How to Load a Kenmore Sewing Machine
A Kenmore sewing machine is an ideal piece of equipment for anyone interested in sewing garments and home decor. Although these machines can seem intimidating to new sewers, loading thread onto a Kenmore sewing machine can be easily accomplished with a few easy steps. Following a few simple instructions, anyone can get started on their sewing project in no time.
Preparing the Machine
Before loading thread onto the Kenmore sewing machine, it is important to first ensure that the machine is properly set up. Begin by expanding the kenmore sewing machine. Next, turn the power switch to the “On” position and press the pedal. The machine should now be ready to start sewing. The needle should now be in the highest position and the presser foot should be raised. Finally, make sure that the thread spool caps and bobbin winder are off, indicating that the machine is not in threading mode.
Threading the Top of the Machine
To thread the top of the machine, start by placing the thread onto the thread spool. It is important to remember that the thread should always be placed on the spool in the same direction as the arrows, as this will help ensure that the thread is pulled smoothly. Once the thread is placed on the spool, connect one end of the thread to the tension disc, located between the two spool pins, and secure the thread by looping it around the grooves of the pin. Finally, bring the thread up and over the channel plate, then through the lower thread guide, ensuring the thread is placed into the groove of the tension disc.
Threading the Bobbin
Next, move to the bobbin section of the machine. Insert the bobbin into the bobbin winder, and ensure that the thread is facing outward. Then, press the bobbin winder, located to the right of the machine, and press down the edge of the bobbin toward the right, pulling the thread back and away from the edge. This will help to secure the thread in place. Pull the thread up and through the upper thread guide located on the side of the machine, and then release the bobbin winder. The bobbin should now be correctly loaded onto the sewing machine.
Drawing Up the Bobbin Thread
To draw up the bobbin thread, first lower the presser foot. The needle should be up in the highest position in order to allow the following steps to be completed easily. Pull the thread up and to the right, until the thread begins to come up from the eye of the needle. Then, use a pair of scissors to clip the excess thread off of the side of the machine, in order to prevent any thread from getting tangled around the bobbin case. Finally, use the thread take-up lever located on the top-right hand side of the machine to draw the thread up from underneath the foot and pull it through the thread guide.
Threading the Needle
The last step in loading thread onto the Kenmore sewing machine is to thread the needle. To do this, press the needle thread lever, located on the top-left side of the machine, down. With your dominant hand, hold the end of the thread, and pull the thread up and to the left, until the thread comes through the eye of the needle. Finally, use a pair of scissors to trim off any excess thread, and press the needle thread lever up, thereby locking the thread in place.
Adjusting Tensions
Adjusting the tensions on the Kenmore sewing machine is essential to producing beautiful, high-quality stitches. To do so, begin by loosening the tension discs by turning them counter-clockwise until they are loose enough to move the thread easily. Next, turn the tension discs to your desired tension. For best results, the lower thread tension should be slightly looser than the upper thread. Finally, test your settings by sewing on a scrap piece of fabric, making sure that the stitches are even on both sides. If the stitches appear too loose or too tight, adjust the tensions accordingly.
Cleaning and Maintenance
To ensure consistent, high-quality sewing results, it is imperative that the Kenmore sewing machine is regularly attended to. Before starting a new project, make sure to open the bobbin case and clean out any dust or lint that has collected. Also, check the bobbin case and needle plate to ensure that they are not damaged. Finally, lubricate the machine every few months with a few drops of oil, as this will help to ensure that the machine is functioning optimally.
Using Thread Selector
Once the thread is loaded onto the Kenmore sewing machine, the next important step is to choose the correct type of thread for the project. The thread selector wheel should be consulted to determine which type of thread should be used for the particular project. Different types of projects call for different thread weights, so make sure to consult the thread selector wheel to ensure that the correct type of thread is used.
Tension Settings for Different Stitches
When different types of stitches are used, the tension settings of the machine should be modified accordingly. For straight stitching, the upper thread tension should be set higher than the lower thread tension. For zig-zag stitching, the tensions should be balanced, with the upper and lower threads both set at medium tension. For decorative stitching, the upper thread tension should be set higher than the lower thread tension.
Caring for the Machine
Finally, it is important to remember that a Kenmore sewing machine is an investment that should be taken care of properly. As such, it is important to keep the machine clean and adequately lubricated, which will help ensure that it is functioning optimally. Additionally, when the machine is not in use, make sure to cover it with a fabric cloth to protect it from dust and other elements.
