Bernina L850 Overlocker Review: Smooth, Precise, and Packed with Features

The Bernina L850 is a powerful, well-built overlocker that delivers the kind of performance and precision you’d expect from the Bernina name. It’s packed with thoughtful features designed to make sewing faster, smoother, and more enjoyable – especially if you’re working on garments or other detail-heavy projects. Let’s walk through what it offers, from stitch variety to workspace design, and see how it stacks up.

BERNINA B 435

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Bernina L850 Overlocker Features

The L850 is designed for serious sewing, whether you’re making clothing, refining seams, or adding decorative finishes. It brings together reliable Swiss engineering with helpful, modern touches that make day-to-day use easier.

Some standout features include:

• Overlock stitch width adjustments
• Micro Thread Control (mtc)
• One-step BERNINA Air Threader for the loopers
• Built-in needle threader
• Swing-out presser foot with auto return
• Freearm for tubular items
• Knee lifter (Free Hand System)
• Automatic needle stop in the up position
• Up to 1,500 stitches per minute

These features help streamline setup and stitching, especially for users who work on a wide range of materials or techniques. For a full list of the features that come with the Bernina L850, see the feature table at the bottom of the post.

Stitch Variations

With 18 stitch types built in, the L850 covers the essentials and then some. You get your classic 4-thread overlock, of course, but also options like:

• 3-thread super-stretch
• Narrow seam
• Rolled hem
• Flatlock
• Picot stitch

Whether you’re finishing edges, working with knits, or adding a decorative touch, you’ll find a stitch that suits the task. The variety is great for keeping projects looking clean and professional.

Comfort Features

What sets the L850 apart in everyday use are the comfort features. Threading, in particular, is a breeze thanks to the air-threading system for the loopers and a built-in needle threader. It also includes a swing-out presser foot that automatically swings back into place – great when you need more room to adjust your fabric.

Other details that make sewing easier:

• Freearm for narrow tubes like sleeves or cuffs
• Spacious work area to the right of the needle
• Adjustable thread tension and cutting width (while sewing)
• Micro Thread Control for cleaner edges
• Knee lifter so you can raise the presser foot hands-free
• 2-step presser foot lifter for thicker fabrics

These small conveniences really add up, especially during longer sewing sessions.

BERNINA B 435

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Technical Specifications

The L850 has a stitch width range of 3 to 9 mm and uses a 6-step adjustable presser foot pressure system, paired with a strong DC motor for smooth, consistent operation. With a top speed of 1,500 stitches per minute, it keeps up well on larger or more demanding projects.

Design and Size of th L850

This machine is built for function, but it still fits nicely into most workspaces. Dimensions are:

• Width: 44 cm (17.3 in)
• Depth: 29 cm (11.4 in)
• Height: 41.5 cm (16.3 in)
• Thread pole guide height (extended): 65 cm (25.6 in)

It’s compact enough to fit into a standard sewing setup, but the vertical clearance gives you flexibility for larger thread cones without taking over your space.

Weight

At 12.5 kg (27.6 lbs), the L850 feels sturdy and stable while you’re sewing. It’s not ultra-light, but the built-in carry handle makes it manageable if you need to move or store it between uses.

Sewing Space & Workspace Height

The area to the right of the needle gives you 143 mm (5⅝ in) of space – plenty of room to move your fabric around. The 86 mm (3⅜ in) workspace height keeps things ergonomic and reduces wrist strain during extended work.

Extension Table

Attach the included extension table and you get even more room to work:

• Depth: 32.5 cm (12.8 in)
• Width: 35.5 cm (14 in)

This is especially helpful for large projects like quilts or garments that need more support.

The Free Arm

The free arm may not sound like much, but it’s a great help when working on sleeves, cuffs, or smaller tube-shaped items. Dimensions:

• Depth: 8.6 cm (3.4 in)
• Width: 8 cm (3.1 in)
• Height: 4.8 cm (1.9 in)

This setup offers the kind of maneuverability you’ll appreciate when sewing fiddly areas.

Standard Accessories

The L850 comes with everything you need to get started, including:

• Standard Overlock Foot #L10
• Slide-on extension table
• Cut-offs bin
• BERNINA foot control
• Needle set and other small accessories

These tools make the machine even more versatile and user-friendly out of the box.

Price and Value for Money

At around £1,500, the L850 isn’t cheap. But for the quality of build, speed, and precision it offers, the price makes sense – especially if sewing is more than just an occasional hobby. The air threading alone can be a huge time-saver, and the comfort features add real value if you’re sewing often or working on complex projects.

BERNINA B 435

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Summary

The Bernina L850 is a strong performer all around. It offers fast, clean stitching, a wide range of stitch types, and thoughtful design choices that make sewing smoother from start to finish. It’s especially well-suited for intermediate to advanced users who want efficiency without sacrificing quality.

While it may be a bit much for a casual beginner, those looking to upgrade to a long-term machine will likely find it well worth the cost. With its quiet operation, dependable performance, and premium features, the L850 stands out as one of the most well-rounded overlockers on the market.

Feature Table