Bernina 1010 Sewing Machine Instruction Manual

The Bernina 1010 is a high-quality mechanical sewing machine featuring straight and zigzag stitches, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, adjustable stitch length and width, reverse stitching, built-in needle threader, drop feed for free-motion sewing, and various presser feet for different sewing techniques. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection and Applications 7. Threading and Bobbin Winding 9. Maintenance and Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing head, built-in stitch patterns, free arm, accessory compartment, foot pedal, power cord, various presser feet.

Feature	Description
Stitch Selection Dial	Selects straight stitch, zigzag, and decorative patterns
Stitch Length Control	Adjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Stitch Width Control	Adjusts zigzag width from 0-5mm
Reverse Stitch Lever	Engages reverse stitching for seam reinforcement
Built-in Buttonholer	Creates perfect buttonholes in one step
Free Arm	Removable extension table for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Drop Feed	Lowers feed dogs for free-motion quilting and darning
Built-in Needle Threader	Assists with easy needle threading
Presser Foot Pressure	Adjustable for different fabric types
Accessory Compartment	Storage for presser feet and accessories

Installation and Setup

Unpack and inspect all components. Place on stable sewing table.

Position machine: Place on flat, stable surface at comfortable height.
Connect foot pedal: Plug into machine and position on floor.
Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet.
Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.
Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions in section 7.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow setup procedure.

Thread machine: Follow threading path marked on machine.
Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
Select stitch: Turn dial to desired stitch pattern.
Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width according to fabric.
Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality and tension.

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Keep work area well-lit.

Specifications

Machine Type: Mechanical sewing machine
Stitch Patterns: Straight, zigzag, stretch stitches, blind hem, decorative
Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable
Buttonhole: One-step automatic
Presser Feet: Standard, zipper, buttonhole, blind hem, button attaching
Free Arm: Yes, removable extension table
Needle System: 130/705 H
Power Source: 110-120V AC, 60Hz
Motor: DC motor with foot pedal control

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length control, stitch width control, reverse stitch lever, handwheel.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select straight, zigzag, stretch, or decorative stitches. Stitch Length: Adjust for fabric type (shorter for fine fabrics, longer for heavy). Stitch Width: Controls zigzag width; set to 0 for straight stitch. Reverse: Hold lever for backstitching. Tension: Upper thread tension dial (4-5 for normal sewing). Presser Foot: Lever raises and lowers presser foot.

Stitch Selection and Applications

Various stitches for different sewing applications.

Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, topstitching (length 2.0-2.5mm)
Zigzag Stitch: Seam finishing, appliqué (width 2-4mm)
Stretch Stitch: Knits and stretch fabrics
Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hemming
Decorative Stitches: Embroidery and decorative seams
Buttonhole: Automatic one-step buttonholes

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

Threading and Bobbin Winding

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

Upper Threading: Follow numbered path: spool pin, thread guide, tension discs, take-up lever, needle.
Bobbin Winding: Place spool on pin, thread through bobbin winder tension, place bobbin on winder, push winder to engage.
Bobbin Insertion: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise, pull thread through slot.
Needle Threading: Use built-in threader or thread manually from front to back.

WARNING! Ensure presser foot is raised when threading upper thread.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
Weekly: Oil hook race and moving parts with sewing machine oil.
Monthly: Check needle for damage and replace if bent or dull.
As needed: Clean exterior with soft, dry cloth.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Use only sewing machine oil.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards for household sewing machines. Copyright © Bernina International AG. For technical support and service, contact authorized Bernina dealers. Genuine Bernina parts recommended for optimal performance.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect threading/tension	Rethread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skip stitches	Wrong needle/damaged needle	Replace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric.
Bobbin thread bunching	Incorrect bobbin insertion	Remove and reinsert bobbin; ensure thread unwinds correctly.
Machine won't run	Power/pedal issue	Check power connection; ensure pedal plug is secure.
Uneven stitches	Tension issues	Adjust upper and bobbin tension; rethread both top and bottom.

Service: Contact authorized Bernina service center for repairs.