Bernina 850 Industrial Sewing Machine User Manual

The Bernina 850 is a professional-grade industrial sewing machine designed for heavy-duty applications with high-speed stitching capabilities, advanced threading system, automatic needle threader, built-in stitch patterns, adjustable presser foot pressure, reverse stitching function, free arm capability, and precision engineering for consistent performance. 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. Maintenance Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Industrial-grade motor, automatic needle threader, stitch pattern selector, reverse lever, presser foot lifter, bobbin winder, free arm capability, LED work light.

FeatureDescription
Industrial motorHigh-speed 850W motor for continuous operation
Automatic needle threaderEasy threading with push-button mechanism
Stitch pattern selectorBuilt-in stitch patterns including straight, zigzag, decorative
Reverse leverFor backstitching to secure seams
Presser foot lifterAdjustable pressure for different fabric types
Bobbin winderAutomatic bobbin winding system
Free arm capabilityFor sewing cylindrical items like sleeves and cuffs
LED work lightBright illumination of work area
Speed controlFoot pedal with variable speed control
Thread tension dialPrecise upper thread tension adjustment

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable industrial table.

  1. Position machine: Place on sturdy work surface at comfortable height.
  2. Connect power: Plug into appropriate industrial power outlet.
  3. Install needle: Insert needle with flat side facing back, tighten screw.
  4. Thread machine: Follow threading diagram from spool to needle.
  5. Wind bobbin: Use built-in bobbin winder with desired thread.

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

First-Time Setup

Power on machine; perform initial configuration.

  1. Thread machine: Follow numbered threading path on machine body.
  2. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  3. Set stitch length: Adjust to medium setting (2.5-3.0) for general sewing.
  4. Adjust tension: Start with factory setting (4-5) and test on scrap fabric.
  5. Test operation: Sew on scrap fabric to ensure proper stitching.

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

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access controls via front panel and side dials. Main Controls: Power switch, stitch selector, reverse button, presser foot lever.

Adjustment Dials: Stitch length (0-4mm), stitch width (0-5mm), thread tension (0-9).

Stitch Selection: Straight stitch, zigzag, blind hem, stretch stitches, buttonhole, decorative patterns. Tension: Upper thread tension dial, bobbin case tension screw. Feed Dog: Drop feed for free-motion sewing. Presser Foot: Pressure adjustment for different fabric thicknesses.

Connecting Accessories

Various presser feet: Zipper foot, buttonhole foot, blind hem foot, walking foot.

  1. Turn off machine before changing accessories.
  2. Align foot with presser bar and lower into position.
  3. Secure with thumb screw or quick-release mechanism.
  4. Test on scrap fabric to ensure proper operation.

Tip: Always use Bernina-approved accessories for optimal performance and safety.

Basic Operation

Supports various fabrics from lightweight to heavy materials.

  1. Power on: Switch machine to ON position.
  2. Select stitch: Choose appropriate pattern for your project.
  3. Position fabric: Lower presser foot onto fabric.
  4. Start sewing: Press foot pedal gently to begin stitching.
  5. Reverse: Hold reverse lever to backstitch at beginning and end.
  6. Guide fabric: Let machine feed fabric; do not pull or push.
  7. Finish: Raise needle to highest position before removing fabric.
  8. Trim threads: Use built-in thread cutter or scissors.

WARNING! Never place fingers near moving needle. Always disconnect power when not in use.

Maintenance Features

Automatic oiling system: Built-in lubrication for moving parts. Self-cleaning hook system: Easy access for lint removal. Needle position memory: Returns needle to up or down position as set.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug before cleaning. Remove lint from bobbin area and feed dogs regularly. Oil moving parts as specified in maintenance schedule.

CAUTION! Use only Bernina-approved sewing machine oil. Do not use compressed air for cleaning.

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 authorized Bernina dealer.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect tension/thread qualityCheck threading path; adjust tension; use quality thread.
Skip stitchesDull/bent needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle type and installation.
Machine jamsThread buildup/poor quality threadClean bobbin area; remove tangled threads; use recommended thread.
Uneven stitchesIncorrect tension/fabric feedingBalance upper and bobbin tension; check feed dogs.
Motor not runningPower connection/foot pedalCheck power cord; inspect foot pedal connection; reset circuit breaker.

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

Service: Contact authorized Bernina service center; www.bernina.com

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