Bernette 68 AIRLOCK Overlock and Coverstitch Combo Machine
Bernette consistently strikes the perfect chord between enthusiastic beginners and seasoned sewing aficionados. The secret sauce? A blend of steadfast reliability, precise detail work, and an effortlessly intuitive interface. Imagine a sewing companion that marries the sophistication of top-tier technology with the comforting familiarity of an old friend—that’s the harmony Bernette aims for. Nestled within the vibrant Bernette 60 series, a branch of the prestigious BERNINA family tree, the Bernette 68 Airlock stands out.
The Bernette 68 Airlock distinguishes itself as a cornerstone of the 60 series. It’s crafted to welcome users with open arms, yet it’s robust enough to tackle the most demanding projects with grace. Boasting a durable design, a suite of versatile functions, and an interface that speaks simplicity, the Bernette 68 Airlock is a haven for those looking to bring their creative visions to life with ease and precision.
Bernette 68 Overview
When the bernette 68 Airlock first caught my eye, I knew I had to give it a spin. The promise of a sewing machine that combines overlocking and coverstitching with “easy air threading” sounded too good to be true. Now that I’ve spent some quality time with it, I’m eager to share my thoughts on this innovative machine.
Key Features
The bernette 68 Airlock is packed with features designed to make sewing a breeze. The air threader is a standout, transforming the often tedious task of threading looper threads into a simple, enjoyable process. With 31 stitch patterns, including overlock, cover-, chain-, and combo stitches, the versatility is impressive.
The 5-inch space to the right of the needle offers ample room for larger projects, which I found particularly helpful when coverstitching. The integrated freearm, bright LED lights, and knee lifter for the presser foot add layers of convenience and comfort to the sewing experience. For a full list of features that the bernette 68 Airlock has, see the Feature Table at the bottom of the page.
Sewing Features and Stitches
The bernette 68 Airlock doesn’t just shine in terms of ease of use and versatility; it truly excels when we dive into its array of sewing features and stitches. This machine is designed to cater to a broad spectrum of sewing needs, from basic constructions to decorative finishes. Here’s a closer look at its Overlock and Coverstitch capabilities:
Overlock Stitches
The Overlock stitches on the bernette 68 Airlock are nothing short of impressive. They provide clean, professional edges and are perfect for seam finishing, preventing fabric fraying, and creating decorative edges. Here are some of the key Overlock stitches this machine offers:
- 4-Thread Overlock: Ideal for seaming and finishing in one go, offering both strength and flexibility.
- 3-Thread Overlock (Wide/Narrow): Great for finishing edges on a wide variety of fabrics, with the option to choose between wider and narrower stitches for different effects.
- 3-Thread Flatlock (Wide/Narrow): Lays flat against the fabric, perfect for decorative effects and flat seams.
- 3-Thread Rolled Hem: Creates a narrow, rolled finish on lightweight fabrics – perfect for delicate hems and edges.
- 2-Thread Overlock (Wide/Narrow): Offers a lighter edge finish, suitable for thin fabrics or when less bulk is desired.
Coverstitches
Coverstitches are a game-changer for achieving professional-looking hems and topstitching. The bernette 68 Airlock offers versatile coverstitch options that add functionality and decorative flair to projects:
- 4-Thread Coverstitch: Provides a strong, stretchable seam ideal for activewear, ensuring that the stitch stretches with the fabric.
- 3-Thread Coverstitch (Wide/Narrow): Allows for flexibility in stitch width, perfect for hemming and topstitching on various fabric types. The narrow option is great for smaller items and delicate fabrics, while the wide setting offers more coverage for thicker materials.
- 2-Thread Chainstitch: Offers a strong straight stitch, ideal for seam construction and decorative purposes.
Combo stitches
The bernette 68 Airlock’s combo stitches include a range of widths, from 7.8 to 12.6 mm, providing a broad canvas for creativity. Whether you’re working on a delicate piece of lingerie that requires the finesse of a narrow combo stitch or a robust home décor item that needs the strength of a wider stitch, this machine accommodates your needs.
The ability to seamlessly transition between stitch types without compromising on quality or efficiency is a game-changer for sewists. It encourages experimentation and can lead to unique finishes that make your projects stand out.
Whether you’re working on a stretchy knit garment that demands a robust yet flexible seam, or a lightweight scarf that needs a delicate rolled hem, the bernette 68 Airlock has you covered. The combination of Overlock and Coverstitch options ensures that your projects not only look professional but also stand the test of time. Bernette also provided a very useful workbook for cover and chain stitches that we recommend you read if you get the bernette 68.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Air Threading: The air threader is a game-changer. Threading, which used to slow me down, is now quick and effortless.
- Versatility: With 31 stitch options, this machine handles everything from delicate fabrics to tough, multi-layered projects.
- User-Friendly: The color-coded threading paths and spacious working area make it easy to manage even complex sewing tasks.
- Bright Workspace: The LED lights ensure that every detail is visible, reducing eye strain during long sewing sessions.
Cons:
- Learning Curve: Despite its user-friendly design, beginners might find the wide range of features a bit daunting at first.
- Price Point: The advanced features and quality come with a higher price tag, which may not fit everyone’s budget.
Pricing
Investing in a bernette 68 Airlock is a significant decision, given its premium features. While the price is on the higher end for sewing machines, I found the combination of overlock and coverstitch capabilities, along with the ease of air threading, to offer great value for the investment.
Warranty and Manual
The machine comes with a comprehensive manual that guides you through its many features and functions. The warranty details are clearly outlined, offering peace of mind with the purchase. It’s reassuring to know that the investment is protected.
User manual can be found here and the quick start guide is available here.
Accessories Included
When you welcome the Bernette 68 Airlock into your sewing space, you’re not just getting a machine; you’re unlocking a treasure trove of accessories designed to enhance your sewing experience. Here’s a glimpse of what comes with this versatile machine:
- Standard Overlock/Coverstitch Combo Foot: This all-in-one foot is your go-to for effortlessly switching between overlocking and coverstitching, making it a cornerstone for versatility.
- Knife Cover: A simple yet crucial piece that ensures safety when the machine’s cutting knife is not in use, providing peace of mind.
- Coverstitch Insert & Coverstitch Insert for Slide-on Table: These inserts transform your machine, providing a stable base for coverstitching tasks, ensuring precision and ease.
- Slide-on Table: Expands your working area, offering ample space for larger projects and enhancing comfort during long sewing sessions.
- Freearm Cover: A handy accessory for when you’re sewing tubular items like cuffs and sleeves, making intricate tasks more manageable.
- Knee Lifter: An ergonomic addition that allows you to raise and lower the presser foot hands-free, enabling smoother fabric handling.
- Spool Stand with Needle Pad: Keeps your thread spools organized and within reach, and the needle pad ensures you always have a needle handy when you need a quick change.
- Decorative Thread Guide: This guide is a game-changer for when you’re using thicker or decorative threads, ensuring smooth feeding and consistent stitch quality.
- BERNINA CS Lock Tool: A specialized tool from BERNINA that aids in precise and secure locking of coverstitch ends, ensuring a professional finish.
- BERNINA Needle Set: A selection of high-quality needles tailored to different types of fabrics and projects, ensuring you have the right needle for the task at hand.
- BERNINA Tweezers: A simple yet indispensable tool for threading and handling small parts, making machine setup and maintenance a breeze.
Summary
The bernette 68 Airlock is a standout sewing machine that has made a significant impact on my sewing projects. Its blend of advanced features, such as the air threader and the wide range of stitch patterns, with user-friendly design elements, makes it a versatile and valuable tool for anyone passionate about sewing.
Whether you’re a seasoned sewist looking for an upgrade or a beginner ready to dive into the world of overlocking and coverstitching, the bernette 68 Airlock is worth considering. It’s an investment in your craft, promising to bring ease, efficiency, and enjoyment to every sewing project.
I’d love to hear from others who have tried the bernette 68 Airlock. What has your experience been like? Share your thoughts and let’s connect over our shared passion for sewing!
Feature Table
Below is the Bernette 68 Airlock’s feature list, that shows all the features on this exceptional machine. This table is your helps to understand the full scope of what the Bernette 68 Airlock offers, covering its advanced functionalities, design innovations, and the comprehensive set of accessories included.
| Model | 68 Airlock |
|---|---|
| Stitches | Combo |
| Total number of stitch patterns | 31 |
| 4-thread overlock | ✓ |
| 3-thread overlock (wide/narrow) | ✓ |
| 3-thread super-stretch stitch | ✓ |
| 3-thread flatlock (wide/narrow) | ✓ |
| 3-thread narrow seam | ✓ |
| 3-thread rolled hem | ✓ |
| 3-thread picot stitch | ✓ |
| 2-thread overlock (wide/narrow) | ✓ |
| 2-thread flatlock (wide/narrow) | ✓ |
| 2-thread rolled hem | ✓ |
| 2-thread wrapped overlock (wide/narrow) | ✓ |
| 4-thread coverstitch | ✓ |
| 3-thread coverstitch (wide/narrow) | ✓ |
| 2-thread chainstitch | ✓ |
| 5-thread safety stitch | ✓ |
| 4-thread safety stitch | ✓ |
| Comfort features | |
| Automatic air threader for looper threads | ✓ |
| Freearm with freearm cover | ✓ |
| Color-coded threading paths | ✓ |
| Stitch length adjustable while sewing | ✓ |
| Accessories under the looper cover | ✓ |
| Sewing light | 5 LEDs |
| Safety switch activated when cover is open | ✓ |
| Micro Thread Control (mtc) | ✓ |
| Free Hand System (FHS) including knee lifter | ✓ |
| Technical data | |
| Space to the right of the needle | 130 mm |
| Manual thread cutter | ✓ |
| Overlock stitch width 3-7 mm | ✓ |
| Coverstitch width 2,8 / 5,6 mm | ✓ |
| Combo stitch width 7,8-12,6 mm | ✓ |
| Maximum sewing speed (stitches per minute) | 1,300 |
| Standard accessories | |
| Standard overlock foot | – |
| Standard coverstitch foot | – |
| Standard overlock/coverstitch combo foot | ✓ |
| Deco thread guide | ✓ |
| Slide-on table | ✓ |
| Coverstitch insert for slide-on table | ✓ |
| Cut-offs bin | ✓ |