Kenmore Ultra Stitch 12 Sewing Machine Manual

The Kenmore Ultra Stitch 12 is a versatile 12-stitch sewing machine featuring built-in stitch patterns, automatic needle threader, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, built-in buttonholer, drop feed for free-motion sewing, and multiple presser feet. Powered by 120V AC, this machine is suitable for beginners and experienced sewers alike. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: 12 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, free arm, built-in buttonholer, drop feed mechanism, multiple presser feet.

Feature	Description
Built-in stitches	12 pre-programmed stitch patterns including straight, zigzag, and decorative
Automatic needle threader	Easy threading with push-button mechanism
Free arm capability	Removable extension table for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Built-in buttonholer	One-step automatic buttonhole function
Drop feed mechanism	Lowers feed dogs for free-motion sewing and quilting
Stitch length control	Adjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch width control	Adjustable from 0-5mm
Reverse stitch	Button for reinforcing stitches
Power switch	Turns machine on/off
Foot pedal	Variable speed control

Machine Setup

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

Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from carrying case.
Attach power cord: Plug into machine and wall outlet (120V AC).
Install foot pedal: Place on floor in comfortable position.
Attach extension table: Snap into place for flatbed sewing.
Install needle: Ensure flat side faces back, tighten screw securely.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow threading diagram.

Thread machine: Follow numbered path on machine; use automatic needle threader.
Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide through tension, wind onto bobbin.
Insert bobbin: Drop into bobbin case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
Select stitch: Turn pattern dial to desired stitch.
Test sew: Use scrap fabric to check tension and stitch quality.

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Keep hands clear of moving parts.

Specifications

Stitch Patterns: 12 built-in stitches
Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable
Needle System: HA-1 standard domestic needles
Bobbin: Class 15 transparent bobbin
Maximum Sewing Speed: 800 stitches per minute
Free Arm: Yes, with removable extension table
Buttonhole: One-step automatic
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
Machine Weight: 12.5 lbs

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine. Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch button.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 12 patterns (straight, zigzag, stretch, decorative). Stitch Length: 0-4mm (0 for darning, 4 for basting). Stitch Width: 0-5mm (0 for straight stitch, 5 for wide zigzag). Reverse: Hold button for backstitching. Tension Control: Adjust thread tension dial (3-5 for normal sewing).

Stitch Selection

12 built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, topstitching (position 1)
Zigzag Stitch: Seam finishing, appliqué (position 2)
Three-Step Zigzag: Stretch fabrics, mending (position 3)
Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hems (position 4)
Shell Stitch: Decorative edge finishing (position 5)
Multiple decorative stitches: Positions 6-12 for embellishment

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

Threading and Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
Place spool on spool pin, guide thread through tension discs.
Use automatic needle threader: Push lever down, hook thread, release.
Wind bobbin: Place on winder, guide thread, press pedal.
Insert bobbin: Drop into case, pull thread through slot.
Pull up bobbin thread: Hold needle thread, turn handwheel.

WARNING! Ensure machine is off when threading. Keep fingers away from needle.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Unplug machine before cleaning.
Remove needle plate: Brush out lint and dust.
Clean bobbin area: Use small brush to remove debris.
Oil moving parts: Use sewing machine oil sparingly.
Replace needle: After 8-10 hours of sewing or if damaged.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Do not use household oils.

Accessories

Included accessories for various sewing tasks.

Accessory	Use
All-purpose foot	General sewing
Zipper foot	Installing zippers
Buttonhole foot	Making buttonholes
Blind hem foot	Hemming garments
Seam ripper	Removing stitches
Brush	Cleaning lint
Additional needles	Various fabric types
Bobbin (extra)	Additional thread colors

Safety Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. Always disconnect power when changing needles, cleaning, or not in use. Keep hands away from moving parts. Use proper lighting. Store in dry location. Copyright © 2006 Kenmore; trademarks of Sears Brands LLC. For support, visit www.kenmore.com or contact 1-800-469-4663.

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 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 pedal is plugged in properly.
Uneven stitches	Tension issues	Adjust upper and bobbin tension; rethread both top and bottom.

Service: 1-800-469-4663; www.kenmore.com