Bernina Sewing Machine 1008 Manual

The Bernina 1008 is a mechanical sewing machine known for its reliability and precision stitching. This versatile machine features straight and zigzag stitches, built-in buttonhole function, adjustable stitch length and width, free arm capability, built-in needle threader, and durable metal construction. Below are key sections covering operation, features, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Machine Setup 3. Basic Operation 4. Technical Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Stitch Selection 7. Maintenance & Cleaning 8. Troubleshooting 9. Accessories 10. Warranty Information

Features at a Glance

Key components: Mechanical sewing mechanism, stitch selection dial, tension control, bobbin system, presser feet, and free arm design.

Feature	Description
Stitch Selection Dial	Selects straight stitch, zigzag, and decorative patterns
Stitch Length Control	Adjusts stitch length from 0-4 mm
Stitch Width Control	Adjusts zigzag width from 0-5 mm
Built-in Buttonhole	4-step buttonhole function
Free Arm	Removable extension table for sewing sleeves and cuffs
Built-in Needle Threader	Assists with threading needle
Reverse Stitch Lever	Reinforces stitching at beginning and end
Tension Control Dial	Adjusts upper thread tension
Bobbin Winder	Automatic bobbin winding system
Presser Feet	Multiple feet included for different applications

Machine Setup

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

Power connection: Plug power cord into wall outlet (120V AC).
Needle installation: Loosen needle clamp screw, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten screw.
Threading: Follow numbered threading path from spool to needle.
Bobbin winding: Place empty bobbin on winder, thread through tension disc, engage winder.
Bobbin insertion: Remove bobbin case, insert bobbin with thread unwinding counterclockwise.

WARNING! Always unplug machine when changing needles or performing maintenance.

Basic Operation

Power on machine; test stitching on scrap fabric first.

Select stitch: Turn stitch selection dial to desired pattern.
Adjust settings: Set stitch length and width according to fabric type.
Thread tension: Start with setting 4, adjust based on stitch quality.
Begin sewing: Lower presser foot, gently press foot controller.
Reverse stitching: Hold reverse lever to reinforce beginning and end of seams.
Finishing: Raise needle to highest position, lift presser foot, remove fabric.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from moving needle. Always use proper lighting.

Technical Specifications

Machine Type: Mechanical sewing machine
Stitches: Straight, zigzag, stretch stitches, blind hem, decorative
Stitch Length: 0-4 mm adjustable
Stitch Width: 0-5 mm adjustable
Buttonhole: 4-step built-in
Presser Feet: Standard, zipper, buttonhole, blind hem included
Free Arm: Yes, with removable extension table
Needle System: 130/705 H
Bobbin: Class 15 transparent
Power Supply: 120V AC, 60Hz
Dimensions: 15.4" x 7.1" x 11.8" (with extension table)
Weight: 18.7 lbs

Controls and Functions

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

Additional Features: Built-in needle threader, thread cutter, drop feed for darning/quilting, free arm capability.

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select from straight stitch (center position), zigzag (various widths), stretch stitches, blind hem, and decorative patterns. Stitch Length: Controls distance between stitches (0 for darning, 4 for basting). Stitch Width: Adjusts zigzag width (0 for straight stitch, 5 for maximum width). Tension Control: Dial numbered 0-9 for perfect stitch formation.

Stitch Selection

Available stitches and recommended applications:

Straight Stitch: Basic sewing, seams, topstitching
Zigzag Stitch: Finishing edges, appliqué, stretch fabrics
Blind Hem Stitch: Nearly invisible hemming
Stretch Stitches: Knits and elastic fabrics
Decorative Stitches: Embellishments and decorative seams
Buttonhole: 4-step process for perfect buttonholes

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

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs
Weekly: Oil hook race and moving parts (use Bernina oil only)
Monthly: Clean tension discs with unwaxed dental floss
As needed: Replace needle after 8 hours of sewing
Storage: Cover machine when not in use, store in dry area

CAUTION! Unplug machine before cleaning or oiling. Use only Bernina-approved lubricants.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect threading/tension	Rethread completely; reduce tension; check for burrs on needle
Skip stitches	Wrong needle/damaged needle	Replace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric
Bobbin thread bunching	Incorrect bobbin threading	Remove and rethread bobbin; check bobbin case
Machine not running	Power/pedal issues	Check power connection; test foot controller; check fuse
Uneven stitches	Tension problems	Adjust upper and lower tension; rethread both top and bobbin
Noise/vibration	Lint buildup/needs oiling	Clean lint from bobbin area; oil moving parts

Service: Contact authorized Bernina dealer for professional service.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Bernina 1008:

Standard Presser Foot
Zipper Foot
Buttonhole Foot
Blind Hem Foot
Seam Ripper/Brush
Additional Needles
Bobbin (Class 15)
Screwdriver
Power Cord & Foot Controller
Hard Cover

Optional Accessories: Various specialty feet, extension table, knee lift, carrying case available.

Warranty Information

Bernina 1008 comes with limited warranty covering manufacturing defects. Warranty period and terms vary by region. For warranty service, contact authorized Bernina dealer with proof of purchase. Warranty does not cover damage from misuse, improper maintenance, or unauthorized repairs.

For technical support and dealer locations, visit www.bernina.com or contact Bernina customer service at 1-800-405-2579.