Did I buy a good (Kenmore) sewing machine for a beginner?

[ShadowMom]

My DH found a good deal on a used Kenmore 153 16800 sewing machine from someone he bought some other stuff on...


I have no idea how much he paid, but he never buys anything unless it's a good deal.

Will this machine work OK for someone who knows nothing about sewing?

Anyone who have a similar machine who can give me advice on what to watch out for, or good things/bad things about the machine?

I looked online for reviews but can't find any for this line.

[boingo82]

I have a 158.17550. They are Tough old machines. Personally I like the old Kenmores. This machine puts up with whatever I throw its way..including several layers of denim, and reupholstering a vinyl chair.


The other good thing about Kenmores is the availability of parts. Sears still has the parts for my machine, almost all of them.
Parts are at http://www3.sears.com/


I think you have your model # wrong though. Sears doesn't list a 153.16800, however they do have a 158.16800.

It looks like yours is very similar to mine, except you have a free arm and I don't, whereas I have cams and you don't.

They actually have an instruction book available for your machine, just go to the link above and put in your model #. Click the left button on "attachment parts" and click continue.

IMHO they are great, solid, easy-to-use old machines. I love mine.

ETA: here's a pic of mine.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v1.../158-17550.jpg