Bernette 55 Sewing Machine Manual

The Bernette 55 is a versatile electronic sewing machine with 55 built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, one-step buttonhole, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, LED lighting, and multiple presser feet. Powered by standard household electrical outlet with foot pedal control. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection 7. Basic Sewing Operations 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Electronic stitch selection panel, automatic needle threader, free arm, LED work light, bobbin winder, reverse stitch button, stitch length/width controls.

FeatureDescription
Stitch selection55 built-in stitches including utility, decorative, and stretch
Automatic needle threaderEasy threading with push-pull mechanism
One-step buttonholeAutomatic buttonhole sizing and stitching
Free arm capabilityRemovable extension table for cylindrical sewing
LED work lightBright illumination of sewing area
Stitch length controlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch width controlAdjustable from 0-5mm
Reverse stitchReinforce seams with reverse stitching
Bobbin windingBuilt-in bobbin winding system
Presser foot pressureAdjustable for different fabric types

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

  1. Remove all packaging materials and protective covers.
  2. Attach extension table if removed during shipping.
  3. Connect foot pedal to machine and power outlet.
  4. Install needle and thread machine following threading diagram.
  5. Wind and insert bobbin according to instructions.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn off power when threading or changing accessories.

First-Time Setup

Prepare machine for first use with proper threading and settings.

  1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered threading path on machine.
  2. Wind bobbin: Place thread on spool pin, wind bobbin using bobbin winder.
  3. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
  4. Select basic stitch: Choose straight stitch for initial testing.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test machine operation.

CAUTION! Ensure power is disconnected when threading needle or changing bobbin.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access stitch selection via electronic panel. Main Controls: Power switch, stitch selection dial, stitch length/width controls, reverse stitch button.

Stitch Panel: Stitch selection buttons, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse button, needle up/down button.

Stitch Settings: Length (0-4mm), Width (0-5mm), tension (automatic adjustment). Special Functions: Automatic needle threader, bobbin winding, free arm conversion, LED light control.

Stitch Selection

55 built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, stretch, and decorative patterns.

  1. Basic Stitches: Straight stitch (multiple lengths), zigzag, blind hem, stretch stitches.
  2. Decorative Stitches: Scallop, honeycomb, multiple decorative patterns.
  3. Buttonhole: One-step automatic buttonhole with memory function.
  4. Selection Method: Turn stitch selection dial to desired stitch number.

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

Basic Sewing Operations

Step-by-step guide for common sewing tasks.

  1. Straight Stitching: Select straight stitch, adjust length as needed.
  2. Zigzag Stitching: Select zigzag, adjust width for desired effect.
  3. Buttonholes: Mark button position, select buttonhole stitch, automatic completion.
  4. Reverse Stitching: Press reverse button to reinforce seam beginnings/ends.
  5. Free Arm Sewing: Remove extension table for sleeves and cylindrical items.
  6. Needle Threading: Use automatic needle threader for easy threading.
  7. Bobbin Replacement: Stop sewing when bobbin thread is low, replace promptly.

WARNING! Never pull fabric while sewing - let feed dogs move fabric naturally.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Daily: Remove lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
  2. Weekly: Oil moving parts according to lubrication diagram.
  3. Monthly: Clean race hook and surrounding mechanism.
  4. Needle Replacement: Change needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.

CAUTION! Always unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Bernette 55 sewing machine.

AccessoryPurpose
All-purpose footGeneral sewing
Zipper footZipper installation
Buttonhole footAutomatic buttonholes
Blind hem footInvisible hemming
Overedge footEdge finishing
Additional needlesVarious sizes and types
Bobbin (extra)Additional bobbins
Seam ripperStitch removal
BrushLint cleaning
ScrewdriverNeedle plate removal

Regulatory Information

CE certified for European market compliance. UL listed for electrical safety standards. Copyright © 2025 Bernette; trademarks of BERNINA International AG. For technical support, visit www.bernette.com or contact your local authorized dealer. Made with precision Swiss engineering standards.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine not runningPower connectionCheck power cord connection; ensure foot pedal is plugged in properly.
Thread breakingTension/needle issuesRe-thread machine; check needle for damage; adjust tension.
Uneven stitchesThreading/tensionRe-thread both upper and bobbin threads; clean race hook area.
Fabric not feedingFeed dog positionCheck feed dog lever; clean feed dogs of lint buildup.
Needle threader not workingPosition/obstructionEnsure needle is in highest position; check for thread obstruction.
Buttonhole incompleteSequence interruptionComplete entire buttonhole sequence without stopping; check foot attachment.

Reset: Turn machine off and on to reset electronic controls if malfunction occurs.

Service: Contact authorized Bernette service center for repairs; www.bernette.com

Bernette 55 Sewing Machine Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025