I got a kenmore from my neighbor. It still has the original guidebook and feet for it. It was back in the late 1940’s to early 1950’s. I recently got it fixed up and god I Adore this machine!
I bought one of these at an auction for $5 (including the cabinet, owner's manual, and attachments) back in the early1980s. I have used it extensively since then. I sewed professionally for a time. I've used fancy machines from Bernina and Pfaff and Singer. This one isn't fancy but I can say without question that it's the best machine I've ever used. It's a workhorse and has always produced a beautiful tight seam.
About 15 years ago someone gave me one very similar, the model number was 117.959 mounted in a cabinet. It was an awesome machine. I used it a lot, and I even had most of the accessory presser feet. When I moved i had nowhere to put it so I donated it to a local humane society thrift store. I still have two machines, a Singer 503A and an old Singer 29k60 treadle machine that I restored and it works perfectly. I enjoy all of your videos.
I have my grandma's old Kenmore Deluxe Rotary, Model Number 117.551, circa 1938, its finish is same as yours, the black crinkle finish, and it is housed in a Sears Kenmore folding table Model Number 117.9689. She used to make her own clothes and do alterations for the family. Grandma's machine still sews fine.
I just bought a 117.551. The cabinet needs some work, but the machine woke right up after waiting a few days for fresh oil to soak in (and a new pulley tire of course). Great machine, and somehow its smoother than my Dressmaster which is a nearly identical machine.
Thanks! I was gifted a cabinet with a kenmore machine inside, and was wondering if it would be worth fixing up. Now I feel like I got gifted a dusty gem.
I just acquired a 117.812, a 1948 Rotary Deluxe per an info sheet that I found online that lists all of the model numbers. I've been wanting a vintage machine. (I still have my grandmother's 66 treadle. I don't sew on that and I don't desire too, but the cabinet served as my makeup table. ). I always look on Craigslist. Found one of these listed for $125. (I don't have the luck to find these for close to nothing!) The seller was asking $125. It is in mint condition: plain wood box, leather handle, but with no attachments except for the perfect 1/4" foot! It is the brown crinkle finish. It had been serviced by a local person who I also use for my machines. Thank you for these videos. I was able to get it up and sewing. It did seize up after 5 minutes of sewing. I went to the garage and got some PB Blaster. I sprayed all of the joins underneath the machine and then re-oiled. Problem solved. I ordered a pully wheel as the one with it feels hard. Such a simple machine. It does one thing...and does it well.
Thank you for posting this information. I have my mother's machine which I learned on in the early 60s. It has so many handy attachments, and I especially like the button hole maker which my 1969 Kenmore never had. It has not been used in years so I need to oil it and see if I can remember how to work it. I look forward to more of your videos.
I just got this exact machine at a second hand store for 5 dollars. The cabinet and drawers in great shape. Manual, bobbins, and oil included. I'm thrilled to find your tutorial. Can't wait to experiment with it.
Wow, that was a great find Donelda. FYI, unlike most Kenmore Rotary models, this one is a bit more rare than most. It was made during WW II and for a shorter production run than other Rotary Models.
Crinkle finishes were used around the WWII period because the standard paints/chemicals were put into the military market. Marketing may have devised 'benefits' like low glare but it was purely done for cost and commodity conservation needs.
Great video...I have this model on it's way to me as I write this message...One thing not mentioned is that because of the rubber motor pulley system, the hand wheel turns in the opposite direction as most other domestic machines that we are used to............
I just got the Kenmore Sewing Machine 117.959 for $10. It is in a beautiful cabinet and looks brand new, with the manual, Kenmore Sewing Machine Guarantee paper, and the sale bill. It was purchased in 1953 and the price was $169. I am excited to get it threaded and start sewing again. It has been over 35 years since I did much. But before I even sewed all the kids clothes including jeans and lots of Barbie clothes.
I inherited an assortment of accessories for the Kenmore Electric Rotary Sewing Machine Model #117.95 from my Grandmother, who like many others here, sewed almost all her clothes. I would like to find a way to get these accessories into hands that would appreciate them. Any tips for a group that I can talk to? I have antique thread (wooden spools), metal bobbins for this machine, the Owner's manual (mint condition), rotary attachments in original box (mint condition), the Kenmore button hole attachment in original box ( all mint condition). Just trying to find a good home.
@@susanbillings3706 Hello Susan. There is a wonderful variety of FB groups related to vintage sewing machines. Here is a link to one where you might find someone seeking the very items you have. Here is a link to one of those groups: facebook.com/groups/680558488716580
Hi Susan, are those items still available? I am buying one of these machines today, it has no extras. I would like to purchase those items if possible? You can contact me at bobrich47@yahoo.com . Thank you, Bob Rich.
@@susanbillings3706здравствуйте, пожалуйста продайте мне вашу машинку я всю жизнь мечтала приобрести такую старого образца машинку пожалу0йсто я заплачу вашу цену сколько вы хотите за эту машинку пожалуйста если можете продайте мне,я живу франции мне 67 лет к/с Зула
I just bought one of these for $40 at goodWill. It was in the case and had the wooden base. Did not have the foot pedal and cord and no attachments. However it has never seemed to have sewed a stitch. Perfect shape, needs grease in the cups and oiling.
Where? I bought a sewing cabinet for $10 and had a sears kenmore sewing machine model 117.580 the machine works but the is rotted hete n there @@VintageSewingMachineGarage
This is more of a question- I have acquired this machine but I am in need of a pressure lever that raises & lowers the pressure foot-the one that is there is simply hanging loosely - I don’t have a manual to even see what it is supposed to look like when attached- is there someone to give me answers ? Thanks
You mentioned you sell on Craigslist, I was wondering where you are located? I learned to sew on a Lady Kenmore 89. I own several machines, vintage and new, there is no comparing the two. They sure don’t make ‘em like they used to!
Hello, I have a Kenmore model 117.959 that I need a replacement knee speed control (Rheostat) as I have no slow speed, just fast. I've taken the rheostat apart and looked at it (because I had to redo the electric wiring). The contact points showed some burning and I have cleaned those, but the slide arm is in fairly bad shape, nearly worn through. I haven't been able to locate any rheostats doing web searches. Is there anything special about this one or are there aftermarket rheostats available that will do the same job? Or are some of these originals available still? Appreciate your advice and comments,
Hi, I've been viewing your videos on these vintage machines. I have a friend who has a Kenmore model number 117.589. We were trying to figure out how to thread this machine and was wondering if you could help. It was given to her by a woman who has since passed and it did not come with a manual. Any help you could give would be greatly appreciated.
I have a kenmore sewing machine model 117-959. the motor woks fine but there is a dis connect between motor and needle assembly and foot. I would be grateful if you could tell me what is the problem, or what is missing. thank you, warm regards.
Having trouble with the stitching on this machine. It's not letting me use the gauge from 1 to 6. I have oiled the machine but it continues to sew with very close stitching, I have to pull the material from the back in order to go forward. In reverse it sews the same way, very close stitching. what can I do to remedy?
I learn so much from your videos! Thank you! I have this making, nearly identical. It must of sat nearly forever, and the workings are gunked up. I see in the manual the suggestion to clean with kerosene, and I have some and have used kerosene in this manner before on other projects, but I would like to know what your recommendation is? Is cleaning the sewing machine with kerosene still going to be my best choice? And it did not describe how and where to use the kerosene so I am supposing I would drip it in the same places that the oil would be placed. What do you think of this method? Thank you so much
Hello and thanks for your question. I would highly recommend against using Kerosene. Some folks have used it when working on a machine outdoors and it can be effective, BUT.... but it is VERY slow to evaporate and stinks. The smell can pervade any materials indoors and create a smell in the home that is hard to rid. I would try using a Penetrant oil. Most of these come in spray cans and are sold under brands such as WD-40, 3 in 1 Oil, and others. Note that these products also have odors that can be hard on many folks; especially those who are more sensitive. Penetrants can be used in small amounts strategically, but before trying those, I woudl clean as much old dust and grime as you can with a vacuum/brush. Then, try regular sewing machine oil and a little heat with a hair dryer or heat gun. Use this heat VERY conservatively so as not to damage the machine or its parts. If this fails, then you might try one of these penetrant oils. These machines are not as tough as some other brands to unlock once you get the moving. Good luck and let us know how you make out!
May only have till 6:30 when I am going over to check out both sewing machines. Only time they had available. It would be super nice for somone to tell me which one to get and why. Both come with cabinets and I know for sure that the Kenmore is knee controlled. Think other might be as well. Thankyou so much. This video was very helpful regardless
You won't make a mistake with either one. The White 43 is an earlier model, but both are based on the same solid mechanical design. White made both of these machines since they were the exclusive supplier to Sears for generations. Good luck!
Hi I acquired this machine earlier this summer and just getting around to using it, however the wheel is not spinning to move the needle but the motor runs when I tap knee presser. It seems like something may not be aligned in the body of the machine as the rotary is barely just barely moving. I don't know where to begin to fix it. Any tips would be very much appreciated... and I just loved your video and the history you shared in these appliances. Thank you I love this machine and I know it's ready to get to work. Thanks again.
Hi. There could be a number of things causing this, but on this machine, the first place to check is the small rubber pulley wheel that comes out of the motor and is supposed to rest against the hand wheel (behind the machine). The first thing to check is to see that the wheel is resting against the hand wheel. (there is a spring mounting for the motor that causes the pulley to normally push against the hand wheel. Sometimes, it has been shimmed (held off the hand wheel) to prevent the next possible issue. The pulleys were made of rubber and overall, lasted a long time. Sometimes, you may find they are dry rotted, but more commonly, the pulley was left to rest on the hand wheel for many years without use and this will cause a dimple or bald spot on the rubber pulley that can prevent the hand wheel from turning even though the motor may appear to be spinning. Check here first. If your pulley appears to be ok and smooth all the way around, then the next area to check out is underneath in the shuttle hook/bobbin area since thread jams can cause a machine to not move. A third thing to remember is that unlike most all other sewing machines, the hand wheels on these rotate AWAY from you, not towards you. If you dont have a user's manual, you can buy a PDF of one online. They are very helpful to have when getting a machine that is new to you. These wonderful Rotary machines are less prone to freezing up than other brands due to how they were engineered. Not that it is impossible, but its rare for any of these to be frozen due to old oil like you sometimes find with other vintage machines. The good news is that those rubber pulleys are available brand new as aftermarket reproduction parts. They come in two sizes. Check which one you have to be sure to get the right replacement should you need one. Jenny at shop.sew-classic.com/ stocks these or you can also find them on Ebay. Order a new one, not a used one. Very inexpensive and work well as I have had to replace a few when restoring these machines. Lastly, these rotary machines work a bit different than most others and are often overlooked and under appreciated. They are powerful and make really incredible stitches.
When searching for parts/accessories for these, do a search under Kenmore Rotary. The word Rotary is important since later Kenmores were different machines made by other manufacturers.
Hello. I just acquired one of these machines and I'm having issues getting the handwheel to turn smoothly. I have oiled the machine thoroughly and am at a loss. Do you have any tips?
+Tajsha Jordan Hi. Make sure that you are moving the hand wheel away from you as all of these rotary machines have a rotation that is opposite most other machines such as Singers etc. Also, you should look at your rubber pulley; the small wheel that turns against the hand wheel. These have a common issue in that the machines would often sit for long periods without use and will have developed a "flat" spot which interferes with their running well , if at all. Its not hard to replace and they are available online as reproduction replacement parts. For future use, you can shim something between the motor and machine to keep your new pulley wheel from touching the hand wheel when you are not using the machine and this will prevent further "dimples" from forming on your pulley. I'm not sure if either of these are issues for you, but I would start there. Unlike some brands, these machines have a design that makes them less like to get frozen or stuck from lack of use the way that Necchis sometimes do.
Maybe you need to oil your machine. Don't force it to sew. Oil through all the little holes like 1 or 2 drops, then oil the bottom also. Oil the wheel also. Take off the top of the nidle (the vertical top) and oiled also. I use w40 spray. Clean it with a rag all the oil exes
I hope someone can help me. I was given a machine like this. What size needle fits it? It won’t pick up bobbin thread so I figure the wrong needle was put in it? I am used to vintage Singers. Thank you!
These use the same home sewing machine needles 15x1 that your Singers do. Search for a manual online if you don't have one. Be sure the needle is installed in the correct position and see if that helps.
Hi, I just bought one of these, it seems to function properly. I have been able to spin the wheel away from me and pull up the bobbin thread up. With both upper and lower threads laying behind the machine I try hold the upper thread and try to sew but the threads don't knot together. The needle moves, the fabric moves but no stitching occurs. Any ideas? Brad
+Brad Wilkins Hello. Its tough to know without seeing your machine but here are a few things to check. First, be sure to lightly hold BOTH threads when you start to sew. Not just the upper but also the lower thread that lays towards the back of the machine once you have the bobbin thread brought up the way you suggest. Remember that this machine has a hand wheel that MUST rotate away from you when in operation. Its the opposite to most other machines. Another thing that could be causing issues is either upper thread tension (check your tension adjuster on top left of machine. Last but certainly not least is threading patters for both upper and lower threads. Like all sewing machines, this one must be threaded exactly as the manufacturer intended. Once you have done this often, it becomes second nature, but when you are new to any machine, try rethreading if it does not perform well. Thread the upper thread and pay particular attention to the tension assembly and make sure thread tugs against the check spring exactly as the manual shows. Note that you may need to pull up a video for this since the manual is not the most helpful in this procedure. Also, every one of the Rotary Style machines like this one have bobbin cases that are very durable but they thread in an odd way. (odd compared to a Singer etc.) Again, they are very well made and engineered machines, but if you are new to threading the bobbin for example, it only takes one miss-thread to throw off the machine. If you try all of these things and the machine won't sew for you, don't give up!!! There are clubs in places like Yahoo Groups that are dedicated to specific machines and you may find someone in your area that owns one. Whatever is causing your problem, it is VERY unlikely that your machine is "broken". It may need an adjustment or , likely as I said, something is not set correctly. Good luck. They are wonderful heirloom quality sewing machines and quite strong sewers. Their rotary hooks make a beautiful stitch too.
Thanks for your response. I did read a couple of other people's posts on your site and found I was spinning the wheel the wrong way. By luck alone I went to look at a sewing table for sale that appeared to have a machine inside. I pushed my hands through the spider webs that nobody else wanted to touch and I found another 1942 with all the lettering paint intact. It look like new.
Great find. These machines are underappreciated in part because they function a little different from most others, but they are no less durable and strong. Glad you found out the source of your stitch issues. I have found that about 90 % of the time, its troubleshooting user error that helps solve most problems. And this is especially true when we are learning a new machine design.
Yes. I actually thinkg that number you listed is the number for the cabinet. The machine should have model number that starts with 117. Look at the front of the machine under the top of the bed. It is a Rotary and very similar to other Kenmore Rotarys from that time which were made by the White company and based off of the White Rotary design but with different styling and a slightly different bobbin case design.
Hi there. You should be able to find a new generic pedal that would work with your machine. I would search online or also check at any sewing repair center. They should be able to help you in replacing the foot pedal. Good luck!
HELP! I have inherited one of these because I love sewing. The old rubber pulley wheel was crusty so I bought a replacement wheel. It does not move the hand wheel!! The part is correct, but the hand wheel is very tight even when I manually rotate it. Is there something more to my problem? Please help!!
Hi Josie. Great work replacing the rubber friction pulley. Remember that a sewing machine can have multiple issues going on at the same time. I would inspect both the hand wheel area (may need to take off the hand wheel for this) and also the bobbin case/hook area. Use a flashlight since broken threads can 'hide' out of sight and cause issues with hand wheel movement.
Hello I've just inherited my grandmother's 1940 Kenmore sewing machine. it doesn't look the same as yours but like you said, the looks can vary. I have no idea how to work a sewing machine and am trying to learn. I am itching to create!!! please help! -brandi
Just under the front edge of the machine should be a metal plate with the model number. You can then search online for a PDF of the manual for that model. Manuals can really do wonders for helping you learn how to operate your machine.
Hi! I just bought one of these for $2.50 from the Goodwill this weekend, but I’m CLUELESS on all things seeing related. Please help me!!! I’ve plugged it in, but there’s no footpad- should it have one ? Kenmore E-6354
Hello. One of the most helpful things you may find is to get a user manual. If the original is not there, you can find PDF versions online. Some are free and some are for sale normally &10 or less. The majority of these models have knee speed control. Look under the table and you should see a lever that is moved with the knee. If yours came in a case (very uncommon), you might need a foot controller. Your machines is a bit more rare than most due to it being made during WW II. You should also check or have someone inspect the wiring/cords as well. These machines make wonderful stitches when properly maintained.
@@VintageSewingMachineGarage can you tell me where part number is i can only find the part number for the motor which is e6354. Mine looka just like the one is this video. Mine is kenmore also. Thanks.
My mother in-law just picked one of these up. The cord has been replaced, and it is running backwards. Do you have the wiring diagram for these in AC mode?
Hi Stacey. When you say its running backwards, do you mean the stitching or the hand wheel? FYI, the HAND WHEELS on these Rotary models by White/Kenmore rotate away from the sewer when facing the machine. That is backwards from almost all other machines. If that is the case, then it MIGHT NOT be an issue. However, if the machine is STITCHING backwards, there could be an electrical and/or a mechanical issue.
@@VintageSewingMachineGarage She said the wheel is rotating away, so it's wired right. She says it doesn't pick the thread up from the bobbin, which is way over my head. Thank you again, for your help. Stacey
@@STACEYANDDEE It's not easy for me to know without seeing it, but I suspect it may have something to do with the bobbin case. Threading those bobbin cases is a bit more challenging due to how they are designed. I would double check the needle installation for position and also check the threading of the bobbin as this "MIGHT" lead you to the problem.
I inherited my machine from my Grandmother years ago, however the presser foot does not engage, could you please advise on how to fix or where to research? Thank you for your videos!
I will be posting a new video soon that goes into more detail about these wonderful and often under-appreciated machines. Follow the channel here and RU-vid can notify you when a new video is posted.
I am trying to help a friend with her 117.959 that was a give from her mom many years ago. She took it in to a repair shop and was told it would be over $500 to replace the "tentioner". I have been unable to find a service manual for this machine or any parts. However, you said in your video that the parts are available. Any help/suggestions?
Hi Dee-Ann. I cannot speak as to the reason why her repair shop quoted her that much. I ask less than that for machines like these after they have received a full overhaul all of which take many hours to complete. I have found parts for these at 3 sites and there may be others for sale at Ebay & Etsy. Try these sites below. If your friend doesn't see what she needs, you can contact the sites and they can help you find the part you need. Tell your friend not to give up. Machine's like her were made in VERY large numbers for decades. Sears was a huge competitor to Singer along with the White company that made the Kenmore Rotarys along with others based on the same/similar designs. 1. www.thriftyfarmgirl.com/sears-kenmore-117-959-parts 2. sewingmachine221sale.bizland.com/store/index.html 3. www.bonanza.com/items/search?q[catalog_id]=&q[country_to_filter]=US&q[filter_category_id]=&q[in_booth_id]=&q[ship_country]=1&q[shipping_in_price]=0&q[sort_by]=relevancy&q[suggestion_found]=&q[translate_term]=true&q[search_term]=Kenmore%20Rotary
I saw your post. I have the Owner's manual and accessories if you are interested. My original post: I inherited an assortment of accessories for the Kenmore Electric Rotary Sewing Machine Model #117.95 from my Grandmother, who like many others here, sewed almost all her clothes. I would like to find a way to get these accessories into hands that would appreciate them. Any tips for a group that I can talk to? I have antique thread (wooden spools), metal bobbins for this machine, the Owner's manual (mint condition), rotary attachments in original box (mint condition), the Kenmore button hole attachment in original box ( all mint condition). Just trying to find a good home.
Hi. Yes, its very similar. The main variances are the hand wheel and stitch control designs. But underneath, everything is the same. Sears had the White company (who made it for them ) change they styling periodically to keep the product fresh, but this overall design remained the same for over 50 years!!
Fortunately, 15x1 home sewing machine needles will work just fine in these machines. These are the same needle standard that work in most vintage and all modern home sewing machines. FYI, within this standard, you will find a variety of specific needle tip types such as sharp, ball point (for knits) and Leather tipped versions.
Hello Josh. Since this video on the Kenmore was made, I have since made a number of videos staring the White Rotary Model 77. You might do a search on my channel and see if any of those are of help to you.
Hello Laura. These machines take standard 15x1 home sewing needles which are the most common type and are still used today. Be sure to check your user manual for the range of needle sizes that the machine will allow. Also check to see the threading path as these thread left to right thru the needle. The handwheels on these machines turn opposite the direction of most since you turn the handwheel away from you in order to create forward stitching.
It can be confusing if you have never seen or used any sewing machine. I would search and look for a User manual as this will go a long way to helping you learn the machine's requirements.
I know this was 6 years ago but I need someone to help me decide getting a 43 White sewing machine vs a 117-959 Kenmore. Both free on craigslist which do I get. No room for both
Greetings Henri. You might be better served by getting BOTH of them and trying each one out. You will be in a much better position to know which best fits your needs and then you can always give away the other one or sell it.
Wow! Thankyou so much for the reply! From your experience what do both of these machines exceed in and do best at. Again can't thank you enough for your help
@@VintageSewingMachineGarage well it looks like I may pick it up tomorrow morning due to a change in plan so when ever you can get back to me that would be great
When showing the stitches can you please just hold it still for a few seconds. Holding it up and constantly moving it around makes it annoying when trying to look as the stitches.
