Bernina Nova Sewing Machine Manual

The Bernina Nova is a high-quality sewing machine featuring precision stitching, multiple stitch patterns, automatic needle threader, built-in LED lighting, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, electronic speed control, and various presser feet for different sewing techniques. 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 & Techniques 7. Maintenance & Cleaning 8. Accessories & Presser Feet 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Sewing head with built-in LED light, Bobbin system, Stitch selection dial, Thread tension control, Presser foot holder, Foot pedal control, Power connector.

Feature	Description
Automatic needle threader	Easy threading with push-button mechanism
Built-in LED light	Bright illumination of sewing area
Stitch selection dial	Choose from multiple stitch patterns
Thread tension control	Adjustable for different fabrics
Free arm capability	For sewing sleeves and circular items
Reverse stitch button	For securing stitches at beginning and end
Bobbin winding system	Built-in bobbin winding mechanism
Presser foot pressure	Adjustable for different fabric thickness
Electronic speed control	Precise speed adjustment via foot pedal
Power switch	Turns machine on/off

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

Connect power: Plug machine into standard electrical outlet.
Install needle: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back.
Thread machine: Follow threading guide from spool pin to needle.
Wind bobbin: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through tension disc.
Insert bobbin: Place wound bobbin in bobbin case following directional arrows.

WARNING! Always unplug machine when changing needles or performing maintenance. Keep fingers away from moving parts.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test basic functions.

Select straight stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to straight stitch position.
Set stitch length: Adjust to medium setting (2.5-3.0).
Thread machine: Follow numbered threading path on machine.
Test sew: Place fabric under presser foot, lower foot, and press foot pedal gently.
Practice reverse: Press reverse button to secure stitches.

CAUTION! Always lower presser foot before sewing. Never pull fabric while needle is in fabric.

Specifications

Machine Type: Electronic sewing machine
Stitch Patterns: Multiple built-in stitches (straight, zigzag, decorative)
Stitch Length: Adjustable 0-4mm
Stitch Width: Adjustable 0-5mm
Maximum Speed: 800 stitches per minute
Needle System: HAx1 standard needles
Bobbin: Class 15 transparent bobbin
Presser Feet: Multiple interchangeable feet included
Power Requirements: Standard household electrical outlet
Weight: Approximately 7.5 kg

Controls and Settings

Access functions via control panel and dials. Front Panel: Power switch, Stitch selection dial, Stitch length control, Stitch width control, Reverse stitch button.

Additional Controls: Thread tension dial, Presser foot pressure adjustment, Bobbin winder, Needle position button.

Stitch Settings: Straight stitch (length 0-4mm), Zigzag stitch (width 0-5mm), Decorative stitches (pattern selection). Tension: Adjust for different thread types and fabrics. Speed: Controlled by foot pedal pressure.

Stitch Selection & Techniques

Supports various sewing techniques with appropriate stitch selection.

Straight stitch: For seams, topstitching, basting
Zigzag stitch: For finishing edges, appliqué, stretch fabrics
Buttonhole: Automatic one-step buttonholes
Blind hem: For nearly invisible hemming
Decorative stitches: For embellishment and creative projects
Darning: Free-motion sewing for repairs

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

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs
Weekly: Oil machine according to lubrication points in manual
Monthly: Clean tension discs and check needle plate for burrs
As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing

WARNING! Always unplug machine before cleaning or maintenance. Use only recommended sewing machine oil.

Accessories & Presser Feet

Standard accessories included: All-purpose foot, Zipper foot, Buttonhole foot, Blind hem foot, Darning plate, Seam ripper, Brush, Screwdriver, Additional needles, Bobbins.

Optional Accessories: Walking foot, Quilting foot, Rolled hem foot, Gathering foot, Edge stitching foot.

Regulatory Information

CE certified for European markets. Complies with international safety standards for electrical sewing machines. Copyright © 2025 Bernina; trademarks of Bernina International AG. For support, visit www.bernina.com or contact your local authorized Bernina dealer.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Machine won't start	Power connection	Check power cord is plugged in; ensure power switch is on.
Thread breaking	Tension/needle	Reduce tension; check needle for damage; rethread machine.
Uneven stitches	Threading/tension	Rethread both top and bobbin threads; adjust tension.
Fabric not feeding	Presser foot/feed dogs	Ensure presser foot is lowered; clean feed dogs.
Needle breaking	Bent needle/wrong size	Replace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric type.
Bobbin thread bunching	Bobbin insertion	Remove and reinsert bobbin following directional arrows.

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