Bernina 930 Sewing Machine Manual

The Bernina 930 is a high-quality mechanical sewing machine known for its precision stitching, durability, and versatile features. This Swiss-engineered machine offers straight stitch, zigzag, and decorative patterns, with adjustable stitch length and width, built-in buttonholer, free arm capability, and reverse stitching. Powered by standard household electrical outlet. 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. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing head, built-in stitch patterns, free arm, built-in buttonholer, reverse stitch function, adjustable presser foot pressure.

FeatureDescription
Stitch Selection DialSelects straight, zigzag, and decorative stitches
Stitch Length ControlAdjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Stitch Width ControlAdjusts zigzag width from 0-5mm
Reverse Stitch LeverReinforces seams at beginning and end
Built-in ButtonholerCreates perfect buttonholes in one step
Free ArmRemovable extension table for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Presser Foot PressureAdjustable for different fabric types
Bobbin WinderBuilt-in automatic bobbin winding system
Thread Tension DialPrecise upper thread tension control
Power/Foot ControlVariable speed foot pedal

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

  1. Position machine: Place on sturdy table with adequate workspace.
  2. Connect power: Plug foot control into machine, then plug into wall outlet.
  3. Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
  4. Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions in threading section.
  5. Thread machine: Follow threading path indicated on machine.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Always turn off when not in use.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; practice on scrap fabric first.

  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. Thread machine: Follow numbered threading guide on machine.
  4. Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in bobbin case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
  5. Test stitch: Use scrap fabric to test stitching and adjust tension if needed.

CAUTION! Always disconnect power when changing needles or performing maintenance.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

Front Panel: Stitch selection dial, stitch length control, stitch width control, reverse stitch lever, bobbin winder.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select desired stitch pattern. Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter/longer stitches. Stitch Width: Controls zigzag width. Reverse: Hold lever for backstitching. Tension: Adjust upper thread tension (4-5 for normal fabrics). Presser Foot Pressure: Adjust for light/heavy fabrics.

Stitch Selection

Available stitches: Straight, zigzag, multiple stretch stitches, decorative patterns.

  1. Straight Stitch: For basic seams, topstitching, quilting.
  2. Zigzag Stitch: For finishing edges, appliqué, stretch fabrics.
  3. Blind Hem: For nearly invisible hemming.
  4. Decorative Stitches: For embellishment and creative sewing.
  5. Buttonhole: Automatic one-step buttonholes.

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading is essential for good stitch quality.

  1. Upper Threading: Follow numbered path - spool pin, thread guides, tension discs, take-up lever, needle.
  2. Bobbin Winding: Place spool on pin, thread through bobbin winder tension, press bobbin onto spindle, engage winder.
  3. Bobbin Insertion: Open bobbin cover, insert bobbin with thread unwinding counterclockwise, pull thread through slot.
  4. Needle Threading: Raise needle to highest position, thread from front to back.
  5. Draw Up Bobbin Thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you to bring up bobbin thread.

WARNING! Ensure machine is off when threading. Keep fingers away from moving parts.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
  2. Weekly: Oil moving parts as indicated in manual (use sewing machine oil only).
  3. Monthly: Clean tension discs with soft brush or unthreaded yarn.
  4. Needles: Replace bent or dull needles immediately.
  5. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

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

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Bernina 930.

AccessoryPurpose
Standard Presser FootGeneral sewing
Zipper FootInstalling zippers
Buttonhole FootAutomatic buttonholes
Blind Hem FootInvisible hemming
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
BrushCleaning lint
Additional BobbinsExtra bobbins for different threads
ScrewdriverNeedle and foot changes

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards for household sewing machines. Copyright © Bernina International AG. Manufactured to precision Swiss standards. For technical support, authorized service, or additional accessories, contact Bernina customer service or visit www.bernina.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread completely; reduce 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; ensure thread unwinds correctly.
Machine not feedingFeed dogs loweredCheck feed dog position; clean feed dogs.
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust upper and bobbin tension; rethread both.
Machine noisyLack of lubrication/lintClean and oil machine; check for loose parts.

Service: Contact authorized Bernina service center for repairs. Do not attempt to repair electrical components.

Support: www.bernina.com or local authorized dealer

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