Kenmore 36 Sewing Machine Manual

The Kenmore 36 Sewing Machine is a versatile household sewing machine featuring 36 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, drop feed for darning and quilting, built-in LED light, reverse stitching function, and multiple presser feet. 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. Threading and Bobbin 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing machine head, foot pedal, power cord, accessory box with presser feet, bobbins, needles, and seam ripper.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitches36 different stitch patterns including straight, zigzag, and decorative
Automatic needle threaderEasy threading with push-button mechanism
Drop feed dogFor free-motion sewing and darning
Free armFor sewing cuffs and sleeves
Built-in buttonholerOne-step automatic buttonholes
LED work lightBright illumination of sewing area
Stitch length controlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch width controlAdjustable from 0-5mm
Reverse stitch buttonFor reinforcing seams
Power switchTurns machine on/off

Setup and Installation

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

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from carrying case.
  2. Connect foot pedal: Plug into machine's pedal port.
  3. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet.
  4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.
  5. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions in threading section.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup procedure.

  1. Thread machine: Follow threading path marked on machine.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in bobbin case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  3. Select basic stitch: Turn stitch selector to straight stitch position.
  4. Test on scrap fabric: Practice stitching on fabric scrap before beginning project.
  5. Adjust tension: Start with default setting (4), adjust if needed.

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

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse button, power switch.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to choose from 36 stitches (1-6: utility, 7-15: stretch, 16-36: decorative). Stitch Length: 0-4mm (0 for darning, 2-3 for general sewing). Stitch Width: 0-5mm (0 for straight stitch, 2-5 for zigzag). Tension: Adjust with tension dial (3-5 for most fabrics).

Stitch Selection Guide

Choose appropriate stitch for your fabric and project type.

  1. Straight Stitch (1-3): Basic sewing, topstitching, basting
  2. Zigzag Stitch (4-6): Seam finishing, appliqué, stretch fabrics
  3. Stretch Stitches (7-15): Knits, elastic, activewear
  4. Decorative Stitches (16-36): Embellishment, quilting, heirloom
  5. Buttonhole Stitch (B): Automatic one-step buttonholes

Tip: Always test stitch on fabric scrap before beginning project.

Threading and Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

  1. Raise needle: Turn handwheel to highest position.
  2. Place spool: Put thread on spool pin.
  3. Follow threading path: Through guides to take-up lever.
  4. Use needle threader: Push down lever to thread needle automatically.
  5. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, engage mechanism.
  6. Insert bobbin: Drop into case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  7. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold needle thread, turn handwheel once.

WARNING! Ensure machine is off when threading. Keep fingers clear of moving parts.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Clean lint: Remove needle plate and bobbin case, brush out lint.
  2. Oil machine: Apply sewing machine oil to moving parts as directed.
  3. Change needle: Replace after 8-10 hours of sewing or if damaged.
  4. Check belt: Ensure drive belt is intact and properly tensioned.

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

Accessories

Included accessories enhance machine capabilities.

AccessoryUse
Zigzag FootGeneral purpose sewing
Zipper FootInstalling zippers
Buttonhole FootMaking buttonholes
Button Sewing FootAttaching buttons
Blind Hem FootCreating invisible hems
Overcasting FootFinishing seam edges
Bobbins (4)Extra bobbins for different threads
Needles (5)Assorted needle sizes
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint

Warranty Information

Kenmore 36 Sewing Machine comes with 25-year limited warranty on mechanical parts and 5-year warranty on electrical components. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Does not cover damage from misuse, improper maintenance, or unauthorized repairs. For warranty service, contact authorized Kenmore service center with proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; reduce tension; check for burrs on needle.
Needle breakingBent needle/wrong sizeReplace needle; ensure correct size for fabric; don't pull fabric.
Skipped stitchesDull needle/wrong typeChange needle; use ballpoint for knits, sharp for wovens.
Bobbin thread bunchingIncorrect bobbin insertionRemove and reinsert bobbin; ensure thread unwinds correctly.
Machine won't startPower/pedal issuesCheck power cord; ensure pedal plugged in; check fuse.

Service: Contact authorized Kenmore service center. Customer support: 1-800-426-9225

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