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Sew Cranky storefront

Sew Cranky

5.0(14 reviews)

Address

322 Quincy St, Hancock, Michigan, 49930

Contact & Hours
Monday1-6PM
Tuesday1-6PM
Wednesday1-6PM
Thursday1-6PM
Friday1-6PM
Saturday1-6PM
SundayClosed
Location
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About This Store

Sew Cranky is a specialty store in Hancock, Michigan that showcases a remarkable collection of original, late 19th and early 20th century hand-crank and treadle sewing machines. Located in a restored 1880s building at 322 Quincy Street, the store provides visitors the rare opportunity to personally operate these historical marvels.

Open Monday through Saturday from 1 PM to 6 PM, Sew Cranky features a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, making it easy for all customers to access. Beyond simply browsing the antique sewing machines, the store also offers sewing machine restoration, repair, and educational workshops where visitors can learn about the fascinating history and mechanics of these vintage wonders.

What sets Sew Cranky apart is the hands-on, interactive experience it provides. Customers consistently praise the "fun" and "engaging" opportunity to operate the antique sewing machines, guided by the store's knowledgeable and passionate owners. Ginger Alberti, a professional seamstress skilled in creating 1860s-era clothing, shares her expertise and enthusiasm, ensuring every visitor leaves with a deeper appreciation for the evolution of sewing technology.

Visitors can explore Sew Cranky's collection of pristine, fully-functional treadle machines from the 1890s or try their hand at a hand-crank model from the 1930s. Many have discovered unexpected treasures, such as a pristine 1902 Singer Vibrating Shuttle or a seldom-seen 1947 Necchi Supernova. The owners' commitment to preserving these antique wonders and sharing their stories creates a truly memorable experience.

Beyond the store's remarkable inventory, Hancock itself offers a wealth of attractions for visitors to explore. Nestled along the picturesque Keweenaw Waterway, the city boasts a vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and ample outdoor recreation opportunities. After browsing Sew Cranky's collection, customers can stroll the scenic Hancock Waterfront Park, dine at one of the local restaurants, or discover the region's rich mining heritage at the Quincy Mine Hoist Association.

For those seeking a unique and enriching shopping adventure, Sew Cranky in Hancock, Michigan is a must-visit destination. Customers consistently describe the store as a "hidden gem" and "one-of-a-kind experience," praising the owners' passion, the store's exceptional inventory, and the opportunity to connect with the past through the operation of these antique sewing machines.

Customer Reviews
5.0

14 reviews

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Grace

Grace

Such a fun place to take a break from studying all of the time and do a creative project. Very kind a patient teachers. A fun projects!

James Besser

James Besser

Wasn't there But enjoy the website

Fuzzybeanerizer

Fuzzybeanerizer

My wife is the sewing nut in the family, but I love old machinery of any kind so I think this is a really cool place -- sort of like a museum where you can personally operate the machines on display. Historically speaking, the firearm industry played the greatest role early on in popularizing interchangeable parts, but the sewing machine and bicycle industries were also important in preparing America to become a manufacturing giant and "arsenal of democracy" later on. These were the first three types of relatively complex machine that the average person was likely to buy. One can still admire the ingenuity of these old mechanical sewing machines, where cleverly designed cams and levers seem to work magic.

Chris Gaffron

Chris Gaffron

Everyone needs to check out this wonderful store. Very friendly knowledgeable owners. Had such a wonderful time!

CM McLaughlin

CM McLaughlin

This place helps me recall my grandmother lovingly sewing clothes for our family. The owners' passion for creating art on their antique hand-cranked sewing machines lets me feel my grandmother's spirit. They provide sewing lessons and sell incredible one-of-a-kind items.

Christine Hicks

Christine Hicks

Amazing shop and the couple running it is super knowledgeable

David Hunter

David Hunter

Ginger and Mike are fantastic! I've made a couple of projects here and recommended others, too. Mike completely renovated my old Singer and is very knowledgeable. You'll always find a friendly face and may even go home with one of their beautiful hand crank sewing machines.

Bonnie Holland

Bonnie Holland

Great service and repair of my sewing machine! Thank you!

Laura Bartoszek

Laura Bartoszek

Love this place. Such a unique experience. I learned how to sew on an antique hand-crank sewing machine.

Puti Ceniza Akbar

Puti Ceniza Akbar

It is rather a spontaneous visit to this store and turns out so so so lovely place! This is my first time using an antique hand-crank sewing machine and Ginger patiently teach me how to do it! I (we) made a coaster with only $3 30 minutes workshop. Thank you Ginger for the conversation and your passion inspired me!

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