Bernina 1230 Sewing Machine Instruction Manual

The Bernina 1230 is a professional-grade sewing machine featuring computerized stitch selection, automatic buttonholer, built-in decorative stitches, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, built-in needle threader, drop feed for free-motion sewing, and precision Swiss engineering. 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. Technical Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection 7. Advanced Functions 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Computerized control panel, built-in stitch patterns, automatic needle threader, free arm, drop feed mechanism, LED work light, and precision bobbin system.

Feature	Description
Stitch Selection	Computerized selection of 30+ built-in stitches
Automatic Buttonholer	One-step automatic buttonhole function
Needle Threader	Built-in automatic needle threading system
Free Arm	Convertible for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Drop Feed	Lower feed dogs for free-motion quilting
Stitch Length/Width	Adjustable stitch length (0-4mm) and width (0-5mm)
Speed Control	Variable speed control with foot pedal
Reverse Stitch	Built-in reverse stitching function
LED Work Light	Built-in illumination for work area
Bobbin System	Front-loading bobbin with clear cover

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

Remove packaging materials and protective covers
Place machine on sturdy, level surface
Connect foot pedal to machine port
Plug power cord into machine and wall outlet
Install needle following arrow direction
Wind and insert bobbin according to diagram
Thread upper thread through threading path

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use proper lifting technique. Ensure stable surface to prevent tipping.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow initial setup procedure.

Turn power switch to ON position
Select basic straight stitch using stitch selector
Adjust stitch length to medium setting (2.5)
Test sew on scrap fabric to check tension
Practice with different stitch patterns
Learn automatic needle threading function
Familiarize with speed control settings

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn off when not in use.

Technical Specifications

Stitch Patterns: 30+ built-in stitches including utility, decorative, and stretch
Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable
Buttonholes: One-step automatic
Needle System: 130/705 H household needles
Bobbin: Class 15 transparent bobbin
Speed: Up to 850 stitches per minute
Power Requirements: 120V AC, 60Hz
Weight: 22 lbs (10 kg)
Dimensions: 15" W x 7" H x 6" D

Controls and Settings

Access functions via control panel and mechanical dials. Front Panel: Power switch, stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse button.

Control Panel: Stitch pattern indicators, buttonhole settings, needle position, thread tension display.

Stitch Settings: Length (0-4mm), Width (0-5mm), Pattern selection, Reverse function, Tension adjustment (0-9). Special Functions: Automatic needle threader, Drop feed lever, Free arm conversion, Bobbin winding, Speed control slider.

Stitch Selection

Computerized selection of 30+ built-in stitches including straight, zigzag, stretch, and decorative patterns.

Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern number
Adjust stitch length for fabric type (longer for basting, shorter for fine fabrics)
Set stitch width for zigzag and decorative stitches
Test stitch on fabric scrap before starting project
Use reverse stitch to secure beginnings and endings
Consult stitch guide for recommended settings

Tip: Always test stitches on scrap fabric of same type as project.

Advanced Functions

Advanced features for professional sewing results.

Automatic Buttonhole: Position fabric, select buttonhole stitch, machine sews complete buttonhole
Free-Motion Sewing: Drop feed dogs for quilting and embroidery
Decorative Stitches: Built-in patterns for embellishment
Monogramming: Use alphabet stitches for personalization
Zipper Installation: Special settings for invisible and regular zippers
Button Sewing: Automatic button sewing function
Blind Hem: Special stitch for nearly invisible hems
Overcasting: Built-in overlook-type stitches for seam finishing

WARNING! Use proper needles and accessories for each function. Consult manual for specific settings.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs
Weekly: Oil machine according to lubrication points diagram
Monthly: Clean race hook and surrounding mechanism
As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing
Periodically: Check belt tension and electrical connections

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

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Bernina 1230.

Accessory	Purpose
Assorted Presser Feet	Zipper foot, buttonhole foot, blind hem foot, etc.
Extra Bobbins	Class 15 transparent bobbins
Needles	Assorted sizes for different fabrics
Seam Ripper	For removing stitches
Brush	For cleaning lint
Screwdrivers	For adjustments and maintenance
Oil Bottle	With precision applicator
Dust Cover	For machine protection

Warranty Information

Bernina 1230 comes with limited warranty covering manufacturing defects. Warranty period: 20 years for mechanical parts, 10 years for electronic components, 2 years for labor. Registration required within 30 days of purchase. For warranty service, contact authorized Bernina dealer with proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Machine won't start	Power connection	Check power cord; ensure switch is ON; check outlet
Thread breaking	Tension/needle issues	Rethread machine; check needle for damage; adjust tension
Uneven stitches	Threading/tension	Rethread both upper and bobbin threads; clean race hook
Fabric not feeding	Feed dogs	Ensure feed dogs are raised; check presser foot pressure
Needle breaking	Installation/fabric	Check needle installation; use correct needle for fabric
Bobbin issues	Winding/insertion	Rewind bobbin evenly; ensure correct insertion direction
Unusual noise	Lint/mechanical	Clean and oil machine; check for loose parts

Service: Contact authorized Bernina dealer for professional service. Do not attempt internal repairs.

Support: www.bernina.com or local authorized dealer