Bernette B42 Coverstitch Only Overlock Serger Machine Review

Product Description

The Bernette B42 is a specialized coverstitch-only machine designed to provide professional-quality hems, edges, and cuffs on both stretch and woven fabrics. Unlike combination machines that alternate between coverstitch and serger functions, the B42 is dedicated solely to coverstitching, making it an efficient and user-friendly option for those who frequently work with knitwear and other stretchy materials. This machine is ideal for adding a professional finish to garments, with features that facilitate ease of use and precise stitching.

Key Features Of The Bernette B42 Serger Machine

1. Specialized Coverstitch and Chain Stitching

The Bernette B42 offers three different types of coverstitches (narrow, wide, and triple) and a chain stitch. This specialization allows for professional-quality hems, edges, and decorative stitching on a variety of fabrics.

2. High-Speed Performance

The machine can sew at speeds of up to 1300 stitches per minute, allowing users to complete their projects quickly and efficiently. This high-speed capability is particularly beneficial for large projects and professional sewing tasks.

3. Easy Threading System

The Bernette B42 features a simple threading system with color-coded threading paths, making it easy to thread the machine correctly. The separate needle threader and looper threading mechanism further simplify the process, reducing setup time.

4. 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 knits to heavier woven fabrics.

5. Large Work Area

The machine provides a 3.5-inch work area to the right of the needles, offering ample space for working on larger projects. The work area includes several guide lines to help with precise stitching.

6. Bright LED Lighting

The Bernette B42 is equipped with bright LED lights that illuminate the sewing area, providing excellent visibility and reducing eye strain. This ensures precise and accurate stitching, even in low-light conditions.

7. Lightweight and Portable

Weighing only 15 lbs (6.8 kg), the Bernette B42 is lightweight and easy to move around, making it a convenient option for those who need to transport their machine or have limited workspace.

8. External Adjustment Knobs

All adjustment knobs for tension, stitch length, differential feed, and presser foot pressure are located on the outside of the machine, making it easy to fine-tune settings on the fly without needing to open the machine.

9. Optional Presser Feet

The machine is compatible with eight optional presser feet, including a bias binder and an elasticator foot, providing additional versatility for various sewing tasks.

Bernette B42: Performance

The Bernette B42 delivers high-quality performance, making it an excellent choice for those who need a dedicated coverstitch machine. Its ability to handle both stretch and woven fabrics ensures versatility, while the high-speed performance and easy threading system make it efficient and user-friendly. The machine’s adjustable presser foot pressure and large work area further enhance its functionality, allowing users to tackle a wide range of projects with ease.

Applications

The Bernette B42 is ideal for a variety of sewing projects, including:

• Hemming t-shirts and other knit garments
• Attaching lace, tape, and bindings
• Decorative stitching
• Belt loop stitching
• Circular hemming
• Elastic lace attachments
• Hem stitching

Types of Stitches Offered by the Bernette B42 Overlock Serger Machine

The Bernette B42 is a specialized coverstitch-only machine designed to provide professional-quality hems, edges, and cuffs on both stretch and woven fabrics. Here are the types of stitches that the Bernette B42 can produce:

1. Narrow Coverstitch

• Width: 2.8 mm
• Description: This stitch is ideal for hemming lightweight and medium-weight fabrics. It creates two parallel lines of straight stitching on the top side of the fabric with a looping stitch on the underside, providing a clean and professional finish.

2. Wide Coverstitch

• Width: 5.6 mm
• Description: Suitable for hemming heavier fabrics, the wide coverstitch creates two parallel lines of straight stitching on the top side of the fabric with a wider looping stitch on the underside. This stitch is perfect for adding durability to hems and edges.

3. Triple Coverstitch

• Width: 5.6 mm
• Description: The triple coverstitch uses three needles to create three parallel lines of straight stitching on the top side of the fabric with a looping stitch on the underside. This stitch is ideal for decorative stitching and adding extra strength to hems and seams.

4. Chain Stitch

• Description: The chain stitch is a single-needle stitch that creates a straight seam with a chain-like loop on the underside. It is often used for seaming and decorative stitching. The chain stitch is also great for basting and can be easily removed if needed.

Summary

The Bernette B42 offers the following stitch types:

1. Narrow Coverstitch (2.8 mm)
2. Wide Coverstitch (5.6 mm)
3. Triple Coverstitch (5.6 mm)
4. Chain Stitch

Included Accessories of the Bernette B42 Overlock Serger Machine

The Bernette B42 is a specialized coverstitch-only machine designed to provide professional-quality hems, edges, and cuffs on both stretch and woven fabrics. Here is a detailed list of the included accessories that come with the Bernette B42 Overlock Serger Machine:

Standard Accessories

1. Standard Presser Foot
   • The machine comes with one standard presser foot, which is suitable for most coverstitch and chain stitch applications.
2. Needle Set (ELx705)
   • A set of needles specifically designed for coverstitching, ensuring optimal performance and stitch quality.
3. Screwdriver
   • Used for machine maintenance and adjustments, ensuring optimal performance.
4. Oiler
   • Essential for maintaining the machine’s moving parts, ensuring smooth operation and longevity.
5. Spool Nets (4)
   • Helps keep thread spools in place, preventing tangling and ensuring smooth thread feeding.
6. Spool Caps (4)
   • Different sizes of spool caps to accommodate various thread spool sizes, ensuring proper thread tension.
7. Brush
   • Used for cleaning the machine and removing lint and debris from the needle area, feed dogs, and bobbin case.
8. Needle Threader
   • A manual needle threader is included to simplify the threading process.
9. Tweezers
   • Helps in threading the machine and handling small parts.
10. Spool Stabilizers (4)
    • Ensures that the thread spools remain stable during sewing, preventing thread breakage and ensuring smooth operation.
11. Dust Cover
    • Protects the machine from dust and debris when not in use, extending its lifespan.
12. Foot Control
    • Allows for hands-free operation of the machine, providing better control over sewing speed and precision.

Types of Fabrics the Bernette B42 Overlock Serger Machine Can Handle

The Bernette B42 is a specialized coverstitch-only machine designed to provide professional-quality hems, edges, and cuffs on both stretch and woven fabrics. Here is a detailed look at the types of fabrics that the Bernette B42 can handle:

Stretch Fabrics

The Bernette B42 excels in handling stretch fabrics, making it ideal for projects that require flexibility and durability. These fabrics include:

1. Knits: Suitable for t-shirts, leggings, and other stretch garments. The machine’s coverstitch capabilities ensure that hems and seams remain flexible and do not break when the fabric is stretched.
2. Jersey: Perfect for lightweight and stretchy garments such as dresses, tops, and activewear. The coverstitch provides a professional finish that can withstand the fabric’s elasticity.
3. Lycra/Spandex: Ideal for swimwear, athletic wear, and dance costumes. The machine’s adjustable presser foot pressure ensures even feeding and precise stitching on these highly elastic materials.

Woven Fabrics

The Bernette B42 is also capable of handling various woven fabrics, providing a clean and professional finish to hems, edges, and decorative stitching. These fabrics include:

1. Cotton: Suitable for a wide range of projects, including shirts, skirts, and home décor items. The machine’s coverstitch ensures neat and durable hems.
2. Linen: Ideal for summer garments and lightweight home décor items. The coverstitch provides a clean finish that complements the fabric’s natural texture.
3. Denim: Suitable for jeans, jackets, and other heavy-duty garments. The machine’s high-speed performance and adjustable presser foot pressure allow it to handle thicker fabrics with ease.
4. Canvas: Perfect for bags, home décor, and outdoor projects. The coverstitch provides a durable and professional finish to hems and edges.

Specialty Fabrics

The Bernette B42 can also handle a variety of specialty fabrics, making it a versatile choice for creative projects. These fabrics include:

1. Velvet: Suitable for luxurious garments and home décor items. The machine’s coverstitch provides a clean finish that enhances the fabric’s plush texture.
2. Faux Leather: Ideal for bags, accessories, and home décor. The machine’s strong piercing power and adjustable presser foot pressure ensure smooth and even stitching on faux leather.
3. Fleece: Suitable for cozy garments and blankets. The coverstitch provides a durable and flexible finish that can withstand the fabric’s thickness and texture.

Specifications of the Bernette B42 Overlock Serger Machine

Pros and Cons of the Bernette B42 Overlock Serger Machine

Pros

1. Specialized Coverstitch and Chain Stitching:
   • The Bernette B42 offers three different types of coverstitches (narrow, wide, and triple) and a chain stitch. This specialization allows for professional-quality hems, edges, and decorative stitching on a variety of fabrics.
2. High-Speed Performance:
   • The machine can sew at speeds of up to 1300 stitches per minute, allowing users to complete their projects quickly and efficiently. This high-speed capability is particularly beneficial for large projects and professional sewing tasks.
3. Easy Threading System:
   • The Bernette B42 features a simple threading system with color-coded threading paths, making it easy to thread the machine correctly. The separate needle threader and looper threading mechanism further simplify the process, reducing setup time.
4. 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 knits to heavier woven fabrics.
5. Large Work Area:
   • The machine provides a 3.5-inch work area to the right of the needles, offering ample space for working on larger projects. The work area includes several guide lines to help with precise stitching.
6. Bright LED Lighting:
   • The Bernette B42 is equipped with bright LED lights that illuminate the sewing area, providing excellent visibility and reducing eye strain. This ensures precise and accurate stitching, even in low-light conditions.
7. Lightweight and Portable:
   • Weighing only 15 lbs (6.8 kg), the Bernette B42 is lightweight and easy to move around, making it a convenient option for those who need to transport their machine or have limited workspace.
8. External Adjustment Knobs:
   • All adjustment knobs for tension, stitch length, differential feed, and presser foot pressure are located on the outside of the machine, making it easy to fine-tune settings on the fly without needing to open the machine.
9. Optional Presser Feet:
   • The machine is compatible with eight optional presser feet, including a bias binder and an elasticator foot, providing additional versatility for various sewing tasks.

Cons

1. Manual Needle Threader:
   • The machine requires manual threading, which may be challenging for some users, especially those with vision difficulties or dexterity issues.
2. Manual Thread Cutter:
   • The Bernette B42 lacks an automatic thread cutter, requiring users to cut threads manually, which can be less convenient and time-consuming.
3. Limited to Coverstitching:
   • Unlike combination machines that offer both coverstitch and serging capabilities, the Bernette B42 is limited to coverstitching and chain stitching. This may be a limitation for users who need the versatility of a serger.
4. Weight:
   • While lightweight for portability, some users may prefer a more robust machine for heavy-duty tasks, as the lighter weight may affect stability during intense sewing sessions.

Conclusion

The Bernette B42 Overlock Serger Machine is a specialized coverstitch-only machine that excels in providing professional-quality hems, edges, and decorative stitching. Its high-speed performance, easy threading system, and adjustable presser foot pressure make it a user-friendly and efficient option for both beginners and experienced sewers. While it is limited to coverstitching and lacks some advanced features like an automatic thread cutter, its overall functionality and affordability make it an excellent choice for those looking to add a dedicated coverstitch machine to their sewing arsenal. If you frequently work with knits and other stretchy fabrics and seek a machine that can deliver precise and professional results, the Bernette B42 is a great option.

FAQs About Bernette B42 Overlock Serger Machine

1. What types of fabrics can the Bernette B42 handle?

The Bernette B42 is designed to handle a wide range of fabrics, including both stretch and woven materials. It can efficiently sew through fabrics such as:

• Knits: Ideal for t-shirts, leggings, and other stretch garments.
• Jersey: Suitable for lightweight and stretchy garments like dresses and tops.
• Lycra/Spandex: Perfect for swimwear, athletic wear, and dance costumes.
• Cotton: Suitable for a wide range of projects, including shirts and skirts.
• Linen: Ideal for summer garments and lightweight home décor items.
• Denim: Suitable for jeans, jackets, and other heavy-duty garments.
• Canvas: Perfect for bags, home décor, and outdoor projects.
• Velvet: Suitable for luxurious garments and home décor items.
• Faux Leather: Ideal for bags, accessories, and home décor.
• Fleece: Suitable for cozy garments and blankets.

2. How many stitches does the Bernette B42 offer?

The Bernette B42 offers four stitch types:

1. Narrow Coverstitch (2.8 mm)
2. Wide Coverstitch (5.6 mm)
3. Triple Coverstitch (5.6 mm)
4. Chain Stitch

3. What is the maximum sewing speed of the Bernette B42?

The machine can sew at speeds of up to 1300 stitches per minute, allowing users to complete their projects quickly and efficiently.

4. Does the Bernette B42 have a needle threader?

Yes, the Bernette B42 features a manual needle threader, which simplifies the threading process.

5. What accessories are included with the Bernette B42?

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

• Standard presser foot
• Needle set (ELx705)
• Screwdriver
• Oiler
• Spool nets (4)
• Spool caps (4)
• Brush
• Needle threader
• Tweezers
• Spool stabilizers (4)
• Dust cover
• Foot control

6. Does the Bernette B42 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.

7. Can the Bernette B42 handle quilting projects?

While the Bernette B42 is primarily designed for coverstitching, it can be used for certain quilting tasks that require a professional finish on hems and edges. However, it is not a dedicated quilting machine and may not offer the same versatility as a sewing machine specifically designed for quilting.

8. What is the throat space of the Bernette B42?

The machine provides a 3.5-inch work area to the right of the needles, offering ample space for working on larger projects.

9. Does the Bernette B42 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 B42 Overlock Serger Machine?

The Bernette B42 comes with a 2-year parts and labor warranty, ensuring peace of mind and long-term reliability.

11. How do I maintain and lubricate the Bernette B42?

Regular maintenance includes cleaning lint and debris from the needle area, feed dogs, and looper 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 B42 suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Bernette B42 is suitable for beginners. Its user-friendly design, simple controls, and essential features make it easy for novice sewers to learn and practice coverstitching. The comprehensive accessory package further enhances its functionality, making it a valuable addition to any sewing room.

13. Does the Bernette B42 have LED lighting?

Yes, the Bernette B42 is equipped with bright LED lights that illuminate the sewing area, providing excellent visibility and reducing eye strain.

14. Can I adjust the stitch length and width on the Bernette B42?

Yes, the machine includes external adjustment knobs for easy fine-tuning of stitch length, stitch width, differential feed, and presser foot pressure.

15. What is the size and weight of the Bernette B42?

The Bernette B42 weighs 6.8 kg (15 lbs) and has dimensions of 13.23 x 10.35 x 11.57 inches, making it relatively portable while providing a stable and robust sewing experience.

All Used Image Credit : Bernette.Com