BERNINA 820 QE

The precision model for the highest aspirations

Picture: BERNINA 820 QE
Picture: BERNINA 820 QE

BERNINA 820 QE

The precision model for the highest aspirations

This product is no longer available.

BERNINA 820 QE: The high-end sewing and quilting machine

Raising sewing and quilting to a new dimension

Raising sewing and quilting to a new dimension

One of the many advantages of the BERNINA 820 QE is its extra-large work area: more freedom of movement, a clearer view of your work, and absolute control over your sewing project make the BERNINA 820 QE the top model in its class.The BERNINA 820 QE’s 40-cm-long free arm lets you handle even large-format sewing and quilting projects with ease without sacrificing your clear view – an advantage that you’ll never again want to be without. And with a generous 30 cm space to the right of the needle, you won’t be short of room to rotate or move your fabric, even when free-motion sewing or quilting. It doesn’t get any better than this!

BERNINA StitchRegulator: Perfect free-motion sewing

BERNINA StitchRegulator: Perfect free-motion sewing

Thanks to BSR functionality, precise free-motion quilting with the BERNINA 820 QE is easier than ever before. The innovative BERNINA Stitch Regulator (BSR) corrects irregularities when guiding the fabric, so that each stitch is exactly as long as the previous one – with straight or zigzag stitch, and at any sewing speed. This globally unique, patented feature guarantees an even stitch pattern in any direction of movement, thereby also easing the novice’s progress in free-motion sewing. You decide on the direction of sewing – the BERNINA Stitch Regulator ensures an incomparably precise stitch pattern and provides immense creative possibilities, even for inexperienced free-motion quilters.

Precision with 1,100 stitches  a minute

Precision with 1,100 stitches a minute

The BERNINA 820 QE is a genuine high-performance sewing machine: with up to 1,100 stitches a minute, it’s miles ahead in its class. And even at this impressive speed, the BERNINA 820 QE’s advanced technology always guarantee consistent, excellent sewing quality with precise stitch patterns, even at high stitch widths and – thanks to the BERNINA Stitch Regulator – even when free-motion sewing. That’s why the BERNINA 820 QE meets the very highest expectations for the performance of a precision sewing machine and wows users with its ease of handling and excellent results. The BERNINA 820 QE – taking sewing and quilting to the highest level.

Jumbo bobbin for a generous supply of thread

Jumbo bobbin for a generous supply of thread

The BERNINA 820 QE’s jumbo bobbin is also testament to this machine’s excellent handling and premium features with 40 percent more thread capacity than a conventional bobbin, the jumbo bobbin continues to dispense thread long after the standard model has run out. With bobbin changes required less frequently, users can devote more time to their creative projects while avoiding undesired interruptions. The lower-thread indicator of the BERNINA 820 QE gives you sufficient advance warning that the bobbin will soon require winding. The actual changing of this part is accomplished with minimum handling, with the bobbin case swinging out and forward when the compartment is opened, letting you remove the handy jumbo bobbin by simply tapping the catch, and then replacing it – proof positive of the BERNINA 820 QE’s excellent handling in every respect.

Features & Functions

  • Sewing & Quilting
  • General Features
Pattern start/end function
Elongation
Stitch length maximum in mm 6
Maximum stitch width in mm 9
Programmable Securing Function
Pattern mirroring
Free Hand System (FHS)
Number of stitch patterns (incl. alphabet) total 1040
Utility stitches total 24
Buttonholes (incl. eyelet) total 6
Automatic buttonhole length measuring system
Automatic buttonhole
Manual multi-step buttonhole
Button sew-on program
Darning programs 2
Decorative stitches total 316
Quilting stitches total 30
Cross-stitch programs 28
Children/novelty stitch patterns
Tapering/skyline stitches 29
Sewing alphabets 9
Reverse sewing
Hook system RL

Hook system

The Hook systems of BERNINA sewing machines are constantly evolving over the years. The CB Hook is the traditional BERNINA mechanism that produces the legendary BERNINA stitch quality at 5.5 mm wide.

The BERNINA Rotary Hook offers the same stitch quality at 9 mm stitch width and bobbin thread monitoring.

The innovative BERNINA Hook maintains the stitch quality at 5.5 mm and 9 mm stitch widths. An easy bobbin case insertion and large capacity bobbin make this ideal.

The M Class BERNINA Rotary Hook for Longarm machines ensures the legendary BERNINA stitch quality, even at high speeds.
Maximum sewing speed (stitches per minute) 1100
Sewing space to the right of the needle 12”

Sewing space to the right of the needle

More sewing and embroidery space to the right of the needle offers comfort and more maneuverability when stitching large and small projects.
Color touch screen

Color touch screen

Everything at eye level; it is clear and easy to use. Can be used with fingertip or stylus and offers touch-scroll selection.
LED sewing lights 30 LED

LED sewing lights

Bright illumination in the needle area and over the free arm. The brightness is adjustable.
Multi-function knobs

Multi-function knobs

Easily accessible knobs for making stitch adjustments before and during sewing in .05 increments for smooth stitch transitions. Used in embroidery for composing and design alterations.
Needle positions 11

Needle positions

Multiple Needle Positions allow for very precise sewing.
Sewing in each needle position

Sewing in each needle position

You can sew most patterns in any needle position.
Number of spool holders 3
Semi-automatic needle threader
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Semi-automatic needle threader

Thread the needle with ease.
Fully-automatic needle threader

Fully-automatic needle threader

The fully automated threading system threads the machine and needle in one simple process.
Adjustable presser foot pressure

Adjustable presser foot pressure

Adjust the foot pressure to eliminate skipped stitches on thick fabrics and wavy seams on knits.
Manual thread cutter 4

Manual thread cutter

Conveniently placed thread cutters by bobbin insertion and winding areas and by the needle to control thread tails.
Automatic thread cutter

Automatic thread cutter

The upper and lower threads are cut automatically or at the touch of a button. The top thread is carried to the back side of the fabric. Program 2 types of tie-offs.
BERNINA Dual Feed (BDF)

BERNINA Dual Feed (BDF)

The BERNINA Dual Feed ensures even feeding of hard-to-manage fabrics with beautiful results.
Upper thread indicator

Upper thread indicator

When the upper thread breaks or runs out, the Upper Thread Sensor will provide an onscreen visual and acoustic signal, if selected and the machine will stop when the sensor is activated.
Lower thread indicator

Lower thread indicator

Warns when the bobbin thread runs low.
BSR functionality, straight stitch and zigzag

BSR functionality, straight stitch and zigzag

The patented BERNINA Stitch Regulator (BSR) provides consistent free-motion stitching even at high speeds. Select straight stitch and zigzag free-motion stitching with the BSR.
BERNINA foot control with back-kick function

BERNINA foot control with back-kick function

Enjoy consistent control plus a back-kick function to raise and lower the needle. Take 1 full stitch using the front and a half stitch with the heel.
Create and save stitch combinations
Memory (short-term/altered stitches)
Memory (long-term/altered stitches)
Start/stop button (stitching without foot control)

Start/stop button (stitching without foot control)

As an alternative to the traditional foot control, start sewing, quilting or embroidering using the Start/Stop button.
Slide speed control

Slide speed control

Regulate the speed with the Slide Speed Control.
Bobbin winding while sewing/embroidering

Bobbin winding while sewing/embroidering

Wind a bobbin quickly and even wind a bobbin while sewing!
USB interface for PC connection
USB interface for USB data stick

USB interface for USB data stick

Enjoy rapid and direct connectivity for information transfer including software updates.
Changing stitch settings while sewing
Needle stop up/down

Needle stop up/down

Basic setting is needle stop up. Some models allow for selection of needle to stop in the raised (up) or lowered (down) position.
On-screen help

On-screen help

Use the ‘?’ to identify functions and stitches. Built-in animations lead you through processes and provide reminders.
Creative consultant

Creative consultant

Access Tutorials for sewing techniques and use Creative Consultant for sewing different fabrics successfully.
Sewing tutorial
Personal program 2

Personal program

Record your individually altered stitches for future retrieval in personal folders. Saved until deleted from the personal program memory.
History function (most-recently-used stitch patterns)

History function

Sewn stitches along with any alterations are recorded in a History Menu. Stitches must be sewn to be recorded and are retained even after machine shut down.
Setup program
Language selection
Alarm clock
Eco Mode

Eco Mode

Stand-by mode saves energy and offers child-proof lock.
Machine weight 35.3 lb
Machine size 22.7″ / 8.9″ / 14.2″

Accessories

Unleash your creativity with the included accessories and be prepared for any creative challenge with a huge variety of optional accessories

  • Included
  • Compatible
Show all Hide all

Note:
Not all models and accessories are available in all countries. We reserve the right to make changes in both features and design.

Tutorials

  • BERNINA 830 (8 Series) - the queen of sewing machines

    Modern technology in its highest form: the BERNINA 830 is the queen of the BERNINA sewing and embroidery machines. It's fast and has more space to sew and embroider than any other machine. A wide selection of embroidery motifs are built in for easy editing on the touch screen. With the integrated Dual Feed, you can handle even the most challenging of fabric combinations.

  • 1/6 BERNINA 820 sewing machine online tutorials: Basic functions

    Based on a concrete example - sewing a stylish bag in crazy-patchwork technique - setting up and the basic functions of the BERNINA 820 are explained in the first part of the online tutorial. These video instructions show the setting up of the machine and use of the accessories -- setting up of sewing machine, threading the machine, attaching the slide-on extension table and seam guide, needle information, securing stitches, automatic thread cutter, presser feet. Check out the other parts of the online tutorial or visit us at http://www.bernina.com

  • 2/6 BERNINA 820 sewing machine online tutorials: Setting up and basic settings

    The second part of the BERNINA 820 sewing machine online tutorial demonstrates how to set up the BERNINA 820 and shows the basic settings in the setup menu. Learn everything about the centrally located, ergonomic touch screen and how to enter a personal welcome text. Watch the instructions and learn how to set the sewing light ideally and how to have the stitch width, stitch length and needle positions displayed in the screen. Watch how to set the clock and alarm, get to know the menus and how to adjust the stitch length, stitch width and thread-tension settings. Check out the other parts of the online tutorial or visit us at http://www.bernina.com

  • 3/6 BERNINA 820 sewing machine online tutorials: Decorative stitches for quilting

    The third part of the BERNINA 820 sewing machine online tutorial shows you the countless beautiful decorative stitches the BERNINA 820 provides for embellishing all your sewing projects - clothing, home dec, crafts, quilts. This huge selection allows for endless creative options! You'll learn how to select quilting and patchwork stitches on your BERNINA 820 sewing computer, e.g. quilters securing program, quilting straightstitch, handlook quilting stitch. You'll also learn how easy and fast it is to sew together any pieces of fabric with the aid of the presser-foot lifter and the automatic securing function, creating unique patterns in a cinch. Check out the other parts of the online tutorial or visit us at http://www.bernina.com

  • 4/6 BERNINA 820 sewing machine online tutorials: Customising buttonholes with the buttonhole program

    The fourth part of the BERNINA 820 online tutorials demonstrates how to program and sew buttonholes with your BERNINA 820. Your BERNINA 820 provides 6 different buttonhole types - perfect for any project! Select 'Buttonholes' category to open the buttonhole menu where you can choose from the buttonhole types provided. The buttonhole length can be programmed via directly entering the length, manual setting or by stitch count. Then set the width of the buttonhole slit and the bead. The slit width can be reduced or increased depending on the fabric used. Use the automatic buttonhole foot for easy stitching of the buttonhole, saving it then in Personal Program for re-use at any time. Check out the other parts of the online tutorial or visit us at http://www.bernina.com

  • 5/6 BERNINA 820 sewing machine online tutorials: Dual feed BERNINA Stitch Regulator BSR

    The fifth part of the BERNINA 820 online tutorial demonstrates BERNINA dual feed and BERNINA Stitch Regulator functionalities. Use the dual feed and a D presser foot or use the walking foot for optimum, even top and bottom feeding, enabling you to easily manoeuvre and deal with textured fabrics and multiple layers of fabric. The BERNINA exclusive and world's first -- the new BERNINA Stitch Regulator (BSR) -- enables you to free-motion quilt and sew with even stitch lengths at irregular speeds. The BSR presser foot responds to the fabric movement under the presser foot and controls sewing speed up to the possible maximum. BSR can be used with the foot control or, if the foot control is deactivated, with the start-/stop button. For successful completion of all your sewing and quilting projects! Check out the other parts of the online tutorial or visit us at http://www.bernina.com

  • 6/6 BERNINA 820 sewing machine online tutorials: Special accessories

    The sixth part of the BERNINA 820 online tutorial provides an overview of the versatile, special accessories for optimum and even improved use of your BERNINA 820 sewing machine: The pintuck accessory easily accommodates the cord for corded pintucks with a double needle. It can also be used for off-the-edge scallops on collars and cuffs and heirloom embroidery. The magnifying glass set provides three lenses of different diopters - ideal for delicate work. The BERNINA walking foot has three different soles and a seam guide, allowing for sewing together three layers of fabric without shifting. The multiple spool holder and the extra big embroidery hoop allow for even more sewing comfort. Use the BERNINA sewing- and quilting cabinet and drawer cabinet for more efficient sewing and pleasure even in small space. The quilting frame will make any quilting project a success! Check out the other parts of the online tutorial or visit us at http://www.bernina.com

  •  BERNINA 830 (8 Series) - the queen of sewing machines

    BERNINA 830 (8 Series) - the queen of sewing machines

  •  1/6 BERNINA 820 sewing machine online tutorials: Basic functions

    1/6 BERNINA 820 sewing machine online tutorials: Basic functions

  •  2/6 BERNINA 820 sewing machine online tutorials: Setting up and basic settings

    2/6 BERNINA 820 sewing machine online tutorials: Setting up and basic settings

  •  3/6 BERNINA 820 sewing machine online tutorials: Decorative stitches for quilting

    3/6 BERNINA 820 sewing machine online tutorials: Decorative stitches for quilting

  •  4/6 BERNINA 820 sewing machine online tutorials: Customising buttonholes with the buttonhole program

    4/6 BERNINA 820 sewing machine online tutorials: Customising buttonholes with the buttonhole program

  •  5/6 BERNINA 820 sewing machine online tutorials: Dual feed BERNINA Stitch Regulator BSR

    5/6 BERNINA 820 sewing machine online tutorials: Dual feed BERNINA Stitch Regulator BSR

  •  6/6 BERNINA 820 sewing machine online tutorials: Special accessories

    6/6 BERNINA 820 sewing machine online tutorials: Special accessories

Support for your BERNINA 820 QE

To ensure that you enjoy your BERNINA for as long as possible, we recommend that you read the detailed operating instructions. Further support information and firmware updates can be found on the support page.

Download manual Support page BERNINA 820 QE

Personal advice at your Local BERNINA Store

Over 2,000 BERNINA Stores worldwide offer valuable services to all our customers. Your local BERNINA Store is there to proudly help you, with advice on machines and accessories that best suit your needs, selection of BERNINA Embroidery Software and also in servicing your BERNINA.