“We've been very encouraged by seeing even grandparents coming in to get machines ready for their grandchildren, encouraging the generations ahead to also expand in this craft.”
That’s what Marge Redekopp, co-owner of Triple-S Sewing Machines with her husband Corny, says about the pair’s new family-run business in Winkler that is about to celebrate its grand opening on April 15th.
The establishment is about more than selling machines — it strives to connect a new generation with the traditional craft of sewing and offer the community a means of relaxation through a timeless activity.
It does so with all the benefits of modern technology, the most trusted brands, and pursuing out-of-province technical training on sewing machine use and repair.
Years of expertise, a family-run store
It all began when Marge and Corny met with the chance to provide premium sewing machines to the community.
For Marge, her experience as a seamstress with Country Stitch and her love of sewing since childhood made the opportunity attractive. On Corny’s side, it was his affinity for and experience with the intricacies of machinery.
In the end, given the couple’s combined interests and skillsets, they jumped into action.
“This way we could work together as a team both doing what we enjoy,” says Marge.
For the Redekopps, it’s also a family affair.
“Our daughter Jenaiha and son Logan are with us there most of the time, and if we have to be away for [sewing machine] training, our daughter-in-law Rachel ... has also helped us keep the store open in the time that we’re gone,” says Marge.
The result is that whether one is a seasoned sewer tired of battling an old machine or a hobbyist looking for a new craft, shopping at Triple-S Sewing Machines has a friendly atmosphere that only a family-run establishment of passionate experts could create.
An invitation to give it a try
Triple-S Sewing Machines stocks models from PFAFF, Baby Lock, and Bernina. There are machines of all types — mechanical, electronic, sergers, quilters, and embroidery.
In the future, the store is hoping to carry long-arm quilting machines.
For now, whether one needs simple, classic equipment, or something that can facilitate elaborate creations, there is an option available at Triple-S Sewing Machines.
“We also have accessories for all those brands,” says Marge, adding that the store carries accessories for crafting sewing projects, too.
If you don’t see what you need, there’s a quick fix. Triple-S Sewing Machines can order anything required to complete a set-up.
Another added benefit of shopping with the Redekopps is that the regular policy of not touching in-store products doesn’t apply.
Instead, they have a “try before you buy” attitude.
“We have many sewing machines on the floor, and we encourage people to actually try the machines,” says Marge.
Fixing Machines
While Marge can help you find and test the perfect machine in the front of the store, Corny tends to be in the back working on one of the other valuable services that Triple-S provides: sewing machine repair.
Corny’s expertise shines.
He can troubleshoot and repair not only all the machines that the store stocks but also any make or model from outside the store. Another part of Corny’s job is ordering the necessary parts to complete the job.
Corny can also help with a service that addresses a problem every sewer knows well — dull scissors.
For a quick scissor sharpening, visit its storefront to ensure that each cut is crisp and clean.
‘A place to relax’
In the end, the services that Triple-S provide are inspired by Marge’s own experience with sewing.
“I needed a place to relax, and that's what sewing is for me — a place to relax,” she says. “That is also what we would like to offer to the community. Products and tools that can be available in order for them to also expand in the line of creativity and relaxation, and the feeling of accomplishment when you've actually completed your creation.”
A grand opening to remember
If you’d like to get a start on your next project, Triple-S Sewing Machines has the perfect invitation.
The store encourages the community to see its products for itself at its grand opening on Tuesday, April 15th, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Triple-S Sewing Machines is located in Winkler at 600B Memorial Drive between Tim Hortons and Hometown Ford.
“The first 25 people in the door will receive a little gift,” says Corny of the grand opening. “We'll be having some coffee and cinnamon buns and doughnuts.”
For those who miss the gift for the first 25, there will also be free draws to enter and a few different sales.
Some of the deals include 5% off everything in-store, including stackable savings on the current National Serger Month Sales. Triple-S Sewing Machines will be offering an unbeatable box-out sale on one select model as well as some bundling sales. The sale is only for a limited time — it ends on April 17th.
The grand opening will also feature representatives from Baby Lock and PFAFF to give demonstrations and answer any questions about products.
A bright future ahead
Although for now, the Redekopps are focussed on their grand opening, they also have some big hopes for the future.
The pair are considering offering sewing classes and special sewing events to allow local enthusiasts a space to hone their craft.
Keep your eye on Triple-S Sewing Machines — it has already begun to challenge what’s possible in the landscape of sewing in the Pembina Valley, and there’s more to come.
Click here to follow the store on Instagram.
