Instruction Manual for Kenmore 12 Stitch Sewing Machine

The Kenmore 12 Stitch Sewing Machine is a versatile household sewing machine featuring 12 built-in stitches, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, reverse stitching, drop feed for darning and quilting, built-in light, and easy threading system. Powered by 120V AC, this machine is ideal for basic sewing, mending, and creative projects. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection Guide 7. Threading and Bobbin 8. Maintenance and Care 9. Safety Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 12 built-in stitches, stitch length/width dials, reverse lever, free arm, built-in buttonholer, drop feed, built-in light, foot pedal control.

Feature	Description
12 Built-in Stitches	Includes straight, zigzag, stretch, and decorative stitches
Stitch Length Dial	Adjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Stitch Width Dial	Adjusts zigzag width from 0-5mm
Reverse Stitch Lever	Reinforces stitch beginnings and endings
Free Arm	For sewing cuffs, sleeves, and other tubular items
Built-in Buttonholer	One-step automatic buttonholes
Drop Feed	Lowers feed dogs for darning and free-motion quilting
Built-in Light	Illuminates sewing area
Foot Pedal	Controls sewing speed
Spool Pins	Horizontal and vertical positions for different thread types

Installation and Setup

Unpack and inspect all components. Place on stable, level surface.

Remove machine from packaging and remove all protective materials.
Attach foot pedal: Plug into machine's foot pedal port.
Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet (120V AC).
Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions in threading section.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test basic functions.

Thread machine: Follow numbered threading guide on machine.
Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in bobbin case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
Select stitch: Turn stitch selector to desired stitch pattern.
Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width as needed.
Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality and tension.
Practice reverse: Use reverse lever to reinforce stitches.

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Keep hands clear of moving parts.

Specifications

Stitches: 12 built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch
Stitch Length: Adjustable 0-4mm
Stitch Width: Adjustable 0-5mm for zigzag stitches
Buttonholes: One-step automatic
Free Arm: Yes, for tubular sewing
Feed Dogs: Drop feed capability
Lighting: Built-in LED light
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
Speed Control: Foot pedal operated
Warranty: 25-year limited warranty

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selector dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch lever.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 12 built-in stitches. Stitch Length: Controls distance between stitches (0-4mm). Stitch Width: Adjusts zigzag width (0-5mm). Reverse: Hold lever for backward stitching. Bobbin Winder: Located on top of machine. Tension Dial: Adjusts upper thread tension (1-9). Presser Foot Lever: Raises and lowers presser foot.

Stitch Selection Guide

Choose appropriate stitch for your sewing project.

Stitch Number	Stitch Type	Recommended Use
1	Straight Stitch	Basic sewing, seams, topstitching
2	Zigzag Stitch	Finishing edges, appliqué, stretch fabrics
3	3-Step Zigzag	Elastic application, decorative work
4	Blind Hem Stitch	Nearly invisible hems
5	Stretch Stitch	Knits and stretch fabrics
6	Decorative Stitch 1	Embellishment, decorative seams
7	Decorative Stitch 2	Creative projects, quilting
8	Buttonhole Stitch	Automatic one-step buttonholes

Threading and Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
Place spool on spool pin, thread through first guide.
Follow numbered threading path on machine.
Thread take-up lever from right to left.
Thread needle from front to back.
Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through tension disc, press winder to engage.
Insert bobbin: Drop into bobbin case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
Pull bobbin thread up through needle plate.

Tip: Always use same thread type in bobbin and needle for best results.

Maintenance and Care

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Clean lint from bobbin area after each project.
Oil moving parts monthly with sewing machine oil.
Change needles regularly (every 8-10 hours of sewing).
Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.
Store foot pedal and accessories in designated compartment.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Use only recommended sewing machine oil.

Safety Information

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury.

Keep fingers away from needle area during operation
Unplug machine when not in use, during threading, or when changing needles
Do not place anything on foot pedal when not in use
Use proper lighting to see sewing area clearly
Keep machine away from water and moisture
Supervise children when machine is in use
Use only authorized accessories and parts

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect threading/tension	Rethread machine; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle
Skip stitches	Wrong needle/damaged needle	Replace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric
Uneven stitches	Tension issues	Adjust upper and bobbin tension; rethread
Machine jams	Thread buildup	Remove bobbin case; clean lint; rethread carefully
No power	Power connection	Check power cord; ensure foot pedal is connected
Poor buttonholes	Stabilizer needed	Use stabilizer; check stitch width setting

Service: For technical support, contact Kenmore at 1-800-426-9226 or visit www.kenmore.com