Manual for a Sears Kenmore Sewing Machine Model 148.12191

The Sears Kenmore Sewing Machine Model 148.12191 is a versatile household sewing machine featuring multiple stitch patterns, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, reverse stitching, and variable speed control. This manual covers safety instructions, machine features, setup, threading, basic operations, maintenance, and troubleshooting for optimal performance.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Threading the Machine 7. Basic Sewing Operations 8. Maintenance and Cleaning 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Stitch pattern selector, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse lever, bobbin winder, tension control, presser foot, free arm.

Feature	Description
Stitch Pattern Selector	Selects from multiple built-in stitch patterns
Stitch Length Dial	Adjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Stitch Width Dial	Adjusts zigzag stitch width from 0-5mm
Reverse Lever	Enables reverse stitching for securing seams
Bobbin Winder	Automatically winds bobbin with thread
Tension Control	Adjusts upper thread tension for balanced stitches
Presser Foot	Holds fabric in place during sewing
Free Arm	Removable extension for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Built-in Buttonholer	Creates perfect buttonholes automatically
Variable Speed Control	Foot pedal controls sewing speed

Installation and Setup

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

Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from carrying case.
Position machine: Place on sturdy table with adequate workspace.
Connect foot pedal: Plug into machine's pedal port.
Connect power: Plug power cord into electrical outlet.
Install accessories: Attach presser foot, insert needle properly.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup procedures.

Thread upper thread: Follow threading guide printed on machine.
Wind bobbin: Place bobbin on winder, guide thread through tension disc.
Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
Select stitch: Turn pattern selector to desired stitch.
Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test tension and stitch quality.

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Use proper needle for fabric type.

Specifications

Model: Sears Kenmore 148.12191
Stitch Patterns: Straight, zigzag, stretch, decorative stitches
Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable
Buttonholes: 4-step automatic buttonholer
Bobbin: Class 15 vertical oscillating hook
Needle System: 15x1 household needles
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
Free Arm: Yes, removable flat bed
Weight: Approximately 15 lbs

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: Stitch pattern selector, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse lever.

Additional Controls: Bobbin winder stop, tension dial, presser foot lever, hand wheel.

Stitch Selection: Turn pattern dial to select straight, zigzag, stretch, or decorative stitches. Stitch Length: Adjust for fabric type (shorter for delicate, longer for heavy). Stitch Width: Control zigzag width for decorative effects. Tension: Adjust for balanced stitches (higher numbers for tighter tension). Reverse: Hold lever for backstitching at seam ends.

Threading the Machine

Upper Thread: Follow numbered guide from spool pin to needle.

Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
Place thread spool on spool pin.
Guide thread through first thread guide.
Pull thread down and through tension discs.
Thread take-up lever from right to left.
Guide through remaining thread guides.
Thread needle from front to back.

Tip: Always thread with presser foot raised to open tension discs.

Basic Sewing Operations

Supports various fabrics and sewing techniques.

Straight Stitch: Select straight stitch pattern, adjust length as needed.
Zigzag Stitch: Select zigzag, adjust width for finishing edges.
Buttonholes: Use 4-step buttonholer with special foot.
Reverse Stitching: Hold reverse lever to secure seam ends.
Free Arm Sewing: Remove extension for sleeves and cuffs.
Gathering: Use longer stitch length with tight upper tension.
Blind Hem: Use blind hem stitch with special foot.
Decorative Stitches: Select pattern and practice on scrap fabric.

WARNING! Never pull fabric through machine - let feed dogs move fabric.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Unplug before maintenance. Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance.

Remove needle plate: Clean lint from feed dogs and bobbin area.
Oil moving parts: Use sewing machine oil on hook race and moving parts.
Change needle regularly: Replace after 8-10 hours of sewing.
Check belt tension: Ensure proper motor belt tension.
Store properly: Cover machine when not in use.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil. Never use household oils.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards for household sewing machines. Copyright © Sears Brands, LLC. For technical support, contact Sears Parts & Repair at 1-800-469-4663 or visit www.searspartsdirect.com. 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 for fabric type.
Bobbin thread bunching	Incorrect bobbin insertion	Remove and reinsert bobbin; check bobbin case.
Machine not feeding fabric	Feed dogs lowered/dirty	Raise feed dogs; clean feed dog area of lint.
Uneven stitches	Tension imbalance	Adjust upper and bobbin tension; rethread both.
Machine noisy	Lack of oil/lint buildup	Clean and oil machine; check for loose parts.
Needle breaks	Wrong needle/bent needle	Replace needle; ensure needle is inserted correctly.

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes to reset electronic components.

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