kenmore 385 sewing machine manual pdf

The Kenmore 385 sewing machine is a versatile household sewing machine featuring multiple stitch patterns, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, drop feed for darning and quilting, built-in needle threader, top drop-in bobbin system, and variable speed control. 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 7. Threading and Bobbin 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main body with free arm, stitch selection dial, tension control, presser foot, bobbin case, power cord, foot pedal.

Feature	Description
Stitch patterns	Multiple built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, decorative
Buttonholer	Automatic one-step buttonhole function
Free arm	Removable extension table for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Drop feed	Feed dogs can be lowered for darning and free-motion quilting
Needle threader	Built-in automatic needle threading system
Bobbin system	Top drop-in bobbin with clear cover
Stitch length	Adjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch width	Adjustable up to 5mm for zigzag stitches
Speed control	Variable speed via foot pedal
Reverse stitch	Built-in reverse stitching function

Installation and Setup

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

Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from carrying case.
Attach power cord: Plug into machine and wall outlet.
Install foot pedal: Connect to machine and place on floor.
Attach extension table: Snap into place for flat sewing surface.
Insert needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.

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

First-Time Operation

Plug in machine and follow setup procedure.

Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, thread through bobbin winder tension.
Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread running counterclockwise.
Thread upper needle: Follow numbered threading path on machine.
Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
Test sew: Place fabric under presser foot and begin sewing slowly.

CAUTION! Always raise needle to highest position before removing fabric.

Specifications

Model: Kenmore 385
Stitches: 23 built-in stitches
Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable
Buttonholes: One-step automatic
Bobbin: Class 15 transparent top drop-in
Needle System: HAx1 standard domestic
Max Sewing Speed: 800 stitches per minute
Power Supply: 120V AC, 60Hz
Weight: 12.5 lbs

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine. Stitch Selection Dial: Rotate to choose stitch pattern. Stitch Length Dial: Adjust from 0-4mm. Stitch Width Dial: Adjust zigzag width 0-5mm. Tension Control: Adjust thread tension (3-5 normal setting). Reverse Stitch Button: Hold for reinforcement.

Additional Features: Presser Foot Pressure Dial, Drop Feed Lever, Needle Position Switch, Built-in Light, Power Switch.

Stitch Selection

23 built-in stitches including:

Straight Stitch: For basic sewing (position 1)
Zigzag Stitch: For finishing edges and appliqué
Blind Hem Stitch: For nearly invisible hems
Stretch Stitches: For knit fabrics
Decorative Stitches: For embellishment
Buttonhole Stitch: Automatic one-step

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

Threading and Bobbin

Upper Threading: Follow numbered path from spool pin to needle.

Place thread on spool pin
Pull thread through first thread guide
Draw thread between tension discs
Pull thread up and through take-up lever
Thread through remaining guides to needle
Use built-in needle threader if available

Bobbin Winding: Disengage clutch, wind bobbin evenly, reengage for sewing.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Clean lint buildup: Remove needle plate and clean bobbin area
Oil moving parts: Use sewing machine oil on hook race and other points
Check needle: Replace bent or dull needles immediately
Inspect power cord: Look for damage or fraying

CAUTION! Always unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.

Accessories

Standard accessories included:

General Purpose Foot
Zipper Foot
Buttonhole Foot
Blind Hem Foot
Bobbin (3 included)
Needles (assorted sizes)
Seam Ripper/Lint Brush
Screwdriver
Spool Caps

Warranty Information

Kenmore 385 sewing machine comes with limited warranty. For warranty service, contact authorized service center with proof of purchase. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for specified period from date of purchase. Normal wear, misuse, or unauthorized repairs not covered.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect threading/tension	Rethread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skip stitches	Wrong needle/damaged needle	Replace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric.
Bobbin thread bunching	Incorrect bobbin insertion	Remove and reinsert bobbin; check threading path.
Machine not running	Power/pedal issues	Check power connection; ensure foot pedal is plugged in properly.
Uneven stitches	Tension issues	Adjust upper and bobbin tension; clean tension discs.

Service: Contact authorized Kenmore service center for repairs.