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BERNINA 380 Review (2023 update)
Note from Editor: This Bernina 330 review was originally written in 2013 and revised in 2023. As Bernina 380 is now a discontinued product, we recommend the Brother CS5055, the Singer 9960 and the Janome 3160 as great alternatives to the Bernina 380. Details below:
Although BERNINA’s 3 series has been around for a little while, it was only recently that I had an opportunity to visit Once Upon a Quilt in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida and review the BERNINA 380 computerized sewing and machine.
Bernina 330 – Overview
The Bernina 380 is a discontinued model and now replaced with better alternatives that we list in this detailed review.
Bernina 380 is a device from the Bernina 3 series which comprises two other machines. This is a computerized device with over 200 utility and decorative stitch options, 5 one step buttonholes, and much more. It is great with quilting and working with heavy fabrics. The LCD screen is touch sensitive and monochromatic. You can adjust stitch settings while sewing. Speed is also adjustable with a sliding controller. This device is not suitable for beginners, but it is an excellent choice for professionals and experienced sewers.
At A Glance
Its sleek black motif makes the 380 stand out from the other two machines in BERNINA’s 3 series.
In addition to the on board stitch guide, there is a numerical keypad for selecting stitches, start/stop button, needle up/down, mirror image and reverse stitch buttons as well as a knee lift to raise and lower the presser foot, bright LED lighting and a large monochromatic LCD screen.
Features
The BERNINA 380 is loaded with standard features:
- 221 utility and decorative stitch options
- 22 utility stitches
- 5 one-step buttonholes
- 1 darning program
- 91 decorative stitches
- 12 quilting stitches
- 4 cross stitch programs
- 2 alphanumeric fonts
- Short and long term memory function
- The ability to change stitch settings while sewing
- LED lighting
- Monochromatic touch screen
- 9 needle positions
- Variable speed control slider
- On board needle threader
Working on the BERNINA 380
When you’re working with a BERNINA sewing machine, they are almost all threaded the same way. The same holds true for the bobbin winder. I like the fact that you can wind the bobbin while sewing, a great time saving feature when working with a large, time consuming sewing project. Selecting one of the 221 stitch options is not as simple as with some other sewing machine models, but it is not as challenging as one might at first think. The numerical keypad has graphic icons displaying the most frequently used utility stitches. Use the stitch selection guide and the # key to get stitches beyond the first nine. The stitch number is displayed on the LCD screen along with gages displaying the length and width settings. Buttons on the right of the screen are used to change the stitch length and width. The quality of the stitches made by the BERNINA 380 is excellent. However, I did not like the fact that there was noticeable noise and vibration.
Alternatives to the Bernina 380
As Bernina 380 is now a discontinued product, we recommend the Brother CS5055, the Singer 9960 and the Janome 3160 as great alternatives to the Bernina 380. Details below:
Priced under $200, the Brother CS5055 computerized sewing machine is a versatile powerhouse catering to both novices and seasoned enthusiasts. Boasting 60 unique built-in stitches, including utility, decorative, and heirloom functions, it allows for creative embellishments. The improved needle threader ensures hassle-free threading, complemented by a jam-resistant drop-in top bobbin for smooth operation. The durable metal frame and fixed needle bar contribute to cleaner stitching and even lines, handling diverse projects with ease. With a generous needle-to-arm workspace, users can tackle larger projects effortlessly. The CS5055, equipped with an LCD display and user-friendly features, transforms garments into personalized fashion statements, making it an ideal investment for sewing aficionados.
- Affordable
- More features than mechanical machines on this list so far
- Light-weight at around 10 lbs
- You can't order parts for this machine. You have to visit authorized repair centers
Versatility, premium features, and precision define the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960. The sewing machine scores full marks in terms of 600 built-in stitches, which comprise stretch, decorative, and quilting options to pamper your inner sewer. Then, the device comes ahead with a needle threader and automatic thread cutter to save you time. You will even come across a speed control slider designed for both professionals and beginners. The machine also startles you with 13 fully automatic buttonholes and a wide array of presser feet to boost the value so you can sew diverse projects.
- Various stitching options
- Intuitive, easy-to-read LCD screen
- Allows 850 stitches per minute with a robust motor
- You get an additional table and wide presser feet.
- Heavy structure.
- Limited throat space for massive quilting projects.
The Janome 3160QDC is a fully functional, top-of-the-line machine that provides all of the benefits at an affordable price. It was created keeping a quilter's needs in mind.
The Superior Plus Feed System from the company Janome has optimized box feeding that makes it possible to feed any fabric steadily and consistently.
Six 1-step buttonholes are available among the 60 built-in stitches. This full-sized machine only weighs 12 pounds, which makes it convenient to transport to workshops and guild meetings.
Sewing is made simple with the time-saving features of this machine, like the memorized up/down needle, the single-handed needle threader, and the lock stitch button.
- Top-Loading Easy-Set Jam Proof Bobbin System
- Handy function buttons
- Adjustments might be problematic sometimes
Fabrics
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
| Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Knits(Medium to heavyweight only) Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Upholstery | Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers |
Accessories
The BERNINA 380 comes with the following standard accessories:
- 6 presser feet
- Reverse pattern
- Zipper
- Overlock
- Open embroidery
- Buttonhole with slide
- Blindstitch
- Open embroidery
- Seam ripper/lint brush
- Screwdriver
- Extra bobbins
- Needles
- Owner’s manual
In addition, people who own the BERNINA 380 have the option of purchasing more than 60 additional specialty presser feet, and other sewing accessories, including the following attachments:
- Circular embroidery
- Eyelet embroidery
- Cut and sew – trims seam allowance while sewing, enabling the sewing machine to act as a serger.
- Binder
Maintenance
| Maintenance activities | After each use | Monthly | Once each year | As needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clean race hook and feed dogs | Yes | No | No | No |
| Wipe head with soft dry cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Wipe head with soft damp cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Lubricate | No | No | No | No |
| Service by sewing machine repair professional | No | No | Yes | No |
Tying Off The Loose Ends
The BERNINA 380 is a good sewing machine. I am only slightly concerned about the vibration and noise that I experienced. This review was, after all, conducted in a store and this particular machine was not displayed on a sewing table, but rather on a cabinet of some sort. Given the fact that every BERNINA I ever reviewed in the past was set up on a sewing table and there was literally no noise or vibration, I will give his one the benefit of a doubt and attribute the vibration to the display setting, not the machine.
My only other hesitation is the fact that the BERNINA 380 has no embroidery specific features. In fact, the comparison chart on the BERNINA website specifically states that the 380 has “no embroidery function”.
One would expect that a top of the line machine in this price range would at least offer minimal embroidery capability. Nor does it have a standard or optional BSR – BERNINA Stitch Regulator – which means the BERNINA 380 was not intended to work with very thick layers of fabric or to execute a lot of quilting functions.
The fact that a cut and sew attachment is available is a plus. With this, users can perform functions normally performed on a serger. But that accessory is only available as an option. The BERNINA 380 is a good choice for an intermediate or advanced level home sewer. I would not recommend it for use by a child or a beginner who is in any way challenged by computerized technology. I feel that a sewing machine for beginners should be as simple and uncomplicated as possible. The BERNINA 380 comes close, but in my opinion, the stitch selection process might be a bit challenging for some beginners. Accessing the front loading bobbin might be a challenge for some. It is situated just beneath a window in the detachable work table.
Theoretically, you should be able to open the bobbin case to remove or insert the bobbin without moving the table. It worked fine for me but I’m not sure it will work as easily with people who are challenged with arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome. The BERNINA brand is a well established name in the sewing world.
If you are an advanced sewist, have a look at our best sewing machines, best sewing books and best sewing magazines posts and if you are looking to get a mechanical, heavy duty, quilting or industrial sewing machine, have a look at some of our great articles. If you are a beginner sewist, review our best sewing books for beginners, best sewing machines for beginners and best sewing machines under $200 to get started.
For brand related articles, check Best Bernette | Best Bernina | Best Brother | Best Husqvarna Viking | Best Janome | Best Juki | Best Singer |
For best accessories, check Best Chairs | Best tables | Best tracing paper | Best machine oils | Best scissors and shears | Best presser feet | Best needles | Best sewing kits |
Happy Stitching.
Other Bernina machines you may like
BERNINA Bernette Deco 600 Review (2023 update)
We were particularly impressed by the fact that the Bernina Bernette Deco 600 machine literally sews all by itself. It is equipped with an interactive touch screen, 32 preloaded embroidery designs and a slot for insertion of memory cards which offer users an almost unlimited number of embroidery design options.
Bernina Bernette Funlock 004D Review (2023 update)
The name of this compact serger might be a bit deceiving. Actually sewing on it might be fun, but threading it is another issue altogether. I like the way it operates, but I’m not so sure about getting it ready to go to work. The threading process for this serger is one of the most challenging I’ve ever encountered.
Bernette B77 Deco Sewing Quilting Machine Review (2023 update)
In this article, we review the Bernette B77 Deco Sewing…
Bernina 380 Review
Summary
The BERNINA 380 is a good sewing machine but I am slightly concerned about the vibration and noise that I experienced. As this is now a discontinued model, I recommend looking at other better alternatives that are available in the market.
If you are an advanced sewist, have a look at our best sewing machines, best sewing books and best sewing magazines posts and if you are looking to get a mechanical, heavy duty, quilting or industrial sewing machine, have a look at some of our great articles. If you are a beginner sewist, review our best sewing books for beginners, best sewing machines for beginners and best sewing machines under $200 to get started.
For brand related articles, check Best Bernette | Best Bernina | Best Brother | Best Husqvarna Viking | Best Janome | Best Juki | Best Singer |
For best accessories, check Best Chairs | Best tables | Best tracing paper | Best machine oils | Best scissors and shears | Best presser feet | Best needles | Best sewing kits |
Happy Stitching.
I owned this machine for about two years and only sold it because I bought a new machine, and already owned another. It was hard for me to give it up, but realisitcally I no longer needed it.
What i loved about this machine is contrary to what is written in this reveiw the machine is quiet and there was no vibration at all.
I can say it sewed every bit as good as my 635 which was nearly double the price machine only. . A full sized Bernina with the same hook system but older model. It has fantasic lighting and the stitch quality is excellent.
For a 3/4 machine it is still pretty heavy 18lb. not a light wt. machine but light enough for me to easily take to class or travel with. Also because it is smaler iit was easy to manuver when traveling.
The only thing I did not like is the stitch card. I always thought I woud lose it.
It has enough of everything for beginner to intermediate garment sewer.
I did not sew knits on it so I can say how it would handle them.
It has the handfree knee lift and is just an overall really nice machine.
I got mine hardly touched 2nd hand so it made it very affordable. If I were going to pay near the MSRP less 20% I would probably jump up to a 530 which is a full size machine and does have pressure foot control. Though I never felt the need for one.
Hi there
I’m interested in getting a Bernina 380 and was wondering if it’s really true that it can’t handle thick fabrics?
Thank you
Not true at all. I sewed at least 30 Minky blankets and also made Minky dog beds. The 380 is an excellent sewing machine.
I have a 770q for the throat space and it is not as dependable as my 380.
I love my Bernina 380. I bought it in 2015 for all my family needs. It is now 2021 and when I turn on my machine, I have to wait 40 minutes + before the unit turns on. Even if I leave unit plugged in but in the off position, I still have to wait for the unit to come on when the on switch is turn on. It is now 2022 and I am tired of waiting. I turn in my sewing machine to Bernina shop and waiting results. YouTube has a video on the power delay which stats this problem is not fixable. What information do you have on this?