Bernina 1120 Sewing Machine Manual

The Bernina 1120 is a high-quality mechanical sewing machine featuring straight and zigzag stitches, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in needle threader, drop feed for darning and free-motion sewing, reverse stitching, and built-in light. Powered by standard household electrical outlet. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing head, built-in stitch patterns, free arm, bobbin winder, stitch length/width controls, built-in light, foot pedal control.

FeatureDescription
Stitch Selection DialSelects straight stitch, zigzag, and decorative patterns
Stitch Length ControlAdjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Stitch Width ControlAdjusts zigzag width from 0-5mm
Reverse Stitch LeverReinforces stitching at beginning and end
Built-in ButtonholerCreates perfect buttonholes in one step
Free ArmRemovable extension table for sewing cuffs and sleeves
Drop FeedLowers feed dogs for darning and free-motion work
Built-in Needle ThreaderAssists with threading the needle
Bobbin WinderWinds bobbin automatically while sewing
Built-in LightIlluminates sewing area

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

  1. Remove machine from packaging: Lift carefully from carrying case.
  2. Position machine: Place on flat, stable surface at comfortable height.
  3. Connect foot pedal: Plug into machine and place on floor.
  4. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet.
  5. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.
  6. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions.

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.

  1. Thread machine: Follow numbered threading guide on machine.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in bobbin case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  3. Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
  4. Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width as needed.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality.
  6. Practice basic stitches: Straight stitch and zigzag first.

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

Specifications

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, bobbin winder stop.

Stitch Settings: Length (0-4mm), width (0-5mm), pattern selection (straight, zigzag, stretch, decorative). Tension: Upper thread tension dial (0-9). Feed Dogs: Lowering lever for free-motion work. Presser Foot: Pressure adjustment dial for different fabric types.

Stitch Selection

Available stitches and their applications.

  1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, seams, topstitching
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Finishing edges, appliqué, stretch fabrics
  3. Blind Hem Stitch: Nearly invisible hems
  4. Stretch Stitch: Elastic seams for knit fabrics
  5. Decorative Stitches: Embellishment and decorative work
  6. Buttonhole: Automatic one-step buttonholes

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

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs
  2. Weekly: Oil moving parts with sewing machine oil
  3. Monthly: Clean tension discs and thread path
  4. As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing
  5. Storage: Cover machine when not in use

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

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Bernina 1120.

AccessoryPurpose
Zigzag FootGeneral purpose sewing
Zipper FootInstalling zippers and piping
Buttonhole FootAutomatic buttonholes
Blind Hem FootNearly invisible hems
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
Extra BobbinsAdditional thread storage
NeedlesReplacement needles
ScrewdriverNeedle plate removal

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. Warranty: Limited warranty covering manufacturing defects.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread machine; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skipped stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric.
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust upper tension; check bobbin threading.
Machine jamsThread buildupRemove needle plate; clean bobbin area; rethread.
No powerPower connectionCheck power cord; ensure foot pedal connected properly.
Poor buttonholesStabilizer missingUse stabilizer; check buttonhole foot attachment.

Service: Contact authorized Bernina dealer for professional service.

Support: Visit www.bernina.com for additional resources and support.

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