385-17628890 Kenmore Sewing Machine Manual

The Kenmore 385-17628890 is a versatile household sewing machine featuring multiple stitch patterns, automatic needle threading, built-in buttonholer, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, drop feed for darning and quilting, built-in LED light, and easy stitch selection dial. Powered by 120V AC, this machine is ideal for beginners and experienced sewers alike. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection 7. Basic Sewing Operations 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Stitch selection dial, automatic needle threader, built-in buttonholer, free arm, drop feed mechanism, LED work light, foot pedal control.

Feature	Description
Stitch selection dial	Select from multiple built-in stitch patterns
Automatic needle threader	Easy threading with push-button mechanism
Built-in buttonholer	One-step automatic buttonhole function
Free arm capability	For sewing cuffs, sleeves, and other tubular items
Drop feed mechanism	For darning, quilting, and free-motion sewing
LED work light	Bright illumination of sewing area
Foot pedal control	Variable speed control for precise sewing
Stitch length dial	Adjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch width dial	Adjustable from 0-5mm for zigzag and decorative stitches
Reverse stitch button	For reinforcing seams

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Place on stable, flat surface.

Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from carrying case.
Install foot pedal: Connect to machine's pedal port.
Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet.
Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.
Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions in manual.
Thread machine: Use automatic needle threader or manual threading path.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always unplug when not in use.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test basic functions.

Select straight stitch: Turn stitch dial to straight stitch position.
Practice on scrap fabric: Use medium speed with foot pedal.
Test reverse stitching: Press and hold reverse button while sewing.
Adjust stitch length: Turn length dial to desired setting.
Test zigzag stitch: Turn stitch dial to zigzag position.

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Keep work area well-lit.

Specifications

Model: 385-17628890 Kenmore Sewing Machine
Stitch Patterns: 10+ built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch stitches
Stitch Length: Adjustable 0-4mm
Stitch Width: Adjustable 0-5mm
Buttonhole: One-step automatic
Needle System: 130/705 H household needles
Bobbin: Class 15 transparent bobbin
Lighting: Built-in LED work light
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
Warranty: Limited 25-year warranty

Controls and Settings

Main controls: Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse button, bobbin winder.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select desired stitch pattern. Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter/longer stitches. Stitch Width: Adjust for narrower/wider zigzag. Reverse Stitch: Hold button to sew backwards. Bobbin Winder: Push bobbin to right to engage winding mechanism.

Stitch Selection

Available stitches include: Straight stitch, zigzag stitch, blind hem stitch, stretch stitches, decorative stitches.

Turn machine power on.
Rotate stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
Adjust stitch length and width as needed.
Test stitch on scrap fabric before sewing project.

Tip: Refer to stitch guide on machine for recommended settings for each stitch type.

Basic Sewing Operations

Step-by-step guide for common sewing tasks.

Straight stitching: Select straight stitch, adjust length, guide fabric evenly.
Zigzag stitching: Select zigzag, adjust width for finishing edges.
Buttonholes: Use one-step buttonholer with buttonhole foot.
Reverse stitching: Use at beginning and end of seams for reinforcement.
Free arm sewing: Remove accessory tray for sewing sleeves and cuffs.

WARNING! Never pull fabric while sewing; let feed dogs move fabric automatically.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Clean lint buildup: Use small brush to remove lint from bobbin area.
Oil moving parts: Use sewing machine oil as directed in manual.
Change needles regularly: Dull needles can damage fabric and machine.
Store properly: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Always unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.

Accessories

Included accessories: Assorted presser feet, bobbins, needles, seam ripper, brush, screwdriver.

Accessory	Use
All-purpose foot	General sewing
Zipper foot	Installing zippers
Buttonhole foot	Making buttonholes
Blind hem foot	Creating invisible hems
Class 15 bobbins	Bobbin thread storage

Warranty Information

Kenmore sewing machines come with limited 25-year warranty. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Does not cover damage from misuse, improper maintenance, or normal wear. For warranty service, contact Kenmore customer service with proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Machine not running	Power connection	Check power cord connection; ensure foot pedal is plugged in.
Thread breaking	Tension/needle issues	Rethread machine; check needle for damage; adjust tension.
Uneven stitches	Threading/tension	Rethread both top and bobbin threads; clean lint buildup.
Fabric not feeding	Feed dogs	Check if feed dogs are lowered; raise feed dogs for normal sewing.
Needle threader not working	Position/obstruction	Ensure needle is in highest position; check for thread obstruction.

Service: Contact Kenmore customer service for technical support and authorized repair centers.