SEARS KENMORE 17851 (01) PDF MANUAL

SEARS KENMORE 17851 (01) PDF SUMMARY:

How do I set up my sewing machine?

1. Install the sewing machine in a Kenmore cabinet or case or set the machine on a sturdy flat surface.
2. Wipe off the needle plate and bed plate carefully before sewing a garment.
3. Practice on a scrap of fabric, so any surplus oil is absorbed.

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How do I use the foot control?

1. Make sure power/light switch is off.
2. Plug foot control plug into machine receptacle.
3. Connect cord into any 110-120 volt A. C. wall outlet.

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How do I use the power/light switch?

Turning on the power automatically illuminates the stitching area. When interrupted or stopping sewing and leaving the machine, turn off the power/light switch.

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What are the speed ranges for my machine?

Your machine has two ranges of speed-a low range for slower, intricate work and a high one for faster, general work. On the low setting, the machine will sew no faster than approximately one-half the speed of the high one, even when the foot control is fully depressed.

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How do I convert to free-arm sewing?

1. Remove the accessory box by gripping it firmly between fingers and thumb at the left end and lift it. To replace, slide the accessory box back into place until it clicks.
2. With the accessory box removed, the machine is ready for free-arm sewing.

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How do I change the needle?

1. Raise needle bar to its highest position by turning the hand wheel toward you.
2. Loosen the needle clamp screw.
3. Holding the needle with the flat side away from you, insert the needle into the needle bar.
4. When it is in as far as it will go, tighten the needle clamp screw.

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How do I use the presser foot lever?

The presser foot lever has a two-position lift. In order to place heavy fabric under the presser foot or to change the presser foot, raise the presser foot lever to its maximum upward position.

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How do I prepare for threading?

1. Swing away spool pin fully to the back of the machine.
2. Place spool of thread on the spool pin and cover with cap for smooth supply of thread.

• An extra spool pin is provided on top of the machine and is used only when winding bobbin and sewing with double needle. Pull it up when using.

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How do I wind the bobbin?

1. Pull out retractable spool pin and place thread spool on the pin. To wind bobbin, draw thread from spool through bobbin winder tension disc as indicated, and pull end of thread toward bobbin winder.
2. Wind thread around bobbin several times in the direction of the arrow and place bobbin on bobbin winder shaft.
3. Pull bobbin winder latch against bobbin until it clicks, then pull Hand Wheel away from machine to disengage clutch.
4. Start machine by pressing down on foot control.
5. When bobbin is full, winding stops automatically. Push in Hand Wheel. Remove bobbin from shaft and trim thread end.

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What does the hand wheel do?

The hand wheel is a “clutch” which controls the needle drive mechanism so that when pulled out (disengaged), the machine will not operate while the bobbin is being wound.

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How do I thread the bobbin case?

1. Raise needle to its highest position by rotating hand wheel toward you.
2. Remove bobbin cover plate by lifting up the front.
3. Insert bobbin into bobbin case making sure bobbin rotates counter clockwise.
4. Pull thread through slot (A) and then to the left.
5. Pull thread through slot (B) toward the rear of machine and leave about 4 inches of thread.
6. Replace bobbin cover plate allowing thread to emerge through slot in needle plate.

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How do I thread the top thread?

1. Raise thread take-up lever to its highest position by turning hand wheel toward you. Raise presser foot lever. Place thread spool on spool pin. Place appropriate spool cap over the spool.
2. Holding thread taut with right hand, draw thread through rear thread guides (A and B) and into threading channel © toward you.
3. Draw thread down channel © and up channel (D). Thread take-up lever (E) by guiding thread through the slot and lead thread down through channel (D) again.
4. Pass thread through lower thread guide (F) and needle bar thread guide (G) and thread needle from front to back.

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How do I thread a double needle?

Place second spool of thread on second spool pin, and thread machine as you would for a single needle except double thread guides are provided (F and G). Draw one thread through each of these and through each side of needle from front to back. Make certain threads are not crossed.

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How do I pick up the bobbin thread?

1. Raise presser foot lever. Hold needle thread loosely in left hand and rotate handwheel toward you one complete turn.
2. Bring bobbin thread up by pulling upper thread.
3. Place both threads under and to the back of the presser foot, leaving 3 to 4 inches of thread clear.

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What do I do if I can not pick up the bottom thread?

• Check if the needle is threaded.
• Check if the thread is tangled around the needle.
• Check if the bobbin case is threaded correctly with thread going through slots A and B.
• Check if there are 4 inches of thread coming from bobbin case and through slot of needle plate.
• Check if the thread from bobbin case is tangled.

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How do I change the presser feet?

1. Make sure needle is in the up position. Raise presser foot lever.
2. Snap-Off presser feet: Raise foot holder lever to remove the foot. Place desired foot on the needle plate aligning needle holes. Lower the presser foot lever so that foot holder snaps on the foot.
3. One-piece presser feet: Loosen presser foot thumb screw and remove the foot holder. Insert desired foot from the left, lower the presser foot lever and tighten the screw using the large screwdriver to make certain the foot is secure.
4. For machines with presser foot lock: To change presser feet, simply drop Presser Foot Lock and slip foot away from the Presser Bar. Raise Presser Foot Lever beyond the normal up position and place new foot on presser bar. To lock foot securely, raise presser foot lock as high as possible.

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How do I use the feed cover plate?

1. Raise needle to its highest position and raise presser foot.
2. Place feed cover plate over needle plate aligning two pins of feed cover plate with holes of needle plate.
3. Determine the movement of the fabric.

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How do I use the stitch selector?

All of the stitches that are made by the machine are illustrated on the stitch selector. Obtain the desired stitch by simply turning the dial.

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How do I use the stitch length control?

The stitch length control selects the length of the stitch. The higher the number the shorter the stitch. The number on stitch length control indicates the approximate number of stitches per inch. The stitch setting used will be determined by the thickness of the fabric being sewn. A longer stitch setting should be used for thicker fabric or more layers of fabric.

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How do I use the stitch width/needle position control?

The width of all the stitches produced on this machine, with the obvious exception of straight stitch, can be made narrower or wider by adjusting the stitch width control. To decrease or increase the width of a stitch, turn the stitch width control dial from 1 – 4. The higher the number the wider the stitch. When sewing with a double needle, control the stitch width within the white zone on the dial.

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What happens if the stitch width is set out of the white zone when using a double needle?

The double needle will hit needle plate and break.

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How do I use the reverse stitch lever?

It is best to begin and finish seams with stitches taken in reverse about ¼ inch, called back tacking, which fastens the ends of the seam firmly and prevents raveling. When reverse stitching is needed, push down the lever and hold there during sewing. The fabric will immediately start feeding backwards and seam will be fastened.

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What happens when I operate the reverse stitch lever while sewing straight stretch stitch?

The machine sews only straight stitches and does not sew straight stitch in reverse.

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What happens if I use the reverse stitch lever while sewing zigzag stretch stitches?

The machine sews only zigzag stitches in reverse.

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How do I use the buttonhole control?

This control is used in making bar tacked buttonholes with two control settings. Detailed instructions are given on page 43. (This feature is built into the stitch selector on some models.)

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How do I use the pressure regulator?

Presser foot pressure is vital for straight seams, uniform stitch length and even handling of both layers of fabric. To adjust pressure, use the pressure regulator which is located inside the face cover. To increase pressure, turn the dial clockwise. To decrease pressure, turn the dial counterclockwise.

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How do I use the seam guides?

Seam guides are engraved in needle plate at both sides of feed dog holes to help line up the fabric and keep it straight. The standard seam width is 5/8", so these lines are emphasized, easy to follow. Each dimension on needle plate indicates seam width from needle at Center position. If using either Right or left needle position, add or subtract 1 /8" to the marking.

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How do I adjust the thread tension control?

For most fabrics the top thread tension control should be in the white zone between 3 and 6. If when sewing, the stitching is irregular, adjust the tension control with presser foot down.

1. If the threads are locking on the top surface with the top thread lying flat, the top stitch is too tight. Tension can be decreased by turning the tension control to the left (lower numbers).
2. If the reverse is happening with the thread on the underside of the fabric, the tension is too loose. This can be corrected by turning the tension control to the right (higher numbers).

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How do I adjust thread tension for zigzag stitching?

The top thread may appear on the bottom depending on the thread, fabric, type of stitch and sewing speed, but the bobbin thread must never appear on the top of the fabric. In the case of zigzag stitching, the wider the zigzag setting, the more chance there is of puckering. If this occurs decrease the top tension slightly and/or reduce the zigzag width.

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How do I prepare to start sewing?

1. Check the needle-it should be straight, properly set and sharp on the point and should be the correct size for the fabric and thread being used.
2. Be sure that the ends of the threads have been drawn about 3 – 4 inches to the rear of the machine. Hold on to threads during the sewing of the first 3 or 4 stitches of the seam.
3. Test the machine stitch on a scrap of fabric to be used, double thickness, and adjust the machine for length of stitch and tension suitable to the fabric.
4. Place fabric under the presser foot with the bulk of the material to the left of the needle and the right edge of the material placed on the 5/8" seam marking on the needle plate when making a simple seam.
5. Run the machine at a slow even speed.
6. Fasten each seam by back tacking at the beginning and end of the seam.
7. Finish sewing each seam with the needle at its highest point except turning a square corner.
8. Guide the fabric gently with your hand and never pull or hold the fabric in such a way that the normal feeding is altered.
9. When turning the hand wheel manually, always turn it toward you.

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How do I perform straight stitching with three needle positions?

Straight stitch foot gives optimum stitching but must be used at center © setting. Stitch in a left (L) or right ® setting, but be sure to use the zigzag foot.

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How do I start sewing and back tack?

Make sure both threads are drawn back under the presser foot. Lower needle into fabric about ¼ inch from beginning of seam. Depress the reverse stitch lever and stitch in reverse until needle reaches the point where you should start forward stitches. Release the reverse stitch lever and complete seam. When you reach the end, depress the reverse stitch lever and sew back (backtack) over ½ inch of completed seam.

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How do I turn a square corner?

1. To turn a square corner 5/8" from the fabric edge, stop stitching with the needle piercing the fabric, when reaching the cornering guide.
2. Raise the presser foot, turn fabric so the new stitching line will align with 5/8" seam guide on side of needle plate.
3. Lower the presser foot and begin stitching in new direction.

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How do I remove fabric?

First turn the handwheel toward you until the needle is at its highest position, then raise the presser foot, draw fabric to the rear and bring it around to the left side of needle bar, and cut the threads with the thread cutter located on the presser bar.

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How do I top-stitch?

Use a simple, forward stitch with a long needle length, or with special thread, matching or contrasting.

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How do I perform darning?

1. Set Pressure Regulator to “0”.
2. Use Zigzag foot or square automatic buttonhole foot.
3. Stretch fabric between embroidery hoops with hole centered.
4. Lower Presser bar and sew at a slow speed moving fabric back and forth with a steady rhythm to cover darning area.
5. When it is covered, turn fabric 1/4 turn and sew layer of stitching across first layer.
6. If fabric is thin or badly damaged in hole area, put a separate piece under the hole for reinforcement.

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How do I perform temporary sewing by machine?

Use straight stitching with longest available length setting and set top thread tension at 1 to 2 to facilitate pulling out bobbin thread.

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How do I pin baste?

Pins must be inserted at right angles to seam line so the tip of pin should just touch seam line. Sew over tip of pins. Pins must not come in contact with feed dogs and never pin on the underside of the fabric. Sew slowly, removing each pin if in doubt about sewing over pins.

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How do I stay-stitch?

Reduce top thread tension slightly to prevent puckering and baste about 1/4" away from intended seamline.

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How do I apply zippers and perform cording?

Use zipper foot which allows you to sew to the right or left of the zipper or close to the cord.

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How do I apply zippers?

• To sew down the right side, attach left side of zipper foot to presser foot holder so that the needle passes through the opening on the left side of the foot.
• To sew down the left side, attach right side of foot to foot holder.

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How do I perform cording?

To make cording for slipcovers etc., cover cord with a strip of true bias. Attach right side of zipper foot to foot holder so that needle passes through the opening on the right side of the foot.

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How do I use a One-Piece Zipper Foot?

Adjust the foot so the needle clears the side notch on the foot and carefully follow directions given on the zipper package.

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How do I adjust zigzag stitching for different fabrics?

• Barely-wide zigzag for heavy fabrics or those that fray – set width at 4.
• Wide zigzag for double layers, like hemming – set at 3.
• Medium zigzag for most construction seams – set at 2.
• Narrow zigzag for light fabrics, barely shows – set at 1.

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How do I overcast?

Stitch so the needle pierces the fabric just short of the outside edge, or fold the raw edge toward the garment and stitch. Raw or worn edges of older garments can be overcast to prevent further raveling.

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How do I satin stitch?

1. SETTINGS: Stitch Selector = , Stitch Length = I between 0 and 24.
2. Use Satin stitch foot which is grooved to permit dense stitching to pass under it easily.
3. Loosen the tension of the top thread slightly. The wider the stitch you make, the looser the tension should be.
4. If stitching on a very soft fabric, use a backing of tissue paper or interfacing for a well formed stitch. Puckering of the material will be eliminated and the bobbin thread will not be visible on the right side of the fabric.
5. It is best to make a sample design on your fabric before starting the design on the garment.

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How do I bar tack?

1. SETTINGS: Same as Satin Stitching.
2. Choose this stitch to reinforce points of strain such as corners of pockets and straps on lingerie.
3. Sew 4 to 6 stitches using a medium-width zigzag.

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How do I applique?

1. SETTINGS: Same as Satin Stitching.
2. Select an applique design to be applied to your garment and baste it in place.
3. Satin stitch around the raw edge of the applique completely covering the edge, with a contrasting color of thread.

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How do I embroider?

1. SETTINGS: Same as Satin Stitching.
2. Back the fabric with interfacing or paper and draw on the design with tailor’s chalk.
3. Turn stitch width control from 1 to 4 to 1, to form each petal and leaf.
4. Join the flowers and leaves with straight stretch stitch.
5. If using paper, carefully remove it when finished sewing.

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How do I monogram?

1. SETTINGS: Same as Satin Stitching.
2. Back the fabric with interfacing or paper.
3. Draw the initials on to the fabric with tailor’s chalk.
4. Satin stitch, adjusting the width from 1 – 4 as you begin and end the stroke of a letter, or the same stitch width can be used throughout.
5. If using paper carefully remove it when finished sewing.

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How do I sew buttons?

1. SETTINGS: Stitch Selector = , Feed cover plate.
2. Fix the button on fabric at desired position with clear tape.
3. Align two holes of button with slot of presser foot and lower foot to hold the button securely.
4. Turn hand wheel manually until needle approaches just above button.
5. Adjust stitch width control so needle will enter one hole of the button.
6. Turn hand wheel again by hand so needle enters second hole. Readjust stitch width if necessary. Stitch a number of times.
7. Finish sewing with an extra two inches of thread remaining, draw these threads to reverse side of garment and tie.

• When sewing a flat button, place needle or pin between holes of button to provide flexibility for buttoning.

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How do I perform blind hemming?

1. Finish raw edge of fabric appropriately, using seam tape on woven fabrics, or lace seam tape/decorative stretch stitch with knits.
2. Use the adjustable blind hem foot for easier blind hemming.

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How to do blind stitch hemming?

Fold the hem up and press and pin it in place. Then fold the hem allowance under, leaving ¼" of hem edge extending. Place garment under presser foot so straight stitches will be sewn on extended edge and the zigzag stitch should catch the fold of the garment. The right side of the garment will show only the blind stitches. Press both sides of the finished hem.

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How to mend a tear?

To repair a straight or three-cornered tear, position the tear under the needle so that the stitching catches both sides of the tear. When mending a three-cornered tear, stitch from each end to the center. It is good to use a piece of fabric under the tear for reinforcement. Recommended stitch settings: Stitch Length- 24 – 12, Stitch Width – 3 – 4.

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What is the procedure for shell stitching?

Stitch Length – 12; Stitch Width 2 – 4. To achieve the multiple scalloped effect, allow the needle to clear just the right edge of the fabric when it zigzags. Regular shell stitch produces a tiny shell hem on lingerie and other fine garments. If a bigger size of shell pattern is desired, use two-point shell stitch.

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What is the procedure for box stitch?

Box stitch is ideal for producing flat overlapped seams on almost any type of fabric, and a bolder effect will result from sewing with a contrasting thread. Overlap the raw edges of two pieces of fabric 1/4" and pin or tack. Place the fabric right side up with the middle of the overlap under the center of the presser foot, so that the stitch sews just over the top and bottom raw edges. Recommended stitch settings: Stitch Length – 24 – 12, Stitch Width – 2 – 4.

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How to make a decorative edge?

Turn the raw edge under 1/4" and press. Place the fabric right side up with the middle of the turnover under the center of the presser foot, so that the stitch sews on to the fold and just over the raw edge underneath. Recommended stitch settings: Stitch Length: 24-12; Stitch Width: 4.

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What is the procedure for making a fagoting stitch?

To attach two separate pieces of fabric together, leave a little space between. To prepare the fabric, fold under the seam allowance on the cut edges, and press. Baste folded edges to tissue paper with about 1/8" space between. Stitch over the 1/8" allowance, just catching the fabric fold on both sides with the needle. Remove basting and paper and press. Recommended stitch settings: Stitch Length 24 -12; Stitch Width 4.

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What are stretch stitches used for?

The stretch stitches are for use with stretch and knit fabrics. The types of stitches are: Straight Stretch, Rick-Rack Stretch, Elastic Edge Stretch, Overcast Stretch, Overlock Stretch, Elastic Stretch, Serging Stretch, Patching Stretch, and Smocking Stretch. Depending on the preference in stitch patterns, stretch stitches may be made closer together without changing the balance of stitches by turning the stitch length control within the yellow zone. If the reverse stitch lever is operated while sewing any of the stretch stitches, the machine sews only a straight or plain zigzag stitch.

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When is it recommended to use a straight stretch stitch?

Use this stretch stitch with knit or synthetic fabric and sew as with a regular straight stitch. This is a good stitch to use on seams regardless of the type of fabric. Any seam that will receive a great deal of strain when worn should be sewn with the stretch stitch. Use in children’s shorts and slacks as well as adult sportswear. Recommended stitch settings: Stitch Selector – 1, Stitch Length – Yellow Zone, Needle Position/Stitch Width – C, L, R.

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When is it recommended to use a rick-rack stretch stitch?

Sew on stretch fabrics in any area that you might use a zigzag stitch. This stitch can be used as a decorative top stitch. It is useful on lapped or abutted seams where you lap one edge of a seam over another with seamlines meeting in the center. Recommended stitch settings: Stitch Selector – 1, Stitch Length – Yellow Zone, Stitch Width – 1 – 4.

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What is the procedure for making a smocking stretch stitch?

Sew rows of straight stitches 3/8" apart. Draw up the bobbin thread to gather the fabric to the required length, if required, back the gathering with a strip of fabric or bias binding. Sew smocking stitch between the rows of gathering. When complete, remove the gathering stitches. Note: When smocking a garment, the stitching should be done before the pleat is sewn into the garment. Recommended stitch settings: Stitch Selector – 1, Stitch Length – Yellow Zone, Stitch Width – 2 – 4.

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When is it recommended to use an elastic stretch stitch?

Use this stitch to insert elastic in garments. Simply stitch elastic into the garment, making sure it is evenly spaced. To do this, mark the correct length piece into quarters, then match these markings with center front and side seams. Recommended stitch settings: Stitch Selector – 1, Stitch Length – Yellow Zone, Stitch Width – 2 – 4.

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When is it recommended to use an overcast stretch stitch?

This is the same type stitch used by the garment industry in making sweat shirts, for making firm seams and finishes the seam in one operation (for seams of ¼" to ¾"). It’s very effective for repairing raw or worn edges of older garments. Recommended stitch settings: Stitch Selector – 1, Stitch Length – Yellow Zone, Stitch Width – 4.

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How to sew an overcast stretch stitch in the opposite direction?

Use a serging or overlock stretch stitch.

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When is it recommended to use a serging (or pine leaf) stretch stitch?

Great in making elastic swimwear, as well as for overcasting a neat edge on seams. It’s equally useful with woven and knitted fabrics. Tension may need to be tightened to achieve desired look. Recommended stitch settings: Stitch Selector – 1, Stitch Length – Yellow Zone, Stitch Width – 2 – 4.

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When is it recommended to use a patching stretch stitch?

If the kids keep “busting out” elbows or knees, or if someone burns a hole in expensive knits, this recipe will save you big money. It can be decorative, too, when you want patches to show. Recommended stitch settings: Stitch Selector – 1, Stitch Length – Yellow Zone, Stitch Width – 4.

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When is it recommended to use an overlock stretch stitch?

This stitch is suitable for overcasting loosely constructed knits or woven fabrics. Thread interlocks in the middle to reinforce seams for more durability. Recommended stitch settings: Stitch Selector – 1, Stitch Length – Yellow Zone, Stitch Width – 4.

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When is it recommended to use an elastic edge stretch stitch?

Use this stitch in preference to overcast stretch for overcasting stretch or knit fabrics where strength and flexibility are required. Recommended stitch settings: Stitch Selector – 1, Stitch Length – Yellow Zone, Stitch Width – 4.

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What are some hints for sewing different fabrics?

• Loosely constructed knits sometimes catch over toes of presser foot; to remedy this, wrap a short strip of transparent tape around the foot encasing both toes.
• It is always a good idea to test thread tension and stitches on a scrap of the fabric being used.
• Knits contain more yarn than woven fabrics, so take greater care to keep your machine clean, especially in the feed dog and bobbin case area.
• To avoid tangled threads when working with knits, start seams carefully; position fabric and lower needle before lowering presser foot.
• Soft fabrics need backing, especially where stitches are close together.
• In sewing knits, if you can’t match fabric and thread exactly, use the strongest fine thread available and use a “0 NEEDLE”.
• When working on tweed or other multi-colored bulky fabrics, use one color thread on the bobbin and another on top; great for repairs, the “patch” practically disappears.

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Where should the straight stretch be used?

Use on stretch and knit fabrics and to repair ready-made garments. Basic stitch for any garment requiring “give” such as armholes or crotch. Also use to sew center seam of men’s slacks cut on the bias.

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Where should the rick-rack stretch be used?

A decorative stitch for use on children’s clothing, yokes of blouses, and bodice.

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Where should the smocking stretch be used?

Use to apply elastic to top of lingerie or to repair ready-made lingerie and stitch elastic.

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Where should the overcast or elastic stretch be used?

Use on sportswear where extra stretch is required and finishes seam at same time.

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Where should the overlock stretch be used?

Use to overcast loosely constructed knits or woven fabrics.

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Where should the serging stretch be used?

Use for all-purpose stretch sewing, seam finishing, edge finishing, or attaching stretch laces.

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Where should the plain zigzag be used?

A good finishing stitch for nylon tricot lingerie.

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Where should the shell stitch be used?

Use as a good finishing stitch for nylon tricot lingerie.

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What fabrics, useful stitches to use, and special notions to use for nylon tricot?

• Fabrics – Nylon tricot
• Useful stitches to use – Serging stretch, Overcast stretch, Elastic edge stretch, Blind hem, and Three-step zigzag
• Special notions to use – “0 NEEDLE”, “Q FOOT” (for sewing on elastic), Polyester, nylon, or dicron core thread, and Elastic thread (for sewing on elastic)

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What fabrics, useful stitches to use, and special notions to use for terry cloth or corduroy?

• Fabrics – Terry Cloth or Corduroy
• Useful stitches to use – Simple zigzag and Three-step zigzag
• Special notions to use – Mercerized thread and Slotted Needle

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What fabrics, useful stitches to use, and special notions to use for stretch knits?

• Fabrics – Terry Cloth and Stretch Knits
• Useful stitches to use – Three-step zigzag, Serging stretch, Overcast stretch, Elastic edge stretch, and Serging Stretch
• Special notions to use – “0 NEEDLE”, “Q FOOT”, Polyester, nylon or dicron core thread, and Elastic thread

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What fabrics, useful stitches to use, and special notions to use for leather?

• Fabrics – Leather
• Useful stitches to use – Straight or simple zigzag
• Special notions to use – Size 14 Needle, Even feed foot, and Mercerized or silk thread

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What fabrics, useful stitches to use, and special notions to use for stretch knits for swimwear and ski wear or girdles?

• Fabrics – Stretch knits for swimwear and ski wear or girdles
• Useful stitches to use – Serging stretch, Overcast stretch, and Elastic edge stretch
• Special notions to use – “0 NEEDLE”, “Q FOOT”, Polyester, nylon or dicron core thread, Elastic thread, and Lace seam tape and heat-shrunk zippers.

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What buttonhole systems does this machine bring?

Your machine brings you two buttonhole systems along with several special accessories that enable you to solve all your clothes “closing” problems. Your built-in system enables you to sew buttonholes with finished ends (bar-tacked) by simply moving the control. Only two control settings are required. An important aid is the buttonhole guide foot. Your Snap-in Automatic Buttonhole System is a Kenmore “Exclusive”. It repeats identical buttonholes quickly and easily with no need to touch controls.

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What parts can be found in the accessory box for buttonhole creation?

• Buttonhole guide plate
• Three templates which give a choice of buttonhole styles and lengths
• Cover plate with pinion gear
• Buttonhole foot

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What are some tips on buttonholing?

• Always make a practice buttonhole on a scrap of fabric you plan to use.
• Try the buttonhole with the button you will use.
• Always use an interfacing in the area of the garment where buttonholes are placed; tissue paper or regular interfacing can be used; tear paper away after stitching.
• For heavier weight fabrics, loosen the top thread tension slightly.

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How to use the built-in buttonhole system?

Carefully mark the buttonhole length on your garment. Place the fabric with the buttonhole marked under the buttonhole foot. Pull the guide foot all the way forward so that the index mark is aligned with the graduation, with thread to rear. Reproduction of the identical size buttonholes is facilitated with the aid of the graduations on both sides of the buttonhole guide foot; these graduations are 1/8" (left side) or 2.6 mm (right side) apart; graduations act as reference marks. Switch the control to left; if it is already at left, set it at right, sew several stitches and switch to left again before you start to sew buttonholes. Step on foot control to form first bar tack and left side of buttonhole. When you reach end of left side, switch the control to the right and complete the buttonhole.

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How to adjust stitch density?

Depending upon the fabrics or preference, buttonhole stitch density may be altered by varying the original stitch length setting within the blue buttonhole zone. For more density, turn the dial toward “12”. For less density, turn the dial toward “8”.

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How to adjust stitch width?

The width of the sides and the space in the center may be adjusted within the blue buttonhole zone on the stitch width control, depending upon your fabric and buttonhole length.

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How to make corded buttonholes?

Hook filler cord (crochet thread or buttonhole twist) to the spur, pull both ends of cord forward under foot and tie to the spur. Sew buttonhole so that zigzag stitches cover the cord. When stitching is completed, release cord from foot, pull ends of cord and snip off extra length.

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How to use the buttonhole attachment?

1. Raise needle to its highest position and raise presser foot; remove accessory box and bobbin cover plate; insert buttonhole cover plate at angle and snap it down into place preventing it against the needle plate.
2. Select correct template for type buttonhole you want and insert template into slot of guide plate; turn template advance knob until desired size appears in window on the top side of guide plate.
3. Place guide plate onto machine so it fits in place with pinion gear in the center of arc hole of the template; make sure guide blocks are inserted in guide slots.
4. Carefully mark the buttonhole length on your garment; pick up bobbin thread through guide plate by turning hand wheel; place fabric between presser foot and guide plate; align marked buttonhole with center marking on foot; line up edge of fabric with graduations on both sides of the guide plate; if you wish all buttonholes to be 1/2" from edge of fabric, for example, line up fabric with 1/2" markings each time you start a buttonhole; now you are ready to sew the buttonhole you selected; your buttonholer does all for you.

Recommended stitch settings: Stitch Selector – S, Stitch Length – Any number, Stitch Width – 1 – 1.

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How to adjust stitch density using the buttonhole attachment?

Depending upon the fabrics or preference, buttonhole stitch density may be altered by turning stitch density control knob. For more density, turn the knob toward you. For less density, turn the knob away from you.

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What are the basic applications when choosing a buttonhole style and size?

Built-in buttonholes are ideal for one or two buttons used on waistband or cuff, or for “belt slots”. Straight buttonholes are most popular for everyday sewing – for rows of buttons on dress, blouse, vest, jacket or coat. Keyhole buttonholes are a variation of the above, with an enlarged opening at one end to allow more room for button shank; these are normally used in tailored vests, jackets, and coats.

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What are some tips on design stitching?

1. Always make a practice design on a scrap of the fabric you plan to use.
2. Start with a full bobbin and plenty of thread on the spool to avoid running out of thread in the middle of your design.
3. Reduce the top thread tension slightly.
4. On a very soft fabric, you may want to use a tissue paper backing or organdy that can be cut away.
5. Decorative designs are very attractive when sewn with a double needle and two colors or shades of a color of thread.

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How can a scallop pattern be used?

A speedy and decorative way of handling a raw edge is by using the scallop pattern. Simply sew along the raw edge of the fabric and trim close to the outside of the stitching. This pattern is also attractive when decorating a collar or down the front of a blouse, around a cuff or finish on the edge of a cocktail apron.

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How can a diamond pattern be used?

This is a series of diamond patterns and is used to add a professional touch to sewing, such as blouses and dresses.

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How can an arrowhead pattern be used?

A series of arrowheads can be used to accent your sewing. An individual pattern unit is also a good stitch to reinforce the point of a strain; use it on the pocket corner.

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How can a domino pattern be used?

This pattern is suitable for decorative edges and borders.

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How can a pyramid pattern be used?

This is an attractive embroidery stitch to be used alone or to sew on bias tape or ribbon trims.

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How to clean the feed dog?

1. Remove the bobbin cover plate.
2. Remove the needle plate.
3. Using the brush provided, remove the lint that accumulates in and around the feed dogs and shuttle.

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How to clean and oil the shuttle area?

1. Turn hand wheel toward you until needle is above feed dog.
2. Remove bobbin case by lifting it out from front.
3. Clean the shuttle with the brush and put a drop of oil to the points indicated by arrows; don’t over-oil; don’t use household oil, use Kenmore sewing machine oil.
4. Make sure the needle is above the feed dog; insert the bobbin case into the shuttle until its groove fits on the shuttle raceway as illustrated and then snap down into position.
5. Replace both needle plate and bobbin cover plate to their original positions.

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How to oil under the top cover plate?

Remove the top cover plate by loosening two screws and then place one or two drops of Kenmore sewing machine oil at each point.

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How to oil under the bottom cover plate?

Tilt the back of the machine and remove the two bottom covers by loosening five screws.

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How to oil in the face cover plate?

Swing the face cover plate open and oil the points indicated by arrows.

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How to change the light bulb?

The sewing light is located inside the face cover plate. To replace the bulb, push the switch to off, unplug the machine, and swing the face cover plate open. Push up on the bulb slightly and turn the bulb to the left, and withdraw bulb from socket. Push in the new bulb and turn to the right.

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What to check if stitches are irregular?

1. Needle size is not correct for thread or fabric.
2. Machine is not threaded correctly.
3. Top thread tension is too loose.
4. Fabric is being pulled or pushed against the machine’s feeding action; guide it gently.
5. Presser foot pressure is too tight.
6. Bobbin has not been wound evenly; rewind bobbin.
7. There are nicks or burrs at the needle plate opening; replace needle plate or smooth burrs with extra fine emery cloth.

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What to check if the needle breaks?

1. Fabric is being pulled or pushed against machine’s feeding action; guide it gently.
2. Needle size is not correct for thread or fabric.
3. Needle is not all the way up into needle clamp.
4. Presser foot holder is not fastened securely.

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What to check for bunching of thread?

Top and bobbin threads are not drawn back under presser foot before starting seam; draw both threads back under presser foot about 4" and hold until a few stitches are formed.

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What to check if fabric puckers?

1. Top thread tension is too tight; decrease top thread tension.
2. Presser foot pressure is too light.
3. Two different sizes or types of thread are being used; use the same size and type of thread top and in the bobbin.
4. Needle is bent or blunt; replace needle.
5. Presser foot holder is not fastened securely.
6. Fabric is too sheer or too soft; use underlay of tissue paper.

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What to check if the machine skips stitches?

1. Needle size is not correct for thread and fabric.
2. Fabric is causing knit or synthetic; use “0 NEEDLE” and “0 FOOT”.
3. Needle is bent or blunt; replace needle.
4. Needle is not all the way up into needle clamp.
5. Top thread tension is too tight; decrease top thread tension.
6. Presser foot pressure is too light.
7. Machine is started too fast; start to stitch at a medium speed.
8. Machine is not threaded correctly.

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What to check if the top thread breaks?

1. Needle size is not correct for thread and fabric.
2. Eye of needle has a sharp edge; replace needle.
3. There are nicks or burrs at needle plate opening; replace needle plate or smooth burrs with extra fine emery cloth.

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What to check if the bobbin thread breaks?

1. Bobbin case is not threaded correctly.
2. Lint accumulates in bobbin case or shuttle.

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What to check if the machine does not feed fabric?

1. Presser foot pressure is too light.
2. Thread is knotted under fabric.
3. Feed cover plate is attached on needle plate; remove feed cover plate.
4. Thread is caught in shuttle; remove bobbin case and clean shuttle.
5. Needle is damaged; replace needle.
6. Needle plate is bent; replace needle plate.

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What to check if the machine will not operate?

1. Hand wheel is not returned to stitching position; push in clutch.
2. Power cord is not connected; check plug.
3. Power/light switch is turned off; turn on the switch.

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Where can I find a sewing machine cabinet?

A sewing machine cabinet is available at your nearest Sears retail store or through your general catalog.

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What to do if there is need for repair parts or service?

Contact any Sears Service Center and most Sears, Roebuck and Co. Stores and be sure to provide all pertinent facts when you call or visit. The model number of the sewing machine will be shown on the nomenclature plate on the back of the sewing machine. When ordering repair parts, always give the following information: model number, name of item, and part description. If the parts needed are not stocked locally, the order will be electronically transmitted to a Sears Repair Parts Distribution Center for handling.