Bernina 850 Industrial Sewing Machine Manual

The Bernina 850 is a high-performance industrial sewing machine designed for professional use, featuring heavy-duty construction, precision stitching capabilities, multiple stitch patterns, automatic thread trimming, programmable functions, and advanced motor control. Suitable for various materials including leather, denim, and delicate fabrics. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Accessories 7. Basic Operation 8. Advanced Functions 9. Maintenance & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Heavy-duty metal frame, industrial motor, automatic needle threader, thread trimmer, stitch pattern selector, speed control, bobbin winding system, LED work light.

FeatureDescription
Stitch TypesStraight stitch, zigzag, overlock, decorative stitches
Speed ControlVariable speed up to 1500 stitches per minute
Needle SystemIndustrial 135x5 needles
ThreadingAutomatic needle threader
Bobbin SystemRotary hook with class 15 bobbins
Motor TypeIndustrial servo motor with electronic control
Presser FeetMultiple interchangeable feet included
Work AreaExtended free arm for large projects
LightingLED work light with adjustable brightness
DisplayLCD screen for stitch selection and settings

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable industrial table.

  1. Assemble frame: Secure machine to industrial table using provided bolts.
  2. Connect motor: Attach servo motor to machine head and connect power cable.
  3. Install needle: Insert appropriate needle type for your fabric.
  4. Connect power: Plug into appropriate industrial power outlet.
  5. Thread machine: Follow threading diagram for upper and lower threading.

WARNING! Machine is heavy; use proper lifting equipment. Ensure stable mounting to prevent tipping.

First-Time Setup

Power on machine; perform initial calibration.

  1. Thread machine: Use automatic threader for needle; wind and insert bobbin.
  2. Set stitch length: Adjust to 2.5mm for general sewing.
  3. Configure tension: Set upper and lower tension for balanced stitches.
  4. Test stitches: Sew sample on scrap fabric to verify settings.
  5. Program preferences: Set default stitch patterns and speed limits.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always use proper safety equipment.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access functions via control panel and manual dials. Front Panel: Power switch, speed control, reverse stitch, thread trimmer.

Control Panel: Stitch selection, stitch length, stitch width, needle position, memory functions.

Basic Settings: Stitch length (0-5mm), stitch width (0-7mm), tension (0-9), presser foot pressure. Advanced: Programmable stitch patterns, speed limiting, automatic thread cutting, needle up/down position.

Connecting Accessories

Various presser feet: zipper foot, buttonhole foot, walking foot, rolled hem foot.

  1. Turn off machine before changing accessories.
  2. Align foot with presser bar and lower into position.
  3. Secure with locking screw or quick-change mechanism.
  4. Test accessory on scrap fabric before starting project.

Tip: Always use accessories designed specifically for Bernina 850 model.

Basic Operation

Standard sewing procedures for daily use.

  1. Power on: Switch machine to ON position.
  2. Select stitch: Choose appropriate stitch for your project.
  3. Position fabric: Lower presser foot onto fabric.
  4. Start sewing: Press foot pedal gradually to control speed.
  5. Reverse: Use reverse lever for backstitching at beginnings and ends.
  6. Trim threads: Use automatic thread cutter or manual cutter.
  7. Power off: Switch machine to OFF position when finished.

WARNING! Never place hands near moving needle. Always watch needle position during operation.

Advanced Functions

Programmable features for specialized tasks.

  1. Memory Stitches: Program and save custom stitch sequences.
  2. Automatic Buttonholes: One-step buttonhole creation with sensor.
  3. Decorative Stitches: Access built-in decorative patterns.
  4. Speed Control: Set maximum speed limits for different operators.
  5. Needle Positioning: Program needle stop up or down position.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Daily: Clean lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
  2. Weekly: Oil moving parts according to lubrication chart.
  3. Monthly: Check belt tension and motor alignment.
  4. Annually: Professional servicing recommended.

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

Regulatory Information

CE Certified: Complies with European safety standards. UL Listed: Meets US electrical safety requirements. Copyright © 2024 Bernina International AG; all rights reserved. For technical support, visit www.bernina.com or contact your local authorized dealer. Serial number located on machine bed.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine won't startPower connectionCheck power cord; verify outlet function; check circuit breaker.
Thread breakingTension/needle issuesAdjust tension; replace needle; check for burrs on throat plate.
Uneven stitchesTension imbalanceRe-thread machine; balance upper and lower tension.
Machine jamsThread buildupClean bobbin area; remove tangled threads; check timing.
Needle breaksWrong needle/bent needleUse correct needle type; ensure needle is straight; check fabric feeding.
Motor runs but no stitchingDrive beltCheck belt tension and condition; replace if worn.

Reset: Turn machine off and on to reset electronic functions.

Service: Contact authorized Bernina service center for major repairs.

Bernina 850 Industrial Sewing Machine Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025