Opportunities in Sewing Machine Repair

Why Sewing Machines Require Annual Service 

At Sewing Machines Institute, we understand the importance of regular maintenance for sewing machines to ensure their longevity and performance. As long as people use sewing machines, the demand for quality sewing machine service and repair will remain strong. But what is it about sewing machines that necessitate at least annual service? 

First, the lubrication inside the machine gradually deteriorates, becoming sticky and hard. Even if a machine is in storage, the old lubricants must be removed annually to prevent damage and keep it operating properly. 

Second, lint, debris, and environmental exposure impact the machine. The more it is used, the more service it requires. Third, machines eventually break down, requiring adjustment and repair. 

Since there are millions of machines in use and they require maintenance, the demand for capable sewing machine technicians remains high. In some cases, it can take weeks, even months, before someone can service your machine. In many locations, the closest service center may be hundreds of miles away, presenting significant opportunities in sewing machine repair for technicians. 

Types of Sewing Machine Technicians: Generalist vs. Specialist 

Technicians usually fall into one of two categories: generalist or specialist. 

The Generalist aims to provide service on a wide range of machine types, makes, and models. They may cover home machines and industrial machines of several different brands. The generalist has the advantage of addressing a much wider clientele. They may identify as all-brand sewing machine service providers. 

The Specialist limits services in some way. They may focus on a single brand of home machines, or they may exclusively service industrial machines in a factory setting. They may limit their services to fieldwork on Long Arm Quilters or Multi-Needle Machines, or they might only work on older mechanical machines. 

Technicians of both types may be found in factories, regional service centers, store service centers, home-based businesses, pick-up and delivery services, or fieldwork. The technician may engage in more than one setting. 

The work of the technician includes diagnosis, disassembly, cleaning, removal of old lubricants and debris, repairs, adjustments, reassembly, and final testing. A beginning sewing machine technician should complete one machine every two hours. A master technician should complete a machine every 45 minutes to an hour. 

Earning Potential in Sewing Machine Repair 

What compensation should a qualified technician expect? A technician in their own business should expect to charge from $99 to $149 for a full service on a standard sewing machine. Rural areas tend to be less than urban areas. Productivity, quality, and efficiency largely determine profitability. Overhead and operational costs decrease actual profits. Calculate earnings by the number of machines X ticket rate = revenue (e.g., 20 machines per week X $100 = @ $2000 per week). 

An average technician employee will earn $50,000 to $60,000 annually, with top performers earning $200,000+. In your own service center, expect first-year earnings between $50,000-$100,000; thereafter, up to $300,000 annually. 

Market Analysis for Sewing Machine Repair 

A technician employee should expect professional-level compensation reflecting their productivity level and quality. A common practice is to provide a base wage plus a percentage of the service ticket (e.g., $10 per hour plus 30 to 50% of the ticket). Some shops may pay a flat rate of so much per machine (e.g., $50 each). Experience has shown that specific production standards are needed for both employee and employer. 

A local market analysis is important when planning new ventures in sewing machine repair. Make a list of all technicians or service centers within 75 to 100 miles of your target location. Find out what your competitors charge for full service on a typical sewing machine. Find out their turnaround rate. Do they offer field services? Answers to these questions will give a clear indication of pricing, the level of demand, and services available in your area. 

Opportunities in sewing machine repair are huge. A skilled technician should expect high compensation for their knowledge, skill, and production. For more information on improving your skills as a technician contact Sewing Machines Institute today.