Our History

World of Sewing - Bromley sewing machines

Beginning

The first branch of Bromley Sewing Machines (now World of Sewing) was opened in Bromley by Val Pinkerton in 1974. Val had spent many years in the sewing machine industry and relished the chance to start his own business. Customer care and satisfaction were at the heart of this business and giving customers that personal service and care which is still what we strive towards today.

The Second Generation

Val’s sons Garry and Richard joined the family business, and in 1988 they opened a store in South Croydon. Five years later they acquired fantastic new premises in Royal Tunbridge Wells. This new shop (formerly a Co-Op) is situated in the heart of Tunbridge Wells and is large enough to delight any sewing enthusiast. Filling it with sewing machines, fabric and all things sewing related the new name of World of Sewing was born. The business has gone from strength to strength, mainly from word of mouth, recommendations and returning customers who appreciate the service we offer.

We have also become a familiar face at many of the sewing exhibitions, local and further afield, including the Knitting and Stitching show which is held annually at Alexandra Palace, where we have exhibited since the show’s beginning in 1987.

Readjustment

We took the decision to close our shops at Bromley and Croydon and relocate the two into a new premises in Pratts Bottom which opened in 2012. This new store offers more choice, and with forecourt parking, it is easy for customers to visit, especially when bringing in or collecting sewing machines. So, from a one-man-band to a third-generation family business, we are one of the largest independent multi-brand domestic sewing machine specialists in the UK, and our Tunbridge Wells branch can boast the largest range of sewing aids in the southeast, and is an essential and much loved shop for many sewing, quilting and craft enthusiasts.