| Bernette:75 (Sewing Machine) | | Viewed 408 time(s) | | Review rated Helpful by 1 people Very Helpful by 12 people | | Reviewed by: | johnr55 | 
 | About johnr55 | | TX USA | | Member since: 3/22/08 | | Reviews written: 65 | | Sewing skills:Intermediate | | Favored by: 7 people | | sewing machines reviewed: 20 | | Bio: more... |
| | Posted on: | 10/23/09 1:09 AM | | Had this machine for: | 1 month | | Recommended? | Yes | Features
- Needle Threader
- Free Arm
- Adjustable Stitch Length and Width
- Adjustable Needle Position
| | What johnr55 likes about this machine
I really don't understand some of the insane prices I see for Bernette machines on EBay. We all know they aren't made by Bernina; they are generic or hidden-label machines made to Bernina specs. I've always thought the real reason to pay more for a new Bernette is Bernina dealer service. Having said that, Bernina has sold a fascinating variety of machines under the Bernette label, each series quite different. Incidentally, for those who wonder where the name Bernette came from, the idea for the Bernette line came from Odette Ueltshi. She was the daughter of Fritz Gegauf, the inventor of the Bernina sewing machine; she took over the company in the late 60's when her brother, the heir apparent, died in an accident. She ran Bernina until her untimely death in the late 80's at age 71. Therefore, Bernina plus Odette equals Bernette! It is her son, Hans Peter, who runs Bernina now.
The machine I'm reviewing is the Bernette 75. This was a quite unique series of Bernette machines from around 10 years ago. The line consists of the 50 through the 75, adding more features and stitches as the numbers go up. My 75 was the top of the line. It has 10 regular forward-running stitches, 10 'super' stitches such as triple straight, overlock, etc., that takes the dogs back and forth, and a 1-step buttonhole. It is all mechanical, with a knob for length, one for width, and one for stitch selection. I wish I could figure out how to post a photo on here, for it's quite unusual in shape, rather futuristic with a smooth slope from the top front of the machine to the bottom. No mind, as it's basically thoroughly conventional in operation; any experienced sewer who has sewn on pre-computer machines could be sewing on it in minutes without instruction. There is a front loading bobbin behind a detachable little storage case on the front, again completely generic with no 15 bobbins. The actual throat plate is smaller than many but there is plenty of room under the arm for marking seam allowances. The presser feet are, I'm sure, completely generic snap-on ones with a nice release lever. Another feature is a built-in magnet on the vertical part of the arm for holding pins-convenient. A regular thread cutter on the end. Typical bobbin winder on top and two vertical spools. A very large reverse push-down tab that makes it easy to hit without looking at it. The usual modern knob for operating the handwheel, but it's easy to catch and is textured. A combined foot-power cord source. As far as I can tell, the pedal isn't electronic at all; it makes that hmmm when pressing very lightly. However, in my machine embroidery use it hasn't gotten hot, so no problem for me. Conventional sewing bulb and light, but with the bright white body it's quite adequate. Thread tension is adjusted like so many Singers of the 80's where the thread runs right to left through the wheel. A difference for me is a presser foot lever that's pivoted sideways instead of on the back. Didn't Pfaff and Viking both do this some? This machine is certainly larger than the current Bernette iteration. All square lines, again reminiscent of the sharp-edged 80's. One switch covers the light and power. The machine has a very mechanical feel to it; definitely not the smoothness of the real Berninas, but it works perfectly if one isn't into silky smooth touch.
So how does it sew? Just fine, thank you. Definitely doesn't stitch as fast as a Bernina, but certainly fast enough for a garment sewer. Unique to the model 75, there is a built-in needle threader; it appears to work as so many others do where you raise the needle all the way (by hand, incidentally) and swivel it in front, then it pulls the attached thread through. Works every time and not as delicate as some I've seen. Now, I haven't actually figured the buttonhole out yet. Also unique to this top-line model, part of it is built in behind the needle; it attaches to a special foot and makes the buttonhole. I've managed to lose the instructions in my sewing room and hardly ever make buttonholes, but I did try it when I got it and it made some very acceptable buttonholes. Noise level is average; it's neither as quiet or smooth as that Janome I just bought my niece, but nowhere near the average serger level. The entire casting is molded bright white plastic of fine quality. I do like white machines because they help the outside lighting. What johnr55 does not like about this machine
I haven't really come across any problems in design, workmanship or operation. It has feed dog drop which I use virtually full-time. I don't believe in kicking machines that lack features possibly expected. Having said that, keep in mind that this machine has no needle up/down, no pushbuttons or LCD's. Though it may be somewhat larger than many machines, it weighs no more. It has appeared quite durable for me and that includes long periods of flat-out on freehand embroidery through layers of thread, backing and base cloth. I would recommend keeping an eye on EBay if one is desired. I just saw the other day, a model 50-a real stripper-go for well over $100 and this is rediculous for a machine so similar to other generic and relabel brands. It is a quality machine that is not seen too often on EBay. If one shows up, hold out for a 75 with the built-in buttonhole and needle threader. It's made for the long haul with, of course, proper care. One other thing: like so many machines made with white plastic back in the 90's, the plastic can definitely yellow, and at different rates. The plastic arm end cap on mine is rather beige now! | *LOGIN to add a comment to this review
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| Reader Comments | | poplin | 10/23/09 | I love the story about Bernina and Odette! | | * * * | | johnr55 | 10/23/09 | Naturally, after I wrote this I went looking on Google and found the brochure pdf for these models. Apparently all 3 models have electronic foot pedals, guess I'm just hearing the motor start up. I'd love to know when these were made-no clue though I said early 90's. Could be 10 years later. Great little machine, though, and a great find for me mint on EBay for a song. | | * * * | | johnr55 | 10/23/09 | I can't get this thing to edit. Odette took over Bernina in the 60's, not the 70's. She did an amazing job that she was not prepared for, under the guidance of her father. She was particularly beloved by the employees, most of whom she knew by name and knew their families. Her unexpected death was a real tragedy for the company; she of course developed the 930 and 1130. Fortunately, her son had been groomed to take over, and he has done a masterful job. | | * * * | | dbsewer | 10/23/09 | John, thanks for a great review. I may have missed it, but did you say what you paid? Since you mention the price on ebay I'd like to know what this one cost and where you got it. | | * * * | | Peter in NYC | 10/23/09 | Very interesting review, John. It just amazes me how many mechanical machine models are out there and how similar they are to each other. If you don't mind my asking, how many sewing machines do you own? The depth of your knowledge about the history of sewing machines is impressive! | | * * * | | Mufffet | 10/23/09 | Thanks for this review. Bernette machines don't seem to get much respect, and I am so glad to see this machine reviewed so thoroughly. | | * * * | | catsmeow | 10/23/09 | I always enjoy your very informative reviews, and this one is no exception. I did not know that Bernettes were not "real" Berninas, but I always thought they were a bit pricey as compared to other machines that were comparable. Thanks for the great review! | | * * * | | my_seamstress | 10/23/09 | Great review. On the presser foot lift. Why have they changed them to go to the right, instead of sticking straight out the back? I haven't found a new mechanical/electronic one out there that goes straight back. Am I the only one who uses her left hand to raise the foot? I AM a lefty. Maybe that's my problem. | | * * * | | johnr55 | 10/23/09 | 1) sorry, I paid $100 for this mint one, grabbed it on a 'buy it now'. There is a model 60 (no threader, no 1-step buttonhole, not as clean) on EBay now. This one is truly mint. Look at some of the Bernette prices starting at $200 for what is a generic Asian machine. Ridiculous-as I pointed out earlier, my 7-series is identical under the shell to my Riccar, and identical to my Necchi 4595's. Exactly the same machine, just with a different shell on it. And a good machine, too. You can find the Necchi version in great condition on occasion for $50 or less. Again, same machine. 2) about 20 machines. I'm just a machine freak. They are all in cases, all get some exercise periodically. All are in great to mint condition, no dogs here. 3) Bernettes have never been made by Bernina; almost all models, like this one, state explicitly on the front, "Made For Bernina". If not, it's on the nameplate. 4) The sewing machine transformed the world, not only women's lives but men's also. It is pitiful that its place in developing our modern society is forgotten and taken for granted. Think about it--there have been 3 major developments like this. The accurate watch, which didn't exist until railroad crashes in the 19th century necessitated it; the typewriter, which completely changed the nature of business and the people who worked in it; and the sewing machine. Oh, there were trains, cars, etc., but these are readily recognized. But these three? Forgotten. 4) I have loved sewing machines themselves since I was a little kid. I realized early on that as a man I wasn't interested in making men's clothes. And, not being a transvestite, women's either! That's how I ended up in freehand sewing machine embroidery. I can work with the machines I love, creating unique art at the same time. 5) These are generic machines, made by various companies for Bernina. To my knowledge, this is the only Bernette line that had the 'sideways' presser foot lifter. 6) Bernette also made at 3- series that is mehanically the same as my 7-series. Amazing how a change in the outside shell can change perceptions! Thanks to all for reading my reviews. | | * * * | | johnr55 | 10/23/09 | My comment disappeared. I am a lefty and I don't particularly like this presser foot lifter, either. It's obviously meant to be used right-handed. I own around 20 machines; all are mint or better, most bought used except for my Berninas. Some were NOS (new old stock). I've loved sm's all my life, just never was interested in garment sewing. It's why I machine embroider. Bernettes have never been made by Bernina | | * * * | | downs | 10/23/09 | This is a great review. Your knowledge about sewing machines is awesome! I gather you started young collecting all these sewing machines. I look for more of your reviews in the future. | | * * * | | Christas | 10/24/09 | Excellent review! Thank you! | | * * * | | Susannah | 10/27/09 | Thank-you for this most interesting review. I love hearing all the history; I am going to look for a book on the history of sewing machines. It never ocurred to me how they transformed our world. I am right handed but I too prefer the presser foot in the back; sometimes it is just too crowded reaching in there to lift it on the right. | | * * * |
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