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Kenmore 158.1340 Review(2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Kenmore 158.1340 Review was originally written in 2013, and has been revised and updated in 2023. Kenmore 158.1340 is no longer in production and the brand was taken over by Janome. We have added alternatives such as Janome 2212, Janome Sewist 721 that were inspired by the Kenmore sewing machines.
I happened to come across a Kenmore 158.1340 in my recent expedition for vintage sewing machines. I’ve been wanting to review a Kenmore sewing machine for a very long time. Brand new Kenmore sewing machines haven’t been available for sale for several years. The older ones, however, have wonderful reputations for quality performance and superior workmanship.
In fact, the old Kenmores were among the most sought after sewing machines from the 1940s until the 80s or 90s when the powers to be at Sears decided to eliminate their exclusive brand name sewing machines for sale to the public.
Kenmore 158.1340- Overview
The Kenmore 158.1340 is a basic and affordable sewing machine that is perfect for beginners. It has 6 built-in stitches, including a one-step buttonhole, and a speed control that allows you to sew at your own pace. It also has a reverse stitch button for backstitching, and a needle threader to make threading the needle easier. The machine is lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you on the go.
Kenmore 158.1340 has now been discontinued. We recommend trying out alternatives that we have listed in this post.
The common review of Kenmore 158.1340 that you are most likely to hear is that it is an uncomplicated mechanical machine that was purchased in the early 1980s.
When I first saw it, I immediately noticed the metal head and know that this is one solid sewing machine. The stitch options are colorfully displayed on the front panel as well as on the stitch selection dial.
The next things that caught my attention were the manual tension adjustment dial, the large reverse button, the free arm and a tiny push button that controls the on board light.
What are some alternatives for Kenmore 158.1340?
Kenmore, along with Sears, was taken over by Janome in 2019 after the former declared bankruptcy. After that, Janome started selling a Kenmore sewing machines under their own brand name. We have added a few Janome home sewing machines that were inspired by Kenmore.
The Janome 2212 Sewing Machine offers a seamless entry into the world of stitching for beginners. Boasting 12 built-in stitches and a four-step buttonhole, this mechanical marvel prioritizes simplicity. Its dial pattern selection and adjustable stitch width and length guarantee a user-friendly experience. Whether you're a novice exploring the art of sewing or a seasoned enthusiast, the Janome 2212's light-weight design and versatile features, such as the free arm and drop feed, make it an ideal companion for a range of projects. With manual tension control and straightforward functionality, it caters to the practical needs of those taking their first stitches.
Read the detailed review for Janome 2212 here.
The Janome Sewist 721 is a perfect companion for beginners and casual sewists, offering a user-friendly mechanical design. With 19 built-in stitches, including everyday and stretch stitches, as well as a 4-step buttonhole, it caters to a variety of sewing needs. Practical features like Adjustable Foot Pressure, Built-in Needle Threader, and Extra High Foot Lifter for thicker fabrics enhance the sewing experience. The machine's light-weight design facilitates easy transport to classes, and with additional perks like LED lighting and a free arm design, the Sewist 721 makes sewing accessible and enjoyable.
- Stitch selection dials
- High presser foot lift
- Can be a bit noisy
What are the features on Kenmore 158.1340?
Reviewing the specifications, I would say the Kenmore 158.1340 has the basic features that made sewing machines of its day so popular with home sewers
- 6 utility stitches
- One 4 step buttonhole
- Free arm
- Large reverse stitch button
- Twin needle capability
- 3 spool pins
- Front loading bobbin with oscillating rotary hook
Working on the Kenmore 158.1340
Threading the Kenmore and winding the bobbin are super simple. Even a child could master the process with a minimum of instruction.
The front loading bobbin requires removal of the work table and exposing the free arm. This extra step may slow you down a little, but the end results are worth it.
Selecting stitches is as easy as turning the dial to the left or right. The stitch quality is remarkable. Although this machine was made in the 1980s, the stitches are reminiscent of machines made much earlier.
I don’t recall seeing stitch definition this perfect on any other sewing machine made after the mid to late 1960s. The fact that there is no drop feed feature is only a minor drawback.
The Kenmore 158.1340 comes with a darning plate that makes darning, freehand sewing, making buttonholes and attaching buttons easy.
The optional buttonhole maker can sew three different buttonhole styles in various sizes… keyhole, rectangular and eyelet. I have one of these gizmos and use it whenever I need to make a series of identical buttonholes.
When you consider the professional quality buttonholes these things produce, it is a little hard to believe that they are no longer making them.
If you have a vintage sewing machine and don’t already have a buttonhole maker, they are usually available on e-bay. Somehow, I lost one of my most frequently used templates and was able to buy another complete buttonhole maker on e-bay for just $5.
I only needed one template but decided for that price, it wouldn’t hurt to have an extra buttonhole maker and a set of extra templates.
Which fabrics are supported by Kenmore 158.1340?
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
| Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Knits(Medium to heavyweight only) Upholstery Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers Leather/suede | Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber |
What accessories come with Kenmore 158.1340?
At the time the Kenmore 158.1340 was manufactured, it was considered to be loaded with the most desirable accessories available, which would have been a green point in this review had I received them with it as well.
The standard accessories that came with the Kenmore 158.1340 included:
- 4 4crew on presser feet
- Zigzag foot
- Straight stitch foot
- Satin stitch foot
- Buttonhole foot
- Nylon disc
- Spool pin
- 2 screwdrivers (1 large/1 small)
- Seam ripper/buttonhole opener
Optional accessories for the Kenmore 158.1340 that were available at the time of purchase include the following:
- Blind hem foot
- Hinged zipper foot
- Even feed/walking foot
- Ruffler/pleater
- Oil dispenser
- Lint brush
- Bobbins
- Needles
- Needle threader
- Buttonhole maker
How to maintain the Kenmore 158.1340?
| Maintenance activities | After each use | Monthly | Once each year | As needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clean race hook and feed dogs | Yes | No | No | No |
| Wipe head with soft dry cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Wipe head with soft damp cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Lubricate | No | No | No | No |
| Service by sewing machine repair professional | No | No | Yes | No |
Summary: Kenmore 158.1340
In case you haven’t guessed, I love sewing machines of all types, but my favorites still remain the old all metal, mechanical jobbies that can withstand hours and hours of continuous use with ease. Most of my true faves were made after World War II until the mid to late 80s. Hence, there might be a slight bias in my review and recommendation of the Kenmore 158.1340, if you are able to find any that is.
The Kenmore 158.1340 is apparently one of the very last machines of its type. The woman who owns this machine told me she paid less than $100 for this machine when it was brand spanking new.
If we apply today’s dollar value, it might cost as much as $300 or $600. When I compare the new sewing machines in that price range to the Kenmore 158.1340, I can honestly say that when it comes to stitch quality, workmanship and durability, the Kenmore 158.1340 stands heads and shoulders above the newer machines in its class.
I liked this machine so much, I offered to buy it, but the owner assured me that she would never part with it. She jokingly offered to leave it to me in her will.
I want that machine so badly I might just hold her to it. All kidding aside, I am seriously considering looking for one on e-bay.
Kenmore 158.1340- Review
Summary
The Kenmore 158.1340 is a basic and affordable sewing machine that is perfect for beginners. It has 6 built-in stitches, including a one-step buttonhole, and a speed control that allows you to sew at your own pace. It also has a reverse stitch button for backstitching, and a needle threader to make threading the needle easier. The machine is lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you on the go.
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If you are an advanced sewist, have a look at our best sewing machines, best sewing books and best sewing magazines posts and if you are looking to get a mechanical, heavy duty, quilting or industrial sewing machine, have a look at some of our great articles. If you are a beginner sewist, review our best sewing books for beginners, best sewing machines for beginners and best sewing machines under $200 to get started.
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Happy Stitching.
I have a wonderful version of the 158, which I got for peanuts, And the version I bought in 1971 (in a cabinet, top of the line at that time) I love them both and have done all the service myself. Sears parts has the instructions on line. The machine is heavy but goes through 4 layers (like straps for a bag) with ease and my $3000 Bernina balked! Very good machine. The second one went to the summerhouse.
I have 2 old Kenmores and an old Brother (all metal) and I would not trade them for anything, EVER ! One is a 158.1341 8 Stitch and the other is a 158.1941. These are some of the finest precision machines that I have ever seen. They are powerful enough to stitch through 4 (or more) layers of canvas yet delicate enough to do silk immediately following. Keep them clean and oiled properly and give them to your children then grand-children when your eyes fail.
I found an embroidery version from the Kenmore 158 series today at goodwill for 25 dollars and it included a cabinet which it folded away into. I tried it out in the store and it needs a little oil but I think thats about it. Your article has made me even more excited to start using it. It will be my first machine.
I have this machine, bought in new in 1979. A true workhorse!
Hi
The Kenmore 158.XXXX… series machines are of a very good quality made by the Jaguar/Maruzen company. They were manufactured in both Japan and Tiawan. Below is a listing of the manufacturers of Kenmore machines by prefix. There’s also info out there on the years the different models were available.
Source Codes for Kenmore sewing machines.
Code Maker Origin
117 ——-White Sewing Machines (USA, & W. Germany)
119 ——- unknown
120 ——- New Process Gear a subsidiary Of Chrysler (USA)
516 ——- Gritzner Kaiser (West Germany)
158 ——- Jaguar/Maruzen (Japan & Taiwan)
148 ——- Soryu (Japan)
340 ——- Necchi (Italy)
385 ——– Janome (Taiwan)
The 120’s were some of Sears most unique looking machines but were also likely the worst line of machines Sears ever had the misfortune to put their label on. The machines were plagued with problems stemming from their use of early plastics.
Many collect them for their unique body styling.
I grew up using an old kenmore. I have no idea what the model was. 20 years ago I sold it for an old bernina 830 which I love. I I regret now letting go of that machine and miss my kenmore. I am looking to buy a 158.12470 kenmore for 25.00. Said it was in good working condition. Will check it out when I pick it up.
Would this machine be included with the worst sears made?
I have the Kenmore 158.1551. I adore this machine for all the reasons you have mentioned in your post. I have the original Sears sales receipt for the machine and it cost $280 in August of 1980. (this machine was passed onto me)
I have recently started looking at the buttonhole attachment and wondered if to would work on my machine? I see plenty for sale on eBay and Etsy. Would you be able to shed some light on this? My machine has the 4 step buttonhole feature, but I am not sure if the attachment will work on the needle plate. My 158.1551 has the same free arm and front load bobbin as the m/c in your post.
Thank you!!!
Hello, Lauren –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
Buttonhole feet are pretty standard. Before purchasing one, however, you need to determine if your shank is long, short or slanted. After you make that determination, you should have no problem purchasing a new or used buttonhole foot for your Kenmore from practically any source.
Thanks for info, I have the 158 sewing Machine that I picked up for hardly nothing, But the problem is I HAVE NO MANUAL for this Sewing Machine and I can’t seem to find one on the Internet . I tumbled across this Site and I’m hoping someone can steer me in the right direction to possibly Find a Manual for this Machine. THANKS FOR THE HELP!
isamacs.com
for manuals to download.
Hola yo tengo el manual de mi maquina de coser Kenmore 158. 1340
I have a 158 1340 for sale
Are you still selling a Kenmoore 158.1340 sewing machine? How old is it? What is its’ condition? And what are you asking for it?
How much do you want for it? I am looking for a Kenmore Sewing Machine Repair person in my area
A friend of mine had a thrift store and someone dropped off a Kenmore 158.1340 sewing machine. She didn’t want it so she gave it to me because she knew I like to sew. There was no manual, no accessories, nothing. Just a dirty machine. Can you help me narrow my search for a manual and accessories? I don’t want to spend hours surfing the web for info. Any help you can give me will be appreciated. Pat
Love your reviews
Do you have a review on Kenmore 158-13580?
Hi, I have this model. It was purchased by my grandmother in 1981 for my 13th birthday. I love it still. I am hoping to try free motion quilting with it, any ideas what darning foot I should use? I have the original manual but a darning foot isn’t listed in the accessories list.
Diane–I’m sure you found out long before this, but, just in case: I believe the feed dogs don’t drop on this machine, so, to free motion, you’d need to block them off. (Don’t know the trick to doing this)
Were you ever able to do free motion quilting with your Kenmore 1340281? If so, can I use the universal needles or do I need to get something else? Thank you…
I use two 158 series Kenmore machines here – a 158.1660 and a 158.1212 – and would never trade either for anything else. They are both solid workhorses and produce beautiful results :). My 1660 was made in 1976 and still works like new 41 years later! Now that my friends is quality! :).
Hi! I just read your review of this machine. I am a servicer of vintage machines and I specialize in the Kenmore models. This is NOT an all metal machine. It does have a plastic cam stack.
I have this kenmore 158. It says Kenmore 8 on the front. It was my mother’s and I inherited it after she passed away. I had a newer Brother sewing machine that I bought in 2002 which was quickly replaced by my mom’s obviously superior quality vintage model.
This is a great source! I just bought a Kenmore 1581340 and didn’t have any info on it, so thanks very much.
Your review is better than most, but I have one issue. You say the metal head reassured you that the machine is one solid unit. Frankly that is not a good indicator of the machines longevity. The 158.1340 has composite (plastic) gears inside which will wear out at some point. The Maruzen/Jaguar machines of mid 1960 to mid 1970s ( like 158.124xx) had all metal parts inside. With proper oiling and care they will out live all of us.
Free copy of the manual can be found here https://www.searspartsdirect.com/manual/3swe2g72p7-000582/kenmore-1581340281-mechanical-sewing-machine
I own a Kenmore 158.1340 sewing machine I did not get a and need to know how to clean and oil it. Does anyone know where I could get that info or video I could watch that will show me how.
I have the exact model pictured, 13402. My grandmother gave it to me many years ago and I recently had it serviced and have rediscovered my love of sewing thanks to it.
It is a tank but oh so easy to use and maintain. I do a small variety of sewing and have not once had a single issue with it (I’ve made several simple block quilts, various accessories for my daughter and I, household items, and most recently 53 face masks for the ongoing novel coronavirus pandemic).
Would like to find out when this mdoel of Kenmore was made. Model number 158 1340281……one of the comments said 1981 is that the year this Sears machine was built?
I found one just a week ago at a local thrift store for $13. Granted it didn’t have all the accessories but the motor runs smooth!! Now it’s time to start with the basics and get sewing!!
Looking for a. Kenmore sewing machine extension table for model 13402
I found one of the 158 models at a bargain Goodwill for $4. It didn’t turn on-I ended up giving it away because a new cord off eBay would be pricey- but sewing with the handwheel felt smooth. I wish machines were still made this well!
This looks just like my current Kenmore machine. I bought it in th ’70’s. My problem is it’s a bit tempermental. When I’m sewing the bottom thread on the foot plate starts bunching & clumping. I played w/the bobbin tension, etc.
I had someone take a look at it, and of course it worked fine when we tried it. But I’m nervous to use it b/c I don’t want to damage my fabric. A col of times I thought I wasn’t going to get the fabric out! So, I thought, maybe it’s time for a new machine. I really don’t want to, I’ve always taken great care of it. Nothing like the old time machines. Can anyone possibly help me figure out the issue?
Thanks in advance.
P.S. – It’s not the operator. I’m a veteran sewer. 🙂
It’s been such a treat to learn more about my sewing machine! Although I don’t have it here in my dorm room to confirm the exact model, I believe I have the very same model of machine as reviewed on this page. It was given to me by my mother, who received it when she was a teenager from an older woman who wanted to give away some of her sewing supplies. It is certainly a true workhorse, and although I’ve sometimes looked at newer machines, I always come back to my all-metal Kenmore. There’s something so satisfying in its weight and lack of digital display.
Speaking of weight, it is indeed quite heavy. I might also add that the light gets a bit hot after a while, if you intend to use the machine for long periods of time. I’m in the habit of turning it off right away between each step of my projects. Regardless, it’s a great machine for amateurs like myself!
Tengo una maquina de coser kenmore 158.13450 pero no le entiendo muy bien, fue una herencia, puedes ayudarme