BERNINA 820 QE

The precision model for the highest aspirations

BERNINA 820 QE

The precision model for the highest aspirations

Extra-large work area
BERNINA Stitch Regulator
High sewing speed
Jumbo bobbin

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Overview
Features & Functions
Accessories
Tutorials
Support

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

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

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

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

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
Semi-automatic needle threader Thread the needle with ease. We use the YouTube service to display videos. This service may collect data about your activities. For more information, please see our Privacy Policy. To view the video, please accept "Targeting cookies." Play Close
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

BERNINA Stitch Regulator (BSR)

The BERNINA Stitch Regulator (BSR) adapts precisely to your current sewing speed to produce absolutely consistent stitching.

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Reverse Pattern Foot #1D

Reverse Pattern Foot #1D is the ideal presser foot for sewing forward and reverse-feed utility and decorative stitches.

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Buttonhole Foot with Slide #3A

Depending on the model, Buttonhole Foot with Slide #3A determines the desired buttonhole length for identical buttonholes either via a sensor or manually.

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Zipper Foot #4D

Thanks to its narrow, centrally positioned toe, Zipper Foot #4D can stitch very close to the zipper coils, allowing it to sew the zipper on neatly.

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Blindstitch Foot #5

Blindstitch Foot #5 is designed for sewing blind hems on all fabric thicknesses for a barely-visible finish.

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Patchwork Foot #37D

Patchwork Foot #37D features special markings and a straight stitch opening and is ideal for patchwork and precision sewing.

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Freearm Slide-on Table

The BERNINA Freearm Slide-on Table offers greater comfort thanks to an increased sewing area, without affecting free-arm function when sewing.

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Knee lifter/Free-Hand System (FHS)

The Knee lifter/Free-Hand System (FHS) lets you raise the presser foot and lower the feed dog with your knee. Recommended particularly for appliqué or any project requiring pivoting and getting bulky projects under the presser foot easily.

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Magnifying Lens Set

The Magnifying Lens Set consists of a machine mounting bracket and three lenses of different strengths for optimal magnification of the work area.

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Multiple-spool Holder

The Multiple-spool Holder provides room for several spools of different colors, allowing you to sew and embroider with greater ease and efficiency.

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Presser feet for every occasion

BERNINA presser feet stand for precision and stability. They are easy to change and BERNINA has a suitable presser foot for every application.

See all

Accessories for Sewing Machines

BERNINA Sewing accessories let you perform a host of creative techniques with even greater precision and comfort – according to your individual needs.

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

FIND YOUR LOCAL STORE

BERNINA 820 QE

BERNINA 820 QE

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

Raising sewing and quilting to a new dimension

BERNINA StitchRegulator: Perfect free-motion sewing

Precision with 1,100 stitches a minute

Jumbo bobbin for a generous supply of thread

Features & Functions

Hook system

Sewing space to the right of the needle

Color touch screen

LED sewing lights

Multi-function knobs

Needle positions

Sewing in each needle position

Semi-automatic needle threader

We use the YouTube service to display videos. This service may collect data about your activities. For more information, please see our Privacy Policy. To view the video, please accept "Targeting cookies."

Fully-automatic needle threader

Adjustable presser foot pressure

Manual thread cutter

Automatic thread cutter

BERNINA Dual Feed (BDF)

Upper thread indicator

Lower thread indicator

BSR functionality, straight stitch and zigzag

BERNINA foot control with back-kick function

Start/stop button (stitching without foot control)

Slide speed control

Bobbin winding while sewing/embroidering

USB interface for USB data stick

Needle stop up/down

On-screen help

Creative consultant

Personal program

History function

Eco Mode

Accessories

BERNINA Stitch Regulator (BSR)

Reverse Pattern Foot #1D

Buttonhole Foot with Slide #3A

Zipper Foot #4D

Blindstitch Foot #5

Patchwork Foot #37D

Freearm Slide-on Table

Knee lifter/Free-Hand System (FHS)

Magnifying Lens Set

Multiple-spool Holder

Presser feet for every occasion

BERNINA presser feet stand for precision and stability. They are easy to change and BERNINA has a suitable presser foot for every application.

Accessories for Sewing Machines

BERNINA Sewing accessories let you perform a host of creative techniques with even greater precision and comfort – according to your individual needs.

Presser feet for every occasion

Gold-Plated Presser Foot #1

Zigzag Foot #0

Finger Guard #99

Reverse Pattern Foot #1

Reverse Pattern Foot #1C

Overlock Foot #2

Overlock Foot #2A

Buttonhole Foot #3

Buttonhole Foot #3C

Zipper Foot #4

Embroidery Foot #6

Tailor Tack Foot #7

Jeans Foot #8

Jeans Foot #8D

Darning Foot #9

Edgestitch Foot #10

Edgestitch Foot #10C

Edgestitch Foot #10D

Cordonnet Foot #11

Bulky Overlock Foot #12

Bulky Overlock Foot #12C

Zipper Foot with Guide #14D

Embroidery Foot #15

Gathering Foot #16

Button Sew-On Foot #18

Open Embroidery Foot #20

Open Embroidery Foot #20C

Open Embroidery Foot #20D