Bernina Sewing Machine 1090 User Manual

The Bernina 1090 is a high-performance electronic sewing machine with advanced features including computerized stitch selection, automatic buttonholing, built-in decorative stitches, adjustable stitch length and width, needle threader, drop feed for free-motion sewing, and precision embroidery capabilities. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection and Functions 7. Maintenance and Care 8. Accessories and Attachments 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Electronic control panel, built-in stitch patterns, automatic needle threader, drop feed mechanism, bobbin winding system, and precision embroidery functions.

FeatureDescription
Electronic control panelLCD display with touch controls for stitch selection
Built-in stitch patternsOver 200 decorative, utility, and embroidery stitches
Automatic needle threaderEasy threading with push-button operation
Drop feed mechanismFor free-motion sewing and quilting
Bobbin winding systemAutomatic bobbin winding with thread cutter
Automatic buttonholerOne-step buttonhole creation
Needle up/down positionProgrammable needle stop position
Speed control sliderAdjustable sewing speed from slow to fast
Reverse stitch buttonFor reinforcing seams
Presser foot pressureAdjustable for different fabric types

Installation and Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

  1. Remove packaging materials and protective covers from machine.
  2. Place machine on flat, stable surface at comfortable working height.
  3. Connect foot control pedal to machine and plug into power outlet.
  4. Install needle properly with flat side facing back.
  5. Wind and insert bobbin following threading diagram.
  6. Thread upper thread through guides and needle using automatic threader.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow basic setup procedures.

  1. Turn power switch to ON position; LCD display will illuminate.
  2. Select basic straight stitch using stitch selection buttons.
  3. Practice on scrap fabric to adjust tension and stitch length.
  4. Test automatic needle threader function.
  5. Practice reverse stitching for seam reinforcement.
  6. Experiment with speed control slider for comfortable sewing pace.

CAUTION! Always start with needle in highest position. Keep work area well-lit and organized.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access functions via electronic control panel and function buttons.

Control Panel: Stitch selection buttons, LCD display, stitch length/width controls, reverse stitch, needle up/down, automatic threader.

Basic Settings: Stitch pattern selection, stitch length adjustment, stitch width adjustment, tension control, presser foot pressure, needle position memory. Advanced Functions: Mirror imaging, stitch combination, memory storage for custom patterns, automatic thread cutting.

Stitch Selection and Functions

Computerized stitch selection with memory capability.

  1. Utility Stitches: Straight, zigzag, stretch, overcast, blind hem
  2. Decorative Stitches: Scallops, waves, leaves, flowers, geometric patterns
  3. Embroidery Stitches: Satin, cross, fill, and outline stitches
  4. Buttonholes: Automatic one-step in various styles and sizes
  5. Monogramming: Alphabet stitches for personalization
  6. Memory Function: Store frequently used stitch combinations

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

Maintenance and Care

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Daily: Clean lint from bobbin area and feed dogs
  2. Weekly: Oil moving parts as specified in manual
  3. Monthly: Check needle for damage and replace if necessary
  4. Seasonal: Professional servicing recommended annually
  5. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation

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

Accessories and Attachments

Standard accessories included with Bernina 1090.

AccessoryFunction
Standard presser footGeneral purpose sewing
Zipper footInstalling zippers and piping
Buttonhole footAutomatic buttonhole creation
Overedge footPreventing fabric fraying
Blind hem footNearly invisible hemming
Embroidery footDecorative and satin stitching
Quilting guideEven spacing for quilting
Seam ripperRemoving stitches
Brush and lint removal toolCleaning machine
Extra needles and bobbinsReplacement parts

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with safety standards for household sewing machines. CE Certified: Meets European safety requirements. Copyright © 2025 Bernina; all rights reserved. For technical support and service, contact authorized Bernina dealers or visit www.bernina.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Machine not runningPower connectionCheck power cord and outlet; ensure foot control is connected
Thread breakingTension/needle issuesRe-thread machine; check needle for damage; adjust tension
Uneven stitchesThreading/tensionRe-thread both upper and bobbin threads; clean lint
Fabric not feedingFeed dogs loweredCheck feed dog position; clean feed dog area
Needle threader not workingPosition/obstructionEnsure needle is in highest position; check for thread jam
Bobbin issuesWinding/insertionRewind bobbin evenly; ensure correct insertion direction

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

Service: Contact authorized Bernina service center for repairs.

Bernina Sewing Machine 1090 User Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025