Kenmore 117 959 Sewing Machine Manual

The Kenmore 117 959 is a versatile household sewing machine featuring multiple stitch patterns, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, reverse stitching, and variable speed control. This manual covers essential information for setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your sewing machine.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking and Setup 3. Basic Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Stitch Selection 7. Threading and Bobbin 8. Maintenance 9. Accessories 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Stitch pattern selector, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch lever, bobbin winder, free arm, built-in light, foot pedal control.

Feature	Description
Stitch Patterns	Multiple built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, and decorative
Stitch Length Dial	Adjustable from 0-4mm for different fabric types
Stitch Width Dial	Adjustable zigzag width up to 5mm
Reverse Stitch Lever	For reinforcing seams at beginning and end
Free Arm	Removable storage compartment for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Built-in Buttonholer	One-step automatic buttonhole function
Bobbin Winder	Automatic bobbin winding with stop mechanism
Variable Speed Control	Foot pedal with adjustable sewing speed
Built-in Light	LED illumination for work area
Presser Feet	Includes zipper foot, buttonhole foot, and general purpose foot

Unpacking and Setup

Carefully unpack all components and inspect for damage.

Remove machine from packaging: Lift from carrying case using handles.
Set up work area: Place on stable, flat surface with adequate lighting.
Install foot pedal: Connect to machine's power port.
Power connection: Plug into standard 120V AC outlet.
Attach accessories: Install presser foot and thread spool pin.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use both hands when lifting. Ensure stable surface to prevent tipping.

Basic Operation

Power on machine; familiarize yourself with basic functions.

Thread the machine: Follow threading diagram on machine body.
Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder and follow winding procedure.
Select stitch: Turn pattern selector to desired stitch.
Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width according to fabric.
Begin sewing: Place fabric under presser foot and depress foot pedal.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from moving needle. Always turn off when not in use.

Specifications

Model: Kenmore 117 959
Stitch Patterns: 12 built-in stitches
Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable
Speed: Variable control up to 800 stitches per minute
Bobbin: Front-loading rotary bobbin system
Needle System: 15x1 household needles
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
Weight: Approximately 15 lbs
Warranty: 25-year limited warranty

Controls and Functions

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

Additional Controls: Power switch, foot pedal speed control, presser foot lever, hand wheel, thread tension dial.

Stitch Selection: Turn pattern dial to select straight, zigzag, stretch, or decorative stitches. Tension Control: Adjust thread tension dial (3-9 range) for different fabrics. Reverse Stitching: Hold reverse lever for backstitching. Bobbin Winding: Push bobbin winder to right position and depress foot pedal.

Stitch Selection

Choose appropriate stitches for different sewing projects.

Straight Stitch: For basic seams and topstitching (position 1)
Zigzag Stitch: For finishing edges and stretch fabrics (position 2)
Blind Hem Stitch: For invisible hemming (position 4)
Decorative Stitches: For embellishments (positions 5-8)
Buttonhole Stitch: Automatic one-step buttonholes (position 9)

Tip: Test stitches on scrap fabric before starting your project.

Threading and Bobbin

Proper threading is essential for smooth operation.

Raise needle to highest position using hand wheel.
Place spool on pin and follow threading path marked on machine.
Thread through tension discs and take-up lever.
Insert thread through needle eye from front to back.
Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through guide, and depress foot pedal.
Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread pulling counterclockwise.

WARNING! Always turn power off when threading needle or changing bobbin.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Daily: Clean lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
Weekly: Oil moving parts with sewing machine oil (2-3 drops).
Monthly: Check needle for damage and replace if bent or dull.
As needed: Clean exterior with soft, dry cloth.

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

Accessories

Included accessories: Zipper foot, buttonhole foot, general purpose foot, seam ripper, lint brush, needles, bobbins, screwdriver.

Additional available accessories: Walking foot, quilting guide, edge stitching foot, blind hem foot.

Safety Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards for household sewing machines. Always disconnect power when not in use. Keep hands away from moving parts. Use proper lighting. Store in dry location away from children.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Needle breaks	Wrong needle/bent needle	Replace with correct needle type; ensure straight insertion.
Thread bunching	Incorrect threading/tension	Re-thread machine; adjust tension; check bobbin.
Machine won't run	Power/pedal issue	Check power connection; ensure foot pedal is plugged in.
Uneven stitches	Tension/thread issues	Adjust thread tension; use same weight thread top and bottom.
Fabric not feeding	Feed dogs lowered	Raise feed dogs; clean lint from feed dog area.
Skip stitches	Dull needle/wrong needle	Replace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric type.

Service: For technical support, contact Kenmore at 1-800-426-9225 or visit www.kenmore.com