This is the newest of my Kenmore machines, a model 158.1355 made in the 1980s. It is not as heavy as my 70s machines, but still substantial in weight and durability of internal parts. It has the added advantage of a free arm for cuffs and pant legs. I haven't found the perfect tension settings for some of the embroidery stitches yet, but it is sewing seams well. I did need to add a bit more oil to a squeaky spot, but my tune-up from a week ago seems to have got it fully functional. Last week I fixed the bobbin winder:
Before:
After wire put back in place:
If you've never sewn on a metal, mechanical sewing machine (no computer, little to no plastic) you are missing a treat. These machines sew quietly and consistently through almost anything. This machine takes up to a size 18 needle and has the power to punch through vinyl or denim.
Kenmore was Sears' private label (made by other companies, but labeled for Sears.) The machines with serial numbers starting with 158 were mostly made by Maruzen in Japan, although this newer machine was made in Taiwan. When we old -timers say "They don't make things like they used to" we are speaking truth. I expect one of my grandchildren to be sewing on this machine after I am long gone.
I am alive, and so is this old machine! I hope y'all have a week of productivity and joy. I plan to!