A hidden gem, the Kenmore 158.19131
I’m learning to service sewing machines, and I’m starting with my own ever-expanding fleet. Come with me on my sewing machine servicing journey!
This is the machine that my sister scored at a Goodwill in Maryland. She sent me a photo, and I turned into a hearts-in-eyes emoji in the spot. Get yourself a sister like mine.
This is a beautiful machine. I’m partial to Kenmores, and I like these beige beauties, but this model is a step above with a contrasting cut-out nose piece. This machine was dry and needed oiling, but was not really that dirty. The only bummer was the missing foot pedal. Initially, I thought this was no big deal as replacement foot pedals are usually common and plentiful. But this is from a group of Kenmores with a cut-out offset plug (#6817). Tons of #6816s available. Fewer than a dozen models use the #6817 foot pedal, and I could not find a single foot pedal anywhere, missing a few auctions on eBay.
And—I learned that this is a less-famous but equally prized all-metal, made-in-Japan model.
All that adds up to a shortage of parts, I guess.
So I turned to Goodwill’s online auctions, where I quickly learned that shoppers knew exactly what they were looking at. I had seen a few machines from this family, but the prices were steep. Finally found the 158.1813 and won the auction. The 1813 is the flatbed version of the freearm 158.1913 model.
Both machines use type C pattern cams to accomplish the utility stitches as well as a wide range of decorative stitches. I found a complete set of pattern cams on eBay for the 158.1914, a similar model.
Unfortunately, both machines are missing the default metal cam, #20. This cam enables the built-in utility stitches (everything other than the straight stitch, I think). That’s been IMPOSSIBLE TO FIND, and it is also missing on the 1813. Some good news is that a 3D print file is available, https://www.printables.com/model/579005-kenmore-c-cam-20.
If there is one thing I have learned, it’s to label everything: the cams, the manual, the accessory box, the foot pedal. You think you will remember but you won’t. I’m always on the lookout for miscellaneous boxes of Kenmore parts. You never know what treasures await and I’ve had some lucky finds.
Learn more!
- Kenmore 158.1914 pattern cams
- Kenmore Cam Types and Stitches Embroidery: great resource on Kenmore Pattern Cams
Resources
- Blue Creeper penetrating oil and sewing machine oil (SMO): https://bluecreeper.com
- Need Vintage Singer and Kenmore parts? Central Michigan Sewing Supplies is a go-to resource.
