Kenmore 12 Sewing Machine Manual

The Kenmore 12 Sewing Machine is a versatile mechanical sewing machine featuring 12 built-in stitches, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, built-in light, reverse stitching, drop feed for free-motion sewing, and built-in thread cutter. Powered by 120V AC, 60Hz. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing head, stitch selection dial, stitch length control, stitch width control, reverse stitch lever, free arm, built-in light, foot pedal control.

FeatureDescription
Stitch Selection DialSelects from 12 built-in stitches
Stitch Length ControlAdjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Stitch Width ControlAdjusts stitch width for zigzag stitches
Reverse Stitch LeverReinforces stitches at beginning and end
Free ArmRemovable accessory compartment for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Built-in LightIlluminates sewing area
Foot PedalControls sewing speed
Built-in ButtonholerCreates perfect buttonholes in one step
Drop FeedLowers feed dogs for free-motion sewing
Built-in Thread CutterConvenient thread cutting on machine

Setup and Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable, level surface.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from carrying case.
  2. Position machine: Place on sturdy table or sewing cabinet.
  3. Install foot pedal: Connect to machine and place on floor.
  4. Plug into AC power: Use included power cord.
  5. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.
  6. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care using both hands. Ensure stable surface placement.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup procedures.

  1. Thread machine: Follow threading diagram on machine.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in bobbin case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  3. Test stitches: Use scrap fabric to test different stitches.
  4. Adjust tension: Start with tension setting 4 and adjust as needed.
  5. Practice speed control: Use foot pedal to control sewing speed.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from moving needle. Always turn off when threading or changing needle.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length control, stitch width control, reverse stitch lever, bobbin winder.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select desired stitch pattern (1-12). Stitch Length: Adjust from 0 (basting) to 4 (long stitches). Stitch Width: Adjust zigzag width from 0-5mm. Reverse: Hold lever to sew in reverse for reinforcement. Tension Control: Adjust thread tension dial (0-9).

Stitch Selection Guide

Guide to 12 built-in stitches and their applications.

Stitch #TypeRecommended Use
1Straight StitchBasic sewing, seams
2Zigzag StitchFinishing edges, appliqué
3Three-Step ZigzagStretch fabrics, mending
4Blind HemNearly invisible hems
5Shell StitchDecorative edges
6Multiple ZigzagElastic application
7Overcast StitchPreventing fraying
8Stretch StitchKnits and stretch fabrics
9Decorative 1Embroidery, decoration
10Decorative 2Creative projects
11ButtonholeAutomatic buttonholes
12DarningMending holes, free motion

Basic Sewing Operations

Step-by-step instructions for common sewing tasks.

  1. Straight Stitching: Select stitch 1, set length 2.5-3, begin sewing.
  2. Zigzag Stitching: Select stitch 2, adjust width as needed.
  3. Buttonholes: Select stitch 11, use buttonhole foot, follow markings.
  4. Reverse Stitching: Hold reverse lever at beginning and end of seams.
  5. Free Arm Sewing: Remove accessory compartment for sleeves and cuffs.
  6. Bobbin Winding: Place spool on pin, thread through guides, wind bobbin.
  7. Needle Changing: Turn power off, loosen needle clamp, replace needle.

WARNING! Always disconnect power when changing needles or performing maintenance.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
  2. Weekly: Oil moving parts with sewing machine oil (2-3 drops).
  3. Monthly: Clean tension discs with folded fabric or dental floss.
  4. As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.

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

Accessories

Included accessories and their uses.

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for sewing machine operation.

WARNING! Serious injury may occur if safety precautions are not followed.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Needle breaksWrong needle, bent needle, improper insertionReplace needle, ensure proper insertion
Thread bunchingImproper threading, tension issuesRethread machine, adjust tension
Machine won't runPower issue, foot pedal connectionCheck power cord, ensure pedal connected
Uneven stitchesTension problems, needle issuesAdjust tension, replace needle
Thread breakingTension too tight, old threadLoosen tension, use fresh thread
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs lowered, presser foot pressureRaise feed dogs, adjust pressure
Skip stitchesDull needle, wrong needle typeReplace needle with correct type
Noisy operationLint buildup, needs oilingClean and oil machine

Service: For technical support, contact Kenmore customer service at 1-800-426-9223 or visit www.kenmoresewing.com

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