sears best kenmore sewing machine manual

The Sears Best Kenmore Sewing Machine is a versatile household sewing machine designed for various fabric projects, featuring multiple stitch patterns, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in needle threader, automatic bobbin winding, free arm capability, adjustable presser foot pressure, and built-in lighting. Powered by 120V AC, 60Hz. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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 and Bobbin 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing machine head, Free arm, Stitch selection dial, Bobbin winder, Presser foot, Built-in light, Foot pedal, Power cord.

FeatureDescription
Stitch patternsMultiple built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, decorative
Stitch length controlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch width controlAdjustable from 0-5mm
Built-in needle threaderAutomatic needle threading assistance
Free arm capabilityFor sewing cuffs and tubular items
Bobbin winding systemAutomatic bobbin winding with thread cutter
Presser foot pressureAdjustable for different fabric types
Built-in lightLED illumination for work area
Reverse stitchButton for reinforcing stitches
Foot pedal controlVariable speed control

Unpacking and Setup

Remove all packaging materials and inspect contents. Place on stable, level surface.

  1. Remove protective covers: Take off all styrofoam and plastic protective materials.
  2. Attach foot pedal: Connect foot pedal to machine and place on floor.
  3. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet.
  4. Install accessories: Attach standard presser foot and needle if not pre-installed.
  5. Test lighting: Turn on machine to verify built-in light functions.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup procedures.

  1. Thread machine: Follow threading diagram from spool to needle.
  2. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder and thread according to guide.
  3. Insert bobbin: Place wound bobbin in bobbin case following directional arrows.
  4. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality and tension.
  6. Adjust settings: Modify stitch length and width as needed for project.

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

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main control panel includes stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse button, and built-in light switch.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from straight stitch, zigzag, stretch stitches, decorative patterns. Stitch Length: Adjust for fabric thickness (shorter for delicate, longer for heavy). Stitch Width: Control zigzag width and decorative pattern size. Reverse: Hold button to sew backwards for reinforcement. Tension Control: Adjust thread tension dial for balanced stitches.

Stitch Selection Guide

Recommended settings for common fabrics and projects.

Fabric TypeStitch PatternLengthWidthNeedle
Lightweight (silk)Straight2.0mm0mm9/70
Medium (cotton)Straight2.5mm0mm11/80
Heavy (denim)Straight3.0mm0mm14/90
Stretch (knit)Zigzag2.5mm3.0mmBallpoint 11/80
DecorativePattern 52.0mm4.0mm11/80

Threading and Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation and quality stitches.

  1. Raise needle: Turn handwheel to raise needle to highest position.
  2. Place spool: Put thread spool on spindle with thread unwinding clockwise.
  3. Follow guide: Thread through upper thread guide, tension discs, take-up lever.
  4. Use needle threader: Pull threader lever down and through needle eye.
  5. Wind bobbin: Place bobbin on winder, thread through guide, push to engage.
  6. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread following directional arrow.
  7. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel to bring up bobbin thread.

Tip: Always use same thread type in bobbin and needle for balanced tension.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
  2. Weekly: Oil designated points with sewing machine oil (2-3 drops).
  3. Monthly: Clean tension discs with folded fabric or dental floss.
  4. As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.
  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 uses.

Warranty Information

25-year limited warranty covering mechanical components. Warranty does not cover needles, belts, light bulbs, or damage from misuse. For warranty service, contact Sears Customer Service with proof of purchase. Keep original receipt for warranty validation.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; reduce tension; check for burrs on needle
Skipped stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric type
Bobbin thread bunchingIncorrect bobbin insertionRemove and reinsert bobbin following directional arrow
Machine not feeding fabricFeed dogs lowered/dirtyCheck feed dog position; clean feed dog area
Unusual noiseLint buildup/needs oilingClean lint from bobbin area; oil designated points
Needle breakingBent needle/wrong sizeReplace needle; ensure needle is inserted fully and straight
Poor stitch qualityIncorrect tension/threadAdjust tension; use quality thread; check needle condition

Service: For technical support, contact Sears Service Center at 1-800-469-4663

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