Kenmore Ultra Stitch 6 Sewing Machine Manual

The Kenmore Ultra Stitch 6 is a versatile sewing machine featuring 6 built-in stitches, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, reverse sewing function, built-in thread cutter, drop feed for darning and quilting, and built-in light. Powered by 120V AC, 60Hz. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Setup and Installation 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection Guide 7. Threading and 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 lever, bobbin winder, free arm, built-in light, foot pedal.

FeatureDescription
Stitch Selection DialSelects from 6 built-in stitches
Stitch Length ControlAdjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Stitch Width ControlAdjusts stitch width for zigzag stitches
Reverse LeverReinforces stitching at beginning/end
Bobbin WinderAutomatically winds bobbin
Free ArmRemovable extension table for cylindrical sewing
Built-in LightIlluminates sewing area
Foot PedalControls sewing speed
Built-in ButtonholerCreates perfect buttonholes automatically
Drop FeedLowers feed dogs for free-motion sewing

Setup and Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface.

  1. Remove machine from packaging and place on sturdy table.
  2. Attach foot pedal: Plug into machine's pedal port.
  3. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet.
  4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.
  5. Attach presser foot: Lower presser foot lever, snap foot into place.

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

First-Time Operation

Prepare machine for first use with practice fabric.

  1. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, thread through bobbin winder tension.
  2. Insert bobbin: Open bobbin cover, insert bobbin with thread unwinding clockwise.
  3. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading guide on machine.
  4. Select straight stitch: Turn stitch dial to position 1.
  5. Practice sewing: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, press pedal gently.

CAUTION! Always turn handwheel toward you; never force machine.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and top of machine.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 6 stitches. Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter/longer stitches. Stitch Width: Adjust zigzag width. Reverse: Hold lever for backstitching. Tension: Adjust thread tension dial (4-6 for normal fabrics).

Special Functions: Drop feed lever for free-motion work, bobbin winder stop for automatic winding, presser foot pressure adjustment for different fabrics.

Stitch Selection Guide

Six built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight Stitch (Position 1): Basic sewing, topstitching, basting
  2. Zigzag Stitch (Position 2): Seam finishing, appliqué, stretch fabrics
  3. Blind Hem Stitch (Position 3): Nearly invisible hems on garments
  4. Stretch Stitch (Position 4): Reinforced seams for knits and stretch fabrics
  5. Decorative Stitch 1 (Position 5): Scallop edge finishing
  6. Decorative Stitch 2 (Position 6): Multiple zigzag for elastic application

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

Threading and Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

  1. Upper Threading: Raise presser foot, follow numbered guide from spool to needle.
  2. Bobbin Winding: Place spool on pin, thread through guide, wind until automatic stop.
  3. Bobbin Insertion: Open cover, place bobbin with thread clockwise, pull thread through slot.
  4. Bring Up Bobbin Thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you until bobbin thread appears.

WARNING! Ensure presser foot is raised when threading to engage tension disks.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
  2. Weekly: Oil hook race and moving parts with sewing machine oil.
  3. Monthly: Clean tension disks 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 FootAutomatic buttonholes
Darning/Embroidery FootFree-motion work
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
Extra BobbinsAdditional thread colors
NeedlesVarious sizes for different fabrics

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Certified for safety standards. Copyright © 2006 Kenmore; trademarks of Sears Brands, LLC. For support, visit www.kenmore.com or contact 1-800-469-4669. This sewing machine complies with all applicable safety standards for household use.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skip stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric type.
Bobbin thread bunchingIncorrect bobbin insertionRemove and reinsert bobbin; ensure thread unwinds correctly.
Machine won't runPower/pedal issuesCheck power cord; ensure pedal is plugged in; check fuse.
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust upper and bobbin tension; clean tension disks.
Noise during operationLint/lack of oilClean and oil machine; check for loose parts.

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

Kenmore Ultra Stitch 6 Sewing Machine Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025