Manual for Kenmore Sewing Machine 15202400

The Kenmore Sewing Machine 15202400 is a versatile household sewing machine featuring multiple stitch patterns, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, automatic needle threader, drop feed for darning and quilting, built-in LED light, reverse stitching, and variable speed control. Powered by 120V AC, this machine is ideal for basic sewing, repairs, and creative projects. Below are key sections covering features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking and Setup 3. Getting Started 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Stitch Selection 7. Threading and Bobbin 8. Maintenance 9. Safety Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main body with free arm, Stitch selection dial, Stitch length control, Stitch width control, Reverse stitch button, Bobbin winder, Automatic needle threader, Built-in LED light.

Feature	Description
Stitch patterns	Multiple built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, and decorative
Automatic needle threader	Easy threading with push-pull mechanism
Free arm	Removable accessory compartment for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Built-in buttonholer	One-step automatic buttonhole function
Drop feed	Lower feed dogs for darning and free-motion quilting
Variable speed control	Foot pedal with adjustable sewing speed
Reverse stitch	Button for reinforcing stitches at beginning and end
Built-in LED light	Illuminates sewing area
Stitch length control	Adjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch width control	Adjustable from 0-5mm

Unpacking and Setup

Carefully unpack all components and place on stable surface.

Remove machine from packaging: Lift machine by handle, remove protective materials.
Attach power cord: Plug into machine and wall outlet (120V AC).
Install foot pedal: Connect to machine port, place on floor.
Attach accessory box: Snap into position on free arm.
Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side toward back.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with both hands. Ensure stable work surface.

Getting Started

Power on machine; follow initial setup steps.

Thread machine: Follow threading guide printed on machine.
Wind bobbin: Place bobbin on winder, thread through tension disc.
Insert bobbin: Drop into bobbin case following directional arrow.
Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
Test sew: Use scrap fabric to check tension and stitch quality.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle during operation. Always turn off when not in use.

Specifications

Model: Kenmore 15202400
Stitch Patterns: 22 built-in stitches
Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable
Buttonholes: One-step automatic
Needle System: 15x1 household needles
Bobbin: Class 15 transparent
Lighting: Built-in LED
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
Weight: 12.5 lbs (5.7 kg)

Controls and Functions

Main controls located on front and top of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, Stitch length control, Stitch width control, Reverse stitch button, Bobbin winder, Power switch.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from straight, zigzag, stretch, and decorative stitches. Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter/longer stitches (0-4mm). Stitch Width: Adjust for narrow/wide zigzag (0-5mm). Reverse: Hold button to sew backward for reinforcement. Bobbin Winder: Push bobbin to right to engage winding mechanism.

Stitch Selection

Choose from 22 built-in stitch patterns.

Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, topstitching (positions 1-3)
Zigzag Stitch: Overcasting, appliqué (positions 4-6)
Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hemming (position 7)
Stretch Stitches: For knit fabrics (positions 8-10)
Decorative Stitches: Embellishment (positions 11-22)
Buttonhole: One-step automatic (special position)

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.
Follow numbered threading path: Spool pin → thread guides → tension discs → take-up lever → needle.
Use automatic needle threader: Push lever down, hook thread, pull back.
Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through guide, push to engage.
Insert bobbin: Drop into case with thread following directional arrow.

WARNING! Ensure machine is off during threading. Pull thread gently to avoid breakage.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Cleaning: Remove lint from bobbin area and feed dogs after each project.
Oiling: Apply 1-2 drops of sewing machine oil to hook race monthly.
Needle replacement: Change needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.
Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.

Safety Information

Always follow safety guidelines to prevent injury.

Keep fingers away from moving needle
Unplug when not in use or during maintenance
Use proper needle for fabric type
Do not pull fabric while sewing
Keep work area well-lit and organized
Store out of reach of children

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 threading	Remove and reinsert bobbin following directional arrow.
Machine won't run	Power connection/foot pedal	Check power cord; ensure foot pedal is plugged in properly.
Uneven stitches	Tension issues/thread quality	Adjust upper tension; use quality thread; clean machine.
Needle breaks	Wrong needle size/bent needle	Use correct needle size; ensure needle is straight and properly inserted.

Service: For technical support, contact Kenmore customer service at 1-800-426-4769