Bernette B37 Computerized Sewing Machine Review: With Swiss Design

The Bernette B37 is a compact, computerized sewing machine designed to offer a range of features suitable for both beginners and experienced sewers. Manufactured by Bernina, a renowned Swiss brand known for its high-quality sewing machines, the Bernette B37 combines affordability with functionality. This machine is ideal for those looking to explore various sewing projects, from basic garment construction to intricate quilting and decorative stitching.

Key Features Of The Bernette B37 Sewing Machine

1. Extensive Stitch Selection

The Bernette B37 offers 50 built-in stitches, including utility stitches, decorative stitches, quilting stitches, and 5 one-step buttonholes. This variety ensures that users have the right stitch for any sewing task, from basic garment construction to intricate decorative work.

2. LCD Display

The machine features an LCD display that allows users to easily select and customize stitches, adjust stitch length and width, and access various machine settings. The display provides clear and intuitive navigation, making it easy to use even for beginners.

3. Start/Stop Button and Speed Control

The start/stop button allows users to sew without using the foot pedal, providing greater control and convenience. Additionally, the speed control slider lets users adjust the sewing speed to match their skill level and the requirements of their project.

4. Needle Up/Down Function

The needle up/down function allows users to choose whether the needle stops in the fabric or above it. This feature is particularly useful for pivoting fabric, sewing corners, and quilting.

5. Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure

The adjustable presser foot pressure feature allows users to customize the pressure applied to the fabric, ensuring even feeding and preventing fabric puckering. This is particularly useful when working with different fabric types, from delicate silks to heavy denims.

6. 2-Step Presser Foot Lift

The 2-step presser foot lift provides extra clearance under the presser foot, making it easier to sew multiple layers of fabric. This feature is particularly useful for quilting and sewing thick materials.

7. Bright LED Lighting

The machine is equipped with a bright LED light that illuminates the sewing area, providing excellent visibility and reducing eye strain. The well-lit workspace ensures precise and accurate stitching, even in low-light conditions.

8. Top-Loading Bobbin

The top-loading bobbin system makes it easy to insert and remove the bobbin, reducing the likelihood of thread jams. The clear bobbin cover allows users to monitor the thread supply, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted sewing.

Bernette B37: Performance

The Bernette B37 delivers reliable performance across a variety of sewing tasks. Its computerized features and extensive stitch selection make it suitable for both basic and advanced sewing projects. The machine’s adjustable presser foot pressure and 2-step presser foot lift provide versatility, allowing users to tackle a wide range of fabrics and sewing techniques. The bright LED lighting and user-friendly LCD display further enhance the machine’s functionality, making it a valuable addition to any sewing room.

Applications

The Bernette B37 is ideal for a variety of sewing projects, including:

• Garments and accessories
• Home décor items
• Quilting and patchwork
• Craft projects
• Basic repairs and alterations

Included Accessories of the Bernette B37 Sewing Machine

The Bernette B37 is a computerized sewing machine that comes with a comprehensive set of accessories designed to enhance its functionality and provide users with all the necessary tools to start sewing immediately. Here is a detailed list of the included accessories:

Presser Feet

1. Zigzag Foot (A)
   • Versatile foot for general sewing, suitable for straight and zigzag stitches.
2. Buttonhole Foot with Slide (C)
   • Allows for precise and consistent buttonholes with or without cord.
3. Zipper Foot (E)
   • Compact design for sewing in zippers of various sizes, allowing close stitching along the zipper coils.
4. Blindstitch Foot (G)
   • Ideal for sewing blind hems, ensuring minimal visibility of stitches on the right side of the fabric.
5. Button-Sew-On Foot (T)
   • Used for sewing on buttons, rings, or hooks, with a non-slip sole to keep the button in place.

Additional Accessories

1. Bobbins (4)
   • Includes four bobbins for smooth thread delivery and minimal interruptions during sewing.
2. Spool Net
   • It helps keep thread spools in place, preventing tangling and ensuring smooth thread feeding.
3. Needle Set
   • A selection of needles suitable for various fabric types and sewing techniques.
4. Second Spool Pin
   • Allows for easy threading of twin needles or multiple thread spools.
5. Seam Ripper/Brush
   • Dual-purpose tool for cleaning the machine and removing stitches.
6. Spool Discs (Large and Small)
   • Different sizes of spool discs to accommodate various thread spool sizes, ensuring proper thread tension.
7. Spool Pin Felt
   • Placed under the spool to reduce friction and ensure smooth thread feeding.
8. T-Screwdriver
   • Used for machine maintenance and adjustments, ensuring optimal performance.
9. Dust Cover
   • Protects the machine from dust and debris when not in use, extending its lifespan.
10. Foot Control
    • Allows for hands-free operation of the machine, providing better control over sewing speed and precision.

Types of Stitches Offered by the Bernette B37 Sewing Machine

The Bernette B37 is a versatile computerized sewing machine that offers a wide range of stitches to cater to various sewing needs. Here is an in-depth look at the types of stitches provided by the Bernette B37:

Utility Stitches

Utility stitches are essential for basic sewing tasks and everyday repairs. The Bernette B37 includes several utility stitches that are perfect for constructing garments, hemming, and mending.

1. Straight Stitch: The most commonly used stitch for sewing seams and topstitching. It is strong and versatile, suitable for a wide range of fabrics.
2. Zigzag Stitch: Ideal for finishing raw edges to prevent fraying, sewing stretch fabrics, and creating decorative effects. The width of the zigzag stitch can be adjusted up to 7 mm.
3. Blind Hem Stitch: Used for hemming garments invisibly. The stitches are barely visible on the right side of the fabric, making it perfect for professional-looking hems on pants, skirts, and dresses.
4. Overlock Stitch: This stitch mimics the look of a serger and is used to finish raw edges, especially on knit fabrics. It helps prevent fraying and provides a clean finish.
5. Triple Straight Stitch: A strong, reinforced stitch that is ideal for high-stress areas such as crotch seams and armholes. It provides extra durability for seams that need to withstand heavy wear.
6. Triple Zigzag Stitch: A reinforced zigzag stitch that offers extra strength and flexibility. It is perfect for sewing elastic and attaching elastic bands.

Buttonhole Stitches

The Bernette B37 offers 5 one-step buttonholes, allowing users to create precise and consistent buttonholes. This feature is essential for garment construction, ensuring that buttonholes are evenly spaced and neatly finished.

• One-Step Buttonhole: This stitch is created in one step, allowing for precise control and customization. It is suitable for various button sizes and types of fabrics.

Decorative Stitches

Decorative stitches add a creative touch to sewing projects. The Bernette B37 includes numerous decorative stitches that can be used to embellish garments, home décor items, and crafts.

• Scallop Stitch: A decorative stitch that creates a scalloped edge, perfect for adding a delicate touch to hems, collars, and cuffs.
• Shell Stitch: This stitch forms a shell-like pattern and is ideal for decorative borders and edges.
• Satin Stitch: A dense, closely spaced zigzag stitch used for appliqué, monogramming, and decorative accents.

Quilting Stitches

The Bernette B37 offers a variety of quilting stitches that are perfect for piecing, quilting, and finishing quilts.

• Quilt Stitch: A stitch that mimics hand quilting, providing a traditional look to quilted projects.
• Stipple Stitch: Used for free-motion quilting, creating a textured, stippled effect on quilts.

Stretch Stitches

Stretch stitches are designed to work with knit and stretch fabrics, ensuring that seams remain flexible and do not break when the fabric is stretched.

• Stretch Stitch: A stitch that stretches with the fabric, making it ideal for sewing elastic materials and knit fabrics. It provides a durable and flexible seam.
• Lycra Stitch: Specifically designed for highly elastic materials, this stitch ensures that seams remain strong and flexible, even under significant stretch.

Specialty Stitches

The Bernette B37 also includes specialty stitches that cater to specific sewing needs and techniques.

• Blanket Stitch: Ideal for appliqué and edge finishing, this stitch provides a decorative and functional finish to fabric edges.
• Darning Stitch: Used for repairing holes and tears in fabric, this stitch reinforces the damaged area with a dense, overlapping pattern.

Specifications of the Bernette B37 Sewing Machine

The Bernette B37 is a compact, computerized sewing machine designed to offer a range of features suitable for both beginners and experienced sewers. Here is a detailed table of the specifications for the Bernette B37 Sewing Machine:

Feature	Specification
Model	Bernette B37
Type	Computerized Sewing Machine
Design	Swiss Design
Weight	8 kg (17.6 lbs)
Dimensions	16.26 x 11.18 x 7.87 inches
Power Supply	AC
Stitch Count	50 stitch patterns
Buttonholes	5 one-step buttonholes
Maximum Stitch Width	7 mm
Maximum Stitch Length	5 mm
Sewing Speed	Up to 700 stitches per minute
Needle Threader	Semi-automatic
Thread Cutter	Manual
Presser Foot Lift	2-step
Presser Feet Included	5 snap-on presser feet
Warranty	10-year mechanical, 2-year electrical

Tips for Maintenance and Lubricating the Bernette B37 Sewing Machine

Proper maintenance and lubrication are essential to keep your Bernette B37 sewing machine running smoothly and efficiently. Here are some tips to help you maintain and lubricate your machine:

Regular Maintenance

1. Cleaning the Machine
   • After Each Use: Remove lint and thread debris from the needle area, feed dogs, and bobbin case using a small brush or compressed air. This prevents buildup that can affect the machine’s performance.
   • Weekly: Wipe down the exterior of the machine with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and dirt.
2. Changing the Needle
   • Replace the needle regularly, especially after completing a project or if you notice skipped stitches or fabric snags. Using a dull or bent needle can damage your fabric and machine.
   • Use the correct needle type and size for your fabric to ensure optimal stitching.
3. Bobbin Maintenance
   • Clean the bobbin case regularly to prevent lint buildup. Remove the bobbin and use a brush to clean the area thoroughly.
   • Ensure the bobbin is wound evenly and inserted correctly to avoid thread jams.
4. Thread Tension
   • Check and adjust the thread tension as needed for different fabrics and stitches. Refer to the user manual for guidance on adjusting tension settings.
5. Presser Foot
   • Clean the presser foot and its attachment mechanism regularly. Ensure it is properly attached before sewing to avoid uneven stitches.

Lubrication

1. Frequency
   • The Bernette B37 requires minimal lubrication due to its modern design. However, it is still important to lubricate the machine periodically to ensure smooth operation.
   • Refer to the user manual for specific lubrication points and frequency recommendations.
2. Oil Type
   • Use only high-quality sewing machine oil recommended by Bernette. Avoid using all-purpose oils or WD-40, as these can damage the machine.
3. Lubrication Points
   • Apply a small drop of oil to the hook race area, as this is a critical moving part. Wipe away any excess oil to prevent staining fabrics.
   • If the user manual specifies additional lubrication points, follow the instructions carefully.

Professional Servicing

1. Annual Servicing
   • Consider having your Bernette B37 professionally serviced annually or every few years, depending on usage. A professional technician can thoroughly clean, lubricate, and adjust the machine to ensure optimal performance.
2. Addressing Issues
   • If you encounter any unusual noises, skipped stitches, or other performance issues, seek professional servicing promptly to prevent further damage.

Additional Tips

1. Storage
   • When not in use, cover your machine with the provided dust cover to protect it from dust and debris. Store it in a dry, cool place to prevent moisture damage.
2. User Manual
   • Always refer to the user manual for specific maintenance and lubrication instructions. The manual provides detailed guidance tailored to your Bernette B37 model.
3. Maintenance Log
   • Keep a maintenance log to track cleaning, lubrication, and servicing schedules. This helps ensure regular upkeep and prolongs the machine’s lifespan.

Pros and Cons of the Bernette B37 Sewing Machine

Pros

1. Extensive Stitch Selection:
   • The Bernette B37 offers 50 built-in stitches, including utility stitches, decorative stitches, quilting stitches, and 5 one-step buttonholes. This variety ensures that users have the right stitch for any sewing task, from basic garment construction to intricate decorative work.
2. User-Friendly Interface:
   • The machine features an LCD display that allows users to easily select and customize stitches, adjust stitch length and width, and access various machine settings. The display provides clear and intuitive navigation, making it easy to use even for beginners.
3. Start/Stop Button and Speed Control:
   • The start/stop button allows users to sew without using the foot pedal, providing greater control and convenience. Additionally, the speed control slider lets users adjust the sewing speed to match their skill level and the requirements of their project.
4. Needle Up/Down Function:
   • The needle up/down function allows users to choose whether the needle stops in the fabric or above it. This feature is particularly useful for pivoting fabric, sewing corners, and quilting.
5. Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure:
   • The adjustable presser foot pressure feature allows users to customize the pressure applied to the fabric, ensuring even feeding and preventing fabric puckering. This is particularly useful when working with different fabric types, from delicate silks to heavy denims.
6. 2-Step Presser Foot Lift:
   • The 2-step presser foot lift provides extra clearance under the presser foot, making it easier to sew multiple layers of fabric. This feature is particularly useful for quilting and sewing thick materials.
7. Bright LED Lighting:
   • The machine is equipped with a bright LED light that illuminates the sewing area, providing excellent visibility and reducing eye strain. The well-lit workspace ensures precise and accurate stitching, even in low-light conditions.
8. Top-Loading Bobbin:
   • The top-loading bobbin system makes it easy to insert and remove the bobbin, reducing the likelihood of thread jams. The clear bobbin cover allows users to monitor the thread supply, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted sewing.
9. Compact and Sturdy Design:
   • The Bernette B37 is a compact and sturdy machine, making it easy to store and transport. Its robust construction ensures durability and long-term reliability.

Cons

1. Manual Thread Cutter:
   • The machine requires manual trimming of threads, which may be less convenient for some users compared to an automatic thread cutter.
2. Limited Sewing Speed:
   • The maximum sewing speed of 700 stitches per minute may be slower compared to higher-end models, which could be a limitation for users who need to complete projects quickly.
3. No Automatic Thread Cutter:
   • The Bernette B37 lacks an automatic thread cutter, requiring users to cut threads manually, which can be time-consuming.
4. Weight:
   • At 8 kg (17.6 lbs), the machine may be considered heavy for some users, affecting portability. While the weight provides stability during sewing, it may be cumbersome to move or transport.
5. Complexity for Absolute Beginners:
   • While the machine is user-friendly, the extensive features and computerized functions may be overwhelming for absolute beginners. Some users may require a learning curve to fully utilize all the functions.

Conclusion

The Bernette B37 Computerized Sewing Machine is a compact and versatile machine that offers a wide range of features suitable for both beginners and experienced sewers. Its extensive stitch selection, user-friendly interface, and high-quality performance make it a valuable addition to any sewing room. While the machine comes with a few limitations, such as the lack of an automatic thread cutter and a slower sewing speed, its overall functionality and affordability make it an excellent choice for those looking to explore various sewing projects. If you are seeking a reliable and feature-rich sewing machine, the Bernette B37 is a great option.

Bernette B37 alternatives

Here’s a curated list of Bernette B37 alternatives including their key features, pros/cons, and ideal users, based on performance, price, and functionality:

1. Brother CS7000X

Full Review of Brother CS7000X

Price: ~$249
Key Features:

• 70 built-in stitches (10 more than B37)
• Wide table extension & walking foot for quilting
• LCD display, automatic needle threader
• 25-year warranty

Pros:

• Excellent for beginners and intermediate sewists.
• Lightweight and portable.
• Includes quilting accessories (rare at this price).

Cons:

• Less durable than heavy-duty models.
• Limited speed control compared to B37.

Best For: Budget-conscious quilters and garment makers needing versatility.

2. Singer Quantum Stylist 9960

Full Review of Singer Quantum Stylist 9960

Price: ~$571.50
Key Features:

• 600 stitches (vs. B37’s 50)
• Automatic thread cutter and needle threader
• Extended sewing surface for large projects

Pros:

• Professional-grade stitch quality.
• Ideal for advanced decorative stitching.
• Durable metal frame.

Cons:

• Higher price point.
• Complex for absolute beginners.

Best For: Experienced sewists and designers prioritizing stitch variety.

3. Janome HD3000

Full Review of Janome HD3000

Price: ~$399
Key Features:

• Heavy-duty metal frame
• 18 stitches (mechanical operation)
• 1-step buttonhole

Pros:

• Extremely durable for thick fabrics (denim, canvas).
• Simple, low-maintenance design.
• Lifetime free support.

Cons:

• No computerized features (e.g., speed control).
• Fewer stitches than B37.

Best For: Users needing a workhorse machine for heavy materials.

4. Juki HZL-355Z

Full Review of Juki HZL-355Z

Price: ~$499
Key Features:

• 21 utility stitches
• Automatic thread trimming
• High-speed sewing (1,500 SPM)

Pros:

• Industrial-grade durability.
• Smooth performance for prolonged use.
• Easy threading system.

Cons:

• Limited decorative stitches.
• No LCD screen.

Best For: Quilters and sewists prioritizing speed and reliability over stitch variety.

5. Singer Heavy Duty 4452

Full Review of Singer Heavy Duty 4452

Price: ~$199
Key Features:

• 32 stitches
• Heavy-duty metal frame
• 1,100 stitches per minute

Pros:

• Budget-friendly with robust construction.
• Great for thick fabrics (upholstery, leather).
• Simple interface for beginners.

Cons:

• Basic stitch selection.
• Noisy operation.

Best For: Beginners and hobbyists tackling heavy fabrics on a tight budget.

Comparison with Bernette B37 :

Feature	Bernette B37	Brother CS7000X	Janome HD3000
Stitches	50	70	18
Computerized	Yes	Yes	No
Speed Control	Yes	Limited	No
Presser Feet	5	10	7
Warranty	5-year mechanical	25-year	Lifetime support
Price	$499	$249	$399

Why Choose These Alternatives?

• Brother CS7000X: Superior value for beginners and quilters .
• Singer Quantum Stylist: Best for decorative stitching enthusiasts .
• Janome HD3000: Unbeatable durability for heavy fabrics .
• Juki HZL-355Z: Industrial reliability for high-volume projects .
• Singer Heavy Duty: Budget-friendly entry into heavy-duty sewing .

Final Notes:

The Bernette B37 remains a solid mid-range choice for computerized features and quilting flexibility, but its mixed Amazon reviews (3.6/5 stars) highlight occasional mechanical issues . For most users, the Brother CS7000X or Janome HD3000 offer better value and reliability. Check Amazon listings for updated pricing and bundle deals!

FAQs About Bernette B37 Computerized Sewing Machine

1. What types of fabrics can the Bernette B37 handle?

The Bernette B37 is designed to handle a wide range of fabrics, from light to medium-weight materials. It can efficiently sew through fabrics such as cotton, polyester, linen, silk, rayon, knits, and lightweight denim. Its adjustable presser foot pressure ensures even feeding and precise stitching on various fabric types.

2. How many stitches does the Bernette B37 offer?

The Bernette B37 offers 50 built-in stitches, including utility stitches, decorative stitches, quilting stitches, and 5 one-step buttonholes. This variety ensures that users have the right stitch for any sewing task.

3. What is the maximum sewing speed of the Bernette B37?

The machine can sew at speeds of up to 700 stitches per minute, allowing users to complete their projects efficiently.

4. Does the Bernette B37 have a needle threader?

Yes, the Bernette B37 features a semi-automatic needle threader, which simplifies the threading process and saves time.

5. What accessories are included with the Bernette B37?

The machine comes with a comprehensive set of accessories, including:

• 5 presser feet (zigzag foot, buttonhole foot with slide, zipper foot, blindstitch foot, button-sew-on foot)
• Bobbins (4)
• Spool net
• Needle set
• Second spool pin
• Seam ripper/brush
• Spool discs (large and small)
• Spool pin felt
• T-screwdriver
• Dust cover
• Foot control

6. Does the Bernette B37 have adjustable presser foot pressure?

Yes, the machine features adjustable presser foot pressure, which allows users to customize the pressure applied to the fabric, ensuring even feeding and preventing fabric puckering. This is particularly useful when working with different fabric types.

7. Can the Bernette B37 handle quilting projects?

Yes, the Bernette B37 is suitable for quilting projects. It offers a variety of quilting stitches and features like the 2-step presser foot lift, which provides extra clearance for sewing multiple layers of fabric.

8. What is the throat space of the Bernette B37?

The machine offers a throat space of approximately 6 inches, which provides enough room to maneuver small to medium-sized quilting projects.

9. Does the Bernette B37 have a thread cutter?

Yes, the machine includes a manual thread cutter for convenient trimming of threads.

10. What is the warranty on the Bernette B37 sewing machine?

The Bernette B37 comes with a 10-year mechanical warranty and a 2-year electrical warranty, ensuring peace of mind and long-term reliability.

11. How do I maintain and lubricate the Bernette B37?

Regular maintenance includes cleaning lint and debris from the bobbin area, feed dogs, and needle area after each use. Lubricate the machine as per the user manual’s instructions, using only recommended sewing machine oil. Consider professional servicing annually or as needed.

12. Is the Bernette B37 suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Bernette B37 is ideal for beginners. Its user-friendly design, simple controls, and essential features make it easy for novice sewers to learn and practice sewing. The comprehensive accessory package further enhances its functionality, making it a valuable addition to any sewing room.

13. Does the Bernette B37 have a start/stop button?

Yes, the Bernette B37 features a start/stop button, allowing users to sew without using the foot pedal. This provides greater control and convenience, especially for long sewing sessions.

14. Can I adjust the sewing speed on the Bernette B37?

Yes, the machine includes a speed control slider, allowing users to adjust the sewing speed to match their skill level and the requirements of their project.

15. What is the size and weight of the Bernette B37?

The Bernette B37 weighs 8 kg (17.6 lbs) and has dimensions of 16.26 x 11.18 x 7.87 inches, making it relatively portable while providing a stable and robust sewing experience.

All Used Image Credit: Bernette.Com