Kenmore Sewing Machine 19106 Manual

The Kenmore Sewing Machine 19106 is a versatile household sewing machine featuring multiple stitch patterns, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin system, and variable speed control. Suitable for beginners and experienced sewers alike, this machine handles various fabrics from lightweight silks to heavy denim. Below are key sections covering safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Stitch selection dial, stitch length control, stitch width control, reverse stitch button, bobbin winder, automatic needle threader, free arm, built-in light, foot pedal control.

FeatureDescription
Stitch PatternsBuilt-in stitches including straight, zigzag, stretch, and decorative
Automatic Needle ThreaderEasy threading with built-in mechanism
Drop-in BobbinTop-loading bobbin system with clear cover
Free ArmRemovable extension table for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Variable Speed ControlFoot pedal with adjustable sewing speed
Built-in ButtonholerOne-step automatic buttonhole function
Stitch Length ControlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch Width ControlAdjustable from 0-5mm
Reverse StitchButton for reinforcing stitches
Built-in LightLED illumination for work area

Installation & Setup

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

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from carrying case.
  2. Attach power cord: Plug into machine and wall outlet (120V AC).
  3. Install foot pedal: Connect to machine port and place on floor.
  4. Attach accessory tray: Slide into position on free arm.
  5. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during setup. Ensure machine is unplugged when installing needle.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow threading diagram.

  1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered guides from spool to needle.
  2. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through tension disc.
  3. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
  4. Select stitch: Turn dial to desired stitch pattern.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to check tension and stitch quality.

CAUTION! Always turn handwheel toward you. Never force the machine.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side panels. Stitch Selection Dial: Rotate to select stitch pattern. Stitch Length Dial: Adjust stitch length (0-4mm). Stitch Width Dial: Adjust zigzag width (0-5mm). Reverse Stitch Button: Hold for backstitching.

Additional Features: Automatic needle threader, bobbin winder stop, thread tension dial, presser foot pressure dial.

Settings: Upper thread tension (1-9), presser foot pressure (light to heavy fabrics), needle position (left, center, right).

Stitch Selection

Built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight Stitch: Position 1 - Basic sewing, topstitching
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Position 2 - Seam finishing, appliqué
  3. Stretch Stitch: Position 3 - Knits and stretch fabrics
  4. Blind Hem: Position 4 - Nearly invisible hems
  5. Decorative Stitches: Positions 5-10 - Various patterns
  6. Buttonhole: Special position - Automatic one-step

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

  1. Upper Threading: Raise presser foot, follow numbered guides from spool pin to needle.
  2. Automatic Needle Threader: Lower lever, hook thread through hook, raise lever.
  3. Bobbin Winding: Place spool on pin, thread through guides, wind bobbin until automatic stop.
  4. Bobbin Insertion: Remove accessory tray, drop bobbin in case with thread counterclockwise.
  5. Bring Up Bobbin Thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you until bobbin thread appears.

WARNING! Ensure presser foot is raised when threading to open tension discs.

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 or maintenance. Use only sewing machine oil.

Accessories

Included accessories for various sewing tasks.

AccessoryUse
All-Purpose FootGeneral sewing
Zipper FootInstalling zippers
Buttonhole FootMaking buttonholes
Blind Hem FootCreating invisible hems
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
Extra BobbinsAdditional thread colors
NeedlesVarious sizes for different fabrics

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL safety standards. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Copyright © Kenmore; trademarks of Sears Brands, LLC. For technical support, contact 1-800-469-4669 or visit www.kenmore.com. Made for household use only.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skip stitchesWrong needle/bent needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric type.
Bobbin thread bunchingIncorrect bobbin threadingRemove and reinsert bobbin; check bobbin case.
Machine not feedingFeed dogs loweredRaise feed dogs; clean feed dog area.
Noisy operationLint buildup/needs oilingClean lint from bobbin area; oil moving parts.
Needle breaksWrong needle size/bent needleUse correct needle size; ensure needle is straight.

Reset: Unplug machine for 30 seconds if electronic issues occur.

Service: 1-800-469-4669; www.kenmore.com

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