Bernina L 450 Overlocker Review: Smooth, Quiet, and Surprisingly Easy to Use

Review of the Bernina L 450 Overlocker

If you’re looking for an overlocker that’s easy to use but still delivers professional results, the Bernina L 450 is worth a closer look. This machine balances precision and user-friendliness, which makes it especially useful for sewists who want clean finishes without the usual headaches of serger threading and setup.

While the L 450 doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of its sibling, the L 460 (like the Free Hand System), it still offers a solid set of features that make everyday serging more efficient and enjoyable. If you’re curious about how the L 450 and Bernina L 460 compare, we’ve broken that down in a separate post.

Stitch Capabilities

The Bernina L 450 is a 2/3/4-thread overlocker, giving you flexibility for different fabric types and seam finishes. It can handle up to 16 stitch variations, including:

• 4-thread overlock (great for seams with stretch and strength)
• 3-thread overlock (wide and narrow)
• 3-thread flatlock and super-stretch stitches
• Rolled hems
• 2-thread overlock and wrapped overlock

Having this range means you can work on everything from everyday clothing repairs to more decorative and delicate finishes.

Threading the Bernina L 450

Threading is often the part that makes people shy away from overlockers—but the L 450 simplifies it with a color-coded lay-in threading system and a few helpful features to guide the process.

When threading, you’ll need to line up the red mark on the handwheel with the guide on the side of the machine to properly position the loopers. From there, you start with the upper looper (blue), then move to the lower looper (red). The needle thread paths are also color-coded—green for the right needle and yellow for the left.

One standout is the automatic tension release when the presser foot is raised, which makes it easier for threads to settle correctly. The included manual threaders for both needles and loopers are a nice touch and do the job well when handled gently.

Controls and Adjustments

Once you’re threaded up, the dials on the machine are easy to get used to. You’ll find:

• Tension dials for each thread
• A stitch length dial (adjustable while sewing)
• A differential feed dial (0.7–2.0 ratio), which helps manage stretch or puckering
• A cutting width adjustment at the front (up to 9 mm)

The Micro Thread Control (mtc) feature is particularly useful—it lets you fine-tune the overedge thread amount without having to re-thread. That gives you neater edges with less trial and error.

Build, Lighting, and Storage

The L 450 feels sturdy and well-built, like you’d expect from Bernina. It has two bright LED lights over the needle area for better visibility, even with dark fabrics.

There’s also a small accessory compartment inside the looper cover, where you can keep your tweezers, thread nets, and other essentials close at hand.

Additional Features

Bernina includes thoughtful details that show up during real use:

• A removable stitch finger for rolled hems
• A built-in seam guide—handy when working with commercial patterns
• A two-step presser foot lift plus additional front lift, giving clearance for thick fabrics
• Adjustable presser foot pressure with five settings
• Built-in rolled hem lever—no need to change plates for hemming
• A lower blade drive system, which gives you better visibility and access for fabric control

At up to 1,200 stitches per minute, this machine can keep up with most sewing paces comfortably. A cut-offs bin is also included to help keep your workspace cleaner.

Warranty and Manual

The Bernina L 450 comes with a 7-year warranty when purchased from a certified Bernina UK dealer. That includes parts and labor and shows how confident Bernina is in the machine’s durability.

To keep the warranty valid:

• Follow the maintenance guidelines in the manual
• Have it serviced every three years (or when prompted)
• Return the included registration card to receive a Certificate of Extended Warranty

The instruction manual is available online here and is well-organized, with step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting tips, and guidance for stitch selection and machine care.

Final Thoughts

The Bernina L 450 Overlocker is a smart pick if you’re after solid performance without a steep learning curve. It’s especially well-suited for sewists who value smooth operation, quiet stitching, and a range of finishing options.

While it’s not the flashiest model in Bernina’s lineup, the L 450 gets the basics right—and that’s what really matters for dependable overlock work. You can always upgrade to accessories like an extension table or specialty feet if needed.

Whether you’re working with knits, wovens, or lightweight fabrics, this machine delivers clean, consistent results that make your sewing look polished and professional.

Feature Table