Sewing has never been more popular. From mending clothes to patching upholstery to creating garments, sewing is a hobby that can spark joy and be creative. But before beginners get started, they will need to learn how to thread a sewing machine—including the Kenmore model. Although the process may seem daunting, it is actually quite straightforward. This article provides detailed instructions on how to thread a Kenmore sewing machine, as well as tips to help achieve even and perfect stitches.
Power Preparation
The first step to threading a Kenmore sewing machine is to be sure that it has power. Plug the power cable into a power outlet and make sure the switch is set to “on”. Check that the lights on the machine are lit and that the buttons move freely.
Preparing the Top Thread
With the sewing machine on, lift up the presser foot and place the spool of thread on the spool pin. Adjust the spool pin so that the thread can feed through the thread guide (which is usually a small hook above the spool pin). Take the thread around the thread take up lever and bring it down to the tensions discs.
Pull the end of the thread through the right tension disc and then thread it back through the left one. Bring the thread up and over the hook at the back side of the tension discs and then go through the needle eye. Make sure the thread is tight so that it won’t slip out of the lead when sewing. Wrap the thread around the bobbin winder pin and slowly feed the thread into the bobbin until it becomes snug. Secure the thread by hitting the bobbin winder switch.
Creating the Bottom Thread
Remove the bobbin from the machine and place it in the bobbin case. This is usually a small crescent shaped metal case that fits into the empty spot on the side of the machine. Thread the bobbin according to the manufacturer’s instructions and slide it into the case. Match up the tension slider in the bobbin case to the one on the machine.
Threading the Needle
With the bobbin case in place, use both hands to turn the wheel on the right hand side of the machine. This will raise the needle and the threader just above the needle. Place the top thread in the hook of the threader, and use the lever to push the threader down to the needle. Pull up the end of the thread through the eye of the needle. Wrap the thread around the bobbin thread and pull gently.
Beginning to Sew
Now that the machine is threaded, it is time to begin sewing. Select the desired presser foot for the project and lower the presser foot lever. Choose the desired stitch and slide the stitch length dial to adjust the length of the stitches. Make sure that the reverse lever is in the down position (away from the needle). Finally, press down on the foot pedal gently and begin sewing.
Assembling the Fabrics
Once the sewing machine is threaded and ready to sew, it is time to assemble the fabric. Place the fabric under the presser foot, align the edges, and lower the presser foot lever. Pull the fabric gently to keep it straight and let the machine take over. Make sure the edges of the fabric match up as the machine is sewing. This will help ensure even stitches and a clean finish.
Maintenance and Adjustments
Threading a Kenmore sewing machine is only the beginning. It is important to regularly maintain the machine and make necessary adjustments. Clean the bobbin and the bobbin case to ensure that the threads are tightly wound and the tension is correct. Check for loose threads and ensure that the needle is the correct size for the project. Finally, regularly oil the machine to keep it running smoothly.
Proper Hand Position
To master machine sewing, it is important to practice. Start with basic stitches and practice using the right hand position. Keep the right hand at the right side of the needle and the left hand in the left side of the needle, guiding the fabric correctly. Use the right hand to adjust the speed, turn the wheel, and make the necessary adjustments.
Inspecting the Stitches
Once the machine has finished stitching, use an observation loupe or magnifying glass to inspect the stitches. Ensure that the stitches are even, make sure there are no loose threads, and check for skipped stitches. If more than one stitch was skipped, it is probably time to change the needle.
Risk of Injury
When sewing with a Kenmore sewing machine, it is important to use caution. Always choose appropriate fabrics and use the right needle size. Ensure that the fabrics are securely held in place and use the right presser foot. Avoid overstretching the fabric and be sure to unplug the machine before making adjustments.
Examining the Pressure
The pressure of the presser foot should be correctly adjusted for each project. If the pressure is too light, the stitches will be uneven and the fabric may pucker. If the pressure is too strong, the fabric may be stretched out of shape. Experiment with different pressures to get the perfect level for each project.
Formulating Material Choices
Selecting the right fabric for a project is essential to getting perfect stitches on the Kenmore sewing machine. Choose natural fibers like cotton, linen, or wool. These fabrics are easier to sew and don’t create as much shifting or slipping. Synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon tend to be more slippery and require more attention.
Understanding Accessories
Accessories can be great additions to any sewing project. But it is important to understand the different accessories available and how they work. Presser feet, for example, are used to hold the fabric in place while stitching. Some are better for heavier fabrics and some are better for lighter fabrics. It is best to do some research and buy the right accessories for the project.
Removing Bobbin
To remove the bobbin from the Kenmore sewing machine and place a new one, use the bobbin winder wheel. Gently pull the wheel and remove the old bobbin. Place the new bobbin in the same spot, rethread, and continue sewing. Be careful not to accidentally dislodge any of the other threads in the machine.
Checking Thread Tension
The thread tension of a Kenmore sewing machine can be checked by running a small test piece through the machine. Make sure that the top thread is correctly threaded and the bobbin is correctly inserted. If the top thread is too tight, there will be puckering on the back side of the test piece. If the bobbin thread is too tight, there may be bubbles or loops of thread on the top side. Adjust the thread tension as needed.
