SEARS KENMORE 385.11608 (01) PDF Document

Your SEARS KENMORE 385.11608 sewing machine is designed for HOUSEHOLD use only. Read all instructions before using. To reduce the risk of electric shock, burns, fire, or injury, please follow these safety precautions:

DANGER – To reduce the risk of electric shock:

1. A sewing machine should never be left unattended when plugged in. Always unplug this sewing machine from the electric outlet immediately after using and before cleaning.

2. Always unplug before replacing the sewing machine bulb. Replace the bulb with the same type rated 15 Watts.

3. Do not reach for a sewing machine that has fallen into water. Unplug immediately.

4. Do not place or store the sewing machine where it can fall or be pulled into a tub or sink. Do not place or drop it into water or other liquid.

WARNING – To reduce the risk of burns, fire, electric shock, or injury to persons:

1. Do not allow to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when this sewing machine is used by or near children.

2. Use this sewing machine only for its intended use as described in the manual. Use only attachments recommended by the manufacturer.

3. Never operate this sewing machine if it has a damaged cord or plug, if it is not working properly, if it has been dropped or damaged, or dropped into water. Return the sewing machine to the nearest authorized dealer or service center for examination, repair, electrical or mechanical adjustment.

4. Never operate the sewing machine with any air opening blocked. Keep ventilation openings of the sewing machine and foot controller free from the accumulation of lint, dust, and loose cloth.

5. Never drop or insert any object into any opening.

6. Do not use outdoors.

7. Do not operate where aerosol (spray) products are being used or where oxygen is being administered.

8. To disconnect, turn all controls to the off (“0”) position, then remove the plug from the outlet.

9. Do not unplug by pulling on the cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.

10. Keep fingers away from all moving parts. Special care is required around the sewing machine needle.

11. Always use the proper needle plate. The wrong plate can cause the needle to break.

12. Do not use bent needles.

13. Do not pull or push fabric while stitching. It may deflect the needle causing it to break.

14. Switch the sewing machine off (“0”) when making any adjustment in the needle area, such as threading the needle, changing the needle, threading the bobbin, or changing the presser foot, and the like.

15. Always unplug the sewing machine from the electrical outlet when removing covers, lubricating, or when making any other adjustments mentioned in the instruction manual.

Here is a list of the main parts of your SEARS KENMORE 385.11608 sewing machine and their corresponding numbers from the manual’s diagram:

1. Stitch Selector

2. Reverse Stitch Control

3. Stitch Pattern Setting Window

4. Stitch Length Control

5. Stitch Length Setting Window

6. Bobbin Winding Spindle

7. Thread Spool Pins

8. Bobbin Winding Tension Disc

9. Upper Thread Guide

10. Take-up Lever

11. Top Thread Tension Control

12. Face Cover Plate

13. Thread Cutter

14. Needle Plate

15. Extension Table (Accessory storage box)

16. Shuttle Cover

17. Carrying Handle

18. Hand Wheel

19. Clutch Knob

20. Light and Power Switch

21. Plug Connector

22. Nomenclature Plate

23. Free Arm

24. Presser Foot Lever

25. Presser Foot

26. Needle Clamp Screw

27. Foot Control

The following accessories are included with your SEARS KENMORE 385.11608:

• Bobbin (3)

• Buttonhole opener

• Needle set

• Large screw driver

• Darning plate

• Sliding buttonhole foot

• Lint brush

• Small screw driver

• Zipper foot

• Straight stitch foot

• Satin stitch foot

Follow these steps to plug in and switch on your machine:

NOTE: Before inserting the plug into your machine, be sure the power switch is OFF.

1. Check your outlet to be sure it is a 110 to 120 Volt AC outlet.

2. Insert the machine plug into the three-prong plug connector, as shown. It will only fit one way.

3. Insert the power supply plug into the outlet.

4. Push the power switch to turn on the power and sewing light.

SAFETY FEATURE: Your machine will not operate unless the power switch is turned on. If you are interrupted or stop sewing, turn off the power switch to prevent injury to children.

The foot control regulates the speed at which you sew.

• To increase speed, gently press down with the ball of your foot.

• To decrease speed, release your foot pressure slightly.

NOTE: The foot control is sensitive and will increase or decrease your sewing speed immediately. Practice on a scrap of fabric to regulate your sewing speed to your taste and needs.

Setting Spool Pin:

The spool pins are used for holding the spools of thread. To use, pull up the spool pins. Push them down for storage.

Thread Cutter:

You don’t need scissors to cut the thread after you finish sewing. Simply use the handy thread cutter. Pull the threads several inches to the rear before starting the next seam.

The Presser Foot Lever raises and lowers your presser foot. You can raise it about 1/4″ higher than the normal up position for easy removal of the presser foot or to help you place heavy fabrics under the presser foot.

The removable extension table allows for free-arm sewing, which is useful for tubular items like sleeves and pant legs. The extension table also serves as an accessory storage box.

To Remove the Extension Table (for free-arm sewing):

1. Grip the table with your index finger and thumb, as shown.

2. Pull gently to the left. The extension table will snap out.

To Attach the Extension Table (for flat-bed sewing):

1. Insert the tab and the pin into their catches.

2. With your thumb and index finger, gently snap in.

Use the correct presser foot for the stitch you wish to sew.

1. Raise the presser bar to its highest position by lifting the presser foot lever.

2. Loosen the presser foot thumb screw.

3. Choose the proper foot and insert it from the bottom.

4. Tighten the screw using the large screw driver from the accessory box to make certain the foot is secure.

NOTE: Raise the needle bar to its highest position by turning the hand wheel toward you.

1. Loosen the needle clamp screw by turning it toward you.

2. Remove the needle by pulling it downward.

3. Insert the new needle into the needle clamp with the flat side away from you.

4. Push the needle up as far as it will go.

5. Tighten the needle clamp screw firmly with the large screwdriver from the accessory box.

Your choice of needle and thread depends on the fabric you are sewing. In the needle envelope, you will find color-coded needles:

• Blue (11): for stretch fabrics.

• Orange (11): for lightweight fabrics.

• Red (14): for medium or medium-heavy weight fabrics.

• Purple (16): for medium-heavy weight fabrics and decorative topstitching. This needle has a larger thread hole for thicker thread.

• Green (18): for heavyweight fabrics and decorative top-stitching.

Always check your needle for a barbed or blunt point, as a damaged needle can cause snags or runs. Use good quality thread that resists tangling and is strong, smooth, and consistent in thickness.

To Remove the Bobbin Case from the Machine:

1. Remove the extension table by pulling it to the left.

2. Open the shuttle cover by pulling down the embossed part on the left side of the cover.

3. Raise the needle to its highest position by rotating the handwheel toward you.

4. To remove the bobbin case from the shuttle, pull open the latch of the bobbin case.

5. Pull the bobbin case straight out of the shuttle.

To Wind the Bobbin:

1. Release the clutch by turning the clutch knob inside the handwheel toward you. This stops the needle from moving while you wind the bobbin.

2. Draw thread from the spool through the bobbin winding tension disc.

3. Pull the end of the thread through the hole in the bobbin from the inside out.

4. Place the bobbin onto the bobbin winding spindle with the end of the thread coming from the top.

5. Push the bobbin winding spindle to the right until it clicks.

6. Holding onto the end of the thread, start the machine. When the bobbin is slightly filled, snip off the end of the thread.

7. Wind the thread until the winder stops.

8. Push the bobbin winding spindle to the left and clip the thread. Remove the bobbin.

9. Turn the clutch knob away from you while holding the handwheel for normal sewing operation.

To Insert the Bobbin into the Bobbin Case:

1. Place the bobbin in the bobbin case, making sure the thread feeds clockwise.

2. Pull the thread through the slot of the case.

3. Pull the thread under the tension spring and through the opening. Pull 3 to 4 inches of thread from the bobbin.

4. Holding the latch open, position the case into the shuttle and release the latch. The case should lock into place.

The bobbin winder stopper can be adjusted for the amount of thread needed on the bobbin (e.g., 1/2 full, full, etc.). To make the adjustment, use your large screwdriver and loosen the screw one turn or less. This will allow you to adjust the position of the bobbin winder stopper. Do not take the screw all the way out.

Follow these steps to thread the upper thread and needle:

1. Raise the take-up lever to its highest position by turning the handwheel toward you. Raise the presser foot lever.

2. Place the spool on the spool pin with the thread coming from the back of the spool.

3. Draw the thread into the thread guide (1) using both hands.

4. While holding the thread near the spool, draw the thread down into the tension area and then around the check spring holder (2).

5. Firmly draw the thread up and through the take-up lever (3) from right to left.

6. Draw the thread down and slip it into the left side needle bar thread guide (4).

7. Thread the needle (5) from front to back. You may want to cut the end of the thread with sharp scissors for easier needle threading.

1. Raise the presser foot lever. Hold the top thread loosely in your left hand and rotate the handwheel toward you one complete turn.

2. Bring the bobbin thread up by pulling the top thread.

3. Pull both threads under and to the back of the presser foot, leaving 4 to 6 inches of thread clear.

If you cannot pick up the bobbin thread, check the following:

• Is the needle threaded from front to back?

• Is the thread tangled around the needle?

• Are 3 to 4 inches of thread coming from the shuttle?

• Is the thread from the shuttle tangled?

• Is the bobbin properly installed in the bobbin case?

• Is the machine threaded according to the instructions?

The ideal straight stitch has threads locked between the two layers of fabric. Each stitch should be smooth and even with no gaps. When adjusting the top thread tension, the higher the number, the tighter the top thread. The best tension depends on the fabric stiffness and thickness, the number of layers, and the stitch type.

• Ideal Stitch: Threads lock between fabric layers.

• Tension is too loose: The top thread shows through the bottom of the fabric. The bottom side of the stitch will feel bumpy. To correct, tighten the top tension by turning the dial to a higher number.

• Tension is too tight: The bobbin thread comes through to the top of the fabric. The top side of the stitch will feel bumpy. To correct, loosen the top tension by turning the dial to a lower number.

In a correct zigzag stitch, the bobbin thread will not show on the top side of the fabric, and the top thread will show slightly on the bottom side. Adjust the top tension to match this appearance.

• Just Right: Minimize the amount of top thread visible on the bottom side of the fabric without causing excessive puckering or causing the bobbin thread to show on the top side.

• Too Tight: The corners of each zigzag will pull together on the top side of the fabric.

• Too Loose: The top thread will loop through the bottom side of the fabric and will be pulled almost together.

Stitch Selector:

The stitch selector control determines the stitch you select and also regulates the stitch width for regular zigzag. The different types of stitches are designated by color:

• Red: Straight, Zigzag, and Utility Stitches

• Yellow: Stretch Stitches (Model 12814 only)

• Green: Geometric Decorative stitches

• Blue: Buttonhole Settings

NOTE: To avoid needle or fabric damage, be sure your needle is up and out of the fabric when adjusting this control.

Stitch Length Control:

This control regulates the length of the stitch. The higher the number, the longer the stitch. “0” means no feed. For buttonholes, you can alter the stitch density within the blue buttonhole range on this dial.

Here are some good habits to follow each time you sit down to sew:

1. Inspect the needle. It should be straight, properly set, and sharp. It should be the correct size for the fabric and thread being used. Change your needle frequently, as synthetic blends can dull needles more easily than natural fibers.

2. Before placing material on the machine, ensure the ends of the threads have been drawn about 4 inches to the rear. Hold onto threads during the first 3 or 4 stitches.

3. Test the machine stitch on a scrap of the fabric you plan to use (double thickness). Adjust the stitch length and tension as needed.

4. Place fabric under the presser foot with the bulk of the material to the left of the needle. For a simple seam, place the right edge of the material on the 5/8″ seam marking on the needle plate.

5. Run the machine at a slow, even speed. More pressure on the foot control increases the speed.

6. Fasten each seam by back tacking (sewing a few stitches in reverse).

7. Always finish sewing each seam with the needle at its highest point.

8. Guide the fabric gently with your hand in front of the needle. Never pull or hold the fabric in a way that alters the normal feeding.

9. When turning the handwheel manually, always turn it toward you.

Machine Settings:

• Stitch Selector: A (Straight Stitch)

• Stitch Length: Red zone (e.g., 3)

• Top Thread Tension: 2 to 6

• Presser Foot: Straight foot or Zigzag foot

To Sew a Straight Stitch:

1. Raise the presser foot and the needle to their highest positions.

2. Place the edge of the fabric next to a stitching guide line on the needle plate (5/8″ is most common).

3. Draw the threads towards the back and lower the presser foot.

4. Press the foot control, holding the fabric loosely and gently guiding it along the guide line. Do not force the fabric.

5. At the end of the seam, you can use the reverse stitch to lock it.

6. Raise the presser foot, remove the fabric, and cut the threads.

To Turn a Square Corner (5/8″ from fabric edge):

1. Stop stitching and lower the needle by turning the handwheel toward you when the fabric edge facing you lines up with the cornering guide on the needle plate.

2. Raise the presser foot and turn the fabric to line up the edge with the 5/8″ seam guide.

3. Lower the presser foot and begin stitching in the new direction.

Use the darning plate for button sewing.

1. Set the stitch selector at the bar tack setting (“d”).

2. Align both holes of the button with the slot of the foot and place the left hole of the button just below the needle point.

3. Lower the foot and turn the stitch selector to zigzag until the needle point comes just above the right hole of the button.

4. Sew about five stitches and raise the needle.

5. Set the stitch at the bar tack setting (“d”) again and sew a few stitches to lock the thread.

6. To strengthen the shank, cut the threads leaving a 20 cm (8″) tail. Bring the needle thread down through a hole in the button and wind it around the shank. Draw the thread to the bottom side and knot.

Machine Setup:

• Stitch Length Control: Blue zone

• Top Thread Tension: 1 to 5

• Presser Foot: Sliding buttonhole foot

Adjusting Stitch Density:

• For more density (coarser stitches for heavy fabrics), turn the stitch length dial toward “0”.

• For less density (finer stitches for light fabrics), turn the dial toward “1”. Always make a practice buttonhole on a scrap of fabric first.

Sewing the Buttonhole:

1. Carefully mark the buttonhole length on your garment. Change to the sliding buttonhole foot.

2. Insert the garment under the foot with the buttonhole marking running toward you.

3. Move the slider (A) toward you so that the top mark (C) on the slider meets the start mark (B).

4. Line up the markings on the foot with the top mark on your garment and lower the presser foot.

5. Set the stitch selector to step 1 (left stitch). Sew forward until you reach the front marking of your buttonhole. Stop sewing.

6. Set the stitch selector to step 2 (bar tack). Sew 4 to 6 stitches. Stop sewing at the right stitch.

7. Set the stitch selector to step 3 (right stitch). Sew until you reach the back marking of the buttonhole. Stop sewing at the right stitch.

8. Set the stitch selector to step 4 (bar tack). Sew 4 to 6 stitches. Stop sewing at the left stitch.

9. Remove the fabric and cut the hole open with the buttonhole opener.

To ensure your machine operates at its best, keep the essential parts clean. The feed dogs and shuttle race areas can attract dust and lint, which can make the machine sluggish or knock loudly. Check and clean these areas about every three months under normal use, or more often if you sew frequently.

Replacing the Light Bulb:

1. Unplug the machine and open the face cover. CAUTION: The bulb could be hot.

2. Push the bulb up and turn it counter-clockwise to remove it.

3. Put the new bulb in by pushing it up and turning it clockwise.

Clean the Feed Dogs:

1. Unplug the machine. Remove the presser foot and needle.

2. Using a screwdriver, remove the needle plate.

3. Use a lint brush to clean the feed dogs.

4. Replace the needle plate.

Clean the Shuttle Race:

1. Raise the needle bar to its highest point and remove the bobbin case.

2. Push the shuttle race levers aside. Lift the shuttle race cover and take the shuttle out.

3. Clean the shuttle race with a lint brush.

4. Put a drop of oil on the center pin of the shuttle and shuttle race. Do not over-oil.

Oiling the Machine:

Oil the machine in all indicated areas at least once a year. If you use the machine frequently, oil it under the top cover every three months. Before oiling, unplug the machine, remove the needle, and put the needle bar in the full down position.

• Oil behind the Face Cover Plate and under the Arm Cover Plate: Open the face cover plate and/or remove the arm cover plate by loosening the top screw to oil points in the illustration. Use only a drop of oil.

• Oil the Underside: Open the shuttle cover by pulling down the embossed part on the left side. Tilt the machine head back and remove the bottom cover. Oil points shown in the illustration.

If your machine is skipping stitches, check the following probable causes and their corrections:

• Incorrect size needle: Choose the correct size needle for your thread and fabric.

• Bent or blunt needle: Insert a new needle.

• Incorrect needle installation: Reinstall the needle correctly.

• Tight upper thread tension: Loosen the upper thread tension.

If the upper thread is breaking, check these possible causes:

• Starting to stitch too fast: Start to stitch at a medium speed.

• Improper threading: Rethread the machine.

• Tight upper thread tension: Loosen the upper thread tension.

• Incorrect size needle: Choose the correct size needle for the thread and fabric.

• Sharp eye in needle: Insert a new needle.

• Nicks or burrs on shuttle: Replace the shuttle, or polish off burrs completely.

• Nicks or burrs at hole of needle plate: Replace the needle plate, or polish off burrs completely.

If the bobbin thread is breaking, check the following:

• Improper bobbin case threading: Check bobbin case threading.

• Lint in bobbin case or shuttle: Clean the bobbin case and shuttle.

If the fabric is not feeding through the machine, check for these issues:

• Darning plate in place: Remove the darning plate.

• Stitch Length set at “0”: Adjust the Stitch Length Control.

• Thread knotted under fabric: Place both threads back under the presser foot before beginning to stitch.

If the machine is jamming or knocking, it may be due to:

• Thread caught in shuttle: Disassemble and clean the shuttle.

• Lint in bobbin case or shuttle: Clean the bobbin case and shuttle.

For irregular stitches, consider these causes and solutions:

• Incorrect size needle: Use the correct size needle for your thread and fabric.

• Improper threading: Rethread the machine.

• Loose upper thread tension: Tighten the upper thread tension.

• Pulling fabric: Do not pull the fabric; guide it gently.

• Loose presser foot: Reset the presser foot.

• Unevenly wound bobbin: Rewind the bobbin.

• Nicks or burrs at hole of needle plate: Replace the needle plate, or polish off burrs completely.

If the needle is breaking, check the following:

• Pulling fabric: Do not pull the fabric; guide it gently.

• Incorrect size needle: Choose the correct size needle for the thread and fabric.

• Incorrect needle installation: Reinstall the needle correctly.

• Loose presser foot: Tighten the presser foot.

If the thread is bunching, it may be because the upper and lower threads were not drawn back under the presser foot before starting the seam. When starting a seam, be sure to draw both threads under and back of the presser foot about 4 inches and hold until a few stitches are formed.

Fabric puckering can be caused by several issues:

• Incorrect thread tension(s): Reset the thread tension(s).

• Using two different sizes or kinds of thread: The upper thread and bobbin thread should be the same size and kind.

• Bent or blunt needle: Insert a new needle.

• Loose presser foot: Tighten the presser foot.

• Fabric very sheer or very soft: Use an underlay of tissue paper.