Bernina Sewing Machine 800 Manual

The Bernina Sewing Machine 800 is a high-performance sewing machine featuring advanced stitching capabilities, automatic thread tension, built-in stitches, needle threader, speed control, LCD display, knee lifter, and various presser feet. 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 and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Stitch Selection 7. Maintenance and Cleaning 8. Accessories 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: LCD display, stitch selection dial, thread tension control, bobbin winder, presser foot lifter, needle position button, reverse stitch button, speed control slider.

FeatureDescription
LCD DisplayShows selected stitch, stitch length, and width settings
Stitch Selection DialFor choosing from built-in stitch patterns
Thread Tension ControlAutomatic and manual thread tension adjustment
Bobbin WinderAutomatic bobbin winding system
Presser Foot LifterRaises and lowers presser foot
Needle Position ButtonSets needle up/down position
Reverse Stitch ButtonFor reinforcing stitches at beginning and end
Speed Control SliderAdjusts sewing speed from slow to fast
Knee LifterHands-free presser foot lifting
Built-in Needle ThreaderAutomatic needle threading assistance

Installation and Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable sewing table.

  1. Remove protective covers and packaging materials
  2. Place machine on flat, stable surface at comfortable height
  3. Connect foot control pedal to machine
  4. Plug power cord into electrical outlet
  5. Install needle following arrow direction
  6. Wind and insert bobbin according to threading diagram

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

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow initial setup procedure.

  1. Thread upper thread following numbered path on machine
  2. Use automatic needle threader if available
  3. Insert bobbin with thread unwinding counterclockwise
  4. Pull up bobbin thread by turning hand wheel toward you
  5. Select basic straight stitch for initial testing
  6. Place fabric under presser foot and lower foot
  7. Begin sewing with slow speed control

CAUTION! Always test stitches on scrap fabric first. Ensure proper needle installation.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access settings via LCD touch screen and control buttons. Front Panel: Power switch, stitch selection, length/width adjustment, reverse stitch, needle position.

LCD Menu: Stitch patterns, stitch settings, needle position, tension control, speed limits, language selection.

Basic Settings: Stitch length (0-5mm), stitch width (0-9mm), thread tension (0-9), needle position (left/center/right), presser foot pressure, sewing speed control.

Stitch Selection

Built-in stitches include straight, zigzag, stretch, decorative, buttonhole, and quilting stitches.

  1. Turn stitch selection dial or use touch screen
  2. View selected stitch on LCD display
  3. Adjust stitch length and width as needed
  4. Select appropriate presser foot for chosen stitch
  5. Test stitch on scrap fabric before sewing project
  6. Use reverse stitch to secure beginning and end

Tip: Refer to stitch guide for recommended settings and applications.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Unplug machine before cleaning
  2. Remove needle and presser foot
  3. Clean bobbin area with small brush provided
  4. Wipe exterior with soft, dry cloth
  5. Oil machine according to maintenance schedule
  6. Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing
  7. Check for lint buildup in feed dog area

CAUTION! Never use compressed air for cleaning. Use only recommended sewing machine oil.

Accessories

Standard accessories included with Bernina 800 machine.

AccessoryPurpose
All-purpose FootGeneral sewing
Zipper FootInstalling zippers
Buttonhole FootAutomatic buttonholes
Quilting FootQuilting and patchwork
Overedge FootPreventing fabric fraying
Cleaning BrushLint removal
Seam RipperRemoving stitches
Additional BobbinsExtra bobbin supply
ScrewdriversNeedle plate removal

Regulatory Information

CE certified for European markets. UL listed for North American electrical standards. Manufactured according to international quality and safety standards. Copyright © Bernina International AG. For technical support and service, visit www.bernina.com or contact authorized Bernina dealers.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Thread breakingIncorrect threading/tensionRethread machine; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle
Skipped stitchesWrong needle/damaged needleReplace needle; ensure correct needle type for fabric
Machine jamsThread buildup/improper bobbinClean bobbin area; reinsert bobbin correctly
Uneven stitchesTension issuesAdjust upper and lower thread tension
No powerPower connectionCheck power cord; ensure outlet functions; check fuse
Needle breaksWrong needle size/bent needleUse correct needle size; insert needle properly

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

Service: Contact authorized Bernina service center for professional repairs.

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