Bernette38 Swiss Design Computerized Sewing Machine

I have been comparing machines for weeks now because I knew it was time for a new one. I have been a lover of Singer Machines and have owned at least four over my 20 years of sewing. I was open to a new brand because my last machine seemed not to be as reliable as previous ones. Of course I would of loved to own a Bernina Machine but was not ready to commit to spending those big dollars yet. In my search I found out that there are two brands that extend from Bernina: Eversewn and Bernette. I did my comparisons with the models and this machine won out because it has an automatic thread cutter button (so awesome). I have only had this for a month but have been using it constantly (busy season). It has so many high end features, I didn't know my previous machine was dated until I got this one. Changing stitch style and length is really easy, the computerization of this machine is straight forward and easy to catch on regardless if you read the instruction manual or not. By the way the manual is clear and direct, I browsed it prior to handling the machine. Another thing I think is worth noting is that the machine also shows which is the correct foot to attach after you choose your stitch style. I have a collection of feet (about 50 bought on amazon) that I invested in for my previous machines that was also low shank, and I have used at least half of them and they fit perfectly, the others I haven't gotten to as yet. This machine also comes with an extension table that comes in handy for larger garments. The machine seems to handle delicate and heavy weight materials all the same and runs super smoothly. I realize compared to other more known brands this didn't have many reviews which made the decision harder for me thus the reason why I felt the need to write this review. This is a great machine, you get beyond value for money with all the bells and whistles attached. If any one is on the fence about this, just do it, get it, it's so worth it. As time passes If there are any changes in thoughts to the quality, functionality or longevity of this sewing machine I surely will make a note in an updated review, but as of now I HIGHLY ENDORSE the Bernette 38. I simply enjoy using it and esthetically its a beautiful addition to my sewing room.UPDATE:It has been over a year and a half since I have bought this machine with almost constant use. This was a great investment and she is still sewing perfect stitches. Using the 1-step buttonhole function is just foolproof. This machine also has two stretch stitch functions which both work great on very stretch fabrics. I do regular at-home maintenance with plans to take her to the shop for a service even though she shows no signs of needing one. I plan on starting a sewing school soon and will be sticking with these lines of machines. Top-quality all the way.UPDATE #2: It's been almost four years and no, I didn't take it for servicing (I really should). I do remove the plate and bobin case periodically to clean the dust and oil. I also change my needles roughly every 10 (garment) projects. I average about four projects a week on this machine and she consistently gives great stitches!!!! Do not hesitate, this is worth every penny.

This has all the features on my list, and it's a pleasure to work with. At first I was worried that using the automatic thread cutter, leaving only about 1" of upper thread and no visible bobbin thread, would result in my having to rethread the needle and draw up the bobbin thread, but this has not been necessary even once. And I LOVE that when you stop sewing the needle stays down in the fabric. I was sewing very curvy seams that required frequent stops to turn the fabric, and the needle's remaining down made that so much faster!😃 Then when you get to the end you press either the scissors button (to cut the thread and raise the needle) or the "raise needle" button if you‘re not cutting the thread. Another great feature is speed control, to prevent runaway sewing in tight places.This machine replaces my 30-yr-old Pfaff, which was a great machine but apparently the gears and motherboard were too worn/old to repair/replace. The Bernette runs at a slightly higher pitch than the Pfaff, but not annoyingly so. I'm thrilled with this purchase. All that research paid off!

The media could not be loaded. Loved machine initially. Always wanted a Swiss machine. However, refer to pictures, after using reverse one time , it began to malfunction. I used manual to trouble shoot including, cleaning bobbin race, new needle, new bobbin , tension up, tension down. I spent 2 hrs trying to convince it to quit having seizures. Called company who said I had to call seller. They have very limited days open and Monday isn’t one of them. So I proceeded with return sequence. Upset , as Amazon site said “ this item not eligible for replacement”.So , my beautiful Christmas present is gone. Calling seller on a day they are open, will update if any good news. Mind you. My Mom was a professional seamstress. She taught me everything and I have been sewing for 59 yrs. I am so sad.

So far this is a great machine. A Bernina is in my future, but I wanted to hone in my skills before I invested that expense. The machine is easy to set up and navigate. The manual is helpful in detailing how to use different stitches. I have sewn a few pillow covers with an enclosed zipper on this machine and they turned out great. The stitch quality was smooth and even. I have used the zigzag and overstitch to prepare easily fraying fabrics with ease. The zipper foot lines us perfectly and gave me a smooth stitch. The machine is not loud and does not jump around although I do not use the max speed. I absolutely love that I can control the speed and use the auto start stop button only so far as I am not good at controlling speed with a presser foot. I will get there.

I am not a beginner sewer and I am not an expert quilter. I’ve had three less expensive machines than this before and they each lasted a couple years. I had to frequently take them apart to repair them myself. I did not want to spend $2000 or more on a machine. I did a lot of research about this machine. It was easy to assemble and easy to learn how to use the machine. It had many features on it that I had not had another machines. My favorite feature is automatic, cutting of the thread, which saves me a lot of time and thread! The machine is quiet, smooth, and I feel happy every time I sit down in front of it. I do recommend this machine for the beginner or above level sewing.

The b38 is a great machine. The stitches are uniform and there are a lot of beautiful decorative options. My only dislikes are that the machine has a faint humming while on, (it mentions it as completely normal in the manual so I know it’s not a defect) but that is definitely not a deal breaker for me. Some of the fancy stitches need extra adjustments and stable fabric. I love the alphabet stitches in particular. It also has a second thread holder for winding the bobbin that also works for double needle sewing. The needle threading is a breeze and the settings are simple to navigate. This seller shipped in the product box only but the machine was delivered in perfect shape.