Kenmore 15/I649 - Manual (Page 34)

ADJUSTING YOUR SEWING MACHINE FOR GOOD STITCHES
When your sewing machine does not sew a properly locked stitch, check the following;
Insert a new needle of the correct size for the thread and fabric you are using.
Consult chart on page 5 for needle size
The upper and bobbin thread should be matched in size and type.
Check threading carefully. See page 8
Check the thread tension balance Use mercerized thread, and a correct size needle for the
fabric you are using Do not try this test with synthetic thread as it will not break
Begirr with a full bobbin, properly threaded into the case. Set the stitch length at about 12
stitches per inch. Fold a 6" square of your fabric in half diagonally, forming a triangle
IVlake a line of stitching W from fold,
a If seam is puckered - both tensions are too tight
b. If the bottom thread lays on the fabric - tighten upper thread tension, and repeat test.
See page 12, Figure 3,
c If the top thread lays on the fabric - loosen upper thread tension, and repeat test. See
page 12, Figure 2
Grasp the stitching and pull with a snap to make threads break
a. If both threads break - tensions are balanced
b. If neither thread breaks - both tensions are too loose
c, if upper thread breaks - loosen upper tension
d, if lower thread breaks - tighten upper tension
Both threads do not have to break at the same place, but they should break on the same snap
Bobbin tension may be reset by the following procedure Start with a loose bobbin thread tension
Tighten the spring screw gradually until bobbin case and fuli bobbin can be gently lifted from your
hand by the end of the bobbin thread
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