FAQ - Pedal & Treadle

So, Anna….

How qualified and experienced are you?

I started using sewing machines aged 5 and as a young adult learned to service and repair my own machines.
I successfully completed formal training courses and pass-or-fail practical exams in 2025 to ensure I could address a wide range of machines to a high, consistent and professional standard.
The business is new, the experience established before opening our doors covers c.300 machines.

What machines do you have experience with?

I have serviced and repaired most models of machine (eg: Singer, Brother, Toyota, Bernina, Husqvarna) the oldest machine dates back to 1908 and the newest was built in 2023.
I have a strong mentor network of both specialist and generalist sewing machine mechanics where we share knowledge to keep our customers sewing.

Why should I trust you with my machine?

As a sewist with 7 machines (and a wish list), I understand what your machine means to you. Your machine is treated with care and respect at all times.
Your machine is welcome here, despite it’s age, make, model or issue.
Pedal & Treadle’s studio workshop is in a safe, secure, warm and dry space, and we’re well insured.

How much does it cost / How long does it take?

Target turn around of a week. If it takes longer I’ll let you know an estimate.
For well maintained machines, a 48 hour turn around can be possible.
Click here for prices; specific costs will vary depending on what work is needed.

Do I need to book ahead?

You can arrange to drop off your machine today, or for a later date. Please call beforehand to make sure I’m on site to let you in.
WIP: Online booking in where you get to chose the time and date. Let me know if you want to be informed when this is live.

Do you pick up and drop off?/Can you service my machine in my house?

Do you offer a guarantee?

Can you fix a machine someone said was ‘beyond repair’?

That depends. Sometimes machines are written off because they take ‘too much time’ to repair or degrease. Sometimes the machine really is past it (eg: lack of parts, rusted gears).

Do you do Urgent or Emergency repairs?

In principle, yes. TEXT (don’t call) on 07925 904066 out of work hours and we can see what is possible. NOTE: You will not get a response between 23:00-08:00 due to sleep! I will get in touch asap on receipt.
Repairs are subject to parts availability.
Timescales are subject to slotting between prior commitments.

Can I borrow a sewing machine?

If we need to keep your machine for longer than than two weeks and you are mid project/a commercial customer using domestic machines, we can loan a machine from limited stocks. A contract and deposit is required per machine.
We do not hire out sewing machines, the loan is only to support existing customers while their machine is being repaired.

How Does Your Sewing Experience Help Me?

My discussions with servicers about my own machines revealed they did not sew. They knew the machinery but not the application.
I sew clothing, soft furnishings and crafts with different machines so have developed a broad understanding of what you and your machine are going through when you sew different projects.
My education focused on art and design from taking sewing and textiles at school, graduating from Chelsea College of Art & Design and adult learning at Central St Martins. I also taught at Wiltshire College and offer 1:1 tuition and sewing/art classes at our sister site: Bad Dave.

Take a look at our Processes page to learn more about what we do and how we do it.

Meet Anna, Your Engineer