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BERNINA 780 Testbericht (Update 2023)
Anmerkung des Herausgebers: This Bernina 780 review was originally written in 2013, and has been revised and updated in 2023. We have added alternative commercial sewing and embroidery machines such as Janome Horizont Memory Craft 9850, Janome Memory Craft 500E, Und Brother Inno-vis NQ1700E.
Recently, I visited Once Upon a Quilt in Ft. Lauderdale to review BERNINA’s new 780, a sewing and embroidery machine that brings with it a great new innovation.
The folks at BERNINA call it the 9 Hook, an oversized bobbin that can hold up to 80 percent more thread. That alone is a wonderful plus.
Who among us wouldn’t want a bobbin that holds 80 percent more thread? The BERNINA 780 can sew at speeds up to 1000 stitches per minute and has a lot of other standard features, including BERNINA’s exclusive stitch regulator, the capacity to sew stitches up to 9mm wide, computer connectivity, and lots of embroidery designs.
BERNINA 780 Overview
The Bernina 780 is a computerized sewing and embroidery machine that offers a wide range of features for advanced sewing enthusiasts and professionals. It has a color touchscreen interface that allows users to easily navigate through its 101 built-in embroidery designs, 11 embroidery alphabets, and 1,076 built-in stitches. The machine also has a stitch regulator for free-motion quilting, a BSR (Bernina Stitch Regulator) for precise stitch control, and a programmable foot control that can memorize stitch settings. The Bernina 780 has a jumbo bobbin that holds up to 80% more thread than standard bobbins, reducing the need for frequent bobbin changes. It also has a built-in thread cutter, automatic thread tension, and an automatic presser foot lift, making sewing and embroidery tasks more efficient. Additionally, the Bernina 780 has a USB port for importing additional designs and software updates, and a built-in embroidery module that can be easily attached and detached.
Dieses Modell wird jetzt nicht mehr hergestellt. Wir empfehlen, andere Alternativen auszuprobieren, die wir diesem Beitrag hinzugefügt haben.
The BERNINA 780 is a sleek, modern looking Nähmaschine that has a large full color LCD touch screen, LED lighting and function buttons that are most popular with today’s home sewers: start/stop; needle up/down; stitch lock; tie off; and reverse.
Navigating through the LCD touch screen is easy to understand but more on that below. The BERNINA 780 that I reviewed had an extension Tisch, a free arm and a front loading bobbin, all of which are standard on all 780s.
What are some alternatives for the BERNINA 780?
We have mentioned in this review that the BERNINA 780 is a discontinued model. Here are some embroidery machines that we recommend instead.
Are you searching for a compact-size embroidery machine? Then, with Janome Horizon Memory Craft 850, your hunt just ended. The machine can impress you with its versatility and abundance of great features. It consists of sewing and embroidery modes, allowing you to easily switch between the skills. Moreover, the machine provides you with up to 200x 280mm hoop capabilities to ensure precision, especially during embroidery, and the latest needle threading system lets you do some vibrant stitching.
- A wide array of more than 200 built-in stitches
- 175 embroidery designs
- Sturdy frame to manage hard fabrics
- Editing capabilities
- Prompt touchscreen for easier navigation
- Expensive, especially for beginners
- Slow speed of embroidery
Mit dem Janome Memory Craft 500E können Designer ihren einzigartigen Stil durch personalisierte, verzierte und mit Monogrammen versehene Kreationen zum Ausdruck bringen. Seine intuitiven Funktionen, darunter ein Vollfarb-Touchscreen und Bearbeitungsfunktionen auf dem Bildschirm, bieten beispiellosen Komfort. Mit einer maximalen Stickgröße von 7,9 x 11 Zoll und 160 integrierten Designs eignet sich diese Maschine für komplizierte Projekte. Der automatische Fadenabschneider, der fortschrittliche Nadeleinfädler und die USB-Importfunktion steigern die Effizienz. Dank des lebendigen und benutzerfreundlichen LCD-Farb-Touchscreens ist die Navigation durch die erweiterten Funktionen nahtlos und macht den MC500E zu einem vielseitigen und inspirierenden Werkzeug für kreative Unternehmungen.
- Ermöglicht Designern personalisierte, verzierte und mit Monogrammen versehene Kreationen
- Vollfarbiger Touchscreen und Bearbeitungsfunktionen auf dem Bildschirm für unvergleichlichen Komfort.
- Die maximale Größe von 7,9" x 11" eignet sich für komplizierte Projekte
- Einige Benutzer, insbesondere Anfänger, könnten die erweiterten Funktionen als etwas überwältigend empfinden
Dieses Modell von Brother ist ein funktionsreiches kommerzielles Gerät, das Ihnen neben den an Bord verfügbaren Optionen auch Zugriff auf über 5000 optionale Designoptionen von iBroidery.con bietet. Es verfügt außerdem über einen integrierten Speicher zum Speichern Ihrer Muster und Designs. Für den visuellen Komfort wurden zwei LED-Leuchten sowie ein fortschrittlicher Nadeleinfädelmechanismus und eine automatische Fadenspannung eingebaut, um eine angemessene Präzision zu gewährleisten. Die meisten Funktionen des thailändischen Modells sind automatisch und werden nach den Wünschen des Benutzers eingerichtet. Die Qualität der Lieferung ist ausgezeichnet und reibungslos und das Gerät arbeitet unglaublich schnell, wodurch Sie viel Zeit sparen. Für größere Näh- und Stickprojekte steht ein großer Arbeitsbereich zur Verfügung. Auch der Arbeitsbereich ist mit LED-Leuchten gut ausgeleuchtet.
What are the features on BERNINA 780?
The standard features available on the BERNINA 780 include:
- 1306 on board decorative and utility stitch options
- 32 utility stitch options
- 15 one step buttonholes
- 3 darning programs
- 460 total decorative stitches
- 91 sideway motion decorative stitches
- 33 quilting stitches
- 28 cross stitch programs
- 52 tapering stitches
- 8 alphanumeric fonts
- 130 embroidery designs
- 12 embroidery alphabets
- Computer connectivity via USB port
- Drag and drop capability
- BERNINA Design Works software
- Position recall
- Extra large free arm
- 11 needle positions
- Halbautomatisch Nadeleinfädler
- Automatic jump stitch cutting
- Integrierter Fadenschneider
- Einstellbarer Nähfußdruck
- Start-/Stopp-Taste
- Schieberegler zur variablen Geschwindigkeitsregelung
- History function/recently used stitch memory
- Tutorial an Bord
- Design mirror rotating and scaling
- Word Art
Working on the BERNINA 780
As with all other BERNINA-Nähmaschinen, winding the bobbin and threading the BERNINA 780 is easy enough for a beginner to master in just a little bit of time.
The stitch selection process, however, is not for beginners – at least not in my opinion. No doubt, there are a few who would disagree.
In order to select a desired stitch, you would have to go through several steps. First, touch the menu icon on the touch screen, then select the embroidery, quilting, utility or decorative stitch icon.
This will then open a screen displaying all of the stitch options in a particular category. Once a particular stitch is selected, the default stitch length and with settings are displayed along with an icon which will display the proper presser foot for the selected stitch.
The stitch length and width are adjusted on the touch screen as well, allowing each user to customize stitches to suit their particular needs.
For this review, I sampled several different utility and decorative stitches. Each stitch came out perfectly. To be honest, with an MSRP of more than $10,000, one wouldn’t expect anything less.
I fully expected each stitch to be absolutely perfect and was not disappointed. Each stitch I sampled was well defined, well formed and well balanced.
The USB port and monitor plug are located on the right side of the 780, making connection to a computer easy and fast.
I was impressed by the quality of the LED lighting. The positioning of the lights eliminates shadows and sheds the brightest possible Licht on the work space, which makes working on the BERNINA 780 very easy on tired eyes.
The work table has a window situated above the bobbin housing. Ideally, it should make inserting the bobbin and taking it out easier.
However, unless you have relatively small hands and wrists, this may be a bit of a challenge. Ideally, you should be able to change the bobbin without removing the work table, but I have my doubts if that is really going to work for everyone who uses this sewing machine.
Which fabrics work on the BERNINA 780?
| Stoffe, die funktionieren | Stoffe, die nicht funktionieren |
|---|---|
| Naturfasern/Baumwolle-Leinen-Wolle Feine Stoffe/Seide-Satin-Taft/Samt Synthetische Stoffe/Mischungen aus Viskose und Polyester Strick (nur mittelschwer bis schwer) Polster Extra dicke Stoffe oder mehrere Lagen | Leder und Wildleder Fell Reptilienhaut Canvas/Twill Kunststoff/Gummi |
What are the accessories that come with BERNINA 780?
The list of standard accessories that come with the BERNINA 780 includes:
- 9 Nähfüße
- Umgekehrtes Muster
- Reißverschluss
- Jeans
- Offene Stickerei
- Stickerei
- Overlock
- Seitwärtsbewegung
- Knopfloch
- Unsichtbare Naht
- BERNINA stitch regulator
- 3 embroidery hoops
- Small
- Medium
- Large
- Extra Nadeln
- Spulen
- Fusselbürste/Nahttrenner
- Schraubendreher
- Spulenkappen
Optional accessories recommended for the BERNINA 780 include several specialty presser feet and notions such as:
- Nahtführungen
- Needle punch tool
- Touch pen/stylus and holder
- Spanish hem stitch attachment
- Mega-Hoop
- Plexiglass extension table
How to maintain the BERNINA 780?
| Wartungstätigkeiten | Nach jedem Gebrauch | Monatlich | Einmal im Jahr | Wie benötigt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rennhaken und Futterhunde reinigen | Ja | NEIN | NEIN | NEIN |
| Wischen Sie den Kopf mit einem weichen, trockenen Tuch ab | NEIN | NEIN | NEIN | Ja |
| Wischen Sie den Kopf mit einem weichen, feuchten Tuch ab | NEIN | NEIN | NEIN | Ja |
| Schmieren | NEIN | NEIN | NEIN | NEIN |
| Service durch einen Nähmaschinen-Reparaturprofi | NEIN | NEIN | Ja | NEIN |
BERNINA 780 Summary
To conclude this review, the BERNINA 780 is a great top of the line sewing and embroidery machine. When you consider the MSRP, however, I would only recommend it for the home sewer who is definitely a machine embroidery enthusiast.
This eliminates the novice and even people who have passed the level of beginner, but who are not interested in machine embroidery or are unsure as to whether or not machine embroidery is their thing.
When you spend as much on a sewing machine as you might spend on a used car, you want to be sure that you’re going to get your money’s worth.
If, however, you are passionate about machine embroidery, do not buy another sewing and embroidery machine without first visiting your local BERNINA dealer and asking for a demonstration of the 780.
It sews great and with an on board inventory of more than 1300 stitches, I’m sure you won’t get bored with this one.
BERNINA 780 Review
Zusammenfassung
The BERNINA 780 is a high-end, computerized sewing machine that is designed for experienced sewers. It has a wide range of features, including 130 built-in stitches, a dual feed system, and an embroidery module. The 780 is also equipped with the BERNINA Stitch Regulator (BSR), which helps to create smooth, consistent stitches at any speed.
The BERNINA 780 is a great choice for experienced sewers who are looking for a machine that can do it all. It is also a good option for quilters and embroiderers.
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Nice Review. The 750 which is more affordable and has the option of buying without the embroidery module is pricey, however for a machine on this level it is competitive with other brands. It has all the best features of the 780. A few of the most notable differences are no multidirectional sewing, smaller screen and less built in software for the embroidery end of the machine. If you already have software then it is not necessary.
I just purchased this machine about a month ago. Its been back to the shop 3 times for ‘fixes’ (1 of which resulted in a whole new machine). The stitch quality on my machine is awful– the technician and bernina certified instructor both told me that I shouldn’t expect as good stitch quality as from a 5 series or from my old janome from this machine. Worst of all, it is horribly tempramental and sucks up oil like chevy suburban sucks up gas. Sorry. Not a fan and very much regretting purchasing it.
You can change the upper tension of the 780 not only on the screen upper left corner, but also in settings. I made a change in settings and now have quality stitches. Of course you must make the change systematically. Use one thread color on the top and another in the bobbin so that you can see the stitches well. Also be sure to use the same type of thread both top and bobbin. With each small tension change sew a line of stitches. Continue until you like the stitch. What ever change you make in settings will be saved when the machine is turned off. Hope this helps you.
I feel that no one really knows the 780 and how all it’s amazing functions work.
I have the 880, with same problems you are experiencing. Presently it is deader than a door nail…..waiting for dealers tech., to certify that it is dead before they do anything about it. That really big bobbin is the worst bobbin ever…it does soak up oil and grabs threads to wrap around the case, like crazy. Biggest mistake I ever made, buying it. I asked the dealer for a replacement as I have so many projects going, and she offered a traded in 830. No thanks, too much money in the 880. As for stitch quality and beginning a stitch on the edge of the fabric, forget it, there is no comparison when you stitch with a janome or elna, or even a babylock. Good luck!
I’ve had the same problems with the 880. BERNINA must be in serious dire straits. I’ve had it for three years, now have a serious problem with the bobbin apparatus, waiting two months for the new computer for that. Dealer says I should have it next Tuesday. Never know, can’t believe her. The motherboard had to be replaced a year ago……fingers crossed on that. Thinking we should think about a lawsuit. These machines are 13 thousand dollars.
I certainly agree Karen. I had to have my “motherboard” replaced, and to me the sewing is fine, but (excuse the pun: embroidery is crappy”) every time I go to sew a project, the machine either has “thread nesting, tears a hole in material or I am unable to get to get it back to original position to fix…… I wish I hadn’t made this purchase. I have not had this machine not even a year yet.. I have purchased all types of presser feet and accessories. I’m so frustrated with this thing.
Berninas are surely not what they are cracked up to be. I have the 880 and it has been a nightmare from the beginning. I long for the old mechanical machines that sewed beautifully. BERNINA has really slipped downward in their merchandise…..oh well……
Bernina quality is not what they tout it to be. Had the same problem with an 820. Dog of s machine. A friend was going to buy but a Bernina tech looked it over and told her not to take it if I was giving it away. $8k down the tubes. Was considering the 790 as it is on sale. Thank you so much for your review.
Why do we do this to ourselves? Never ever again…..I don’t even like going into a shop that carries berninas.
Hi Karen:
I purchased my machine 1 year ago, and I could throw it out the window. I had to return it to the shop numerous times, the motherboard had to be replaced. The technician said it should fix all problems. What a laugh -If I use it for more than a hour, it starts to damage the project.. I’ve changed needles, check bobbin and it gives me a fit. I finally walk away from it for about 1 hour, go back and it will embroider for about 1/2 hour without difficulty. I wish I had maybe purchased another brand. I don’t think I would recommend the Bernina product. I have spent major money on the attachments.
Karen I understand. Thankfully I did not buy this machine. I tested it and the stitch out was horrible on the back and I had to adjust every stitch when I first looked at this machine. Bernina has corrected some of the issues BUT what I have found is that the 5 series does a much better job.
I even looked at the new 880 and was not impressed. If would recommend the 5 series over the 7 and 8 series.
I purchased the 780 on 11/12. It has been in the shop three times. Each time with tension issues. The first time was at the dealership where I purchased the machine. I learned not only that the technician did not know how to oil the machine but he was not certified. I then re-registered my machine when the tension was once again off. I had originally been told not to touch the bobbin tension and the tech at this dealership told me the same thing.
Two weeks ago I once again had a tension problem. I live a distance from the dealer and waiting a week I was able to get one day service. I now have a new red bobbin case which does not have a tension adjustment. I am presently sewing with a beautiful stitch. I have been making adjustments it the pressure on the presses foot with success. There is a lot to learn about this machine. I love so many of the features. It is my 4th Bernina. My first was a used 530 Record, 2nd a 1030, then a used 1090, and now the 780.
Hi Karen, I bought this for my 60th after much research.
I do like it a lot but haven’t had enough time to learn all of it.
I had it back to shop for buzzing noise only, and all I had to do was update the firmware on line, which took a few goes because I’m not IT orientated, but I persevered with daughters IT Helen and it is great.
Bernina have worked hard at fixing things here.
It costs so much, it’s worth the while trying the hardest I can to learn it!
Venora
I bought the 780 because I wanted a BErnina to relace my 20+ yr old Viking. I immediatley jumped in and spent all summer embroidering flowers on silk organza for my daughter’s wedding dress. The flowers were drawn and sent to an outside digitizer. It was a steep learning curve for me as I am so NOT tech savvy, but I love my machine because I love what it did for me while making that dress. I have a lot more to learn, but am VERY satisfied with ‘Edna’. My only criticism is with the manual. It apparently does not speak my language and I find it hard to find stuff that I need clarified, and then at times I am still not clear. On several occasions it was earier to look something up via Google/u-tube.
I had the touch screen stop working after showing the machine to a friend who was considering up-grading to a 780. A local quilt shop Long armer told me to bring it in, he contacted the tech guy who services at their shop, and they together recalibrated it (via phone instructions) at no charge, and I hadn’t purchesd the machine from that store! That has been my only problem.
There is some ctiticism out there about the front loading bobbin being hard to get at. I do not have a problem with that and don’t have to look to re-load it. If the magnetic bobbin holding mechanism needs to be removed , that is a little more testy I’ll admit.
I basically stumbled onto this site doing general research on the B780. I really like the machine specific info provided in this review, e.g. available stitch breakdown, features, etc., but I feel the reviewer’s explanations could be improved by accurately describing some of the selection processes. They were made to sound more difficult than they actually are.
After reading through the comments, it sounds like the writers had not taken advantage of the free Machine Mastery classes that are essential to a happy and successful experience with any Bernina machine. Bernina machines are precision tools meant to last a lifetime. As consumers, if we’re going to lay out the big bucks for any top of the line machine, we should be prepared and willing to invest the time in gaining a thorough understanding of its operational requirements.
When I plan to buy a machine, I do extensive research up front, BEFORE I give the dealer my money. Part of that research involves the dealer’s reputation in the community. Are their customers satisfied and happy? The Yelp site helps with this aspect. I take a couple of classes at that dealership so I can talk to a few of the customers and make a better assessment. I talk with the service technician and get a better feel for his level of expertise and knowledge of the machines. And, I talk to the store owner who decides whether or not to spend the money and send their techs to formal training on the machines. Unfortunately, many dealers do not, and it definitely shows when it comes to Bernina machines. In order to test and set the tensions properly on these machines, the technicians must use weights, which can only be purchased from Bernina. Unless this is being done in your dealer’s shop, you are likely to be dissatisfied with the stitch quality. These machines are shipped from Switzerland to your dealer’s shop with many handling points along the way. Thus, many opportunities for being mishandled. By the time they arrive at your dealer, they need to be completely serviced and have the tensions thoroughly checked and rebalanced, using those weights. What it really boils down to is how conscientious the technician is and how dedicated he/she is to placing a quality assured product in the hands of the consumer.
If you haven’t taken the Machine Mastery classes, do it!! You’ll be so happy you did. If you do and you don’t think the instructor knew enough to be teaching the class, tell the owner and tell Bernina. Trust me, Bernina wants to know if their dealers aren’t delivering the quality of service expected by Bernina. Bernina USA will make sure you get what you deserve from your investment. This is simply not true of any other manufacturer.
Actually I have taken all the mastery classes and now have been given a 3rd new machine. Quality just isn’t there in my experience
It seems that way. I am on my second and the stitch the right of needle especially on the back side of the stitch is not good. I love a lot of things about my machine the750, but it surprised me how much trouble this line has had. In concept its terrific in actuality not so great. I wonder if any new machiens of any brand can be trusted. I am a pretty die hard Bernina person, but I am not completely opposed to looking and using something different.
Where do you take these classes? Why aren’t they offered online as well?
You are right. When I purchased my 880, the dealer rolled it out in the unopened box and said put it in the car yourself. I should have told her to stuff it but didn’t….been sorry about that ever since. Some dealers are very lazy……and snippy if you have a problem with the machine……seem to want to blame the customers.
I can say that I just purchased an Elna 900 and the stitch is amazingly beautiful, top and bottom. I do have the dead 880; while alive it did not have good stitch quality, in fact taking off on the edge of fabric was impossible. I have a dealer whom gets nasty when a problem arises and it’s been difficult getting good service. As I said above, it sucks up oil. The Elna is great though.
I just purchased the 780. I’m a quilter and love to sew but wanted to adventure out more to embroidery took several classes and keep the book handy! It’s a wonderful machine it does more than I ever expected. I have a 1130 Bernina still use that for my retreats, because the 780 is way to heavy to lug around. Love Bernina!
Hello Martha
I too have the Bernina 1130 from new – 25 years old now! and still I love it. I do not wish to part exchange or sell it as its my workhorse, but would really love a computerised embroidery machine and have been offered the 780E and the 830E both with an embroidery unit.
However I am in such a dilema! I had not expected the 780 to be discontinued and of course the 830 has been too. The 830 is a trade-up and the 780 and ex-demonstrator and I do not know which to go for – a good saving on both, but still a lot of money so need to make the right decision. I know the 780 has had ‘problems’ initially, but am assured they are not on the machine being offered. Any advice welcome please.
regards
Isobel
Having had the 830 myself, I would advise you to take a. Hunk of fabric and thread, into the shop or where ever it is for sale, wind the bobbin, set the bobbin in place and start sewing, fast, slow, and stop starts. Then set up the embroidery module and commence to embroidering. Spend a day with it, and if you don’t have any problems, give it some serious thought. If you encounter problems, then …….. Whatever. It’s a nice machine, on a good day. The feet are very expensive and you MUST have a good tech.
Hi Isobel,
I would look at the 780 before the 830 as it’s easier to thread for a start.
The updates on the 780 have fixed a lot of issues, but really it’s what is easier to understand for you, I don’t really like the technician from where I bought mine but can’t do anything about that.
Best of luck
Hi Martha,
I have both of your machines too!
I would like to converse with you regarding your experiences on the 780 and learn more stuff about it all.
Still love the 1130 to take to class though.
I’m brand new to computer machines though.
I thought I was the only person alive not happy with a Bernina. My experience with my 560 has been less than satisfactory…. From stitch quality, needle position problems and customer service from my local dealer. I wanted a Bernina for 15 years! I was so excited to finally have the opportunity to purchase one, and I’ve regretted it since. I surely won’t be buying the embroidery module which was the plan.
I am with u on your complaints. The people that love their machines have good dealers. The bad dealers are the culprits. They are gready and lazy….simple ad that. Find a dealer that will listen to you and help.
I am with u on your complaints. The people that love their machines have good dealers. The bad dealers are the culprits. They are gready and lazy….simple ad that. Find a dealer that will listen to you and help.
I have a Bernina 350 Special Edition and a 580. The 350 is my back up and class machine. It does a great job though you must have a firm grasp on the thread tails or the needle will unthread when starting to stitch. The foot control is extremely sensitive and even resting your foot will cause the machine to continue stitching. That being said, the stitch itself is great, no issues with tension etc. It’s a basic machine. I wanted to upgrade and got the 580. I am not in love with this machine at all. I’ve had a lot of upper tension issues, it’s difficult to start stitching at the edge of the fabric, often when I’m pivoting close to the edge the material gets sucked up into the sole plate. Ever since I took a BSR class I feel like the stitch quality has degraded, I cannot seem to get the tension right. I have never used the embroidery module, who knew embroidery could take all day, is quite expensive, with a steep learning curve. I was thinking of upgrading to a 770 which is embroidery capable, but reading over reviews now I’m not so sure. The feet for that machine are very expensive, but with Berninas it’s the feet that make the machines. Now I’m thinking I already have all the feet for my 580, and I’ll need to upgrade for the 770-is it worth the expense. My local dealer also sells Janomes, they seem so quiet. I am going to test drive both this week. I want to stick with my local dealer as he’s very close, and the only quilting store in my city. It’s a tough decision.
Go with the Janome! I bought the Elna 900 which is built by Janome. I LOVE that machine. I have the Bernina 880, which has been a total nightmare ever since I bought it. You are right about the embroidery snafu…..it’s an all day job. I do all of my sewing on the Elna, it has a beautiful stitch. When I embroider it’s done on the 880, if it’s working. Wish I had not bought the 880.
It was very interesting reading everyone’s view on different machines (Bernina included). I am, however, a lifelong fan of Bernina and took the plunge and went for the 830 that was offered. It has hardly been used and the person trading up to the 880 has one in each of three countries! I haven’t used the machine yet, due to being unwell, but am itching to get my hands on it. I am quite nervous too, as my local dealer ran through the basics on a couple of occasions, but that was back in August/September and the “old grey cells” aren’t what they were, so I am hoping I can work it out without a degree! Thank you to those who commented on my query. I think (hoping) that it is a matter of getting to grips with a new way of sewing that causes the issues people have had……watch this space. Oh, and a belated “Happy New Year”.
I have sewed on Berninas almost exclusively my entire adult life – my first was the original 830, handed down from my mother (I later handed it down to my MIL, along with my mom’s 1130 after mom was no longer able to sew). The only non-Bernina machine I’ve owned was a Memory Craft 8000, which I replaced after a couple of years with the 1630. (I recently attended a quilt retreat where I borrowed an MC8000 – now I remember exactly why I got rid of it.) I bought my 780 18 months ago and love it. Yes, it sometimes requires tweaking and patience, but playing around with the machine is part of the fun. The embroidery is beautiful and I love that I have a bigger field than I had with my 630. This is my sixth Bernina sewing machine. I’ve also owned two sergers and the original Deco embroidery machine. You’ll never catch me buying another brand.
I too have sewn on berninas my entire life. I started at age 7 on a 730, then my mother bought the 830 of which I still have. Then I bought the 1130 for $1000 from a going out of business sale, which I had for 12 yrs problem free. Bought the 1530 and and paid $1500 and passed my 1130 to my mom as a trade for her 830 for my kids to use. Then 2 yrs ago I bought the B 750….$5000 for a behemoth of plastics junk. Almost every time I start to sew the thread gets sucked down and knots.
As a result not too long ago when the thread knotted I was turning the hand wheel to bring the needle up and the hand wheel broke off. It’ll go on but makes a clanking noise as I sew. The freehand mechanism is so loose the knee lift bled to the point it sometimes won’t lift the preset foot.
Then just today as I’m working to finish a large project the bobbin warning came on. The door was shut but when I went to see again the warning came back on. I took the case out then the bobbin and a little wire that is down under a little piece had dislodged and was sticking up. And since its past a year I have to pay for a new bobbin case grrrrr.
And the only thing the guy I bought from can do is brag about how he sells the most berninas in ca and hi. But when it comes to needing service they are very lacking. And he’ll swear nobody has any problems and that they are made with the same quality as always.
Excuse me? Plastic bobbins and cases is not the same quality as before. My other machines have metal bobbins and cases. All that being said, lots of new features that broaden the range of scope of what you can make with these new machines. If they’re not broken!
I agree with most of you that the Bernina’s are way overpriced and nothing but trouble. I have been sewing on Pfaff’s for ages, until they got bought out and now sadly I don’t use them anymore. I am a Brother fan. They are absolutely the best, I have the dream machine and the Dream Weaver. You just sit down and enjoy sewing. I paid a lot of money for a Bernina 770 Quilters Edition, which by the way cannnot piece a block even if your life was at the end of a hill :-). Most of the stitches are horrible; and the so called embroidery takes hours and hours unless both the sensors are turned off, at which point it looks horrible. The Stitch regulator can only handle very slow speed, and I am an avid FMQ person, so that is a total waste. The machine has been at the dealer more times that I can recall, and it’s a bear carrying that heavy monster back and forth on top of the 3 hour drive. It is a total shame. I have made it up my mind, I am getting rid of it and will get a 3rd Brother. For the amount of money we pay for the machines, they need to run perfectly the first time and every time like Brother’s and Jukis. I have heard Janome’s are good too, but I have invested on the Brother software, and all my brother accessories work on the 2 machines. I don’t want to have to invest in a whole new series of accessories. Bernina’s are nothing but pretense and hype to get people to pay top dollar and then tell you, ‘oh by the way, you need another $1K in accessories to make the machine work’. Give me a Break!
I don’t have a Brother, but I do have a Bernina 880 and I agree with every word you wrote about berninas. If you don’t have a good Bernina dealer you are just stuck in the mud with it.
I am in Bedfordshire in the UK, and do not have a Bernina dealer nearby. I bought a Pfaff performance 5 two years ago from a very helpful dealer in Norfolk ( 2/ 1/2 hours away . I have been very tempted by all the new features on the Bernina 880 plus, and also thinking of the 770QE , but am now worried that these machines might be frustrating. Are there any UK users of either of these machines who could tell me THEIR experiences? Kate
I have a 780 bought second hand. I had no experience with embroidery machines, but this machine is fantastic. All the controls are easy to get at,it’s easy to thread, and there lots of space to manoeuvre hoops and quilts. The manual is extensive if you know where to look I’ve had no problems at all. I have a good service guy who takes it away once a year. Check out you tube for problem solving.