Who Makes the Kenmore Sewing Machines?

Kenmore sewing machines are made by Sears. The brand name "Kenmore" made its inaugural appearance in the 1913 Fall Sears catalog in the form of a four-drawer, drop-head sewing machine.

Models and Years

Several models of Sears Kenmore sewing machines included the Kenmore Rotary, Kenmore Long Shuttle, Kenmore Zig Zag Automatic and the Kenmore Model 83. These particular models were produced between 1938 and 1953.

Other Models Made by Sears

In addition to the Kenmore brand of sewing machines, Sears produced the Franklin Rotary, Minnesota "E", and the Challenge Long Shuttle.

History

The founder of Sears, Richard Sears, began selling sewing machines circa 1889. At that time, the sewing machines were manufactured under the Henry Hoverson & Co. name. The first record of Sears selling sewing machines under one of its brand names, Minnesota (in honor of Richard's home state), appeared in the1894 catalog. Although the name Kenmore appeared in connection with sewing machines in the 1913 catalog, it was dropped from the catalog in 1919. The name Kenmore didn't appear again until 1934, when it was reintroduced to the public along side the Minnesota brand.

Modern Models

Modern models of the Sears Kenmore sewing machines include the Kenmore Sewing Machine with 43 Stitch Functions and Built-in Needle Threader, Kenmore Computerized Drop-In Bobbin Sewing Machine with 215 Stitch Functions, the Kenmore Mini Ultra 3/4-Size Sewing Machine with 6 Stitches Plus Buttonhole and Kenmore Computerized Sewing Machine with 110 Stitch Functions.

Fun Facts

Sporting an innovative new design, Sears introduced the Kenmore Sensor Sew One Hundred sewing machine in 1982.

For over a century, Sears has manufactured many appliances under the Kenmore brand name, including washing machines, dryers, stoves, refrigerators, garbage disposals, dishwashers, and garbage disposals. Other products bore the Kenmore name, including the Lady Kenmore electric shaver, vacuum cleaners and barber sets.

References

• Modern Kenmore Sewing Machines
• Sears Sewing Archive
• Sears Sewing Machine Models

Resources

• Kenmore Brand