Kenmore 12102 instructions - Kenmore 12102

http://sewusa.com/Threading_Diagrams/Threading_Pages/Kenmore_Sewing_Machine_Threading/kenmore_385_12102_Threading_diagram.htm

Complete manual: http://www.shopyourway.com/manuals/140735

Look in the manual first, it has ALL the info you need...or have a look at this link:http://www.sewusa.com/Sewing_Machine_Threading_Diagrams.htm

I just discovered that you can go to www.managemylife.com and under manuals, put in 385.12102 and you can have a free copy of your maual. Hooray, this is a great find because normally you have to pay for it. Happy New Year. Good luck

The dial at the top right hand of machine ,turn it fron 0 to 1-5 for zigzag

Make sure the stitch is set to a sewing stitch, (not a buttonhole stitch).
Set the stitch length dial to a longer stitch.
Make sure you have you feed dogs set to the "up" position.

Go to the Sear's website, you can download manuals or get replacements.

Welcome to FixYa!

Don't mess with the bobbin! They rarely need adjustment. Sloppy bottom stitches usually come from two things. Tension too loose on the tension dial or improper threading.

Dial tension should be set on about the mid range and you must, must, must, make sure that you have the machine in the proper thread patch. Have someone check it with you. Sometimes a fresh set of eyes will help you spot an area that you missed.

Thanks and if you found my solution helpful, please reward me with a FixYa rating.

I had that problem, too, then realized my needle was in the wrong way. The flat side needs to be inserted AWAY from you.
I have a Kenmore 16528. It was such an easy solution! I was ready to take it in for repairs! Hope that helps!
Elayna

use a threader

Knobs left to right - Needle position = Center, Length to something reasonable (try 3 to start), Width - hold the knob in and turn it to other than 0.