Thief River Falls, Minnesota

Your sewing machine won't stitch right — and that new vacuum isn't picking up like it should. Who do you call?

For over 30 years, Don has been the person folks in this community trust when their machines need care. Not a big-box chain — a real craftsman right here on 1st Street, treating every stitch and motor like it matters.

Stop In or Give Us a Call See What We Do
30+ Years Serving
Rural Minnesota
100% Local &
Family-Owned
Vintage sewing machine on a wooden workbench
Vacuum cleaner being serviced on a workbench
Trusted Since
1990s
What We Do

From thread tension to motor repair —
we handle the machines that keep your home running.

Sewing Machine Repair

From vintage treadle models to modern computerized machines — we diagnose and fix skipped stitches, broken hooks, timing issues, and everything in between.

  • Thread & tension troubleshooting
  • Bobbin & hook assembly service
  • Motor & electronic repairs
  • Needle bar & feed dog alignment

Vacuum Cleaner Repair

Whether it's a bagged, bagless, upright, or canister — we'll get your vacuum suctioning like new again. Lost suction? Strange noises? We've seen it all.

  • Suction & airflow diagnostics
  • Motor & belt replacement
  • Filter & seal restoration
  • Brush roll & wand service

New Sales & Models

We carry a curated selection of reliable sewing machines and vacuums from trusted brands. No pushy sales — just honest recommendations for what actually fits your needs.

  • Domestic & heavy-duty sewing machines
  • Upright, canister & stick vacuums
  • Overlock & embroidery machines
  • Accessories & replacement parts

Maintenance & Tune-Ups

Preventive care keeps your machines running longer. Our thorough tune-ups include cleaning, lubrication, adjustment, and inspection — because a little care goes a long way.

  • Full machine inspection
  • Deep cleaning & lubrication
  • Timing & alignment checks
  • Seasonal maintenance plans

Specialty & Vintage Machines

Got a family heirloom sewing machine that needs love? We have the patience and expertise to restore and maintain vintage and specialty models that big shops won't touch.

  • Vintage machine restoration
  • Industrial & commercial equipment
  • Embroidery & quilting machines
  • Hard-to-find part sourcing

Lessons & Guidance

New to sewing? Stuck on a project? We offer one-on-one guidance to help you get the most out of your machine — from basic stitching to advanced techniques.

  • Beginner sewing orientation
  • Machine setup & operation
  • Project troubleshooting
  • Custom guidance sessions
Main street view of Thief River Falls, Minnesota
Close-up of sewing machine parts and tools on a workbench
30+ Years of
Hands-On
Experience
About Don

A craftsman who remembers
your name when you walk in.

Don's Sewing & Vacuum Sales & Service isn't a franchise or a corporate store. It's a small shop on 1st Street East in Thief River Falls, and for more than three decades, it's been the place folks bring their machines when they want them done right.

Every machine that comes through the door gets personal attention. That means Don himself — not a call center, not an outsourced repair shop — looking at your specific problem, explaining what's going on in plain language, and doing the work carefully.

Whether you're a seasoned quilter with a finicky vintage machine, a parent whose vacuum gave out mid-cleanup, or someone just starting out and wondering which model makes sense — Don treats your business with the same respect he'd give his own family's.

Honest Diagnostics We tell you what's actually wrong — not what's most expensive to fix.
Transparent Pricing Clear estimates before any work begins. No surprise charges.
Community-First We've been serving rural Minnesota families for generations — your satisfaction matters.
Community Feedback

What our
neighbors are saying.

"

I brought in my grandmother's old Singer that hadn't run in years. Don not only got it working — he made it run better than I ever would've expected. I cried a little. Truly special work.

Margaret H. Thief River Falls, MN
"

My vacuum had lost all suction and every big-box store wanted to sell me a new one. Don diagnosed a sealed hose and a worn gasket, fixed it the same week, and charged a fraction of what a replacement would've cost.

Robert L. Thief River Falls, MN
"

As a beginner, I was overwhelmed by all the sewing machine options. Don sat down with me for 20 minutes, asked what I actually wanted to make, and pointed me to the perfect machine — no upselling, just good advice.

Sarah K. Thief River Falls, MN
Get In Touch

Got a machine that needs
some attention?

Stop by the shop, give us a call, or send an email — we're always happy to talk through what's going on with your machine before you commit to a repair. No judgment, no pressure.

Address 307 1st St E
Thief River Falls, MN 56701
Hours

Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Send Us a Message

Tell us about your machine and what's going on — we'll get back to you as soon as we can.

Message Sent!

Thanks for reaching out. Don will review your message and get back to you shortly — usually within one business day.

Find Us in Downtown Thief River Falls 307 1st St E — right in the heart of town, with easy parking out front.
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