Bernina 810 Sewing Machine Manual

The Bernina 810 is a high-quality sewing machine featuring advanced stitching capabilities, built-in stitches, automatic needle threader, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, built-in LED lighting, electronic speed control, and comprehensive stitch selection. Designed for both beginners and experienced sewers, it offers precision stitching for various fabrics and projects. 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. Advanced Functions 8. Maintenance & Care 9. Accessories 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Built-in stitch patterns, automatic needle threader, free arm, LED work light, electronic foot control, bobbin winding system, stitch length/width controls.

FeatureDescription
Built-in stitchesOver 50 stitch patterns including utility, decorative, and stretch stitches
Automatic needle threaderEasy threading with push-button mechanism
Free arm capabilityFor sewing cuffs, sleeves, and other tubular items
LED work lightBright illumination of sewing area
Electronic foot controlVariable speed control for precise sewing
Bobbin winding systemAutomatic bobbin winding with thread cutter
Stitch length controlAdjustable from 0-4mm
Stitch width controlAdjustable from 0-5mm
Reverse stitchButton for reinforcing stitches
Power switchTurns machine on/off

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface at comfortable working height.

  1. Remove packaging materials and protective covers from machine.
  2. Attach power cord to machine and plug into appropriate power outlet.
  3. Install foot control pedal in accessible position.
  4. Thread upper thread following numbered path on machine.
  5. Wind and insert bobbin according to instructions.

WARNING! Always unplug machine when not in use or when performing maintenance. Keep fingers away from moving needle.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; familiarize yourself with basic functions.

  1. Select straight stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to straight stitch position.
  2. Set stitch length: Adjust to medium setting (2.5mm) for general sewing.
  3. Practice on scrap fabric: Test stitching on double layer of fabric.
  4. Use reverse: Practice reinforcing stitches with reverse button.
  5. Experiment with speed: Use foot control to vary sewing speed.

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

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and top of machine. Stitch selection dial, stitch length dial, stitch width dial, reverse button, bobbin winder, thread tension dial.

Basic Settings: Stitch selection (dial), stitch length (0-4mm), stitch width (0-5mm), thread tension (2-6 for most fabrics), presser foot pressure (adjustable).

Special Functions: Automatic needle threader, bobbin winding, free arm conversion, drop feed for darning and quilting.

Stitch Selection

Comprehensive stitch patterns for various sewing applications.

  1. Utility Stitches: Straight stitch, zigzag, stretch stitches, blind hem
  2. Decorative Stitches: Scallop, honeycomb, diamond, cross stitches
  3. Buttonhole: One-step automatic buttonhole with memory function
  4. Specialty Stitches: Overcast, elastic, quilting stitches

Tip: Always test stitch on scrap fabric before sewing project. Adjust tension as needed for different fabrics.

Advanced Functions

Advanced features for experienced users and special projects.

  1. Free Arm: Remove accessory storage to access free arm for tubular sewing
  2. Drop Feed: Lower feed dogs for darning, embroidery, and free-motion quilting
  3. Needle Positions: Multiple needle positions for precise stitching
  4. Thread Cutter: Built-in thread cutter on face plate
  5. Presser Feet: Quick-change system for various specialty feet

WARNING! Use appropriate presser feet for specific techniques. Always lower presser foot before sewing.

Maintenance & Care

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Daily: Brush out lint and dust from bobbin area and feed dogs
  2. Weekly: Oil machine according to lubrication points in manual
  3. Monthly: Clean tension discs and check needle bar for smooth operation
  4. As Needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing or for new project

CAUTION! Always unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Use only recommended oils and cleaners.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Bernina 810.

AccessoryPurpose
All-purpose footGeneral sewing
Zipper footInstalling zippers
Buttonhole footAutomatic buttonholes
Blind hem footInvisible hemming
Overedge footFinishing fabric edges
Additional bobbinsExtra bobbins for thread colors
NeedlesAssorted sizes for different fabrics
Seam ripperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
ScrewdriverAdjustments and maintenance

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL safety standards for household sewing machines. CE Certified: Meets European safety requirements. Copyright © 2025 Bernina International AG; all rights reserved. Bernina is a registered trademark. For technical support and service, visit www.bernina.com or contact authorized Bernina dealers.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine won't startPower connectionCheck power cord connection; ensure power switch is on
Needle breaksIncorrect insertion/bent needleEnsure needle is fully inserted and not bent; replace needle
Thread bunchingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread machine completely; check bobbin threading
Skipped stitchesDull needle/wrong needle typeReplace needle; use correct needle for fabric type
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust upper and bobbin tension; clean tension discs
Machine jamsThread buildup/lintRemove bobbin case and clean; remove tangled threads
Noise during operationLack of lubrication/lintClean and oil machine; check for loose parts

Service: Contact authorized Bernina dealer for professional service. Warranty covers manufacturing defects for 25 years.

Bernina 810 Sewing Machine Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025