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BERNINA 530 Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This BERNINA 530 Review was originally written in 2012, and has been revised and updated in 2023. We have added similar alternatives such as Janome Memory Craft Horizon 8200 QCP, Brother SE1900, and Juki HZL-F600.
There are only a few things that we enjoy better than spending a Wednesday morning in a busy sewing shop.
We were honored to be invited to visit Once Upon a Quilt on a day when Lisa and the entire OUAQ staff were busy teaching class, helping clients, and showing us the newest machines from Bernina—the 530, 550 and 580.
BERNINA 530 Overview
The BERNINA 530 is a high-end sewing machine that offers a range of advanced features for experienced sewers. With a maximum sewing speed of 900 stitches per minute, this machine can tackle a variety of sewing projects quickly and efficiently. It features a large color LCD display, which makes it easy to navigate through the machine's various functions and settings.
The BERNINA 530 is equipped with a range of built-in stitches, including utility, decorative, and quilting stitches, as well as 11 different buttonhole styles. It also features an automatic needle threader and a drop-in bobbin system, making it easy and convenient to start sewing. The machine also has an adjustable presser foot pressure, allowing users to fine-tune the machine to their specific fabric and project needs. Other useful features of the BERNINA 530 include a built-in thread cutter, a knee lift for hands-free fabric handling, and a programmable needle up/down function.
The 580 stands apart from the others with its high resolution LCD touch screen and large embroidery unit.
The 550 and 530, however, look identical, and indeed, they are very close, but the resemblance almost stops right there. While the 530 and 550 have many similar features, there are distinct differences.
The new Bernina 530, for example, while an excellent addition to any sewing room, is ideal for someone who is relatively new to the art of sewing.
What are the features on the Bernina 530?
The standard features available on the Bernina 530 include:
- Capability to sew up to 900 stitches per minute
- 100 create and save stitch combinations
- Adjustable stitch length and width
- Semi-automatic needle threader
- Adjustable pressure foot pressure
- Adjustable speed control
Working on the Bernina 530
The on board thread guide and top winding bobbin are more than just user friendly.
The on board threading guide, semi automatic needle threader and front loading bobbin make the BERNINA 530 one of the easiest ever sewing machines to set up on the market.
The LCD screen, start/stop, needle up and down, and reverse stitch function buttons, along with the tutorial touch pads, are so easy to understand and operate that even someone who has never touched a sewing machine before would be at complete ease learning to sew on the Bernina 530.
Darning and free-hand sewing are simplified by the drop feed, and finishing off seams is a cinch with the three on board manual thread cutters.
The slide speed control feature not only makes working with intricate projects easier for the advanced sewer, but it also comes in handy for the beginning home sewer, who might prefer to sew at lower speeds while perfecting the skill of operating a sewing machine.
Having the freedom to adjust the sewing speed is also a plus when performing freehand quilting and darning tasks.
Selecting the right stitch is easily achieved by simply dialing up the stitch number on the numerical touchpad on the front of the machine.
Changing the bobbin with the extension table in place is simplified with the new window that allows the user to see what they’re doing without removing the extension table to replace empty bobbins.
When the extension table is not in use, a functional free arm is exposed, making it possible to sew cuffs, sleeve hems and other small projects with ease on the BERNINA 530.
What are some alternatives for Bernina 530?
We have reviewed several commercial machines similar to the Bernina 530 and here are some we recommend.
The Janome Horizon Memory Craft 8200 has all the functions and extras you could possibly need for quilting. The enormous 11" to the right of your needle is included on the Janome Memory Craft 8200. You will be able to quilt a large quilt easily in this area. There is a knee lift included with the Janome Memory Craft 8200 QCP. Your presser foot will simply rise up with a quick push to the right with your knee! You may easily make the last tweaks to your project while utilizing it with the needle down option!
The Horizon Memory Craft 8200QCP's typical free motion quilting settings are perfect for free motion quilters! You also receive a convertible free motion quilting foot with a closed toe, open toe, and clear view foot in addition to a darning foot that can be used for free motion quilting. It only takes a quick flick of a button on the machine's side to lower your feed dogs.
The Brother Embroidery Machine, SE1900 is a computerized embroidery machine that is perfect for beginners and hobbyists. It has 138 built-in embroidery designs, including a variety of designs for monogramming, home décor, and clothing. It also has 11 built-in fonts and a 5" x 7" embroidery field.
The SE1900 also has a number of features that make it easy to use, such as the touch-screen display and the automatic needle threader. It also has a number of advanced features, such as the My Custom Stitch™ feature, which allows you to create your own custom stitches.
The SE1900 is a great choice for beginners and hobbyists who are looking for an embroidery machine with a variety of features and a great stitch quality. It is not the most affordable machine on the market, but it is a good value for the price.
The Juki HZL-F600 takes the lead in the sewing and quilting machine industry. The tool has the potential to impress you with its professional performance and user-friendly features. Why should you invest in this machine? The reason is that it comes ahead with a sturdy motor designed to sew thick materials such as denim and several quilting layers, which other machines fail to do. Furthermore, you can unleash your creative side by making the most out of 255 stitch patterns and 16 buttonholes completely automatic. And do not forget the bonus part: it offers a large working space, bright LED lighting for you to navigate the instructions, and a box feed system to guarantee precision and ease so you can continue with your complicated sewing projects.
Which fabrics work on the Bernina 530?
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
| Upholstery Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers Leather/suede Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber | Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Knits(Medium to heavyweight only) |
What are the accessories that come with Bernina 530?
The list of standard accessories for the BERNINA 530 includes:
- 5 snap on presser feet
- Reverse pattern
- Overlock
- Buttonhole
- Zipper
- Blindstitch
- Slide on extension table
- Seam guide etched onto needle plate
- On board ruler
- Hands free presser foot lifter
- Carrying case
How to maintain the Bernina 530?
| 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 |
Bernina 530 Summary
No matter how long you have been sewing, the Bernina 530 would be a wonderful addition to any sewing room. New home sewers would be thrilled to be able to learn the art of sewing on this state-of-the art machine.
Intermediate sewers would appreciate the 530’s styling and ease of operation; and advanced home sewers would welcome the updated features.
The semi-automatic needle threader and the extension table with the window to access the bobbin housing are definite pluses for the long time home sewer.
When coupled with other standard features, like the 11 needle positions and free hand system, it is easy to see why the BERNINA model 530 is so desirable.
All of the great standard features and accessories that come with the 530 model, including an overlock foot, reverse pattern foot, and blindstitch foot, only add more fun and excitement to the overall sewing experience.
With a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $3099, the Bernina 530 sewing machine is not only one of the most reliable and easy-to-use sewing machines on the market, but it is also a perfect fit for many home sewers’ budgets.
We recommend that anyone in the market for a new sewing machine, whether it is to be the main machine or an addition to an already established sewing room, take a look at the user-friendly, ergonomically sound 530 model from BERNINA.
To get a closer look at the 530’s features, visit the BERNINA website at www.bernina.com, to find a certified BERNINA dealer near you.
Not only will your local BERNINA dealer be happy to show you the 530 and the other BERNINA models available for sale, they will also support you in every way after you make a purchase.
From the day your new BERNINA sewing machine is delivered, you will have the full support of your BERNINA dealer, starting with taking the time to unpack your sewing machine with you, making sure you have all of your accessories, and working with you to make sure you are able to get the most from all of your new sewing machine’s features.
BERNINA 530 Review
Summary
The BERNINA 530 is a high-end sewing machine that is made in Switzerland. It is the latest model released in 2019 and is the flagship model of BERNINA. The BERNINA 530 has 148 built-in stitches, including 22 utility stitches and 117 decorative stitches. It also has 9 automatic buttonholes. The BERNINA 530 can handle a variety of fabrics, from denim and leather to quilting and sheers. It can also do embroidery.
The BERNINA 530 is easy to operate. The LCD display makes it easy for beginners to use, and the variety of features makes it a great machine for experienced sewers as well.
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Happy Stitching.
Hello,
Thank you so much for this wonderful review!!! It really clarifies many doubts for me 🙂
But I have one question. On the fabrics topic you signal with a cross (as not beeing suitable)the following:
Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool
Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet
Knits
Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester
and with a check:
Upholstery
Leather/suede
Fur
Canvas/Twill
Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers
Is it so? Or is it the opposite? I ask because I am looking for a machine that suits the most commonly used fabrics (cotton, knits…). And with that fabric classification, maybe this is not the one for me?
thank you so much
Marta
Marta –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight. I appreciate you bringing this to my attention. You are correct. The fabric recommendations somehow got switched in cyberspace. The Bernina 530 is recommended for use on natural fabrics, synthetics, knits and fine fabrics like silk. I will ask the webmaster to make the change.
Many thanks for having such a keen eye and bringing your question to me.
Happy stitching.
Hello, regarding the question on fabrics above, would the 530 machine also work with drapery weight fabrics? I am looking for a machine that can sew well on silks and knits, but one that also would be able to handle the types of fabrics that are used for windows (ie. not as heavy as upholstery). Thanks!
Hello, Ann –
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
Your 530 should do just fine with light to medium weight drapery fabric.
Happy stitching.
I think that it is still hard to read, as both of those symbols means “not good” where I come from. I would be easier if you had a table with “Suitable” and “Not suitable”, like you have in the “Maintenance” table.
How is the 530 comparedable to the 530 SE?
Will the bernina 530 sew denim? I’m referring to 8 1/2 ounce weight denim, used to make summer weight jeans. Thanks.
I would also like to know if the 530 will sew through heavy denim and leather. I have a old 1120 and it goes through many thicknesses, I have been looking at the 350 and the 530 but want to make sure it will sew through heavy denim,etc. Also do you know the weight of these two machines. Thanks for any help.
i’d like a machine that sews leather and heavier weight fabrics as well. which bernina is suited for this? i’ve been told the 530 will sew leather with the correct needle…
Hello! I’m finally going to be able to upgrade from a cheap, entry-level brother machine to a really nice Bernina machine, and I’m very excited! I’m currently deciding between the Bernina B330 and B530, thanks to an upcoming sale near me. I’ve read both reviews on this site (amongst others), but I don’t have a particularly clear picture of the differences between them. Could someone help me out/point me towards where I could find that information? Thanks so much!
Hi, I don’t know all the differences, but a big one is that you can use a bsr with the 530, but not with the 330.
I’ve sewed on both at the store. I can’t tell you why, but I didn’t like how the 330 “felt” when sewing. The 530 was as smooth as butter!
The primary difference is 300 milimeters more of throat space on the 530. In addition the 530 has adjustable pressure for the presser foot. It is digitally displayed on the LCD. The 530 has the advanced foot pedal where u can tap to get the neddle up or down. That is nice for hands free sewing. The 530 also has the knee lift which is included for hands free sewing. The knee lift is available for an extra cost on the 330. The 530 has two alphabets and alot more decorative stitches. The 530 also offers mirrored stitch capability. Both machines have one step button holes wuth memory. The 530 is capable of using the BSR which is a stitch regulator with two modes. This would be helpful for thread painting as the bsr and darning foot are both capable of free motion or zig zag up to 5.5 mm. The 330 can use the darning foot also. On both machines there is a convenient feed dog drop button near the right side of the machine. I have owned the 330 and used the 530 for classes . Both sew well on all fabrics including denim. I have seen through duck cloth with bolsa sandwiched between without a problem. The piercing power is phenomenal in both of these domestic machines, second only to the juki 2010q and brother 1500prw which are both straight stitch only machines that have poor lighting and are noisy and clunky. The 330 and 530 both have great led lighting and are quiet. I sew on the bernina until 2 am finishing gifts late into the night without waking neighbors or family sleeping in the next room. Both if these machines travel well to classes and I take my 330 on the airplane In a padded trader Joe’s cooler bag which fits nicely underneath my seat. If course I would never let it out if my sight or put it in the overhead. I have seen and quilted a 120 inch by 130 inch quilt on my 330. It would be tough to do on any machine due to throat space but the 330 did it. At this point I wished I had the 530 for the extra inch and quarter of throat space. Both machines will easily handle lap and twin size quilts. The 530 I did notice you have to hold the threads back or leave them in the thread cutter when you start stitching to prevent nesting. I have noticed holding the threads helps prevent next g in brother janome and babylock as well. It is slight but on all these machines 3 to 5 stitches will nest before things get pretty if you do not hold the threads. Having owned ever brand of mid range to upper end machine in the last three years I can say nothing rivals any of the bernina with the cb hook system. It is simply perfect on the 2, 3, and 5 series machines. The feet are the other plus if the bernina. Each 5.5mm foot is perfect. There is a foot to do everything with precision. They pivot with out wobble and fabric deeds perfectly straight with these presser feet. I literally have only had one problem ever on a bernina. It was a 350 in the store at the start of a class. The stitches were all wonky and the tension was off. I replaced the needle, put in a newly wound bobbin using Bottom line thread, and rethreaded the top using Mettler 50 wt . And began to sew…..awe perfection. I know I am verbose. But sew on both the 530, and 330 or 350, even the 215 if you get a chance (holding the threads) folded with wrong sides facing each other. Ask yourself which was the right side if the fabric… with the cb hook. You will not be able to tell the stitch quality is perfect on both sides. Now won’t be same with any competing sewing domestic sewing machine. You will immediate see what I am talking about. The back of ball other manufacturers fabrics are immediately evident. The only machine to marginally come close is the janome skyline s5 which I would give a B+ or A-. In classes there are ladies sewing pocket books and i pad cases on their dream machine or their destiny and they will ask to use my 330 to get through all the layers. Meanwhile they are trying to turn the knob on their machine to get the needle through their project. My 330 handles all six layers without hesitation. They quickly become sold on bernina too. NOTE tbe janome s5 goes through the layers easy too. You cannot go wrong with either 330 or 530. Choose which one is in your budget and has the feature u might need.
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Your not answering the folk’s questions above. They are very good questions and need to be addressed promptly. Knowing how a machine will handle fabrics is CRITICAL.
The blue check, and red plus…or is it the other way around?? In either case, it’s terribly confusing and most importantly: does not address the fabric questions.
Please respond.
I recently purchased a Bernina 530B. I came across this review and found it perplexleing regarding the fabric qualifiers. I could not imagine that this machine would not sew denim or canvas. This purchase is my “upgrade” from my Bernina 910 which I still own (which sews those things fine). I tested the 530B on heavy denim pants. I didn’t use a denim needle, nor denim thread….just the same thing that I sew a quilt seam with. The machine did fine. This model is being discontinued, and you can find some good price points out there. I really like many of the upgrades that this machine has to offer, and mine was outfitted with the BSR…which is amazin. Hope this helps.