Bernina 1130 Sewing Manual

The Bernina 1130 is a high-quality sewing machine featuring advanced stitching capabilities, built-in stitches, automatic buttonholer, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, built-in needle threader, LED lighting, and precision engineering for professional results. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing head with built-in stitches, Free arm, Bobbin system, Stitch selection dial, Tension control, Feed dogs, Presser foot, LED work light.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitchesMultiple stitch patterns including straight, zigzag, decorative
Automatic buttonholerOne-step buttonhole creation
Free arm capabilityFor sewing sleeves and circular items
Adjustable stitch length0-4mm range
Adjustable stitch width0-5mm range
Built-in needle threaderEasy needle threading assistance
LED work lightBright illumination of sewing area
Tension controlPrecise thread tension adjustment
Reverse stitchReinforcing stitches at beginning/end
Speed controlAdjustable sewing speed

Machine Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

  1. Position machine: Place on flat, stable surface at comfortable height.
  2. Connect foot control: Plug foot pedal into machine port.
  3. Power connection: Plug machine into appropriate electrical outlet.
  4. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp, insert needle with flat side to back.
  5. Thread machine: Follow threading path indicated on machine.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test basic functions.

  1. Thread machine: Follow numbered threading guide 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 stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
  5. Test sew: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality and tension.
  6. Adjust tension: Use tension dial if stitches are too loose or tight.

CAUTION! Always use proper needle for fabric type. Change needle regularly.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls: Stitch selection dial, Stitch length dial, Stitch width dial, Reverse stitch button, Tension control, Power switch.

Additional Features: Built-in needle threader, Thread cutter, Presser foot pressure adjustment, Feed dog control.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from straight stitch, zigzag, blind hem, stretch stitches, decorative patterns. Tension: Adjust for different fabric types (lower for stretch, higher for woven). Speed: Controlled by foot pedal pressure.

Stitch Selection

Available stitches include straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch, decorative patterns.

  1. Straight stitch: For basic sewing, topstitching, seams
  2. Zigzag stitch: For finishing edges, appliqué, stretch fabrics
  3. Blind hem: Nearly invisible hemming
  4. Stretch stitches: For knit and stretch fabrics
  5. Decorative: For embellishment and creative projects
  6. Buttonhole: Automatic one-step buttonholes

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

Threading and Bobbin

Proper threading is essential for quality stitches.

  1. Raise presser foot and needle to highest position.
  2. Place spool on spool pin, follow threading guide numbers.
  3. Use built-in needle threader for easy needle threading.
  4. Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, engage mechanism.
  5. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case with thread pulling counterclockwise.
  6. Pull bobbin thread up through needle plate.

WARNING! Ensure machine is turned off when threading needle.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
  2. Weekly: Oil machine according to lubrication points in manual.
  3. Monthly: Clean tension discs with soft brush.
  4. As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.
  5. Annual: Professional servicing recommended.

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.

Accessories

Standard accessories included: Various presser feet, Bobbins, Seam ripper, Brush, Screwdrivers, Additional needles.

AccessoryUse
Zigzag footGeneral sewing
Buttonhole footAutomatic buttonholes
Zipper footInstalling zippers
Blind hem footInvisible hemming
Overedge footEdge finishing

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards for household sewing machines. Copyright © Bernina International AG. All rights reserved. For technical support and service, contact authorized Bernina dealers or visit www.bernina.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRe-thread machine; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skip stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric type.
Bobbin issuesImproper winding/insertionRewind bobbin; ensure correct insertion direction.
Machine jamsLint buildup/thread tangleClean bobbin area; remove tangled threads carefully.
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust upper and bobbin tension; re-thread completely.

Service: Contact authorized Bernina dealer for professional service.

Support: www.bernina.com or local authorized dealer

Bernina 1130 Sewing Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025