Bernette 12 Sewing Machine Manual

The Bernette 12 is a versatile mechanical sewing machine designed for beginners and intermediate sewers. It features 12 built-in stitches, 4-step buttonhole, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, built-in LED light, top drop-in bobbin system, and easy stitch selection dial. Powered by standard household electricity with foot pedal control. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical stitch selection dial, free arm, built-in LED light, top drop-in bobbin system, foot pedal control, accessory storage.

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface at comfortable height.

1. Remove all packaging materials and protective covers.
2. Place machine on sturdy table or sewing cabinet.
3. Connect foot pedal to machine and plug into power outlet.
4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
5. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, guide thread through bobbin winder tension, press bobbin onto winder shaft.
6. Insert bobbin: Open bobbin cover, drop bobbin into case with thread counterclockwise.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always unplug when not in use.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow basic threading procedure.

1. Raise presser foot using lever.
2. Place thread spool on spool pin.
3. Guide thread through thread guides following numbered path.
4. Thread needle from front to back.
5. Pull up bobbin thread: Hold needle thread, turn handwheel toward you until needle goes down and up, pull needle thread to bring up bobbin thread.
6. Place fabric under presser foot, lower presser foot lever.
7. Gently press foot pedal to begin sewing.

CAUTION! Always start with scrap fabric to test stitches and tension.

Specifications

• Stitches: 12 built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, stretch, and decorative
• Buttonhole: 4-step buttonhole
• Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
• Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable for zigzag stitches
• Max Sewing Speed: 800 stitches per minute
• Needle System: HA-1, 130/705 H
• Bobbin: Class 15 transparent
• Lighting: Built-in LED
• Power Supply: 110-120V, 60Hz
• Machine Weight: 6.6 kg (14.5 lbs)

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine. Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse stitch lever.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select desired stitch pattern (1-12). Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter or longer stitches. Stitch Width: Adjust for narrower or wider zigzag. Reverse: Hold lever to sew backwards for reinforcement. Presser Foot Pressure: Adjustable for different fabric types.

Stitch Selection

12 built-in stitches for various sewing applications:

1. Straight stitch - Basic sewing and seaming
2. Zigzag stitch - Overcasting and decorative work
3. Three-step zigzag - Stretch fabrics and mending
4. Blind hem stitch - Nearly invisible hems
5. Stretch stitch - Elastic seams for knits
6. Shell stitch - Decorative edge finishing
7. Multiple zigzag - Elastic and decorative
8. Overcast stitch - Prevents fabric fraying
9. Smocking stitch - Decorative gathering
10. Scallop stitch - Decorative edge
11. Double overcast - Heavy fabric edges
12. Buttonhole stitch - 4-step buttonholes

Basic Sewing Techniques

Fundamental sewing operations for common projects.

1. Straight Seam: Use straight stitch, guide fabric edge along seam guide.
2. Zigzag Finish: Sew along raw edges to prevent fraying.
3. Buttonhole: Mark position, attach buttonhole foot, follow 4-step process.
4. Gathering: Use longest straight stitch, pull bobbin thread to gather.
5. Topstitching: Use longer straight stitch and edge guide foot.
6. Free Arm Sewing: Remove extension table for circular items.

Tip: Always test stitches on scrap fabric before sewing your project.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

1. Unplug machine before cleaning.
2. Remove needle plate: Use screwdriver to loosen screws, lift off plate.
3. Clean feed dogs and bobbin area with small brush.
4. Oil moving parts with sewing machine oil (refer to oiling points in diagram).
5. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth.
6. Replace needle regularly (every 8-10 hours of sewing).
7. Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Never use compressed air; it can force lint deeper into mechanism.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Bernette 12:

Safety Information

Important safety precautions for safe operation.

• Always unplug machine when changing needles, cleaning, or not in use
• Keep fingers away from moving needle and feed dogs
• Do not pull or push fabric - let feed dogs move it
• Use proper needle type and size for fabric
• Ensure work area is well-lit and ventilated
• Keep machine away from water and moisture
• Supervise children when machine is in use
• Disconnect power cord by pulling plug, not cord

Troubleshooting

Service: For technical support, contact authorized Bernette service center. Visit www.bernette.com or call 1-800-401-8151