Bernette 79 Sewing and Embroidery Machine Review
The Bernette 79 is one of those machines that really tries to do it all – and does it surprisingly well. It brings together the functionality of both a high-performance sewing machine and a capable embroidery unit, all in a single setup. As part of the BERNINA family, it benefits from thoughtful design, solid engineering, and features that are clearly made with real users in mind.
The Bernette 79 isn’t just another machine in the lineup; it’s a standout star in the Bernette 70 series. Whether you’re working on everyday sewing tasks, tackling custom embroidery projects, or exploring creative techniques, the B79 is built to keep up. It’s an especially good fit for users who want something with pro-level tools but without the complexity or steep learning curve of an industrial setup.
Overview of the Bernette B79 Sewing and Embroidery Machine
The Bernette 79 is a computerized combo machine that gives you the flexibility to switch between sewing and embroidery without needing two separate units. It’s aimed at sewists who want versatility, space to grow, and tools that help speed up the workflow.
Thanks to its intuitive touchscreen and easy-to-navigate interface, you don’t need to be a tech expert to get started. Whether you’re piecing a quilt, hemming garments, or creating custom patches, the B79 makes it easy to focus on the creative work instead of fussing over settings.
Key Features and Usability
One of the standout features of the B79 is its 5-inch color touchscreen. It’s bright, responsive, and makes it easy to select stitches or tweak embroidery designs directly on the screen. There’s also a preview function so you can see your changes before stitching.
The automatic tension system and clear icon-based menus are especially helpful for new users, but experienced sewists will appreciate how much control you still have over every detail.
Stitch Adjustments and Customisation
Stitch customization is straightforward on this machine. You can fine-tune stitch length and width easily, and the built-in tools let you draw and adjust custom patterns right on the screen. It’s a flexible setup whether you’re doing precision topstitching or decorative work.
Needle Positioning and Presser Foot Control
The programmable foot control (with back-kick function) and automatic presser foot lifter add a lot of convenience. Needle placement is precise, and the motorized presser foot makes switching between steps feel seamless. For hands-free tasks like thread trimming and pivoting, this setup really shines.
Speed Control and Thread Cutting
With adjustable speed settings and a built-in thread cutter, the B79 helps keep your sewing efficient and clean. Whether you’re working fast on straight seams or slowing down for curves and corners, the machine responds smoothly to adjustments.
General and Sewing Functions
Machine Type and Hook System
The B79 uses a drop-in hook system, which is easy to maintain and reduces thread jams – good news if you sew often or change thread types frequently.
Color Touch Screen and Sewing Space
The 5″ touchscreen is simple to navigate and pairs nicely with the spacious 9″ throat area. There’s plenty of room for quilting or handling larger fabrics without constantly adjusting your material.
Adjustment and Control
Multi-function knobs give you tactile control for quick setting changes. The speed slider is useful for beginners or anyone working on tricky fabrics.
Thread Handling
A semi-automatic needle threader and both manual and automatic cutters are included, making thread management fast and frustration-free.
Presser Foot Pressure and Thread Tension
You can tweak both directly from the screen, which is helpful when moving between fabrics like denim and jersey. The machine adjusts well, and the stitch quality stays consistent.
Lighting and Sensors
Four LEDs provide even lighting across the work area, and built-in thread sensors help avoid surprises by alerting you when threads run out or break.
Connectivity and Personalization
With USB compatibility and customizable settings, it’s easy to upload your own embroidery files or update machine functions.
Eco Mode and Languages
The machine includes an eco mode and multiple language options, making it energy-conscious and user-friendly for international users.
Stitching Capabilities
Up to 1,000 stitches per minute, 500 built-in stitch patterns, and multiple alphabets give you a broad creative range. Dual feed keeps fabrics feeding evenly, while 15 needle positions allow for detailed placement.
Stitch Designer and Tutorials
Create your own stitch designs or turn to the built-in tutorials and the Creative Consultant for help when tackling new materials or techniques.
Embroidery Features
The embroidery unit is fully integrated and capable, with everything from basic motifs to larger, detailed designs. It offers a maximum embroidery speed of 850 stitches per minute and a generous 260 x 160 mm area for larger pieces.
Built-in Designs and Alphabets
With 208 built-in designs and seven embroidery alphabets (including Hebrew, Cyrillic, and Arabic), the B79 offers strong support for personal or multicultural projects.
Design Editing and Tools
You can resize, mirror, rotate, or combine designs directly on the screen. Word Art and personal design storage give you flexibility to create and re-use customized projects.
Hoop Detection and File Support
Automatic hoop detection helps prevent misalignment, and support for common file formats like PES, JEF, and EXP makes it compatible with most downloadable designs.
Tutorials and Extras
The built-in embroidery tutorials make learning the ropes easier, especially for users new to embroidery. It’s a well-rounded feature set that doesn’t require extra software to get started – though you’ll find even more flexibility if you use the included BERNINA Toolbox software.
Design Selection and Customisation
Between the built-in designs and USB file support, the B79 gives you a solid foundation for embroidery work. The layout and design tools are easy to use, and navigating the options feels intuitive. You can add text, combine motifs, and preview everything before you stitch.
User Experience and Value
The Bernette 79 stands out for its smooth sewing performance, clear interface, and reliable embroidery quality. It’s a machine that grows with you, offering advanced tools without becoming overwhelming. For the price, especially when bundled with accessories and software, it delivers excellent value.
Bernette 79 Yaya Han Edition
The Yaya Han Edition builds on everything that makes the B79 great, but with a special design tailored to cosplay and costume work. It includes a purple embroidery unit and design motifs inspired by Yaya Han’s creations.
Underneath the themed design, it’s still the same reliable Bernette 79 – with the power, precision, and versatility to handle stretch fabrics, synthetic materials, and layered costumes.
Included Accessories
The B79 comes with a wide selection of accessories, ready for both sewing and embroidery:
- 10 presser foot soles for different techniques
- Extension table for extra workspace
- Knee lever for hands-free presser foot control
- Programmable foot control with thread cutting
- Embroidery module with three hoops
- Toolbox embroidery software (200+ designs, 100 fonts)
- Dust cover and standard maintenance tools
You’ll also find extras like bobbins, spool caps, a seam ripper, and a twin-needle setup. It’s a well-rounded kit, so you can get started right away without buying a lot of add-ons.l for easy speed management, and a lubricator to keep everything running smoothly.
For the full list of what the Bernette 79 brings to the table, follow this link.
Pricing, Manual, and Warranty
When it comes to the Bernette 79, with all its cool features and versatility, you’re looking at a solid investment in your sewing adventures. In the UK, how much you’ll need to shell out for this gem can change depending on where you’re shopping, what deals are on the table, and what extra goodies come with it. It’s a smart move to touch base with authorized Bernette shops or check out online sellers to get the latest scoop on prices. Plus, sticking with authorized dealers usually hooks you up with some nice perks, like top-notch customer service, help after you’ve made your purchase, and sometimes even special deals just for choosing them.
User Manual
The manual is detailed and easy to follow, offering setup instructions, maintenance tips, and full breakdowns of both sewing and embroidery features. You can access it online if you want to preview what the machine can do. Full manual can be found here.
Warranty Registration
The Bernette 79 includes a 2-year warranty on mechanical parts, with details varying slightly by region. Be sure to register your machine after purchase to make sure you’re covered. Register your warranty here here and sew worry-free.
Warranty Periods
Your Bernette 79 comes with a safety net for its mechanical parts, good for 2 years. It’s all about keeping you covered in case of any mechanical hiccups, making sure your crafting journey is smooth sailing.
It’s important to note that the warranty terms and conditions may vary slightly based on your location and the retailer. Always check the specific warranty details provided at the time of purchase for the most accurate information.
Final Thoughts
The Bernette 79 is a capable, well-designed machine for anyone who wants serious sewing and embroidery tools in one package. It’s approachable enough for beginners but powerful enough to satisfy more experienced users, especially those branching out into embroidery.
If you’re looking to invest in a machine that gives you room to grow – and has the features to support everything from fashion design to home décor to custom gifts – the B79 is well worth considering.
Feature List
Below is a detailed breakdown of the Bernette 79’s features. It covers everything from the machine’s design and technical specs to its sewing and embroidery functions, as well as the accessories included. Whether you’re just getting started or have years of experience, this list gives you a clear picture of what the Bernette 79 offers and how it can support a wide range of projects.
| Bernette B79 Sewing and Embroidery Machine | |
|---|---|
| General Functions | |
| Machine type | Sewing and Em broidery machine |
| Hook system | Drop-in |
| Color touch screen | 5 inches |
| Sewing space right of the needle | 9″ (230 mm) |
| Multi-function knobs | ✓ |
| Slide speed control | ✓ |
| Presser foot pressure adjustable on screen | ✓ |
| Upper thread tension adjustable on screen | ✓ |
| Manual thread cutter | ✓ |
| Automatic thread cutter | ✓ |
| Semi-automatic needle threader | ✓ |
| Automatic threading position of presser foot | ✓ |
| Needle stop up/down | ✓ |
| Start/stop button (stitching without foot control) | ✓ |
| Upper thread sensor | ✓ |
| Lower thread sensor | ✓ |
| Automatic presser foot lifter | ✓ |
| Sewing light | 4 LEDs |
| Setup program | ✓ |
| USB interface for USB data stick | ✓ |
| Language selection | ✓ |
| Eco mode | ✓ |
| Sewing | |
| Maximum sewing speed (stitches per minute) | 1000 spm |
| Maximum stitch width | 7 mm |
| Maximum stitch length | 5 mm |
| Total number of stitch patterns (incl. alphabet) | 500 |
| Utility stitches | 22 |
| Decorative stitches | 133 |
| Buttonholes (incl. eyelets) | 17 |
| Darning programs | 2 |
| Quilting stitches | 35 |
| Sewing alphabets | 3 |
| Dual Feed | ✓ |
| Stitch Designer | ✓ |
| Needle positions | 15 |
| Automatic securing function | ✓ |
| Twin needle compatible | ✓ |
| Stitch-by-stitch reverse sewing | ✓ |
| Automatic foot pressure compensation | ✓ |
| Retractable feed dog | ✓ |
| Save own stitches or stitch combinations | ✓ |
| Sewing tutorial | ✓ |
| Creative consultant | ✓ |
| Embroidery | |
| Maximum embroidery speed (stitches per minute) | 850 spm |
| Maximum embroidery area | 10″x6″ (260×160 mm) |
| Built-in embroidery designs | 208 |
| Embroidery alphabets (incl. Hebrew, Cyrillic and Arabic) | 7 |
| Personal memory for saving own embroidery designs | ✓ |
| Embroidery design formats | VP3, VIP, PEC, HUS, DST, EXP, JEF, PES |
| On-screen design editing: mirror, rotate, scale, position, Word ART | ✓ |
| Combine designs | ✓ |
| Automatic optimization of color changes upon saving | ✓ |
| Automatic hoop recognition | ✓ |
| BERNINA CutWork Tool compatible | ✓ |
| Embroidery tutorial | ✓ |
| Standard Accessories | |
| Presser foot soles included | 10 |
| Slide-on freearm extension table | ✓ |
| Knee lever | ✓ |
| Foot control with back-kick function | ✓ |
| Embroidery module | ✓ |
| Embroidery hoops (S,M,L) | ✓ |
| BERNINA Toolbox Embroidery Software: Lettering module including 200 embroidery designs and 100 alphabets | ✓ |
| BERNINA Toolbox Embroidery Software: Editing module with 100 motives included | ✓ |
| Dust cover | ✓ |
| BERNINA needle set | ✓ |