nanna-up-north

A neighbor brought me a Kenmore 158-12120 sewing machine to clean up and I have some questions. The machine is for the neighbor's niece so she can join a local 4-H club and learn to sew.

So, I'm wondering if anyone can tell me the approximate age of this machine. It's a zig-zag machine.

Also, what zipper foot should be purchased for this machine. I figure she'll need a zipper foot.

Can anyone direct me to a place where I can download a free manual?

And, what size bobbins should be purchased for this machine?

Thanks. I usually only buy and clean up vintage Singer machines but I'd like to help the neighbor out so his little niece can have a machine to use.

pennycandy

You might find information on the Sears website under the service and parts section. Some manuals are a free download. The low shank feet and class 15 bobbins are very common and you may find them locally without much trouble. I don't know the machine's age but it looks similar to a made in Taiwan JC Penney machine I picked up at a thrift store. Sears may be able to date the machine.

miriam

I don't know what your machine is like since you didn't post a picture but I haven't seen a 158 I haven't liked. Pennycandy is right about the low shank attachments and bobbins, etc.

MaggieLou

I have a 158-17030 (Model 1703). Mine has a super high shank be sure you get the right feet. Mine takes a #15 metal bobbin.

nanna-up-north

You are right, Miriam. I should have posted a picture but it was late when the neighbor brought it over and I was tired. But, here is the picture today. It sews just fine. Everything seems to be working. And the little girl will come over once I get it oiled and greased to learn how to use it. I'm going to put a needle guard on it and I hoped to have a manual for her. I think it's probably a 70's machine from the looks of it but don't know.

Thanks everybody.

MaggieLou, it's nice to see a reply from a Statesville quilter. We used to live nearby and my DD works in Statesville.

MaggieLou

Jean, small world. Where did you live?

miriam

Looks low shank and class 15 bobbin. What a treasure for your little friend!

nanna-up-north

Haha. We lived in Hiddenite and I taught school at Alexander HS. I'm retired now and back in Michigan but my DD, DGD, DGGDs and one of the DGSs still live in NC. I miss them. When I was visiting NC last year I visited the quilt shop in Statesville. It's a nice little shop. Do you go there?

Tom W

Searspartsdirect.com likely has a free download of the manual. I've never failed to get one, however Sears site is misbehaving for me at the moment so I can't get a direct link for you. Machine was likely made in the early to mid 80's based on styling cues.