Review of the Bernina L850 Overlocker

The Bernina brand has long been synonymous with quality, innovation, and precision in the sewing world. With the L850 Overlocker, Bernina has with the L850 made a fantastic machine which ofthen makes it the top choice for sewers and crafters alike. In this post, we’ll do a review and take an in-depth look at the features of the Bernina L850 Overlocker.

Bernina L850 Overlocker Features

The Bernina L850 Overlocker is a high-performance sewing machine designed to cater to a wide range of sewing projects. Combining Swiss-engineered precision with an array of user-friendly features, the L850 is a top choice for experienced sewers and professionals alike. We’ll give an overview of its key features and specifications, for a full list of the features that come with the Bernina L850, see the feature table at the bottom of the post.

• Overlock Stitch Width
• Micro Thread Control
• Air Threader (for looper threads)
• Built-in Needle Threader
• Swing-out Presser Foot with Auto Swing Back
• Freearm
• Free Hand System with Knee Lifter
• Automatic Needle Stop Up
• Sewing speed, stitches per minute1500

Stitch Variations

The L850 got 18 different stitch variations, it of course hs the classics like the 4-thread overlock, and some real game-changers like the 3-thread super-stretch, narrow seam, rolled hem, and the delicate picot stitch. Whatever your project, from making a new piece of clothing to adding those fancy finishes, the L850 has got your back with just the right stitch.

Comfort Features

Bernina has ensured that the L850 is a pleasure to work with by including a plethora of comfort features. One of the highlights is the one-step BERNINA Air Threader, which makes threading the looper threads a breeze. The machine also boasts a freearm, a generous sewing space to the right of the needle, and an adjustable workspace height. The BERNINA Free Hand System (FHS) with knee lifter, swing-out presser foot, and 2-step presser foot lifter make sewing tasks more manageable and efficient.

In addition, the L850 offers built-in needle threading, automatic needle stop up, stitch-by-stitch sewing, and a colour-coded One-path Threading system. Adjustable thread tension, stitch length, and cutting width while sewing, along with the Micro Thread Control (mtc) and integrated rolled hem lever, ensure the best possible results for your projects.

Technical Specifications

The Bernina L850 features a stitch width range of 3-9 mm, 6-step presser foot pressure, and a DC motor, allowing for precise control and smooth operation. With a maximum sewing speed of 1,500 stitches per minute, the L850 can help you complete your projects quickly and efficiently.

Design and Size of th L850

The Bernina L850 Overlocker is a marvel when it comes to its compact and efficient design. It strikes a perfect balance with its dimensions, measuring 44 cm (about 17.3 inches) in width, 29 cm (approximately 11.4 inches) in depth, and 41.5 cm (roughly 16.3 inches) in height, making it a snug fit for any sewing space. When you pop up the thread pole guide, it reaches a height of 65 cm (around 25.6 inches), ensuring you’ve got all the vertical space you need for your threads without taking over your workspace.

Weight

Weighing in at a sturdy yet manageable 12.5 kg (about 27.6 lbs), it’s designed with convenience in mind, complete with a carry handle for easy relocation. So, whether you’re rearranging your sewing room or taking your sewing prowess on the road, the L850 is ready to go wherever you go.

Sewing Space & Workspace Height

The area to the right of the needle offers a generous 143 mm (about 5⅝ inches) of space, providing ample room for your projects, big or small. The workspace height sits comfortably at 86 mm (approximately 3⅜ inches), ensuring a comfortable and ergonomic sewing experience, reducing strain during those long sewing sessions.

Extension Table

With the addition of the extension table, the depth of your sewing area extends to 32.5 cm (about 12.8 inches), and the width to 35.5 cm (around 14 inches), giving you even more room to maneuver those larger projects. This added space is perfect for quilting, garment making, and anything else that requires a bit more elbow room.

The Free Arm

The free arm feature, often overlooked but incredibly handy, measures 8.6 cm (approximately 3.4 inches) deep, 8 cm (about 3.1 inches), and 4.8 cm (roughly 1.9 inches) high. This compact powerhouse makes sewing sleeves, cuffs, and other small or circular items a breeze, providing precision and ease for those intricate projects.

Standard Accessories

The L850 comes with a variety of standard accessories, such as the Standard Overlock Foot #L10, slide-on extension table, cut-offs bin, BERNINA foot control, and a selection of needles, among others. These accessories enhance the overall sewing experience and add value to the machine.

Price and Value for Money

The L850 comes with a price tag of around £1,500, which is no small amount. But when you consider everything you’re getting—stellar stitch options, comfort features that make sewing a breeze, and the kind of quality and reliability Bernina is known for—it’s clear this machine is an investment that’s worth it for anyone serious about their sewing.

Summary

The Bernina L850 Overlocker is a real gem for sewing enthusiasts. It’s packed with loads of features and stitch options that can handle just about any project you throw at it. It’s super user-friendly, too, with comfort features and precision engineering that make it a go-to for those who know their way around a sewing machine. The only hitch might be its price tag—it’s not exactly budget-friendly, especially for beginners just dipping their toes into sewing. But if you’re in a position to splurge, the L850 is worth every penny for the exceptional results it delivers. Sure, it’s a bit of an investment, but when you consider the performance, quality, and the extras it comes with, it really does pay off.

Compared to other machines in its price bracket, the L850 shines with its Swiss precision and the BERNINA Air Threader feature. It might not be the first pick for newbies or those watching their pennies, but for anyone looking to take their sewing up a notch, the Bernina L850 Overlocker is a solid and impressive choice that could really elevate your sewing game.

Feature Table