I received this machine as a gift 15 years ago. It took me a while to learn how to properly load the bobbin (I'm not the direction reading kind). But once I did it was the easiest thing to use. I am a self taught sewer and have made my daughters clothes for years on this machine including her Communion gown. It is a basic machine but I have found it to be a pleasure...so much so that now being time to upgrade, I am finding it hard to find another. Such a shame Kenmore machines are no longer made.

jmjoffrion

Agua Dulce, CA

I received this sewing machine as a christmas gift 18 years ago. Its still going strong and hasnt needed any repairs. This machine has alot of options but is still pretty simple and easy to nagivate. I would recommend this machine for someone who does basic/ intermediate sewing. With the options this machine has you would be able to get by. They dont make this machine anymore so getting parts and accesssories can be difficult. I am an intermediate sewing and has put many hours into this machine. I find it does have alittle trouble with heavy fabrics or multiple layers of fabric. It is alittle tricky to get the tensions right in this machine i have found. For 18 years od use i would say kenmore is a great company and makes great products. I am not thr easiest on this machine and it is still going strong, alittle oil and cleaning every now and then and its good to go. I would definerly recommend this product.

Shockerwife

USA

The Kenmore Sewing Machine 15516 is an O.K sewing machine. I am an experienced sewer and have been sewing for years. I found that the bobbin was not winding well after a few days use. The needle gets stuck very easily when using thin fabrics. The bobbin case does not like to sit inside and often gets tangled into the machine. I had to take the whole bobbin mechanic out to get the bobbin back in. It's ok if you are doing VERY beginner work, but may make you frustrated with all the issues.

rockncouponistas

Dayton, OH

My very first sewing machine was a Brother, basic model from Walmart. It worked and did what I basically needed it to do at the time, but eventually I wanted something that had more stitch functions, could easily do a buttonhole, and sewed more smoothly. This machine does all that and more, for only a little more that the cost of that previous machine. It sews things sew nicely, without the machine shaking while you sew heavy duty fabrics! And the toploading bobbin makes reloading the bobbin go that much faster, plus its nice to be able to see how much thread you have left! I have used only a few of the decorative stitches, but when I have they always come out looking fabulous and they make my work look that much more professional! I would buy this machine again and again. I can't complain about a single thing!

kaytea81

Suwanee, GA

I was super excited to receive this sewing machine as a gift for Christmas last year, and while it may be used for very simple sewing projects, it was extremely disappointing to meet my every day sewing needs.  I'm not an expert seamstress by any means, but I did not think this sewing machine could not withstand my sewing uses.  I find that the needle constantly gets "stuck" due to the thread from the bobber as well as the thread from above getting into a completely tangled mess.  I thought it was an error on my part at first, but it kept happening each & every time I used the machine.   I would not recommend this specific model for anyone to purchase.  Do some research first, and really take into consideration all options on types and styles of sewing machines that are available.  The most cost effective sewing machine just may not be the best in quality.  Good luck in your sewing adventures!

bbarnlund81

Normal, IL

The Kenmore model 385 is my first ever sewing machine!! It is very easy to use!! It has a built in needle threader, built in 4-step bartack buttonhole,snap on foot system,and an easy drop feed dog system! The machine has 43 stitch functions! Comes with 4 different presser feet; Zigzag, zipper, hemmer, and buttonhole foot. It also comes with a few bobbins, an assorted needle set, and a buttonhole opener!! the product comes with a 25 year warranty! This is a great starter machine for the inexperienced!

lhginty

Frostburg, MD

I was given this sewing machine as a gift, and when i first got it it wasn't something i would of picked myself. But then i got to using it and have fallen in love. For a beginner, basic sewing needs this is a great machine.

jkallen

Richfield, UT

I have had my machine for years. I love it. This was my first machine I have ever used, it is easy to use. When I was in junior high I took a sewing class and we used a bernina and we were told these were the top of the line. Needless to say I couldn't afford it when I moved out, but knew I needed a sewing machine. My dad was in town and told me to go to sears and look at the Kenmores, which is what my mother has. I bought one that night. I made curtains for my first project. That was the real test, it did great. I am shocked that the kenmore is not rated up there with the berninas. If youv'e never taken a sewing class this would be a great machine to learn from. My fourteen year old daughter is learning from it. Never had any problems...

djlenterprises

Wichita, KS

A few years ago my mother decided to get me a sewing machine for christmas and the Kenmore Model 385.15516000 was what I ended up with. I am so happy I did. I was just learning to sew and it was perfect for me. I could mess up and it was sturdy enough that I wasnt afraid I broke anything. I made my first quilt on this machine, even though it is such a little compact machine. I have been sewing now for 4 years. I still use this machine no problems. I did however have to replace the power cord, this was on my error. I has recently moved and miss placed it. Replacing sewing machine parts is pretty expensive, but a purchase I was willing and happy to make. I love this sewing machine and would recommend it to anyone, especially for new beginner sewers who are worried about huge complex sewing machines. It is very basic and simple to use. This is probably the reason why I like it so well. Very happy with Kenmore and all the memories.

kyrstinborup

Mesa, AZ

According to the owners' manual, this machine should have 16 stitches. However, think 1/2 that. They are stitches based on regular fabric and duplicated on stretchy fabric. So, the capability is basic. At the time I started with it, that was all I could really handle. This machine has lasted me, even as I fumbled to learn how to sew and how to take care of a machine. It withstood many home moves and neglect in its maintenance. I have carried it to classes (it has a handle), and sewn many a stitch with it. I decided to upgrade to increase my creativity and stitch capability. Negative: When you step on the foot control, the machine makes noise, like it wants to go, but you have to tap the hand wheel to help it get started. This makes it time consuming to get things done, especially with intricate things that need constant attention and stops/starts. Basic hemming, sewing, it is a great machine, that lasts and lasts. I will keep it around since I have so many accessories for it now! And, as my girls get older and keep wanting me to teach them how to sew, this will be the machine I would start them on. I think it can handle them if it handled my misuse!

animalengineer

Blairsville, GA