judy_68

Does anybody know anything about a kenmore ultra stitch 8 sewing machine? I know somebody that has one for sale for $15. Is it worth it?
Judy

patricej

whether or not it's worth it depends on why she's selling it. is she having problems with it, or did she simply treat herself to a new machine? does it come with all the presser feet and some bobbins? the manual?

grab your scrap bag (fabrics and batting so you can test it on a sample quilt sandwich) and test it for at least a half hour. test every stitch. if you won't have to take it to a repair shop before you use it, i'd say it's worth it. if nothing else you (1) have a backup machine; and (2) have more time to save up for the machine you really want.

Moonpi

or (3) a bobbin winder cheaper than the store bought ones.

I am back to Kenmore, after years away. The old ones are very user-friendly to maintain, and adapt well to using any kind of thread and any type of fabric. I've only had this one since December, so can't judge how it will hold up, but very happy with it so far.

ania755

moonpi.....I used to think Kenmore is a great machine...till I managed to break the gear....Ok..I am even ready to admit it was my fault...but then we have discovered that the gear (which is such an important part of the machine...and the machine won't run without it)....This gear is made of an extremelly cheap plastic....
A similar gear like this cost 2 US$ can you believe it? 2 dollar????
Only I can't get this gear anywhere now....and the machine is standing without being able to use it...... for 2 $...no machine....
I am very frastrated ..........The machine looks like new......
I wish you luck with your machine....Personally, I switched to Brother...Got three of them now and I am very happy with them....

Becky Robinson

I've had my Kenmore for years nothing fancy but it works. I was in the store before Chrismas looking for a sewing table by Arrow and found out that Jenome makes Kenmore machines, go figure!
Becky

ania755

Yes I also learn that Janome makes the Kenmore machines...and I discovered now they have some distribuitor in Mexico city......I will try to get in touch with them...Thanks....Wish me luck...lol :D

DonnaRae

It also depends on what year the Kenmore is. I have a Kemore that is all metal and I bought it used for $25.00. I have a new Brother sewing, Brother embroidery, and Brother serger,. The Kenmore is great for quilting as it has a much wider neck. The older machins made larger neck areas then the newer ones. Go Fingure? It depends on the machine. Mine is great, bought it used and old and am glad I did!

ania755

Hi I seems you have got a great burgain...
I have the Brother serger too..(1034D) brother XR65 (cheap but does many things)...I just bought the brother PQ1500S..great straight stitch and free motion only...with many feets and tricks...(which I love)...and this old "sick" Kenmore model 385.17928 (cat:6326468)....looking for a gear transplant.....lol

judy_68

I bought the Kenmore. It sews beautifully but there is a knocking noise. My husband tore it apart and can't figure out for sure what is causing it. He thinks it is coming from the bobbin area but its hard to tell. Does anybody have any suggestions????? Its pretty loud. But, like I said, it does sew really nice.
Judy in Ohio

DonnaRae

I know this is going to sound stupid but did you try a different needle. My machine was knocking and I got realy worried then changed the needle and it stopped. Beats me what it was but worth a try with your machine!