Kenmore 148.15600 Sewing Machine Review (Model 1560)
Updated: 2026.04.25
The Kenmore 148.15600 is one of my go-to machines. It’s a portable unit with a removable bed extension, so you can switch to free arm when you need it. It has enough weight to stay put while you sew, but it’s still easy to move around.
Also sold as the Model 1560, this is a mechanical free-arm machine built in Japan by Soryu. Sears offered it from 1977 to 1978 at a price of $195, which comes out to about $987 today. This wasn’t an entry-level machine when it was new.
It’s part of the 148 series, which is Sears’ designation for machines made by Soryu.
The machine handles straight and zigzag stitches, plus a good range of decorative and stretch options. The internal cam stack and stitch selector are all metal, which is a big part of why these hold up over time.
Built-In Stitches
The 1560 has 16 stitches, all selected from the main dial.
- Utility: straight, zigzag, blind hem, mending
- Decorative: scallop, diamond, arrowhead, domino
- Stretch: straight stretch, rick-rack, overcast, feather
It also includes a stitch variegator, so you can tweak the look of certain patterns, and a 4-step manual buttonhole using foot part no. 214369. There are no plug-in cams here. Everything is built in, so what’s on the dial is exactly what you get.
Known Issues
The one weak spot I’ve run into on this model is the front knobs. The metal insert inside them can break down over time. The machine will still sew, but dialing in the exact stitch can turn into some trial and error.
My first 148.15600 had that issue. I ended up buying a second one, and it was worth it.
User Manual
The Kenmore 148.15600 user manual is available in the files section of the Facebook group Mr. Kenmore’s Neighborhood
Specifications
| Brand | Kenmore |
| Model | 148.15600 |
| Manufactured By | Soryu |
| Made In | Japan |
| Years | 1977-1978 |
| Hook Type | Oscillating |
| Drop Feed | Yes |
| Bobbin | Class 15, front-loading |
| Bobbin Case | Class 15, “1 o’clock” position finger |
| Needle System | 15×1 (HAx1 / 130/705H), sizes 9 to 18 |
| Foot Type | Low Shank |
| Drive Belts | Two internal belts (Part Nos. 214567 and 214568) |
| Construction | Metal |
| Construction Drivetrain | Metal |
Would you like to know more?
- History of Sears Sewing Machines (Kenmore, Minnesota, Franklin Explained)
- ISMACS – Sears Roebuck
- Sears Kenmore Sewing Machines
- Facebook Group – Vintage Sewing Machines
- Facebook Group – Vintage Sears Kenmore and White Sewing Machines
- Facebook Group – Vintage Kenmore Sears Sewing Machine Adoration and Restoration
