Kenmore 158
Sears Kenmore Model 158 sewing machine
Provenance and History
Since the 1890s large retailers and mail‑order houses such as Sears Roebuck frequently marketed "own brand" sewing machines by contracting established manufacturers to supply standard models rebadged under the retailer’s name. Sears, founded in 1893, used its low‑overhead mail‑order model to offer machines at far lower prices than typical dealers, quickly becoming—alongside Singer—one of North America’s most important sewing‑machine suppliers from the 1890s through the 1950s. Suppliers changed over time (National, Goodrich, Davis, Domestic, Standard, and ultimately White among them), and Sears’ practice of switching makers or reusing model names created considerable confusion for collectors and researchers; Hawaii member Charles Law has focused research specifically on untangling Sears' branded products.
Throughout the early and mid‑20th century Sears marketed many rebadged platforms—often near‑identical copies of popular Singer designs or White/Franklin rotary models—so a single Kenmore name can encompass machines of different origins depending on year and supplier. After World War II the company continued with American and European suppliers until the late 1950s, when Sears shifted toward lower‑cost imports; this transition, together with decades of rebadging, is why provenance and identification for Kenmore machines require careful comparison of maker features, serials, and contemporary catalog evidence.
Source: ISMACS — https://ismacs.net/sears/sears.html
Condition and Evidence of Use
This machine was rescued from a recycling centre's free section. It does not have a power cord or pedal. The machine and cabinet are in good overall shape with little to no wear showing. The bobbin case holder is present. There is minor chipping of the case on the platform that supports the machine. This cabinet has a unique and smooth operating lifting mechanism.
Current Status
Status: In care
Location: The Sewing Machine Orphanage, Devon, Alberta
Stewardship Notes
The machine and cabinet remain as found. Servicing will be completed when a suitable pedal and cord are found.
Model Features
The Kenmore 158.19412 sewing machine, produced in the mid-1970s by a Japanese manufacturer for Sears, represents one of the last generations of all-metal Kenmore machines before plastic components became more common. Built as a “convertible” free-arm model, it features a removable flatbed, allowing users to easily sew sleeves, cuffs, and other cylindrical items. The machine is equipped with a strong 1.0-amp motor and a double belt drive system that increases torque, giving it the ability to handle both lightweight fabrics and heavier materials like denim and canvas with ease. It offers a selection of built-in stitches—including straight, zigzag, and stretch stitches—along with features such as drop feed dogs for free-motion work, twin-needle capability, and a high-shank presser foot system, making it a versatile tool for garment construction and home sewing projects.¹
At the time, the 158.19412 and its series were widely appreciated in the sewing community for their durability, smooth operation, and “workhorse” reliability, with many users praising their ability to sew thick materials and maintain consistent stitch quality.² However, like many vintage mechanical machines, they are not without issues. Over time, internal components can become gummed up with old oil and require thorough cleaning and lubrication to restore proper function, particularly in the stitch selector and needle bar mechanisms.³ Additionally, their weight and complexity can make servicing more involved compared to modern machines. Despite these drawbacks, the 158.19412 remains well regarded today as a robust, long-lasting machine that exemplifies the peak of Kenmore’s all-metal design era.
Citations
- ¹ Pungo Living Home. “Reconditioning a Vintage All-Metal Kenmore Model 158.19412 Convertible Sewing Machine.”
https://pungolivinghome.com/2019/07/17/reconditioning-a-vintage-all-metal-kenmore-model-158-19412-convertible-sewing-machine/ - ² eBay listing. “Vintage Kenmore 158.19412 Sewing Machine.”
https://www.ebay.com/itm/397666001839 - ³ Quilting Board Forum. “Kenmore 158.19412 Dial Issue.”
https://www.quiltingboard.com/vintage-antique-machine-enthusiasts-f22/kenmore-158-19412-dial-issue-t325993.html
Resources and References
Kenmore 158 Manual
Kenmore 158 Manual (PDF)
This is the instruction and parts manual for the Kenmore 158 sewing machine in PDF format.
International Sewing Machine Collectors' Society (ISMACS)
About ISMACS
ISMACS is the leading international authority on early sewing machine history, with extensive resources for collectors and researchers.