Bernina 802 Sewing Machine Manual

The Bernina 802 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 LED light, drop feed for free-motion sewing, and comprehensive tension control. 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. Threading & Bobbin 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Accessories 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing machine with free arm, built-in stitches, LED work light, accessory compartment, and comprehensive stitch controls.

FeatureDescription
Stitch Selection DialSelects straight stitch, zigzag, and decorative stitches
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 ArmConverts for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Drop FeedLowers feed dogs for free-motion sewing
LED Work LightIlluminates sewing area
Tension Control DialAdjusts upper thread tension
Bobbin WinderAutomatically winds bobbin

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

  1. Remove protective covers and packaging materials
  2. Place machine on flat, stable surface at comfortable height
  3. Connect foot control pedal to machine
  4. Plug power cord into electrical outlet
  5. Install needle following threading diagram
  6. Wind and insert bobbin

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow threading guide.

  1. Thread upper thread: Follow numbered guide from spool to needle
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise
  3. Select straight stitch: Set stitch selection dial to straight stitch position
  4. Practice stitching: Use scrap fabric to test stitch quality
  5. Adjust tension: Fine-tune for balanced stitches
  6. Test reverse: Engage reverse lever to reinforce stitches

CAUTION! Always use proper needle for fabric type. Replace bent or dull needles immediately.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select desired stitch pattern. Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter or longer stitches. Stitch Width: Control zigzag width. Reverse Stitch: Press lever for backward stitching. Tension Control: Adjust for different fabric types. Feed Dog Control: Lower for free-motion sewing.

Stitch Selection

Available stitches: Straight, zigzag, blind hem, stretch, decorative stitches.

  1. Straight Stitch: For basic sewing and seams
  2. Zigzag Stitch: For finishing edges and stretch fabrics
  3. Blind Hem: Nearly invisible hemming
  4. Stretch Stitch: For knit and stretch fabrics
  5. Decorative Stitches: For embellishment
  6. Buttonhole: Automatic one-step buttonhole

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

  1. Upper Threading: Follow numbered guide - raise presser foot, thread through guides to needle
  2. Bobbin Winding: Place spool on pin, thread through tension disc, wind bobbin
  3. Bobbin Insertion: Remove bobbin case, insert bobbin with thread counterclockwise
  4. Thread Drawing: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel to bring up bobbin thread
  5. Tension Test: Sew test seam to check tension balance

WARNING! Always raise needle to highest position before threading.

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 check needle bar
  4. As Needed: Replace needle after 8 hours of sewing
  5. Storage: Cover machine when not in use

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance.

Accessories

Included accessories: Zigzag foot, zipper foot, buttonhole foot, button sewing foot, seam ripper, brush, needles, bobbins, screwdriver, spool caps.

Warranty Information

Bernina 802 comes with 25-year limited warranty covering mechanical parts. Warranty does not cover needles, belts, light bulbs, or damage from improper use. For warranty service, contact authorized Bernina dealer with proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle
Skip stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric type
Bobbin thread bunchingIncorrect bobbin insertionRemove and reinsert bobbin; check bobbin case
Machine not runningPower connection/foot controlCheck power cord; ensure foot control is plugged in
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust upper and bobbin tension; clean tension discs

Service: Contact authorized Bernina dealer for repairs.

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