Looking for free manual for Kenmore 12511. or instructions on how to a just machine to sew stretchy material

All question need full 'make model (what it is).
You posted to the category 'Washing Machines', but it appears to be a Sewing Machine. I moved it to the correct category.

$5.95 is near enough 'Free'.

https://kenmoresewingmachinemanuals.com/shop/kenmore-158-12510-158-12511-sewing-machine-manual-pdf/

and here

https://kenmoresewingmanuals.com/product/kenmore-158-1251-12510-12511-12512/

Sears, the makers of Kenmore, seems to think it is this one and it's free.

https://www.searspartsdirect.com/manual/42fnjp1vbn-000582/kenmore-15815251-mechanical-sewing-machine-parts

..

For any Kenmore 148.....

https://homesteady.com/how-7497115-instructions-sewing-machine-model-148.html

If your older Kenmore is mechanical (not computerized), it probably can use a bit of oiling beyond what the manual recommends. Older machines frequently were pre-oiled at the factory, however, after many years, the oil tends to dry out and cause the mechanical parts to stick (the reason most older machines are frozen). Perhaps this link will be of help:

It was working now it seems to be frozen the needle part wont move

Consult the troubleshooting section of the manual:

http://homeappliance.manualsonline.com/manuals/mfg/kenmore/38516231.html?p=1

Kenmore 385 16231 Owner Manual

https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=4&ved=0CDUQFjADahUKEwiJqdiUtf3IAhUHyWMKHXqGC-4&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.managemylife.com%2Fmmh%2Flis_pdf%2FOWNM%2FL0410144.pdf&usg=AFQjCNEiPz8GxxTRhvv1IFOt0W3y99b9sA&cad=rja

...

Kenmore 117.580 probably 1950's.
Does it look like this model?

Kenmore Model 117 591 Sewing Machine Instruction Manual

OK you need a Kenmore 16 sewing machine instruction manual. It's not free it's 10 dollars on the site..but looking doesn't hurt right?It's on Sewusa.com

You may need to use a walking foot with your machine as stretchy fabrics are hard for the feed dogs to 'grip' and pull the material through under the needle.... you will probably need to change needle as well... there should be a helpful video on YouTube that will tell u all about sewing with stretchy fabrics and how a 'walking foot' works... hope that helps.

You can order a replacement manual online - sometimes at no charge. Try Sears first. Go into the section of their website for repair (manuals are considered as a "part") and get the email or number to contact them.
There is also a site I found that posts manuals free online but your model wasn't listed. They may be able to find one for you as they have an option to ask the membership for help:
http://homeappliance.manualsonline.com/manuals/device/sewing_machine.html

If they can't help you here are a couple of other websites that are selling them for $10 and appear to have your model:
http://www.sewingmanuals.com/Sewing_Machine_Manuals/Kenmore_385.htm
http://www.sewusa.com/Sewing_Machine_Manuals/kenmore_Sewing_Machines_385.htm

Normally I would use a Q (blue needle) and some gift tissue paper. Hold both threads until you get going. I am not sure if just a ball point needle will do the same thing as the Q, which is a Sears product, or not. But it sure don't hurt to try it on a scrap piece of material and get the Q if you need it.

• I'd satisfied to sew cotton/polyester than silk fabric, match more commonly use needle for cotton is no. 14 and stich no.3