I cannot explain how excited I was to be called upon to test and review the Bernina 530. This is a sewing machine I have been eying since 2015, although I had my doubts about whether it was worth its price. Take it from me; most of the features it has are a bonus.
This full-size computerized unit offers a whopping 148 stitch options. You can combine 100 of these stitches and save them in the device’s memory. It is also quite convenient that you can control the device by foot or hand.
Right after doing the Bernina 530 review, I was confident enough to grab my savings and finally order my machine. I hope that the facts we outline below will also give you the much-needed push to finally make a purchase.
Specs
- Machine Dimensions: 22″ x 15.1″ x 18.3″
- Weight: 33pounds
- Stitches: 148 stitch options
- Speed: 900 stitches per minute
Bernina 530 Sewing and Quilting Machine
This is one of the best sewing and quilting machines in the current markets that surprised us by performing as promised. It is just the workhorse you need for creativity, precision, and versatility when handling just about any needlework project.
Although the integrated handle makes it more portable, this is a heavy-duty device with heavy-duty construction. Additionally, it comes with a sturdy carrying bag where you can slide in the machine and its accessories for easy transportation.
Stitch Options
Let’s get an up-close perspective of the stitch options that this machine provides. Well, the Bernina 530 offers an unmatched selection of in-built stitch patterns. I mean, with 148 stitch options in total, you are invincible in terms of the number of sewing and quilting projects you can take on.
The stitch option roundup includes 117 decorative stitches, 12 quilting stitches, and 22 utility stitches. Four sewing alphabets and nine unique programs for buttonhole stitching are included. From where I stand, this vast array of options is outstanding.
Selecting the stitch you want is a piece of cake. Dial the stitch number on the keypad located on the right end of the unit. You could also choose your preferred stitch from the home screen’s control panel.
Highlighted Features
- 900 stitches per minute sewing speed
- Adjustable stitch width and length
- Adjustable pressure foot pressure
- Semi-automatic needle threader
- Adjustable speed control
Right out of the box, you can tell that this is a feature-packed machine. The whole front part has numerous button controls for stitch selection, reverse and mirror function, stitch dimension controls, needle positioning, and speed slider controls.
Better still, this device comes with a touchpad and LCD screen for quick and stress-free controls.
It is possible to modify your stitches using this machine. For instance, you can customize the stitch width to a maximum of 5.5mm and the length to 5mm. Furthermore, there are about 11 needle positions to choose from, and this is a huge plus point.
Depending on the fabric type you are using, you can appropriately adjust the foot presser. You can also set the needle up or down in the default stop position settings. Because this is an advanced computerized machine, users can save all modifications permanently or temporarily.
The speed control feature cannot go without mentioning. You can adjust the sewing speed, and this is vital during freehand darning and quilting projects. With the slide speed control, you will find it easier to complete complicated projects using this advanced sewing machine.
Performance
Let’s get to the fun part and analyze the overall experience to expect when using the Bernina 530. Well, start by going through the tutorial to learn how to get everything set up. Operations are foolproof because of the numerous digitized features.
The stitch quality of this machine is unmatched. Irrespective of your project specifications, you can expect the Bernina 530 to be up to the challenge.
Accessories Included
- 5 presser feet, overlock, buttonhole, reverse pattern, bling stitch, and zipper foot
- Ruler
- Slide-on extension table
- Carrying case
- Presser foot lifter (hands-free)
Pros
- A wide selection of in-built stitches
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Powerful motor supports quiet operations
- Ability to modify the short and long-term memory of the machine
- User-friendly design
Cons
- Expensive
Conclusion
The Bernina 530 is by all standards an impressive sewing and quilting machine. This computerized workhorse is packed with features that not only make it user-friendly but also ideal for sewists of different skill levels. Even though its price tag makes a good number of folks to shy away, it is worth its weight in gold.
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