In the 1990s and early 2000s, one could make the argument that Pfaff produced the best sewing machines in the world. For a long time, all their machines were manufactured in their original factory in Kaiserslautern, Germany— the same town where the company was originally founded in 1862. Most machines featured Pfaff’s patented integrated dual-feed system, as well as an industrial-style vertical hook that created a heavy, sturdy feel when sewing. They were extremely well-built and loved by many sewists all over the world.
Cale, these mini essays are delightful both because they provide insight into a part of the world of sewing that most people don’t think about, and because they are so charmingly written. Keep them coming!
Cale, I recognize the handbook for the Viking sewing machine from the Berkeley Sewing Machine Co. I worked with Marty back then and I drew that picture! I would love to see that booklet if you still have it. Please say hello to Marty when you see him next and of course Dan, too.
What a great essay about operating a great company. Thank you for sharing this rich history of how a business should be run. If only more companies would return to real core values and stop only thinking about profit. My very first machine was a Elna Funstyler mechanical machine. It still is a solid machine and will be around for a long time. Quality will always out weigh quantity. Thank you for carrying on a wonderful family tradition.
GoodMorning, Yes I agree with Liz, the knowledge and commitment to excellent customer service by all the owners and staff dealing with my machines that I’ve repaired over the last few years. A friend of my family recommended your family to my world of loving to sew and maintenance of our treasured machines. Yes I drive 3 1/2 hrs one way to drop off off at least 2 each time and then return a week later, same drive, 3 1/2 hrs so I can sew another 6 months happier my machines are good as new.
Your essay reflects why I drive from Newark to patronize The Sewing Machine Shop. The integrity & knowledge your family provides to us sewists is so appreciated.
Thank you for this information. I loved my little Pfaff 1035 Machine and used it for almost 30 years until it now won’t stitch properly any longer. Great machine before dual feed, fully mechanical.
Cale, these mini essays are delightful both because they provide insight into a part of the world of sewing that most people don’t think about, and because they are so charmingly written. Keep them coming!
Cale, I recognize the handbook for the Viking sewing machine from the Berkeley Sewing Machine Co. I worked with Marty back then and I drew that picture! I would love to see that booklet if you still have it. Please say hello to Marty when you see him next and of course Dan, too.
Ellen Hauptli
Thank you for sharing this. You come from a line of wise business people, what a gift.
As Ayelet says below, so many don’t have these insights into the sewing world as a business, it is a lovely way to share.
What a great essay about operating a great company. Thank you for sharing this rich history of how a business should be run. If only more companies would return to real core values and stop only thinking about profit. My very first machine was a Elna Funstyler mechanical machine. It still is a solid machine and will be around for a long time. Quality will always out weigh quantity. Thank you for carrying on a wonderful family tradition.
Thank you for your articles. Well written and informative. I always tell my friends to shop at your store above all others as I trust you.
Great article!
GoodMorning, Yes I agree with Liz, the knowledge and commitment to excellent customer service by all the owners and staff dealing with my machines that I’ve repaired over the last few years. A friend of my family recommended your family to my world of loving to sew and maintenance of our treasured machines. Yes I drive 3 1/2 hrs one way to drop off off at least 2 each time and then return a week later, same drive, 3 1/2 hrs so I can sew another 6 months happier my machines are good as new.
Thanks for the info! I didn’t know the B740 was discontinued; it was the first Bernina I bought some years ago and I love it!
Your essay reflects why I drive from Newark to patronize The Sewing Machine Shop. The integrity & knowledge your family provides to us sewists is so appreciated.
Great article for any small business owner.
So are these still recommended machines to buy !
Thank you for this information. I loved my little Pfaff 1035 Machine and used it for almost 30 years until it now won’t stitch properly any longer. Great machine before dual feed, fully mechanical.