Kenmore Sewing Machine Model 117 552 Manual

The Kenmore Sewing Machine Model 117 552 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine featuring multiple stitch patterns, built-in buttonholer, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, built-in light, reverse stitching, and drop feed for darning and quilting. Powered by 120V AC, this machine is designed for home sewing projects with easy-to-use controls and durable construction. Below are key sections for 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: Mechanical sewing machine with built-in stitches, free arm, stitch length/width controls, reverse lever, built-in light, and accessory storage.

Feature	Description
Stitch Patterns	Multiple built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, and decorative
Buttonholer	Built-in one-step buttonhole function
Stitch Length Control	Adjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch Width Control	Adjustable from 0-5mm
Free Arm	Removable extension table for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Reverse Stitch	Lever for reinforcing stitches
Drop Feed	For darning, quilting, and free-motion sewing
Built-in Light	Illuminates sewing area
Power Switch	Turns machine on/off
Foot Pedal	Controls sewing speed

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface at comfortable height.

Remove machine from packaging and place on sturdy table.
Attach power cord to machine and plug into 120V AC outlet.
Install foot pedal and position for comfortable access.
Attach standard sewing foot and needle.
Wind and install bobbin following threading diagram.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow threading guide.

Thread upper thread: Follow numbered path on machine.
Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, wind bobbin using bobbin winder.
Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
Pull up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn hand wheel toward you.
Select stitch: Turn stitch pattern dial to desired setting.
Test sew: Use scrap fabric to check tension and stitch quality.

CAUTION! Always turn hand wheel toward you only. Never force controls.

Specifications

Model: 117 552
Type: Mechanical Sewing Machine
Stitches: Multiple built-in patterns
Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable
Buttonhole: One-step automatic
Free Arm: Yes, with removable extension table
Light: Built-in sewing light
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
Weight: Approximately 15 lbs

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Stitch Selection: Turn pattern dial to select stitches. Stitch Length: Adjust with lever (0-4mm). Stitch Width: Adjust with dial (0-5mm). Reverse: Press lever for reinforcement. Feed Drop: Lower feed dogs for free motion sewing.

Tension Control: Adjust upper thread tension (1-9). Presser Foot Pressure: Adjust for different fabrics. Bobbin Winder: Located on hand wheel. Power/Light Switch: On/off control.

Stitch Selection

Available stitches include straight, zigzag, stretch, and decorative patterns.

Straight Stitch: For basic sewing (position 1)
Zigzag Stitch: For finishing edges and appliqué
Blind Hem: For nearly invisible hems
Elastic Stitch: For knit fabrics
Decorative Stitches: Multiple pattern options
Buttonhole: One-step automatic function

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading is essential for good stitch quality.

Upper Threading: Follow numbered guide - spool pin, thread guides, tension discs, take-up lever, needle.
Bobbin Winding: Place thread on spool pin, through bobbin winder tension, wind bobbin until full.
Bobbin Insertion: Remove bobbin case, insert bobbin with thread pulling counterclockwise.
Thread Pick-up: Hold upper thread, turn hand wheel to bring up bobbin thread.

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

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Clean lint from bobbin area after each project.
Oil moving parts monthly with sewing machine oil.
Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.
Replace needle regularly (every 8-10 hours of sewing).
Store covered when not in use.

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

Accessories

Standard accessories included with machine.

Accessory	Use
Standard Presser Foot	General sewing
Zipper Foot	Installing zippers
Buttonhole Foot	Making buttonholes
Darning Foot	Free motion sewing
Seam Ripper	Removing stitches
Needles	Assorted sizes
Bobbins	Extra bobbins
Brush	Cleaning lint

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards. Copyright © Kenmore; trademarks of Sears Brands, LLC. For support, contact Kenmore customer service or authorized service centers. This machine is designed for household use only.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Needle breaks	Wrong needle/bent needle	Replace needle; ensure correct insertion
Thread bunching	Improper threading/tension	Rethread completely; adjust tension
Skip stitches	Dull needle/wrong needle type	Replace needle; use correct needle for fabric
Machine won't run	Power/pedal issue	Check power cord; ensure pedal plugged in
Uneven stitches	Tension issues	Adjust upper and bobbin tension
Thread breaking	Tension too tight/old thread	Reduce tension; use quality thread

Service: Contact authorized Kenmore service center for repairs.

Support: Refer to local dealer or Kenmore customer service.