Bernette 38 Swiss Design Computerized Common Problems and Troubleshooting
This article addresses common problems and provides troubleshooting solutions for the Bernette 38 Swiss Design Computerized sewing machine. As the top model in the Bernette series, this computerized sewing machine offers a wide range of functions at an affordable price.
With 394 different stitches, including stretch stitches for elastic fabrics, eight one-step buttonholes, and three alphabets, it’s a versatile choice for sewing enthusiasts. This article aims to help you resolve issues you might encounter while using the Bernette 38.
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Bernette 38 Swiss Design Computerized Overview
This computerized sewing machine is the flagship model of the Bernette series. It comes with a comprehensive set of features to enhance your sewing experience:
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Stitch Width | 7mm |
| Hook System | Drop-In |
| Free Arm | 170 mm |
| Patterns | 394 |
| Buttonholes | 8 (1-step) |
| Speed | 820 stitches/minute |
Additional features include an automatic thread cutter, storage function for stitch combinations, three alphabets, automatic limitation for double needles, adjustable presser foot pressure, and more. The sewing machine also comes with an extension table for larger projects and includes eight presser feet for various applications.
Product Details
Brand: Bernette
Color: White
Material: Metal
Product Dimensions: 19″D x 20″W x 14″H
Power Source: AC
Is Electric: Yes
About this item
This is the affordable top model in the Bernette series of sewing machines, which includes a wide range of functions. The Bernette 38 offers 394 different stitches, including the stretch stitch for elastic fabrics. It also features eight one-step buttonholes and three alphabets. The sewing machine comes with a useful speed regulator that can be adjusted directly on the display. Additionally, the Bonus Bundle includes a Bernette 10 Piece Presser Foot Set, 10 Clear Bobbins, and 20 Needles.
Product Dimensions: 19 x 20 x 14 inches
Item Weight: 22.2 pounds
Manufacturer: Bernette
ASIN: B077NJJ8TF
Item Model Number: b38
Causes of Common Problems with the Bernette 38 Swiss Design Computerized
This section will explore potential issues that users might encounter while using the Bernette 38 Swiss Design Computerized sewing machine. Each problem will be accompanied by troubleshooting solutions to help users address these issues effectively.
Common Problems and Troubleshooting for Bernette 38 Swiss Design Computerized
Thread Tension Irregularities
Description: You notice uneven or tangled stitches, with some threads too tight and others too loose.
Cause: Incorrect thread tension settings can lead to these issues.
Troubleshooting:
- Re-thread the machine following the correct threading path, ensuring the presser foot is raised.
- Check that the thread is correctly seated in the tension discs.
- Adjust the tension dial gradually while testing on a fabric scrap until balanced stitches are achieved.
Bobbin Thread Jams
Description: The sewing machine jams or stops due to tangled or broken bobbin thread.
Cause: Improper bobbin winding, incorrect insertion, or tangled thread can cause these jams.
Troubleshooting:
- Remove the bobbin and re-wind it, ensuring even winding and proper tension.
- Insert the bobbin in the correct orientation and ensure the bobbin case is correctly installed.
- Clean out any lint or thread scraps from the bobbin area and around the bobbin case.
Skipped Stitches
Description: Stitches are missing, resulting in uneven seams or patterns.
Cause: Dull or incorrectly inserted needle, improper threading, or fabric tension issues can lead to skipped stitches.
Troubleshooting:
- Replace the needle with a new, appropriate needle for the fabric type.
- Ensure the needle is correctly inserted and oriented according to the machine’s manual.
- Check that the upper thread is properly threaded and the bobbin is correctly inserted.
- Adjust the presser foot pressure and use appropriate thread tension for the fabric.
Uneven Feed Dogs
Description: Fabric feeding is uneven, resulting in puckered or misaligned seams.
Cause: Dust or debris accumulation, incorrect presser foot pressure, or damaged feed dogs can cause this issue.
Troubleshooting:
- Clean the feed dogs and the area under the needle plate to remove any lint or debris.
- Adjust the presser foot pressure to match the fabric’s thickness.
- If feed dogs are damaged, consult the machine’s manual or contact a service technician.
Thread Breakage
Description: The thread breaks frequently while sewing, disrupting the stitching process.
Cause: Incorrect threading, using low-quality thread, or obstructions in the thread path can lead to thread breakage.
Troubleshooting:
- Ensure the machine is correctly threaded, with the presser foot raised during threading.
- Use high-quality thread suitable for the fabric type and thickness.
- Check for any sharp edges or obstructions along the thread path and remove them.
Uneven Stitch Length
Description: Your stitches vary in length, causing an irregular appearance in your sewing project.
Cause: Incorrect stitch length setting, inconsistent fabric feeding, or worn feed dogs can lead to uneven stitches.
Troubleshooting:
- Check and adjust the stitch length setting on the machine.
- Ensure smooth and even fabric feeding, guiding the fabric gently.
- If feed dogs are worn, consider replacing them following the machine’s manual.
Thread Bunching on the Underside
Description: You notice tangled thread loops on the underside of your fabric, affecting the seam quality.
Cause: Improper threading of the bobbin case, incorrect tension settings, or lint buildup can cause thread bunching.
Troubleshooting:
- Re-thread the bobbin case, ensuring the thread is correctly seated in the tension spring.
- Check and adjust both upper and bobbin thread tension to achieve balanced stitches.
- Clean the bobbin area, removing any lint or thread buildup that might interfere with thread flow.
Needle Breakage
Description: Needles break frequently during sewing, interrupting your workflow.
Cause: Using the wrong needle size or type, hitting pins or hard objects, or incorrect needle insertion can lead to needle breakage.
Troubleshooting:
- Select the appropriate needle size and type for the fabric you’re using.
- Avoid sewing over pins or hitting any hard objects that might cause the needle to break.
- Ensure the needle is correctly inserted and tightened according to the machine’s manual.
Error Messages on Display
Description: The machine’s display shows error messages or codes that you’re unsure how to resolve.
Cause: Technical issues, incorrect setup, or user errors can trigger error messages on the display.
Troubleshooting:
- Consult the machine’s manual to understand the meaning of the displayed error message.
- Check for loose connections, tangled threads, or any other visible issues mentioned in the manual.
- If the problem persists, consider contacting customer support or a technician for assistance.
Uneven Buttonholes
Description: The buttonholes sewn by the machine appear uneven or poorly aligned.
Cause: Incorrect buttonhole settings, fabric stretching, or improper machine setup can result in uneven buttonholes.
Troubleshooting:
- Ensure you’ve selected the correct buttonhole style and settings on the machine.
- Use stabilizers or interfacing to prevent fabric stretching during buttonhole sewing.
- Practice buttonhole sewing on scrap fabric to adjust settings before sewing on your project.
Irregular Stitch Formation
Description: Stitches are not forming consistently, resulting in erratic sewing lines.
Cause: Dust or debris in the bobbin area, needle damage, or incorrect presser foot attachment can cause this issue.
Troubleshooting:
- Clean the bobbin area thoroughly to remove any lint or debris that might be affecting stitch formation.
- Replace the needle with a new one if it’s bent, damaged, or dull.
- Ensure the correct presser foot is attached and properly secured.
Inconsistent Thread Tension on Different Fabrics
Description: Thread tension behaves differently when sewing various fabrics, leading to uneven stitches.
Cause: Different fabrics require adjustments in thread tension settings due to variations in thickness and stretch.
Troubleshooting:
- Test stitch on a fabric scrap before starting your project to determine the appropriate thread tension.
- Adjust the thread tension settings according to the fabric you’re working with.
- Keep a record of successful tension settings for different fabrics to refer to in the future.
Bobbin Winding Difficulties
Description: You encounter issues while winding the bobbin, such as uneven winding or thread tangling.
Cause: Incorrect bobbin winding setup, loose thread ends, or obstructions in the winding path can cause bobbin winding problems.
Troubleshooting:
- Follow the machine’s manual to ensure the correct setup for bobbin winding.
- Hold the thread ends taut while starting the winding process to prevent tangling.
- Check for any thread snags or obstructions in the winding path and remove them.
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Noise During Sewing
Description: The sewing machine produces unusual noises, such as grinding or knocking, during operation.
Cause: Loose parts, lint buildup, or mechanical issues can result in abnormal sewing machine noises.
Troubleshooting:
- Tighten any loose screws or parts on the machine, including the presser foot, needle, and bobbin case.
- Clean the machine thoroughly to remove lint and debris that might be causing friction.
- If the noise persists, consult the machine’s manual or contact customer support for further assistance.
Automatic Needle Threader Malfunction
Description: The automatic needle threader fails to work properly, making needle threading difficult.
Cause: Incorrect usage, bent needle, or misalignment of the needle threader mechanism can lead to this malfunction.
Troubleshooting:
- Refer to the machine’s manual to ensure you’re using the automatic needle threader correctly.
- Inspect the needle for any bending or damage that might hinder the threader’s operation.
- Check for misalignment of the needle threader and gently adjust it if needed.
Feed Dogs Not Advancing Fabric
Description: The fabric isn’t moving forward during sewing, causing stitches to bunch up.
Cause: Feed dogs might be disengaged, damaged, or obstructed by debris.
Troubleshooting:
- Check if the feed dogs are in the up position, engaged to help move the fabric.
- Ensure there’s no lint or fabric pieces obstructing the feed dogs’ movement.
- If the problem persists, consider consulting the machine’s manual or seeking professional assistance.
Skipped Buttonholes
Description: The sewing machine skips portions of buttonholes, affecting their functionality.
Cause: Incorrect buttonhole settings, fabric thickness variations, or improper positioning can lead to skipped buttonholes.
Troubleshooting:
- Ensure you’ve selected the appropriate buttonhole style and settings for your fabric.
- Use stabilizers or interfacing to maintain fabric thickness consistency during buttonhole sewing.
- Position the fabric correctly under the presser foot to ensure precise buttonhole stitching.
Uneven Presser Foot Pressure
Description: The presser foot applies uneven pressure on the fabric, resulting in inconsistent stitching.
Cause: Incorrect presser foot pressure adjustment or improper installation can lead to uneven pressure.
Troubleshooting:
- Adjust the presser foot pressure according to the fabric type and thickness you’re working with.
- Ensure the presser foot is installed correctly and securely.
- If the problem persists, refer to the machine’s manual or seek guidance from a technician.
Thread Fraying or Shredding
Description: The thread starts to fray or shred during sewing, impacting stitch quality.
Cause: Using old or low-quality thread, incorrect threading, or sharp needle edges can cause thread fraying.
Troubleshooting:
- Use high-quality thread suitable for the fabric you’re sewing.
- Double-check the threading path, ensuring the thread is correctly guided through all tension points.
- Replace the needle if it’s old or damaged, as a bent or dull needle can contribute to thread fraying.
Fabric Puckering
Description: The fabric gathers or puckers while sewing, resulting in an uneven appearance.
Cause: Incorrect thread tension, improper presser foot pressure, or excessive fabric handling can lead to fabric puckering.
Troubleshooting:
- Adjust the thread tension to achieve balanced stitches without causing excessive gathering.
- Ensure the presser foot pressure is suitable for the fabric to prevent unnecessary puckering.
- Handle the fabric gently while sewing to avoid stretching or distorting it.
Thread Loops on Top of Fabric
Description: You notice loops of thread appearing on the top side of the fabric.
Cause: Incorrect threading, upper thread tension, or needle-bar height can lead to thread loops.
Troubleshooting:
- Check the threading path to ensure the upper thread is correctly threaded.
- Adjust the upper thread tension according to the fabric and stitch type.
- If the problem persists, consult the machine’s manual for needle-bar height adjustment.
Fabric Not Feeding Smoothly
Description: The fabric isn’t moving smoothly under the presser foot, causing uneven stitching.
Cause: Inadequate fabric handling, presser foot pressure issues, or feed dog problems can lead to uneven fabric feeding.
Troubleshooting:
- Guide the fabric gently and consistently to ensure smooth feeding while sewing.
- Adjust the presser foot pressure to match the fabric’s thickness and texture.
- If the feed dogs are worn or damaged, consider professional maintenance or replacement.
Jammed Bobbin Winder
Description: The bobbin winder mechanism becomes stuck, preventing proper bobbin winding.
Cause: Incorrect bobbin winding setup, tangled thread, or mechanical issues can lead to a jammed bobbin winder.
Troubleshooting:
- Ensure the bobbin winder spindle is properly engaged and aligned.
- Check for any tangled thread that might be causing the jam and remove it.
- If the issue persists, consult the machine’s manual or seek professional assistance.
Stiff Handwheel Movement
Description: The handwheel is difficult to turn or feels stiff when manually adjusting the needle position.
Cause: Accumulated debris, lack of lubrication, or mechanical issues can lead to stiff handwheel movement.
Troubleshooting:
- Clean the machine’s interior, including the handwheel area, to remove any lint or debris.
- Apply a small amount of sewing machine oil to the appropriate points for lubrication.
- If the handwheel remains stiff, consider professional maintenance to address potential mechanical issues.
Irregular Stitch Density
Description: The stitches appear uneven in terms of density, with some areas more tightly packed than others.
Cause: Inconsistent fabric handling, thread tension, or needle type can lead to irregular stitch density.
Troubleshooting:
- Guide the fabric consistently while sewing to ensure uniform stitch density.
- Adjust the thread tension to achieve balanced stitches across the entire fabric.
- Use the appropriate needle size and type for the fabric you’re working with.
These additional problems cover various issues that users might encounter while using the Bernette 38 Swiss Design Computerized sewing machine, along with their respective causes and troubleshooting steps.
Bernette 38 Swiss Design Computerized Sewing Machine User Reviews
Positive Reviews from Bernette 38 Swiss Design Computerized Sewing Machine Users
Many users expressed satisfaction with various aspects of the Bernette 38 Swiss Design Computerized sewing machine. Here are some of the positive experiences associated with this machine:
- Some users were satisfied with the machine’s versatility, as it can handle a range of fabrics from denim to synthetics.
- Others appreciated the machine’s ease of use, noting that it’s suitable for both beginners and experienced sewers.
- Several users liked the adjustable tension controls, stitch widths, and pressure foot settings, allowing for customized sewing.
- Users found the machine’s automatic threading and thread cutting features convenient and time-saving.
- Positive feedback was also received about the included presser foot set and additional accessories, providing value for the price.
Negative User Reviews of the Bernette 38 Swiss Design Computerized Sewing Machine
While many users had positive experiences with the Bernette 38 Swiss Design Computerized sewing machine, some encountered certain issues:
- Some users reported problems with specific presser feet in the bundle not fitting the machine, causing inconvenience.
- Other users noted issues with the bobbin winder, including jamming and difficulties in the winding process.
- There were reports of users experiencing stiffness in the handwheel movement, potentially hindering manual adjustments.
- A few users expressed dissatisfaction with the machine’s performance directly out of the box, requiring repairs.
- Several negative reviews mentioned issues with the quality of items received, such as missing parts or damage.
The majority of users were pleased with their experience using the Bernette 38 Swiss Design Computerized sewing machine, with positive feedback highlighting its versatility, ease of use, and convenient features. However, some users encountered challenges related to specific components and initial performance. It’s important to consider both positive and negative aspects when evaluating the suitability of this sewing machine for your needs.
Here you can find all the parts and accessories for the Bernette 38 Swiss Design guaranteed to fit your sewing machine
Bernette 38 Swiss Design Computerized Sewing Machine Manual
The operating instructions for the Bernette 38 Swiss Design Computerized sewing machine can be found on the manufacturer’s website. You can access the manual, which provides detailed information on setup, usage, maintenance, and troubleshooting, to ensure you have the best experience with your sewing machine.
Bernette 38 Swiss Design Computerized Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I thread the Bernette 38 Swiss Design Computerized sewing machine?
A: Threading instructions can be found in the user manual of the sewing machine. Follow the step-by-step guide provided to ensure proper threading for both the upper thread and the bobbin.
Q: Why is the thread breaking while sewing on the Bernette 38 Swiss Design Computerized machine?
A: Thread breakage can occur due to various reasons, such as incorrect tension settings, improper threading, or a dull needle. Refer to the manual for guidance on adjusting tension and threading properly, and consider using a fresh needle.
Q: How can I adjust the stitch length and width on the Bernette 38 Swiss Design Computerized sewing machine?
A: The stitch length and width can usually be adjusted using the machine’s controls. Refer to the manual to locate and use the appropriate settings for adjusting the stitch parameters according to your sewing needs.
Q: What should I do if the fabric isn’t feeding smoothly under the presser foot?
A: Uneven fabric feeding can be due to incorrect presser foot pressure or issues with the feed dogs. Consult the manual to learn how to adjust the presser foot pressure and ensure the feed dogs are properly engaged for smooth fabric movement.
Q: How do I clean and maintain the Bernette 38 Swiss Design Computerized sewing machine?
A: Cleaning and maintenance instructions are typically provided in the manual. Follow the guidelines for regular cleaning, oiling, and overall care of your sewing machine to keep it in optimal working condition.
Conclusion
For any issues or problems you encounter with your Bernette 38 Swiss Design Computerized sewing machine, it’s recommended to refer to the manual for guidance. If the issue persists or if you have questions that aren’t addressed in the manual, don’t hesitate to reach out to customer service or a service center for assistance. They can provide specialized support to help you get the most out of your sewing machine.