I have this same machine. My Mom bought it for me used about 45+ years ago. It is still in original cabinet and still works. I noticed you have the knee pedal also. I was contemplating getting rid of it but now think I will keep it.
I started to get rid of my mom’s but after seeing your video, I can’t believe....I’m having second thoughts. I’m going to give it a try. Thank you SO much!!
I love old Kenmores! I have three, from the '60's & 70's and I'm now looking to find a 120-490 (a "younger sister" to yours), made in the early 50's. It's also very powerful with a 1.5 amp motor and a chain drive. Chrysler built it for Kenmore (Really! - motor and all) and it has an internal "skeleton" of aluminum, making it significantly lighter in weight, but still extremely solid. These wonderful, powerful, beautifully ugly old ladies are GREAT for making upholstery and will even sew through leather, except for the super hard kind that belts are frequently made of. I have a similar machine, a White Rotary Model 77 from 1948. It was my mother's and I learned to sew on it as a little girl. It still runs smoothly and like you, I'll keep it forever. I have several modern machines too. I enjoy their "bells & whistles" but there is no way they can come up to the well-engineered quality and power of most vintage machines, which will run for generations to come if well maintained.
According to the Singer Archives, you machine was made in 1948 and is called a Kenmore 95 Rotary. The last machine made prior to the 1948 model was the 1938 model (and the earliest from that spec sheet 1934) though there was one made in 1942 (117.591). 117 refers to the manufacturer which was White. I recently purchased (in the last week) a 117.812 (Kenmore Deluxe Rotary). I found it on my local Craigslist and was immediately taken by its utilitarian profile. It was in MINT condition and had been serviced (and that costs $75). I paid $125 for it if folks are looking for price points. (no cabinet, but box). The seller had purchased it from a 92 year old woman who was the first owner. Given the machine condition, I don't think she sewed much. It sews beautifully. I have only a poorly copied manual. I have some attachments coming from ebay which has the manual for an older machine (117.551 1938). But they did not change much. When it comes, I'll scan it and upload it so folks can have a better manual available. These machines deserve to have confident owners! However after about 10 minutes of sewing it seized up. I put some PB Blaster on the undercarriage and all was right with the world. Also the foot pedal was very stiff. Blasted that too. I don't have a cabinet, but a box. It weighs 18 lbs (w/o the case). I believe that the body is not cast iron, but rather it is made from an aluminum alloy (mine is and looks just as yours. A magnet will not stick to mine (just the chromed plate on the foot and a magnetic sewing gauge will not budge). The foot is perfect 1/4". I bought the machine to have a little more oomph when needed. You can also find attachments on line for your machine. I have a Bernina 910 which is a work horse. I also have a newer Bernina B 530. But the newer machines though have nice features, just don't compare to vintage. This machine sews easily through multiple layers of "stuff". I did one test on some quilt scraps (fabric+batting). I folded it so that I had 4 layers of fabric + batting. It chugged right through..but I did break the needle on a reverse stitch. The other cool thing is that you have continuous reverse AND a pressure bar for the foot. So many workhorse machines that deserve to be used and loved. And who does not love a perfectly executed straight stitch and a perfect 1/4" seam. Thank you for sharing your video. Oh...I also want to add that it pull fabric powerfully. There are 3 feed dogs and the middle one is in front of the needle...so your fabric pulls through beautifully straight. (My 2 Berninas have the middle BEHIND the needle.) And, your muscle memory will be severely challenged because the handwheel must be rotated AWAY from you!
Me too, I have one of these, but has a long familiar story, my grandma bought it in early ´40s new in Sears Mexico, and still on the family since. It makes me sad to see how such good things are not appreciated by most people. I would not sell this machine never. Thank you for your video
My parents bought one of these Kenmore 117.959 sewing machines just after they were married in 1948. It has always sewed a beautiful stitch and has worked reliably for 70 years. It is a pleasure to use, and after cleaning and lubrication, it hums along as nicely as a luxury sedan. My sister still has this sewing machine, and it is still functioning perfectly. Thanks for bringing back fond memories with your excellent video.
There’s a ton of these around. The war was over in 1948 and people were buying plenty of sewing machines after the war and the depression. It’s an interesting machine because it’s the first break with the generic sewing machine shape, White did fantastic industrial design work. After about ‘58 White were made in Japan, that was economic reality. But, still fantastic machines!
I have one of these. All accessories, beautiful cabinet. A real workhorse. Great machine. There are lots of them still out there in good running condition. So many remain, they are cheap. You won't regret the purchase.
I see you cutting the thread at the end of this video; this machine has a built in thread cutter near where the foot connects to the top of the machine! It's pretty neat; a lot of women bought these from Sears, took great care of them, and they're still cranking out stitches. I just inherited my grandmother's; I'm still trying to figure it out.
I just got one from a swap meet and am thinking of converting it to a hand crank. The guy I bought it from said they were commercial machines that's probably why it sews so much straighter and more uniform than your newer one.
I have the same machine that my mother passed down to me. The wheel pulley has a flat side to it and needs to be replaced. Where did you find your wheel pulley and bobbin ring?
Would you video the bobbin section, how to put it in place and how it threads through the top? No one here in Joplin Mo has been able to figure out how to do that when they serviced mine. Thanks
Not sure what yours looks like but mine has a knee lever instead of a pedal so maybe that is what you are referring to?? I have same machine but have not yet done any cleaning and testing but did see the knee pedal attached to the cabinet. Hope this helps if you haven't gotten your answer already.
Does anyone have any tips about getting the needle to pick up the bobbin thread? I have looked at a few videos that show how it supposed to work and the slightly complex threading of the bobbin case. But for whatever reason I cannot for the life of me, get the needle to pick it up I do have the needle turn sideways, and threaded from left to right as I look at it. I am donating this machine to a newly arrived Refugee family, and I’m worried about giving them a machine that is so complicated to thread.
ruclips.net/video/e1ayebRKOlQ/видео.html. This man has videos on winding, threading, oiling this model. His website has the manual for download. doubleveil.net/share/117.959.pdf
True that, but there were no machines made from 1939 and 1947 per the Sears archive. Probably shortage of metals and the machines had to be retooled back to making sewing machines.
doubleveil.net/share/117.959.pdf This is a nice scan of the original manual. Enjoy. ruclips.net/video/e1ayebRKOlQ/видео.html. The same man also has videos on winding, threading, oiling this model. His hobby appears to be reconditioning vintage machines.
this machine does not have a walking foot. The needle accepts forked attachments...But the machine feeds powerfully and it has a pressure screw for the foot (at top of machine) which may help you get the results that you want.
Looking to sell one I aquired been in attic for 10 years needs serviced how much do you think I should sell it for. Its in ok condition; needs oiled and like you it needs a bobbin wheel and wheel pulley. Any idea how much it should be.? its in a cabinette like yours
tengo una maquina de ese modelo nesecito piezas . soy de monterrey me urgen , donde las puedo comprar por favor orientenme se que son piezas americanas yo no tengo pasaporte para ir a EEUU
I have this same machine. My Mom bought it for me used about 45+ years ago. It is still in original cabinet and still works. I noticed you have the knee pedal also. I was contemplating getting rid of it but now think I will keep it.
I have this same machine. My Mom bought it for me used about 45+ years ago. It is still in original cabinet and still works. I noticed you have the knee pedal also. I was contemplating getting rid of it but now think I will keep it.
![GEEK TIMË [OFFICIAL AUDIO]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/ry-6RvkH880/mqdefault.jpg)
SOS!
I have a vintage Kenmore 117 sewing machine just like the one you show. It only sews backwards. 😩😢
Thank you! ❤️
I have this same machine. My Mom bought it for me used about 45+ years ago. It is still in original cabinet and still works. I noticed you have the knee pedal also. I was contemplating getting rid of it but now think I will keep it.
I started to get rid of my mom’s but after seeing your video, I can’t believe....I’m having second thoughts. I’m going to give it a try. Thank you SO much!!
I love old Kenmores! I have three, from the '60's & 70's and I'm now looking to find a 120-490 (a "younger sister" to yours), made in the early 50's. It's also very powerful with a 1.5 amp motor and a chain drive. Chrysler built it for Kenmore (Really! - motor and all) and it has an internal "skeleton" of aluminum, making it significantly lighter in weight, but still extremely solid. These wonderful, powerful, beautifully ugly old ladies are GREAT for making upholstery and will even sew through leather, except for the super hard kind that belts are frequently made of. I have a similar machine, a White Rotary Model 77 from 1948. It was my mother's and I learned to sew on it as a little girl. It still runs smoothly and like you, I'll keep it forever. I have several modern machines too. I enjoy their "bells & whistles" but there is no way they can come up to the well-engineered quality and power of most vintage machines, which will run for generations to come if well maintained.
According to the Singer Archives, you machine was made in 1948 and is called a Kenmore 95 Rotary. The last machine made prior to the 1948 model was the 1938 model (and the earliest from that spec sheet 1934) though there was one made in 1942 (117.591). 117 refers to the manufacturer which was White. I recently purchased (in the last week) a 117.812 (Kenmore Deluxe Rotary). I found it on my local Craigslist and was immediately taken by its utilitarian profile. It was in MINT condition and had been serviced (and that costs $75). I paid $125 for it if folks are looking for price points. (no cabinet, but box). The seller had purchased it from a 92 year old woman who was the first owner. Given the machine condition, I don't think she sewed much. It sews beautifully. I have only a poorly copied manual. I have some attachments coming from ebay which has the manual for an older machine (117.551 1938). But they did not change much. When it comes, I'll scan it and upload it so folks can have a better manual available. These machines deserve to have confident owners! However after about 10 minutes of sewing it seized up. I put some PB Blaster on the undercarriage and all was right with the world. Also the foot pedal was very stiff. Blasted that too. I don't have a cabinet, but a box. It weighs 18 lbs (w/o the case). I believe that the body is not cast iron, but rather it is made from an aluminum alloy (mine is and looks just as yours. A magnet will not stick to mine (just the chromed plate on the foot and a magnetic sewing gauge will not budge). The foot is perfect 1/4". I bought the machine to have a little more oomph when needed. You can also find attachments on line for your machine. I have a Bernina 910 which is a work horse. I also have a newer Bernina B 530. But the newer machines though have nice features, just don't compare to vintage. This machine sews easily through multiple layers of "stuff". I did one test on some quilt scraps (fabric+batting). I folded it so that I had 4 layers of fabric + batting. It chugged right through..but I did break the needle on a reverse stitch. The other cool thing is that you have continuous reverse AND a pressure bar for the foot. So many workhorse machines that deserve to be used and loved. And who does not love a perfectly executed straight stitch and a perfect 1/4" seam. Thank you for sharing your video. Oh...I also want to add that it pull fabric powerfully. There are 3 feed dogs and the middle one is in front of the needle...so your fabric pulls through beautifully straight. (My 2 Berninas have the middle BEHIND the needle.) And, your muscle memory will be severely challenged because the handwheel must be rotated AWAY from you!
Me too, I have one of these, but has a long familiar story, my grandma bought it in early ´40s new in Sears Mexico, and still on the family since.
It makes me sad to see how such good things are not appreciated by most people.
I would not sell this machine never. Thank you for your video
I just picked up a 1945 just like this today. It works but I’m going to take it apart and clean it well!
I just bought one of these sewing machines and trying to find out some information on it. That you for this video it was very I formative.
My parents bought one of these Kenmore 117.959 sewing machines just after they were married in 1948. It has always sewed a beautiful stitch and has worked reliably for 70 years. It is a pleasure to use, and after cleaning and lubrication, it hums along as nicely as a luxury sedan. My sister still has this sewing machine, and it is still functioning perfectly. Thanks for bringing back fond memories with your excellent video.
The cigarette burn is priceless.
My wife has one of these, we're going to need some parts and have to oil it for sure. It does run. American made love it.
There’s a ton of these around. The war was over in 1948 and people were buying plenty of sewing machines after the war and the depression. It’s an interesting machine because it’s the first break with the generic sewing machine shape, White did fantastic industrial design work. After about ‘58 White were made in Japan, that was economic reality. But, still fantastic machines!
Wow. I love it. What a treasure.
I have one of these. All accessories, beautiful cabinet. A real workhorse. Great machine. There are lots of them still out there in good running condition. So many remain, they are cheap. You won't regret the purchase.
I just bought one of these. Where is a good site to buy parts and accessories?
Thank you.
I see you cutting the thread at the end of this video; this machine has a built in thread cutter near where the foot connects to the top of the machine! It's pretty neat; a lot of women bought these from Sears, took great care of them, and they're still cranking out stitches. I just inherited my grandmother's; I'm still trying to figure it out.
There is one of these at an estate sale. Looks like it would do a wonderful job. Good to know you could replace those parts too.
I just got my gmas machine. Has everything....book and all.
I recently acquired this same machine during a property rehab. Mines is the Kenmore Rotary E6354. Very fine condition!!
That's the motor model number. The machine model number is usually below the deck.
I just inherited this one!
I love the stitching!!
My mom had one I learned to sew on it
I purchased one today, I am so glad to hear how great these machines are, mine needs a good cleaning too. Thank you for sharing!
I just got one from a swap meet and am thinking of converting it to a hand crank.
The guy I bought it from said they were commercial machines that's probably why it sews so much straighter and more uniform than your newer one.
Beautiful machine!
I just acquired one from a friend
I have a bunch of presser feet and a buttonholer for that.
I have one too, I just bough it a month ago, It makes the same noice so I guess that I need to replace the same pieces !! Where can I find them ?
Can u show me how to thread the machine going to needle?
Will it sew vinyl for car upholstery?
I have a question i just found one of these and it needs to be repaired. Who did you trust to fix yours?
Excellent! Ive got one just like it - where can I find the manual?
Does this machine power on when u plug it up? I have one but no power. The light comes on but it won’t sew? It has the knee lever.
I found one for $50 and would love to fix it. Can you share the links for parts and the book??
Yes! Please do Kelly!
I have the same machine that my mother passed down to me. The wheel pulley has a flat side to it and needs to be replaced. Where did you find your wheel pulley and bobbin ring?
you can get these on ebay.
I have one
Would you video the bobbin section, how to put it in place and how it threads through the top? No one here in Joplin Mo has been able to figure out how to do that when they serviced mine. Thanks
ruclips.net/video/e1ayebRKOlQ/видео.html. This man has videos on winding, threading, oiling this model
WHERE THE BUTTON TO START THIS MACHINE? SORRY I'M CLUELESS AND HAVE ONE IN MY GARAGE BUT COULD NOT LOCATE WHERE TO PUSH THE START MACHINE HELP THANKS
Not sure what yours looks like but mine has a knee lever instead of a pedal so maybe that is what you are referring to?? I have same machine but have not yet done any cleaning and testing but did see the knee pedal attached to the cabinet. Hope this helps if you haven't gotten your answer already.
@@violetslover4146 thanks 🙏
Does anyone have any tips about getting the needle to pick up the bobbin thread? I have looked at a few videos that show how it supposed to work and the slightly complex threading of the bobbin case. But for whatever reason I cannot for the life of me, get the needle to pick it up I do have the needle turn sideways, and threaded from left to right as I look at it. I am donating this machine to a newly arrived Refugee family, and I’m worried about giving them a machine that is so complicated to thread.
can you do a video on how you oiled it! And how it's threaded.
ruclips.net/video/e1ayebRKOlQ/видео.html. This man has videos on winding, threading, oiling this model.
His website has the manual for download. doubleveil.net/share/117.959.pdf
@@akarpowicz Thank you!!!!
Esta máquina Kenmore 117.959 es de casa oh de taller
Where can u buy the bobbin case for thus sewing machine .
Beautiful machine. Great video. However, I must add that World War II had been over for 3 years when your machine was made.
True that, but there were no machines made from 1939 and 1947 per the Sears archive. Probably shortage of metals and the machines had to be retooled back to making sewing machines.
Did you clean the cast iron? And if so, with what?
Could you please help me, my presser foot is not moving when I put the lever up or down, any advice?
May I please know where online I can download the free manual?
doubleveil.net/share/117.959.pdf
This is a nice scan of the original manual. Enjoy.
ruclips.net/video/e1ayebRKOlQ/видео.html. The same man also has videos on winding, threading, oiling this model. His hobby appears to be reconditioning vintage machines.
Thank you very much, very kind of you
Where did you get the replacement parts from?
I recently got one and it doesn't have a walking foot is there anywhere i can get one ore will anyone do
this machine does not have a walking foot. The needle accepts forked attachments...But the machine feeds powerfully and it has a pressure screw for the foot (at top of machine) which may help you get the results that you want.
Who can help me share the manual? Please 🙏🏻
Looking to sell one I aquired been in attic for 10 years needs serviced how much do you think I should sell it for. Its in ok condition; needs oiled and like you it needs a bobbin wheel and wheel pulley. Any idea how much it should be.? its in a cabinette like yours
Maryse Whitsett I've seen them go for $300-500!
Check craigslist for going prices in your area. I bought mine, in perfect running condition, all accessories, in a cabinet in great condition= $75.00
Maryse Whitsett Did you ever sell yours? I have one that I am getting ready to sell and I have no idea how to price it...
I have one needing some work in a cabinet , and I paid $35 for it.
Yo amo esas máquinas tengo unaa igualita me gustaría saber de k ano son yo solo tengo 30 anos con la mia
tengo una maquina de ese modelo nesecito piezas . soy de monterrey me urgen , donde las puedo comprar por favor orientenme se que son piezas americanas yo no tengo pasaporte para ir a EEUU
K yo sepa no hay ya piezas para estas máquinas
Ugly duckling compared to a Singer but still a work horse. I bought one in cabinet with accessories, button holer etc at Good Will for $15.
I have this same machine. My Mom bought it for me used about 45+ years ago. It is still in original cabinet and still works. I noticed you have the knee pedal also. I was contemplating getting rid of it but now think I will keep it.
I have this same machine. My Mom bought it for me used about 45+ years ago. It is still in original cabinet and still works. I noticed you have the knee pedal also. I was contemplating getting rid of it but now think I will keep it.