Bernina 801 Sport Sewing Machine Manual

The Bernina 801 Sport is a high-performance mechanical sewing machine featuring straight and zigzag stitches, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, adjustable stitch length and width, reverse stitching, drop feed for darning and quilting, built-in needle threader, and precision Swiss engineering. Designed for durability and ease of use with metal construction and comprehensive stitch controls. 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: Metal construction, built-in stitch patterns, free arm, built-in buttonholer, drop feed mechanism, built-in needle threader.

FeatureDescription
Stitch SelectionStraight stitch, zigzag, and decorative patterns
Built-in ButtonholerAutomatic one-step buttonhole function
Free ArmRemovable extension table for cylindrical sewing
Drop FeedLower feed dogs for darning and free-motion work
Stitch Length ControlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch Width ControlAdjustable from 0-5mm for zigzag
Reverse StitchBuilt-in reverse for securing stitches
Built-in Needle ThreaderEasy threading mechanism
Power InputStandard household electrical outlet
Foot PedalVariable speed control

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

  1. Position machine: Place on flat, stable surface at comfortable height.
  2. Connect power: Plug foot pedal into machine, then plug into wall outlet.
  3. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten.
  4. Thread machine: Follow threading guide from spool pin to needle.
  5. Wind bobbin: Use built-in bobbin winder with thread from spool.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; lift with care. Ensure stable placement to prevent tipping.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test basic functions.

  1. Select straight stitch: Set stitch selector to straight stitch position.
  2. Test stitching: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, press pedal gently.
  3. Adjust tension: Test on scrap fabric, adjust upper tension as needed.
  4. Practice reverse: Use reverse lever to secure beginning and end of seams.
  5. Try zigzag: Change stitch pattern and test on different fabrics.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from moving needle. Always turn off when threading or changing needles.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Stitch Selector: Dial for choosing stitch patterns. Stitch Length Dial: Controls stitch length (0-4mm). Stitch Width Dial: Controls zigzag width (0-5mm). Reverse Lever: Hold for reverse stitching. Feed Dog Control: Lever to lower/raise feed dogs.

Tension Control: Upper thread tension adjustment (0-9). Presser Foot Pressure: Adjustable for different fabric weights. Needle Position: Center/left needle position selection.

Stitch Selection

Comprehensive stitch patterns for various sewing applications.

  1. Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, topstitching, seams (position 0)
  2. Zigzag Stitch: Finishing edges, appliqué, stretch fabrics
  3. Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hemming
  4. Elastic Stretch: For knit and stretch fabrics
  5. Decorative Stitches: Various pattern options
  6. Buttonhole: Automatic one-step buttonhole function

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

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs
  2. Weekly: Oil moving parts as per manual instructions
  3. Monthly: Clean tension discs and check needle plate
  4. As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing

CAUTION! Always unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Use only recommended sewing machine oil.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Bernina 801 Sport.

AccessoryPurpose
Standard Presser FootGeneral sewing
Zigzag FootZigzag and decorative stitches
Buttonhole FootAutomatic buttonholes
Zipper FootInstalling zippers
Blind Hem FootInvisible hemming
Button Sewing FootSewing on buttons
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
Brush & ScrewdriverCleaning and adjustments
Extra BobbinsAdditional bobbins
NeedlesReplacement needles

Regulatory Information

CE certified for European markets. UL listed for North American electrical standards. Manufactured to ISO 9001 quality standards. 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
Machine won't startPower connectionCheck power cord and outlet; ensure foot pedal is connected
Thread breakingTension/needle issuesRethread machine; check needle for damage; adjust tension
Uneven stitchesThreading/tensionRethread both upper and bobbin threads; clean tension discs
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs loweredRaise feed dogs; check presser foot pressure
Needle breakingWrong needle/bent needleReplace needle; ensure correct insertion; check for obstruction
Bobbin issuesImproper winding/insertionRewind bobbin evenly; ensure correct insertion direction
Unusual noiseLint buildup/mechanical issueClean bobbin area; check for loose parts; consult technician

Service: Contact authorized Bernina service center for mechanical repairs.

Support: www.bernina.com or local authorized dealer

Bernina 801 Sport Sewing Machine Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025