Old Sears Kenmore Sewing Machine Manual

The Old Sears Kenmore sewing machine is a classic mechanical sewing machine featuring various stitch patterns, built-in buttonholer, adjustable stitch length and width, reverse stitching capability, free arm design, built-in light, foot pedal control, and multiple presser feet attachments. Powered by 120V AC, this durable machine is designed for home sewing projects with easy-to-use controls and reliable performance. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing head, stitch selection dial, tension control, bobbin case, presser foot, feed dogs, free arm, built-in light, foot pedal.

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable table or sewing cabinet.

1. Position machine: Place on sturdy, level surface at comfortable height.
2. Connect foot pedal: Plug foot pedal into machine's pedal port.
3. Connect power: Plug power cord into 120V AC outlet.
4. Install light bulb: If included, install in light socket.
5. Attach accessories: Install desired presser foot and needle.

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

First-Time Operation

Prepare machine for first use with proper threading and bobbin winding.

1. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through tension disc, and wind evenly.
2. Insert bobbin: Place wound bobbin in bobbin case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
3. Thread upper path: Follow numbered threading guide from spool to needle.
4. Select stitch: Turn stitch dial to desired pattern.
5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality and tension.

CAUTION! Always use correct needle size for fabric type. Replace bent or dull needles immediately.

Specifications

• Type: Mechanical Sewing Machine
• Stitch Patterns: Straight, zigzag, stretch, decorative patterns
• Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
• Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable for zigzag
• Buttonhole: One-step automatic
• Free Arm: Yes, for tubular sewing
• Lighting: Built-in sewing light
• Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
• Speed Control: Foot pedal operated
• Weight: Approximately 15-20 lbs

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine body.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length control, stitch width control, reverse stitch lever, tension dial.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select straight, zigzag, stretch, or decorative stitches. Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter or longer stitches (0-4mm). Stitch Width: Control zigzag width (0-5mm). Tension: Adjust upper thread tension (lower numbers for lighter tension, higher for heavier). Reverse: Hold lever for backward stitching to secure seams.

Stitch Selection & Patterns

Available stitch patterns and their applications.

1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, seams, topstitching (length 2.5mm recommended)
2. Zigzag Stitch: Finishing edges, stretch fabrics, appliqué
3. Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hems on garments
4. Stretch Stitch: For knit fabrics, prevents popped seams
5. Decorative Stitches: Multiple pattern options for embellishment
6. Buttonhole: Automatic one-step buttonhole function

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading procedure for optimal performance.

1. Upper Threading: Follow numbered path from spool pin to needle eye.
2. Bobbin Winding: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through tension, press pedal to wind.
3. Bobbin Insertion: Drop bobbin in case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
4. Bring Up Bobbin Thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you to catch bobbin thread.
5. Tension Adjustment: Balance upper and bobbin tension for even stitches.

WARNING! Ensure presser foot is raised when threading upper path. Lower when sewing.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures long machine life and consistent performance.

1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
2. Weekly: Oil moving parts according to lubrication diagram.
3. Monthly: Clean race hook and check for thread fragments.
4. Needles: Replace after 8-10 hours of sewing or if damaged.
5. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

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

Accessories

Included accessories and their functions.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Certified for household use in United States and Canada. Manufactured to meet safety standards for home sewing machines. Copyright © Sears, Roebuck and Co. For technical support or replacement parts, contact Sears Parts Direct or visit authorized service centers. Keep this manual for future reference.

Troubleshooting

Service: Contact authorized Sears service center for mechanical repairs.