dust and moisture buildup inside the machine. Clean it with a soft cloth daily.
• Use suitable fabric. Avoid materials like raw denim and leather without verifying if your machine, needle, and thread can sew through them.
• Follow the care instructions in the manual.
• Don’t use broken needles or thread.
• Remove any lint stuck in the machine.
• Don't disassemble it on your own.

Get your sewing machine sorted via Airtasker

Once you’ve determined whether you need specific repair or maintenance work, you can post a task on our platform. Include the following details to make it easier for Taskers to understand your requirements:

• Type of service
• Preferred date of completion
• Your location
• Your budget
• Sewing machine details (model, age, and frequency of use)
• A description of general issues or concerns

Overall, now is a good time to use your sewing machine for art, home improvement, and other projects. You don't need to give up on your old device since you can easily request repair solutions and replacement parts at reasonable prices.