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Mend Kenmore 385.16120200 Sewing Machine

Kenmore Sewing Machine 385.16120200?

When sewing, I can go about 2 stitches forward (length 2, width 6.5) before the machine makes a knocking noise and the fabric is pulled down into the machine. I push it, I have gotten it to go forward more than 2 stitches, but it still knocks every few & tugs at the fabric. When the knock happens, I can see the needle pulling slightly to the left. When this is happening, stitches aren't being completed; the thread is all knotting under the fabric.

I have tried taking the metal plate off, cleaning & oiling & ensuring nothing is stuck underneath. I don't know what else to do. Suggestions?

Leslie
October 2008

Kenmore Kenmore 385.16120200 Household Appliances, Sewing Machines Kenmore Sewing Machine

I was having this same problem with the same-model sewing machine today, while trying to sew a very gauzy type of fabric. Drivewithken's suggestion to switch to the satin-stitch foot proved to be the right answer. I also increased the upper tension, since the stitching seemed to indicate that it should be done. Thank you!

Debi
December 2008

Hello Leslie,
Increase the pressure on the foot, don't pull the fabric through, let the machine take it, for normal sewing unless you are doing very close satin stitch stitch length about 3 or 4, if you are sewing close stitches as you say make sure you have the satin stitch foot on and not the general purpose because it won't feed through properly, the knocking sound could also be the teeth knocking on the needle plate, try a large straight stitch and see what happens, top tension about 5.

drivewithken@blueyonder.co.uk
October 2008