Bernina Sewing Machine Type 203 Owners Manual

The Bernina Sewing Machine Type 203 is a high-quality mechanical sewing machine featuring straight stitch, zigzag stitch, buttonhole function, reverse stitching, adjustable stitch length and width, built-in needle threader, free arm capability, built-in light, and accessory storage. Powered by 120V AC, 60Hz. 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 light, free arm, stitch selection dial, tension control, bobbin winder, foot pedal, accessory compartment.

Feature	Description
Stitch selection dial	For selecting straight, zigzag, and decorative stitches
Tension control dial	Adjusts upper thread tension
Built-in needle threader	Assists with threading the needle
Free arm capability	For sewing sleeves and circular items
Built-in light	Illuminates sewing area
Reverse stitch lever	For reinforcing stitches
Bobbin winder	Winds thread onto bobbin
Stitch length control	Adjusts stitch length from 0-4mm
Stitch width control	Adjusts zigzag width from 0-5mm
Foot pedal	Controls sewing speed

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface at comfortable height.

Position machine: Place on sturdy table with adequate workspace.
Connect foot pedal: Plug into machine's pedal port.
Connect power: Plug power cord into 120V AC outlet.
Install needle: Loosen needle clamp, insert needle with flat side to back, tighten.
Wind bobbin: Follow bobbin winding instructions.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from needle area during operation. Unplug when not in use.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; test basic functions.

Thread machine: Follow threading path indicated on machine.
Insert bobbin: Place bobbin in bobbin case with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
Test stitches: Select straight stitch, place fabric under presser foot, depress pedal gently.
Adjust tension: Test on scrap fabric; adjust tension dial if needed.
Practice basic stitches: Straight, zigzag, reverse.

CAUTION! Always raise needle to highest position before removing fabric.

Specifications

Machine Type: Mechanical sewing machine
Stitches: Straight, zigzag, buttonhole, decorative
Stitch Length: 0-4mm adjustable
Stitch Width: 0-5mm adjustable (zigzag)
Bobbin: Class 15 bobbin system
Needle System: 130/705 H household needles
Free Arm: Yes, with accessory storage
Light: Built-in LED light
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
Weight: Approximately 15 lbs

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on front and side of machine.

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

Stitch Selection: Turn dial to select desired stitch pattern. Stitch Length: Adjust for shorter/longer stitches. Stitch Width: Controls zigzag width. Tension: Adjust for different fabrics (higher numbers for tighter tension). Reverse: Hold lever for backstitching. Bobbin Winder: Push bobbin to right to engage winding mechanism.

Stitch Selection

Available stitches: straight, zigzag, multiple stretch stitches, blind hem, buttonhole.

Straight stitch: For basic sewing, topstitching, seams
Zigzag stitch: For finishing edges, stretch fabrics, decorative work
Blind hem: For nearly invisible hemming
Buttonhole: 4-step buttonhole function
Stretch stitches: For knit fabrics
Decorative stitches: Various patterns available

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

Threading & Bobbin

Proper threading ensures smooth operation.

Upper threading: Raise presser foot, follow numbered path on machine.
Needle threading: Use built-in threader or thread manually.
Bobbin winding: Place spool on pin, thread through tension disc, wind bobbin.
Bobbin insertion: Open bobbin cover, insert with thread unwinding counterclockwise.
Bring up bobbin thread: Hold upper thread, turn handwheel toward you.

WARNING! Ensure machine is unplugged during threading and maintenance.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Daily: Brush out lint from bobbin area and feed dogs.
Weekly: Oil moving parts as indicated in manual (use sewing machine oil only).
Monthly: Clean tension discs with folded fabric or dental floss.
As needed: Replace needle after 8-10 hours of sewing.

CAUTION! Use only sewing machine oil; other oils can damage mechanism.

Accessories

Standard accessories included:

All-purpose foot (on machine)
Zipper foot
Buttonhole foot
Blind hem foot
Class 15 bobbins (3)
Needles (assorted sizes)
Seam ripper/lint brush
Screwdriver
Spool caps

Additional accessories available separately.

Regulatory Information

UL Listed: Complies with UL safety standards. Copyright © Bernina International AG. For support, visit www.bernina.com or contact authorized Bernina dealer. Made in Switzerland. This appliance is not intended for use by persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Thread breaking	Incorrect threading/tension	Re-thread completely; adjust tension; check for burrs on needle.
Skip stitches	Wrong needle/damaged needle	Replace needle; ensure correct needle for fabric type.
Bobbin thread bunching	Incorrect bobbin insertion	Remove and reinsert bobbin; ensure thread unwinds correctly.
Machine not running	Power/pedal issues	Check power connection; ensure pedal plug is secure.
Uneven stitches	Tension issues	Adjust upper and bobbin tension; clean tension discs.
Noise during operation	Lint/lack of oil	Clean lint from bobbin area; oil according to manual.

Service: Contact authorized Bernina service center for repairs.

Support: www.bernina.com or local authorized dealer