Bernina and Bernette cater to different sewing needs. Bernina, a Swiss brand since 1893, is known for high-quality, durable machines with precision stitching, ideal for professionals. Bernette, owned by Bernina, offers budget-friendly machines with similar design elements, perfect for beginners.

Bernina machines are Swiss-made, ensuring premium build quality, while Bernette models are produced in Steckborn for affordability. Bernina features advanced functions like extensive stitch options and a front-loading jumbo bobbin, while Bernette models, like the 77, offer user-friendly features such as a touchscreen and dual feed.

Warranty and price differ significantly. Bernina provides up to 25 years on mechanical parts, while Bernette offers a two-year warranty. Bernina machines are premium-priced, whereas Bernette models, like the 77 at $1,999 USD, offer great value for the cost.

Bernette machines offer an affordable, high-quality alternative to Bernina. They’re user-friendly, with simple controls, automatic functions, and versatile stitch options—perfect for beginners and those looking to grow their skills. Designed by Bernina, they ensure durability while keeping costs low. Models like the Bernette b33 and b35 feature manual dials for easy learning.

However, they lack Bernina’s high-end precision, making them less ideal for complex projects. Some models use plastic parts, so they may not be as heavy-duty. Additionally, they come with fewer accessories compared to Bernina’s premium machines.

Bernette has excellent options for quilting, embroidery, and heavy-duty sewing.

For quilting, the Bernette B77 is a top choice with a spacious workspace, a dual-feed system for even fabric feeding, and over 500 stitch patterns, including quilting stitches. Automatic functions like a thread cutter and knee lifter make quilting seamless. It’s ideal for those who need precision and ease of use.

For embroidery, the Bernette B79 features a built-in embroidery module with 208 designs and USB import. Its large 6x10-inch embroidery area, touchscreen control, and automatic thread cutter make customization easy. It's perfect for anyone wanting an affordable all-in-one machine.

For heavy-duty sewing, the Bernette B05 Academy delivers power with a 1,100 stitches-per-minute motor, a robust metal frame, and adjustable presser foot pressure. With 30 built-in stitches, it’s designed to handle denim, leather, and thick fabric layers effortlessly.

Bernette offers both mechanical and computerized sewing machines to suit different skill levels and sewing needs.

Mechanical Models use manual dials for stitch selection and adjustments, providing more control without computer components. Popular options include the Bernette B05 Academy for heavy-duty projects and the Bernette 33 & 35, which are affordable and beginner-friendly.

Computerized Models come with touchscreen or LCD displays, offering digital stitch selection, automatic thread cutting, and embroidery functions. Models like the Bernette B77 specialize in quilting, while the Bernette B79 combines sewing and embroidery. For embroidery-focused projects, the Bernette 70 DECO is a top choice.

Bernette machines combine Swiss-engineered precision with affordability, delivering high-quality stitching and durability. Many models, like the B77 and B79, offer computerized features such as touchscreens, embroidery modules, and automation—typically found in premium machines.

Built with metal internal frames, Bernette machines are sturdier than lightweight plastic models from Singer or Brother. The dual feed system ensures even stitching, making them ideal for quilting and tricky fabrics. With speeds exceeding 1,000 stitches per minute, models like the B05 Academy handle thick materials like denim and leather with ease.

Bernette also offers peace of mind with warranties ranging from 5 to 10 years, outlasting many competitors.

Bernette sewing machines can handle a variety of fabrics, including thick materials like denim and leather. Models like the Bernette 35 and 33 feature a 2-step presser foot lift, creating extra space for multiple layers—ideal for quilting and heavy fabrics.

For speed, the Bernette 08 Straight Stitch machine sews up to 1,600 stitches per minute, making it one of the fastest domestic machines for heavy-duty projects while Bernette 38 adds versatility with adjustable presser foot pressure, ensuring smooth, consistent stitches on everything from delicate silks to tough leathers.

Bernette sewing machines are designed for ease of use, making them ideal for both beginners and experienced sewists. Many models include automatic thread cutters and needle threaders to enhance efficiency and convenience.

The Bernette 38 offers both automatic and manual thread cutters, allowing quick and easy trimming. The Bernette 08 Straight Stitch Machine features an automatic thread cutter, letting users trim threads at the push of a button.

Bernette sewing machines offer a range of built-in stitches across various models, catering to different sewing needs. Here's an overview of some popular Bernette models and their built-in stitch counts:​

Model Type Built-in Stitches

Bernette 79 Sewing & Embroidery 500

Bernette 77 Sewing & Quilting 500

Bernette 38 Computerized 394

Bernette 37 Computerized 50

Bernette 05 ACADEMY Mechanical 30

Bernette 05 CRAFTER Mechanical 30

Bernette 35 Mechanical 23

Bernette 33 Mechanical 15

The accessories included with Bernette machines vary by model and retailer, but most come with essential presser feet for versatile sewing.

Standard Presser Feet:
The Zigzag Foot handles both straight and zigzag stitches for everyday sewing. The Buttonhole Foot ensures precise, uniform buttonholes, while the Zipper Foot allows for close stitching along zipper teeth.

Specialized Presser Feet: For quilting, the Patchwork Foot provides accurate seam allowances, and the Walking Foot ensures even fabric feeding, especially useful for multiple layers or slippery fabrics. The Free-Motion Embroidery Foot allows for creative quilting and embroidery with unrestricted movement.

 Bernette and BERNINA share a corporate relationship, their accessories are not universally interchangeable. To maintain optimal performance and safeguard your machine's longevity, always ensure that any accessories used are explicitly compatible with your specific Bernette model.

Yes, Bernette offers embroidery machines that support custom design uploads. Models like the Bernette B70 Deco and B79 come preloaded with over 200 embroidery designs and allow users to upload additional designs via USB flash drive. These machines feature a 5-inch color touchscreen for easy editing, enabling you to rotate, flip, or combine pattern elements directly on the machine.

Regular cleaning and maintenance keep your Bernette sewing machine running smoothly and extend its lifespan.

Cleaning: After each project, remove the needle plate and bobbin case to clear lint with a soft brush or cloth. Clean under the feed dogs to ensure smooth fabric movement.

Oiling: Check your manual for specific oiling instructions and use only Bernette-recommended oil. Apply a drop to key areas like the hook and bobbin race.

Thread Catcher Maintenance: If your machine has an automatic thread cutter, clean the thread catcher regularly to prevent jams. Remove the presser foot, needle, and stitch plate, then follow the manual’s cleaning steps.

General Tips: Avoid compressed air, as it can push debris deeper into the machine. Schedule professional servicing yearly and replace dull needles to prevent stitching issues.

​Bernette sewing machines come with a limited warranty that varies by model and region. Generally, the warranty covers mechanical parts for up to 10 years and electrical components for up to 2 years. 

For instance, the Bernette 77 offers a 10-year warranty on mechanical parts and a 2-year warranty on electrical parts. Similarly, the Bernette B38 provides a 10-year warranty against defective materials and workmanship, with a 2-year coverage on electrical parts.

To obtain detailed and accurate warranty information for your specific Bernette model and region, it's advisable to consult the warranty card included with your machine or contact your local authorized Bernette dealer

At Topstitch we offer extensive services and repairs, from regular tune up to full service our team of factory trained technicians are always there for you.

Bernette machines offer a wide price range to suit different sewing needs.

Entry-Level Models like the Bernette 33 ($249) and Bernette 35 ($299) are perfect for beginners. The Bernette 05 CRAFTER ($349) and 05 ACADEMY ($399) provide extra durability and features for growing skills.

Mid-Range Models include the Bernette 37 ($499), a computerized machine with enhanced features, and the Bernette 38 ($749), the most advanced in the 30 series.

Advanced Models like the Bernette 77 ($1,499) and Bernette 79 ($1,499) offer quilting and embroidery functions, while the Bernette 79 Yaya Han Edition ($2,499) provides exclusive extras.

For Overlock & Coverstitch, options range from the Bernette 44 FUNLOCK ($599) to the high-tech Bernette 68 AIRLOCK ($1,899) with air threading and dual functionality.