Step One: Adjust The Tension Dial
The tension dial is likely located near the needle and is used to adjust the tension of the upper thread as it passes through the needle and bobbin case. When the tension is too tight, the stitches will be too tight or “puckered”, and when the tension is too loose, the upper and lower stitches will not match. If your Kenmore sewing machine has a “tension dial”, it should be adjusted according to the bobbin thread tension. To set the tension, first turn the hand wheel to raise the needle to its highest position. Then, lightly hold a piece of fabric between the presser foot and the needle. Adjust the dial tension until you can barely feel a drag on the thread.
Step Two: Adjust The Flathead Screws
Flathead screws can be used to determine the tension of the bobbin case. If the tension-screws are too tight, the upper and lower thread won’t interlock properly. If they’re too loose, they’ll become tangled or the fabric won’t remain attached to the needle. To adjust the flathead screws, first locate the screws on the bobbin case. Then, use a screwdriver to gently turn the screws one way or the other. If the threads are not evenly tensioned, rotate the screws as needed.
Step Three: Check The Presser Foot Pressure
The presser foot pressure may need to be adjusted if the stitching tension is off. To do this, use a screwdriver to gently turn the screw located at the back of the Kenmore sewing machine. Increasing the pressure will create more tension between the presser foot and the needle plate. Decreasing the pressure will create less tension.
Step Four: Lubricate The Moving Parts
If the tension on your Kenmore sewing machine is still off, lubricating the moving parts may help. If the parts are not properly lubricated, it can lead to friction and tension issues. To lubricate the moving parts, use an industrial grade sewing machine oil. Apply a few drops of oil on all the moving parts such as the thumbscrews, the shuttle hook, and the bobbin. To ensure an even coating of oil, use a small brush or cotton swab to spread the oil evenly.
Step Five: Clean The Bobbin Case
If the bobbin case is dirty, it can lead to tension issues. To clean the bobbin case, first remove the bobbin. Next, use a soft bristle brush to dust away any lint or debris from the case. Once the dirt is removed, dip a cotton swab into some cleaning alcohol and run it along the bobbin case. Finally, rinse off the bobbin case with warm water and set it aside to let it dry.
Step Six: Inspect The Needle Plate
The needle plate may be the cause of your sewing machine tension issues. To inspect it, first remove the needle plate by unscrewing the screws. Once it is removed, examine the underside of the needle plate for any signs of burrs. If there are, use a fine grade sandpaper to smooth out any burrs.
Step Seven: Check The Needle
It is also important to check the needle for any signs of wear and tear. If the needle is old it can cause tension issues as well. Replace the needle with a new one, if necessary.
Step Eight: Adjust The Balance Wheel
Finally, if the tension on your Kenmore sewing machine is still off, adjust the balance wheel. The balance wheel is connected to the needle and is responsible for controlling the upper thread tension. To adjust it, rotate the balance wheel while holding the fabric in place, and then observe the tension. Once the tension is even, you can move on to the next step.
Troubleshooting Guide
If your Kenmore sewing machine is still not producing the desired stitch tension, it may be beneficial to consult a troubleshooting guide. A troubleshooting guide will be able to provide guidance on different sewing machine problems and how to fix them.
Tension Checklist
Lastly, it is important to keep a Kenmore sewing machine tension checklist to ensure that the tension remains consistent during use. The checklist should include steps for adjusting the tension dial, flathead screws, presser foot pressure, lubricating the moving parts, cleaning the bobbin case, inspecting the needle plate, and checking the needle. By following a tension checklist, you can be sure that your machine is operating optimally.
Repairing The Bobbin Case
If the bobbin case is damaged or worn, it may need to be replaced. To do this, it is best to consult your machine’s user manual for the specific replacements parts and instructions that apply to your model. Once the replacement parts arrive, you can use the guide to replace the damaged or worn bobbin case.
Check For Sewing Machine Aggravators
When troubleshooting your Kenmore sewing machine tension issues, it is important to check for any additional aggravators. These may include worn needle plate gaskets, bent or cracked tension discs, worn brakes and clutches, clogged lubrication ports, loose screws and bolts, improper threading, and incorrect timing, needle and thread type.
Improving Stitch Quality
Once the tension on your Kenmore sewing machine is properly adjusted, it is important to take measures to ensure that stitch quality remains high. This may include changing threads, needles and presser feet regularly, and cleaning the machine regularly to remove lint and dust. Additionally, it is a good idea to use the right needle and thread for the fabric and project.
Maintenance Tips
To prolong the life and preserve the effectiveness of your Kenmore sewing machine, it is important to follow the recommended maintenance and cleaning instructions. Additionally, it is a good idea to oil the machine regularly and cover it properly when it is not being used. Finally, if you notice any issues with your machine, it is best to have it inspected and serviced as soon as possible.
