Kenmore 14 Stitch Sewing Machine Manual

The Kenmore 14 Stitch Sewing Machine is a versatile household sewing machine featuring 14 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. Suitable for beginners and experienced sewers alike, this machine handles various fabrics from delicate silks to heavy denim. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 14 built-in stitches, stitch length/width controls, reverse lever, free arm, built-in buttonholer, drop feed, built-in light, accessory storage.

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before operating your sewing machine.

1. Always unplug machine when not in use and before cleaning or maintenance.
2. Keep fingers away from moving parts and needle area.
3. Do not use bent or damaged needles.
4. Switch machine off when making adjustments to needle or presser foot.
5. Use proper extension cords rated for electrical appliances.

WARNING! Never operate machine with damaged cord or plug. Keep work area well-lit and free from obstructions.

Machine Setup

Unpack and assemble your sewing machine following these steps:

1. Remove all packaging materials and place machine on stable surface.
2. Attach foot control to machine and plug into power outlet.
3. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
4. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide thread through bobbin winder tension, press bobbin onto winder shaft.
5. Thread machine: Follow numbered threading guide on machine.
6. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.

CAUTION! Ensure machine is unplugged during setup to prevent accidental starting.

Specifications

• Stitches: 14 built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, stretch, blind hem, and decorative
• Stitch Length: Adjustable 0-4mm
• Stitch Width: Adjustable 0-5mm
• Buttonholes: One-step automatic
• Needle System: 15x1 household needles
• Bobbin: Front-loading class 15 transparent bobbin
• Presser Feet: Includes general purpose, zipper, buttonhole, and button sewing feet
• Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz
• Machine Dimensions: Standard portable sewing machine size
• Weight: Lightweight for easy transport and storage

Controls and Functions

Main controls located on front and side of machine:

Stitch Selection Dial: Turn to select desired stitch pattern (1-14).

Stitch Length Dial: Controls length of stitches (0-4mm).

Stitch Width Dial: Controls width of zigzag and decorative stitches (0-5mm).

Reverse Stitch Lever: Hold down to sew in reverse for reinforcement.

Bobbin Winder: Located on top right for winding bobbins.

Handwheel: Manual control of needle position.

Power/Light Switch: Turns machine and built-in light on/off.

Threading the Machine

Proper threading is essential for good stitch quality:

1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
2. Place thread spool on spool pin.
3. Follow numbered threading guide: Through first thread guide, down to tension discs, up to take-up lever, down to needle.
4. Thread needle from front to back.
5. Pull about 4 inches of thread under presser foot toward back.
6. To draw up bobbin thread: Hold needle thread lightly, turn handwheel toward you until needle goes down and up, pull needle thread to bring bobbin thread up through needle plate.

Tip: Always thread machine with presser foot raised to open tension discs.

Stitch Selection Guide

Your machine offers 14 versatile stitches:

Buttonhole Stitch: Special position on dial for automatic one-step buttonholes.

Basic Sewing Techniques

Follow these steps for successful sewing:

1. Select appropriate stitch and settings for your fabric.
2. Place fabric under presser foot, lower presser foot lever.
3. Hold both threads to back when starting.
4. Gently press foot control to begin sewing.
5. Guide fabric gently; don't push or pull.
6. Use reverse stitch at beginning and end of seams.
7. Raise presser foot to remove fabric, cut threads.

Free Arm Sewing: Remove accessory storage to access free arm for sleeves and cuffs.

Drop Feed: Lower feed dogs for darning, quilting, or free-motion work.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance:

1. Unplug machine before cleaning.
2. Remove needle plate and clean lint from bobbin area with brush provided.
3. Oil machine as indicated in manual (usually 2-3 drops in bobbin area after extensive use).
4. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.
5. Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Never use compressed air to clean machine as it can force lint deeper into mechanism.

Troubleshooting

Service: For technical support, contact Kenmore customer service at 1-800-xxx-xxxx or visit www.kenmore.com