Kenmore Ultra Stitch 8 Sewing Machine Manual

The Kenmore Ultra Stitch 8 is a versatile sewing machine featuring 8 built-in stitches, automatic needle threading, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, drop feed for darning and quilting, built-in light, reverse sewing function, and easy stitch selection dial. Powered by 120V AC, this machine is ideal for beginners and experienced sewers alike. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, and maintenance.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection Guide 7. Threading Instructions 8. Maintenance and Care 9. Accessories 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Stitch selection dial, tension control, bobbin winder, free arm, built-in light, foot pedal, accessory storage.

Feature	Description
Stitch selection dial	Selects from 8 built-in stitches
Tension control dial	Adjusts thread tension for different fabrics
Bobbin winder	Automatically winds bobbin
Free arm capability	For sewing sleeves and cuffs
Built-in light	Illuminates sewing area
Foot pedal	Controls sewing speed
Reverse lever	Reinforces stitches at beginning and end
Drop feed	For darning and free-motion quilting
Automatic needle threader	Easy needle threading
Built-in buttonholer	Creates perfect buttonholes

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Place on stable surface.

Remove machine from packaging and remove all protective materials.
Attach foot pedal to machine and plug into power outlet.
Install needle according to instructions in manual.
Wind bobbin and thread machine following threading guide.
Test machine on scrap fabric before beginning projects.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup procedure.

Select straight stitch: Turn dial to straight stitch position.
Set stitch length: Adjust to medium setting (2.5) for general sewing.
Thread machine: Follow threading path indicated on machine.
Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case following directional arrows.
Test sew: Use scrap fabric to check tension and stitch quality.

CAUTION! Always use proper needle for fabric type. Change needle regularly.

Specifications

Stitches: 8 built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, and decorative
Stitch Length: Adjustable 0-4mm
Stitch Width: Adjustable 0-5mm
Speed: Up to 800 stitches per minute
Needle System: Standard 15x1 needles
Bobbin: Class 15 transparent bobbin
Presser Feet: Standard, zipper, buttonhole feet included
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
Weight: 12.5 lbs
Warranty: 25-year limited warranty

Controls and Settings

Main controls: Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse lever, bobbin winder.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from 8 stitches: straight, zigzag, stretch, blind hem, decorative stitches.

Stitch Length: Adjust from 0 (darning) to 4 (basting). Stitch Width: Adjust zigzag and decorative stitch width. Tension Control: Adjust for different fabric types. Reverse: Hold lever for reinforcing stitches.

Stitch Selection Guide

Eight built-in stitches for various sewing applications.

Straight Stitch: General sewing, topstitching
Zigzag Stitch: Finishing edges, appliqué
Three-Step Zigzag: Stretch fabrics, mending
Blind Hem Stitch: Nearly invisible hems
Stretch Stitch: Knits and stretch fabrics
Decorative Stitch 1: Shell stitch for edges
Decorative Stitch 2: Scallop for trims
Decorative Stitch 3: Honeycomb for quilting

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

Threading Instructions

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
Place spool on spindle and follow threading path.
Use automatic needle threader: Push lever down and hook thread through eye.
Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, guide thread, press pedal.
Insert bobbin: Follow directional arrows for proper placement.
Pull up bobbin thread: Hold needle thread, turn handwheel toward you.

WARNING! Ensure machine is unplugged during threading and maintenance.

Maintenance and Care

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Clean lint from bobbin area after each project.
Oil moving parts as indicated in manual (every 3-6 months).
Change needles regularly (every 8-10 hours of sewing).
Use compressed air to remove dust from internal mechanisms.
Store covered when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

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

Accessories

Included accessories for various sewing tasks.

Accessory	Use
Standard Presser Foot	General sewing
Zipper Foot	Installing zippers
Buttonhole Foot	Creating buttonholes
Darning Plate	Free-motion sewing
Seam Ripper	Removing stitches
Needles (assorted)	Different fabric types
Bobbins (4)	Thread storage
Screwdriver	Needle plate removal
Brush	Lint removal

Warranty Information

25-year limited warranty covering mechanical parts. Warranty does not cover needles, belts, light bulbs, or damage from misuse. For warranty service, contact authorized Kenmore service center. Keep original receipt as proof of purchase. Warranty valid only in United States and Canada.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect threading/tension	Rethread machine; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skipped stitches	Wrong needle/damaged needle	Replace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric type.
Machine jams	Thread buildup/poor quality thread	Clean bobbin area; use quality thread; remove jammed thread.
Uneven stitches	Incorrect tension	Adjust upper and bobbin tension; rethread completely.
No power	Power connection/foot pedal	Check power cord; ensure foot pedal is connected properly.
Needle breaks	Wrong needle/bent needle	Replace needle; ensure needle is inserted correctly.
Fabric not feeding	Feed dogs lowered	Raise feed dogs; check stitch length setting.

Service: Contact authorized Kenmore service center for repairs.

Support: 1-800-426-4765; www.kenmoresewing.com