Bernette b35 Common Problems and Troubleshooting
Welcome to the troubleshooting guide for the Bernette b35 sewing machine. If you’re experiencing issues with your Bernette b35, this guide is here to help you identify common problems and provide solutions tailored to this specific model.
Bernette b35 Overview
The Bernette b35 is an inexpensive sewing machine designed for beginners, equipped with 23 stitches and seven presser feet. This mechanical sewing machine offers easy stitch adjustments through knobs and a manual tension wheel. It also features an automatic 1-step buttonhole function for added convenience.
Product Details
| Product Dimensions | 11.8″D x 14″W x 17.1″H |
| Item Weight | 15.8 Pounds |
| Power Source | Manual |
| Is Electric | Yes |
Product Features
- Type: The Bernette b35 offers 23 stitches and seven presser feet, with easy adjustments for stitch width, length, and pattern.
- Automatic Buttonhole: The machine sews all four steps of the buttonhole automatically.
- Many Convenient Extras: Manual needle threader, manual thread cutter, and accessory box for sewing tools.
- Seven Presser Feet Included: Accomplish various sewing projects quickly and with excellent stitch quality.
- 2-Step Presser Foot Lift: Sew thick layers of fabric with ease, suitable for a wide range of materials.
Product Description
The Bernette b35 is an ideal sewing machine for beginners, offering 23 stitches and seven presser feet. Its mechanical design allows for easy stitch adjustments, and the automatic buttonhole function simplifies sewing projects. With convenient extras like a manual needle threader and a variety of presser feet, this machine enhances sewing efficiency.
Automatic Buttonhole
The Bernette b35’s automatic buttonhole function eliminates the need for manual adjustments. It sews all four steps of the buttonhole automatically, ensuring precise and efficient results.
Many Convenient Extras
In addition to the automatic buttonhole function, the Bernette b35 boasts a manual needle threader and thread cutter. These features streamline the sewing process, while the accessory box provides ample storage for essential sewing tools.
Seven Presser Feet Included
The Bernette b35 comes with seven presser feet and a stable shank. Whether it’s zigzag stitches, satin stitches, or buttonholes, these presser feet ensure excellent stitch quality and efficient sewing.
Product Information
Product Dimensions: 5.51 x 4.65 x 6.73 inches
Item Weight: 15.8 pounds
Manufacturer: Bernina
ASIN: B06XHBSRGN
Item Model Number: Bernette B35_SML
Causes of Common Problems with the Bernette b35
In the following subsections of this article, we’ll address possible problems and provide solutions related to the Bernette b35 sewing machine.
Common Problems and Troubleshooting for Bernette b35
1. Thread Tension Issues
Description: Uneven or messy stitches, loops on the underside of the fabric.
Cause: Incorrect thread tension settings.
Troubleshooting:
- Check if the thread is correctly threaded through the tension disks.
- Adjust the tension dial gradually, testing stitches on a scrap fabric until balanced.
2. Skipped Stitches
Description: Intermittent gaps in stitching, creating an unfinished look.
Cause: Dull or improperly inserted needle, incorrect threading.
Troubleshooting:
- Ensure you’re using the appropriate needle type and size for your fabric.
- Replace the needle if it’s worn or bent.
- Double-check threading, ensuring it follows the correct path.
3. Machine Jams While Sewing
Description: Fabric gets stuck, and the machine stops abruptly.
Cause: Incorrectly placed or tangled thread, fabric jamming.
Troubleshooting:
- Remove the fabric and gently cut tangled threads using small scissors.
- Clean the bobbin area, removing any lint or debris.
- Re-thread the machine, ensuring proper threading of both upper and bobbin threads.
4. Uneven Feed or Fabric Movement
Description: Fabric is pulled unevenly or doesn’t move smoothly.
Cause: Incorrect presser foot pressure, feed dogs malfunction.
Troubleshooting:
- Check presser foot pressure adjustment; increase for thicker fabrics, decrease for thinner ones.
- Inspect feed dogs for lint or obstruction; clean and lubricate if needed.
5. Bobbin Thread Bunching Up
Description: Clumps of thread forming under the fabric.
Cause: Incorrect threading of the bobbin, improper bobbin tension.
Troubleshooting:
- Check bobbin threading, ensuring it follows the correct path.
- Adjust bobbin tension screw slightly to achieve balanced tension.
6. Needle Breakage
Description: Needles break frequently while sewing.
Cause: Using the wrong needle size, hitting pins, sewing over thick seams.
Troubleshooting:
- Ensure you’re using the correct needle size and type for your fabric.
- Remove pins before they reach the needle area while sewing.
- For thick seams, use a slower sewing speed and a heavier-duty needle.
7. Uneven Stitch Length
Description: Stitches vary in length, causing an inconsistent appearance.
Cause: Incorrect stitch length setting, inconsistent sewing speed.
Troubleshooting:
- Adjust the stitch length setting on the machine to your desired length.
- Maintain a consistent sewing speed while guiding the fabric through.
8. Thread Keeps Breaking
Description: Thread breaks frequently during sewing.
Cause: Thread caught on rough spots, incorrect threading, bobbin issues.
Troubleshooting:
- Smooth out any rough spots or burrs on the sewing machine’s path.
- Check threading paths for both the upper thread and bobbin thread.
- Inspect the bobbin for any tangles or issues, re-thread if necessary.
9. Fabric Doesn’t Feed Properly
Description: Fabric doesn’t move forward as you sew.
Cause: Feed dogs not engaged, improper presser foot pressure.
Troubleshooting:
- Make sure the feed dogs are raised and engaged with the fabric.
- Adjust the presser foot pressure according to the fabric thickness.
10. Inconsistent Buttonholes
Description: Buttonholes are uneven or not properly formed.
Cause: Incorrect buttonhole settings, fabric shifting during sewing.
Troubleshooting:
- Double-check the buttonhole settings and test on a scrap fabric first.
- Ensure the fabric is securely positioned and doesn’t shift while sewing.
11. Bobbin Won’t Wind Properly
Description: The bobbin doesn’t wind evenly or doesn’t wind at all.
Cause: Incorrect threading of the bobbin winder, tangled thread.
Troubleshooting:
- Ensure the bobbin winder is engaged and threaded properly.
- Remove any tangled thread from the bobbin winding area.
12. Motor Runs But Needle Doesn’t Move
Description: The sewing machine’s motor is running, but the needle remains stationary.
Cause: Drive belt disconnection or slipping, internal mechanical issue.
Troubleshooting:
- Check the drive belt for disconnection or slipping; replace if needed.
- If the issue persists, consider consulting a professional technician.
13. Machine Making Unusual Noises
Description: The sewing machine produces loud or unusual noises during operation.
Cause: Loose parts, debris in the mechanism, lack of lubrication.
Troubleshooting:
- Tighten any loose parts that may be causing the noise.
- Check for debris or lint in the machine and clean it thoroughly.
- Lubricate moving parts as per the manufacturer’s recommendations.
14. Fabric Puckering
Description: Fabric bunches up and wrinkles while sewing.
Cause: Incorrect presser foot pressure, improper fabric handling.
Troubleshooting:
- Adjust the presser foot pressure to match the fabric thickness.
- Guide the fabric smoothly, avoiding excessive pulling or pushing.
15. Stitches Skip When Backstitching
Description: Stitches are missed or skipped when backstitching to secure seams.
Cause: Sewing too quickly during backstitching, using incorrect stitch type.
Troubleshooting:
- Backstitch slowly and evenly to ensure stitches are properly formed.
- Ensure you’re using a straight stitch or appropriate stitch for backstitching.
16. Uneven Thread Tension
Description: Stitches appear uneven due to inconsistent thread tension.
Cause: Incorrect threading of the machine, dirty tension discs.
Troubleshooting:
- Rethread the machine, making sure the thread is properly seated in all guides and tension discs.
- Clean the tension discs using a soft brush to remove lint or debris.
17. Fabric Gets Stuck Under the Presser Foot
Description: The fabric gets trapped or jammed under the presser foot.
Cause: Incorrect presser foot pressure, uneven fabric feeding.
Troubleshooting:
- Adjust the presser foot pressure according to the fabric type and thickness.
- Ensure that the fabric is guided smoothly and evenly as you sew.
18. Thread Keeps Looping on the Underside
Description: Loops of thread form on the underside of the fabric.
Cause: Incorrect threading of the bobbin case, bobbin tension issues.
Troubleshooting:
- Check that the bobbin is correctly threaded in the bobbin case.
- Adjust the bobbin tension slightly if loops persist.
19. Needle Hits the Bobbin Case
Description: The needle collides with the bobbin case or other machine parts.
Cause: Misalignment of the needle or bobbin case, bent needle.
Troubleshooting:
- Ensure the needle is inserted correctly and tightened securely.
- Check the bobbin case for any misalignment or damage; reposition if needed.
20. Stitch Selector Not Working
Description: The stitch selector doesn’t change or select stitches properly.
Cause: Dust or debris obstructing the selector, internal mechanism issues.
Troubleshooting:
- Clean the stitch selector area to remove any dust or debris.
- If the issue persists, consult a professional technician for a thorough inspection.
21. Uneven Fabric Feeding
Description: Fabric is fed unevenly, causing misalignment in stitching.
Cause: Dirty or obstructed feed dogs, improper fabric handling.
Troubleshooting:
- Clean the feed dogs and surrounding area to remove lint or debris.
- Ensure you guide the fabric evenly and avoid excessive pulling or pushing.
22. Stitches Are Too Loose
Description: Stitches are loose and loopy, lacking tension.
Cause: Incorrect upper thread tension, bobbin tension issues.
Troubleshooting:
- Check and adjust the upper thread tension as needed.
- If the issue persists, slightly adjust the bobbin tension.
23. Needle Threader Not Working
Description: The automatic needle threader fails to work properly.
Cause: Misalignment of the needle threader, threading issues.
Troubleshooting:
- Ensure the needle is in the correct position for threading.
- Gently push the needle threader mechanism to ensure alignment.
24. Sewing Machine Skips Stitches
Description: The machine skips stitches during sewing.
Cause: Incorrect needle type or size, worn-out needle.
Troubleshooting:
- Use the appropriate needle type and size for your fabric.
- Replace the needle if it’s dull or damaged.
25. Thread Keeps Tangling Around Bobbin
Description: Thread gets tangled around the bobbin and creates knots.
Cause: Incorrect threading of the bobbin, bobbin tension issues.
Troubleshooting:
- Double-check the bobbin threading to ensure it follows the correct path.
- Adjust the bobbin tension slightly if tangling persists.
Bernette b35 Sewing Machine User Reviews
Positive Reviews from Bernette b35 Sewing Machine Users
Many users expressed satisfaction with various aspects of the Bernette b35 sewing machine. Here are some positive experiences reported by customers:
- Some users were satisfied with the ease of use and the machine’s mechanical controls.
- Several customers appreciated the affordability of the Bernette b35 while still offering quality stitching.
- Users found the machine reliable for everyday sewing tasks and praised its consistent stitch quality.
- Customers were pleased with the variety of stitches available and the machine’s ability to handle different fabrics.
- Many users found the Bernette b35 lightweight and easy to transport, making it suitable for various sewing spaces.
Positive feedback from Bernette b35 sewing machine customers indicates a high level of satisfaction with its performance, affordability, and versatility.
Negative User Reviews of the Bernette b35 Sewing Machine
While the majority of users had positive experiences, there were some negative reviews highlighting certain issues:
- Some users reported difficulties with threading and setting up the machine, particularly for beginners.
- Several customers experienced issues with tension and stitching quality, leading to frustration.
- Users mentioned that the machine’s performance could be inconsistent when handling multiple layers of thick fabric.
- A few customers expressed disappointment with the lack of included accessories or options for additional feet.
- Several users had concerns about the machine’s durability and build quality, particularly in comparison to more expensive models.
In summary, while the Bernette b35 sewing machine received mostly positive feedback, some users encountered challenges related to threading, tension, and the machine’s overall build.
Overall, the user reviews of the Bernette b35 sewing machine reflect a generally positive sentiment. The majority of users were satisfied with the machine’s performance, affordability, and variety of stitches. With an average rating of 5.0 out of 5 stars, the Bernette b35 appears to be a dependable choice for a wide range of sewing projects.
Bernette b35 Sewing Machine Manual
The operating instructions for the Bernette b35 sewing machine can be found on the manufacturer’s official website. For detailed guidance on setting up and using your Bernette b35, please refer to the official manual available on the manufacturer’s website.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I thread the Bernette b35 sewing machine?
Threading the Bernette b35 sewing machine involves carefully following the threading path indicated in the manual. Begin by raising the presser foot, guiding the thread through the tension discs, threading the needle, and making sure to follow the numbered guides.
2. Why does the thread keep breaking while sewing?
Thread breakage can be due to various reasons, such as using the incorrect needle size or type, improper tension settings, or a bent needle. Check your needle type, make sure it’s inserted correctly, and adjust the tension according to the fabric you’re using.
3. What should I do if the stitches are uneven or puckered?
Uneven stitches or fabric puckering may occur due to incorrect tension settings, improper threading, or using the wrong presser foot. Ensure that you’re using the correct presser foot for the selected stitch, and adjust the thread tension as needed to achieve even stitches.
4. Why is the machine making unusual noises while sewing?
Unusual noises can indicate loose parts, debris in the mechanism, or the need for lubrication. Tighten any loose parts, clean the machine of debris, and consider lubricating moving parts as per the manufacturer’s recommendations.
5. How can I prevent fabric from getting stuck under the presser foot?
To prevent fabric from getting stuck, ensure that you’re using the appropriate presser foot pressure for the fabric thickness. Guide the fabric smoothly as you sew, avoiding excessive pulling or pushing that could cause it to bunch up or become trapped.
Conclusion
For any issues or problems you encounter with your Bernette b35 sewing machine, it’s recommended to consult the manual provided by the manufacturer. If the troubleshooting steps in the manual do not resolve the problem, consider reaching out to customer service or a certified service center for assistance and professional support.