Kenmore Sewing Machine Manual 385 Free

The Kenmore Sewing Machine Model 385 is a versatile household sewing machine featuring multiple stitch patterns, automatic needle threading, built-in buttonholer, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, drop-in bobbin system, and variable speed control. This manual provides comprehensive guidance for setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Kenmore 385 sewing machine.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Free arm design, automatic needle threader, built-in stitch patterns, drop-in bobbin system, LED work light, foot pedal control.

Feature	Description
Stitch Patterns	Multiple built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, decorative
Automatic Needle Threader	Easy threading with built-in mechanism
Built-in Buttonholer	One-step automatic buttonhole function
Free Arm Capability	Removable extension table for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Drop-in Bobbin System	Top-loading bobbin with clear cover
Variable Speed Control	Adjustable sewing speed via foot pedal
Stitch Length/Width	Adjustable settings for customization
LED Work Light	Bright illumination of sewing area
Reverse Stitch	Built-in reverse stitching function
Accessory Storage	Built-in compartment for feet and accessories

Unpacking and Setup

Carefully unpack all components and place on stable surface.

Remove machine from packaging: Lift machine by base, not by handwheel.
Attach power cord: Plug into machine and wall outlet (120V AC).
Install foot pedal: Connect to machine port and place on floor.
Attach accessory tray: Slide into position if removable.
Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle flat side back.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care. Ensure stable work surface before operation.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup procedures.

Thread machine: Follow threading guide from spool to needle.
Wind bobbin: Use built-in bobbin winder with empty bobbin.
Insert bobbin: Place in bobbin case following directional arrows.
Select stitch: Choose basic straight stitch for initial testing.
Test sew: Use scrap fabric to practice stitching.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle during operation. Always turn off when threading.

Specifications

Model: Kenmore 385
Stitch Patterns: 10+ built-in stitches
Stitch Length: Adjustable 0-4mm
Stitch Width: Adjustable 0-5mm
Buttonholes: One-step automatic
Bobbin System: Top-loading drop-in
Needle System: Standard 15x1 household
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
Free Arm: Yes, with removable extension table
Warranty: Limited 25-year warranty

Controls and Settings

Access controls via front panel and dials. Main Controls: Power switch, stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch button.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select desired stitch pattern. Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter/longer stitches. Stitch Width: Adjust for zigzag and decorative stitches. Reverse: Hold button for reinforcement stitching.

Additional Features: Automatic needle threader lever, bobbin winder spindle, tension adjustment dial, presser foot pressure adjustment.

Threading and Bobbin

Proper threading ensures optimal stitch quality.

Raise needle to highest position using handwheel.
Place spool on spool pin and follow threading guide.
Use automatic needle threader: Push lever down and hook thread through needle.
Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, guide thread, engage winder.
Insert bobbin: Drop into case following directional arrows.

Tip: Always use same thread type in bobbin and top thread for best results.

Stitch Selection

Supports multiple stitch types for various fabrics and projects.

Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, adjustable length.
Zigzag Stitch: Seam finishing, appliqué, adjustable width/length.
Decorative Stitches: Multiple patterns for embellishment.
Buttonhole: One-step automatic function.
Blind Hem: For nearly invisible hemming.
Stretch Stitches: For knit fabrics.

WARNING! Always test stitch on scrap fabric before sewing project. Adjust tension as needed.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug machine before cleaning and maintenance.

Clean lint: Remove bobbin case and brush out lint buildup.
Oil machine: Apply sewing machine oil to designated points monthly.
Needle replacement: Change needle every 8-10 hours of sewing.
Exterior cleaning: Wipe with soft, dry cloth only.

CAUTION! Never use compressed air; it can force lint deeper into mechanism.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards for household sewing machines. Copyright © Kenmore; trademarks of Sears Brands, LLC. For technical support and service, visit www.kenmore.com or contact 1-800-469-4669. Made for household use only.

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 issues	Incorrect insertion/tension	Remove and reinsert bobbin; check bobbin case tension.
Machine jams	Lint buildup/thread tangle	Clean lint from bobbin area; remove tangled threads.
Uneven stitches	Tension problems	Adjust upper and bobbin tension; rethread both top and bobbin.

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes to reset electronic functions.

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