Buying a Bernina sewing machine in the UK
Quilt Direct was established by Katherine Letherby in 1986, with BERNINA becoming central to our business in the late 1980s. Today, we are proud to be the UK's only BERNINA monobrand dealer and an authorised BERNINA Diamond Dealer, the highest dealership level available in the UK.
Our expertise extends beyond the domestic sewing and embroidery range to include BERNINA Q Series longarm quilting machines and Q-matic automation. We demonstrate, set up and service the machines we sell, providing specialist support long after purchase.
How the Bernina range is organised
BERNINA sewing machines are organised into numbered series, from the compact 3 Series through to the flagship B 990. As you move through the range, machines generally offer more sewing space, additional functions and increasingly advanced technology.
BERNINA's model numbering also identifies stitch width. In the current sewing machine range, models ending in 5 have a maximum stitch width of 5.5 mm, while models ending in 0 have a maximum stitch width of 9 mm.
Both stitch widths offer advantages, and the best choice depends on the type of sewing you enjoy.
3 Series (B 335). A compact BERNINA with a 5.5 mm stitch width and the traditional, robust BERNINA CB hook and bobbin system. Ideal for dressmaking, patchwork and everyday sewing, it combines modern technology with BERNINA's renowned stitch precision and reliability. Ideal for those with limited sewing space, it appeals equally to first-time BERNINA buyers and experienced sewers seeking a compact, capable machine.
4 Series (B 435, B 475 QE and B 480). Offering 7" of space to the right of the needle, the 4 Series combines excellent sewing capabilities with a manageable machine size. All three models feature the BERNINA Hook with its larger-capacity jumbo bobbin. The B 435 and B 475 QE have a 5.5 mm stitch width, while the B 480 offers 9 mm for wider decorative stitches. The B 475 QE is particularly suited to patchwork and precision piecing, with dedicated piecing accessories and the option to add the BERNINA Stitch Regulator (BSR) for free-motion quilting. The B 480 adds the convenience of an automatic thread cutter. An excellent range for dressmaking, patchwork and creative sewing.
5 Series (B 535, B 540, B 570 QE and B 590). Offering 8½" of space to the right of the needle, the 5 Series combines generous working space with advanced sewing, quilting and embroidery capabilities. All models feature the BERNINA Hook with its larger-capacity jumbo bobbin and an automatic thread cutter. The B 535 has a 5.5 mm stitch width, while the B 540, B 570 QE and B 590 offer 9 mm.
The B 570 QE is our best-selling 5 Series model, offering an excellent combination of generous sewing space, BERNINA Dual Feed, advanced quilting features and the option to add machine embroidery, all at a particularly attractive price point. The B 590 offers additional stitch patterns and more advanced embroidery functions, with the embroidery module included.
7 Series (B 735 PRO, B 770 QE PRO and B 790 ULTRA). Offering 10" of space to the right of the needle, the 7 Series provides generous working space and advanced technology for dressmaking, patchwork, quilting and machine embroidery.
All three models feature the BERNINA Pinpoint Laser for precise needle positioning and support BQM (BERNINA Customisable Quilt Designs), a vector-based quilting design format that lets you resize and customise designs while maintaining stitch quality when stitched with an embroidery module.
The B 735 PRO, with its 5.5 mm stitch width, is a strong choice for discerning sewers who value precision stitching and piecing alongside the 7 Series' advanced capabilities.
The B 770 QE PRO builds on the success of the B 770 and B 770 QE PLUS, historically among our most popular BERNINA models. With a 9 mm stitch width, BERNINA Dual Feed, and advanced quilting features, the addition of Pinpoint Laser and BQM capabilities makes it a compelling choice for discerning quilters, whether upgrading or buying their first 7 Series machine.
The B 790 ULTRA takes creative sewing and quilting further, adding the BERNINA Integrated Stitch Regulator (BISR), automatic stitch plate recognition, sophisticated embroidery capabilities, and an included embroidery module. It is an exciting choice for quilters seeking advanced technology before moving to the flagship B 990.
BERNINA B 990. BERNINA's flagship sewing, quilting and embroidery machine offers an exceptional 14" of space to the right of the needle and a large 10.1" touchscreen. Its advanced technology includes the BERNINA Integrated Stitch Regulator (BISR), Pinpoint Laser and automatic needle threader.
The B 990 truly excels in embroidery, with its built-in camera, Placement Scanner and innovative Giant Hoop, offering a maximum embroidery area of 16.1" × 12". Together with advanced embroidery editing and positioning functions, these features provide extraordinary creative freedom and precision for even the most ambitious projects.
What to think about before you buy
Choosing the right BERNINA. All BERNINA sewing machines offer excellent stitch quality, precision, and fabric handling for a wide range of creative pursuits, from dressmaking, patchwork, and quilting to bag making, home décor, and more. Whatever your sewing interests or ambitions, the main considerations are your budget, the machine's physical size, the working space to the right of the needle, touchscreen size and the additional technology that makes sewing easier and more enjoyable.
As you move through the range, increasingly sophisticated functions offer greater convenience, automation and creative possibilities. Most BERNINA presser feet and accessories are compatible across the range, making it easy to expand your sewing techniques.
The choice between 5.5 mm and 9 mm stitch widths mainly affects the maximum width of decorative stitches, not sewing precision or fabric feeding. The B 790 ULTRA and B 990 take decorative sewing further with sideways motion, with built-in stitch patterns up to 40 mm wide. Their innovative Jumbo Stitch function also lets you resize stitches from 25% to 500%, opening up even more creative possibilities.
For customers interested in machine embroidery or computerised quilting, the availability of an embroidery module and the machine's embroidery technology are also important considerations.
Stitch width and presser foot compatibility. BERNINA sewing machines have a maximum stitch width of either 5.5 mm or 9 mm. Most standard and specialist 5.5 mm presser feet, including those for piping and hemming, can also be used on 9 mm machines.
BERNINA presser feet marked C or D are designed for 9 mm machines and cannot be used on 5.5 mm machines. C feet accommodate wider stitches, while D feet are additionally designed to engage BERNINA Dual Feed.
For existing BERNINA owners, upgrading from a 5.5 mm to a 9 mm machine doesn't necessarily mean replacing their presser-foot collection.
BERNINA machines also feature changeable stitch plates, with options for techniques such as straight stitching, patchwork and embroidery.
Embroidery now or later. All current BERNINA 5 and 7 Series sewing machines are embroidery-compatible, giving you the flexibility to explore machine embroidery whenever you're ready. Some models, including the B 590, B 790 ULTRA and flagship B 990, come with an embroidery module, while others allow you to add one later.
Machine embroidery opens up a whole new world of creative possibilities, from personalising garments, bags and home décor to creating intricate embroidery designs and computerised quilting. BERNINA's advanced embroidery technology also supports BQM Customisable Quilt Designs on compatible models, allowing you to resize and adapt quilting patterns to suit your project.
New or pre-loved BERNINA. Alongside our latest BERNINA models, Quilt Direct offers a selection of pre-loved and ex-demonstration machines, letting you enjoy BERNINA quality and technology at a more accessible price.
Our in-house BERNINA service engineers thoroughly inspect, test, and adjust every pre-loved machine before offering it for sale, with further servicing carried out where necessary. Our preparation process ensures that each machine is in excellent working order and ready for its new owner.
Pre-loved machines come with a two-year Quilt Direct warranty, while our ex-demonstration machines benefit from a five-year Quilt Direct warranty*. Ex-demonstration machines provide another attractive option, often combining a recent model with excellent value.
Whether you're buying new, pre-loved, or ex-demonstration, our team can help you compare options and choose the machine that best suits your requirements and budget.
Handy links
Explore BERNINA at Quilt Direct
Which BERNINA is best for beginners?
The best BERNINA for a beginner depends on their sewing interests, ambitions and personal preferences. There is no need to start with the smallest or simplest machine. A larger touchscreen, more space to the right of the needle and convenient features such as automatic needle threading and thread cutting can make sewing easier and more enjoyable, regardless of experience.
The compact BERNINA 3 Series offers the precision, reliability and traditional CB hook system that BERNINA is renowned for, making it an excellent choice for customers who appreciate quality and prefer a smaller, straightforward machine.
For those looking to develop their sewing skills and explore new creative possibilities, the larger machines offer additional working space and increasingly sophisticated technology.
At Quilt Direct, we help customers explore the options through personal machine demonstrations, introductions and BERNINA Mastery Classes, ensuring they can choose with confidence and enjoy their machine for years to come.
How much does a BERNINA sewing machine cost in the UK?
BERNINA sewing machines start at under £1,000 for the compact 3 Series and extend to advanced sewing, quilting, and embroidery machines such as the flagship B 990. Prices reflect the machine's size, technology, features and included accessories.
At Quilt Direct, we offer the latest BERNINA models alongside carefully prepared pre-loved and ex-demonstration machines, providing excellent options across a wide range of budgets.
We also regularly offer special promotions and machine packages, so it's worth exploring our current range or speaking to our team about the best options available.
Can I pay for a BERNINA in instalments?
Yes. Quilt Direct offers PayPal Credit as a payment option, allowing eligible customers to spread the cost of their new BERNINA. PayPal Credit offers four months at 0% interest on qualifying purchases, subject to approval and the provider's terms and conditions.
You can explore the available payment options at checkout.
What warranty comes with a BERNINA?
New BERNINA sewing machines purchased from Quilt Direct come with BERNINA UK's seven-year parts and labour warranty for domestic use, subject to the manufacturer's terms and conditions.
As part of our after-sales service, we take care of your warranty registration. If we don't already have your machine's chassis number, simply provide it to us and we'll arrange registration on your behalf.
To maintain warranty cover, machines must be serviced in accordance with BERNINA UK's requirements, including a service every three years or sooner if indicated by the machine.
Our in-house BERNINA-trained engineers provide servicing, maintenance and warranty support. For customers further afield, we can also arrange collection and return delivery for servicing across most of the BERNINA range, provided the original packaging has been retained to ensure the machine can be transported safely.
Our pre-loved BERNINA machines come with a two-year Quilt Direct warranty, while ex-demonstration machines benefit from a five-year Quilt Direct warranty.
Different warranty terms apply to machines used commercially, overlockers, longarms and bernette machines.
Which BERNINA is best for quilting?
Every BERNINA sewing machine is capable of beautiful patchwork and quilting, but the best choice depends on the size of your projects, the working space you prefer and the technology you would like to use.
The B 570 QE is one of our most popular choices, combining generous sewing space, BERNINA Dual Feed and excellent quilting capabilities at an attractive price point.
For those who appreciate additional working space and advanced technology, the B 770 QE PRO offers 10" to the right of the needle, the precision of the BERNINA Pinpoint Laser and BQM Customisable Quilt Designs for computerised quilting using an embroidery module. The B 790 ULTRA and B 990 take creative quilting possibilities even further with additional technology, including the BERNINA Integrated Stitch Regulator.
For dedicated quilting, the BERNINA Q Series longarm machines offer the ultimate quilting experience. Designed specifically for quilting, the Q 16, Q 20 and Q 24 provide exceptional working space, precise stitch regulation and effortless fabric handling. Available in sit-down and frame-mounted configurations, with Q-matic automation on compatible frame models, they offer exciting possibilities for everything from free-motion quilting to fully computerised quilting designs.
As BERNINA longarm specialists, Quilt Direct can demonstrate both domestic and Q Series machines, helping you discover the best solution for your quilting ambitions.
What do QE, E, LE, PRO and ULTRA mean in BERNINA model names?
BERNINA uses additional letters and names to identify particular features, equipment packages and special editions.
- QE (Quilter's Edition): Models supplied with additional accessories and features selected for patchwork and quilting.
- E (Embroidery): Indicates a machine supplied with an embroidery module. Some current models, including the B 790 ULTRA and B 990, have embroidery included as standard, so the E is often omitted from their shortened marketing names.
- LE (Limited Edition): Special-edition machines, often featuring distinctive designs or accessory packages.
- PLUS: Identifies enhanced versions of earlier models, offering additional features and technology.
- PRO: Identifies models with advanced technology, including the BERNINA Pinpoint Laser and support for BQM Customisable Quilt Designs.
- ULTRA: The B 790 ULTRA offers additional technology, including the BERNINA Integrated Stitch Regulator (BISR), automatic stitch plate recognition, Jumbo Stitch and advanced embroidery functions.
Should I buy a new or pre-loved BERNINA?
Both new and pre-loved BERNINA machines offer excellent sewing quality and reliability. Buying new gives you access to the latest technology and features, together with BERNINA UK's seven-year manufacturer's warranty.
A pre-loved BERNINA can offer exceptional value, often letting you choose a larger or more advanced machine within your budget. Every pre-loved machine sold by Quilt Direct is thoroughly inspected, tested, and adjusted by our in-house engineers, with further servicing where necessary, and comes with a two-year Quilt Direct warranty.
Our ex-demonstration machines are also worth considering, combining the benefits of more recent models with attractive savings and a five-year Quilt Direct warranty.
Our team is always happy to help you compare new, pre-loved and ex-demonstration machines to find the right BERNINA for you.
How do I look after my BERNINA between services?
We recommend starting each day's sewing with a quick clean and oil of the hook area, following the instructions for your particular BERNINA model. Regular maintenance helps keep your machine running smoothly and ensures consistently beautiful stitching.
Remove any accumulated lint and thread debris, change your needle regularly and always use the correct BERNINA oil for your machine's hook system.
Our BERNINA FAQs and expert advice provide helpful maintenance guidance, and the Quilt Direct team is always happy to advise if you're unsure.
How much is delivery?
Quilt Direct offers free UK mainland delivery on all BERNINA sewing and embroidery machines.
Your new BERNINA is transported in the manufacturer's specially designed and rigorously tested protective packaging, using an insured, tracked delivery service to ensure it reaches you safely.
For our flagship BERNINA B 990, we encourage personal collection from our Studio where practical, so we can provide a tailored introduction to your new machine. Alternatively, we can arrange specialist courier or personal delivery by our team at the time of purchase.
BERNINA Q Series longarm machines are delivered by specialist couriers or, where practical, personally delivered by our team as part of the installation and setup arrangements.
Additional delivery charges or special arrangements may apply to certain destinations and larger machines.
Why buy from a UK BERNINA Diamond Dealer?
Quilt Direct is proud to be the UK's only BERNINA monoband dealer and an authorised BERNINA Diamond Dealer, the highest dealer accreditation in the UK.
Established in 1986, we have decades of experience helping customers choose, use and enjoy their BERNINA machines. Our enthusiastic team members are experienced BERNINA users themselves, combining practical sewing knowledge with specialist product training to offer informed, personal advice.
Uniquely, our BERNINA Studio features working Q Series longarm machines in both sit-down and frame configurations, allowing customers to experience these specialist machines firsthand, alongside our extensive range of BERNINA sewing, embroidery and overlocking machines.
From personal machine demonstrations and introductions to BERNINA Mastery Classes and creative workshops, we help customers develop their skills and make the most of their machines.
With BERNINA-trained engineers in our in-house service department, we also provide ongoing servicing, repairs and technical support long after your purchase.
When you buy from Quilt Direct, you're choosing more than a sewing machine. You're choosing a dedicated BERNINA specialist committed to helping you make the most of your investment for years to come.
Buying your BERNINA from Quilt Direct
- Family-owned and founder-led since 1986
- The UK's only BERNINA monobrand dealer
- Authorised BERNINA Diamond Dealer, the highest UK dealer accreditation
- Experienced BERNINA users offering knowledgeable, personal advice
- Extensive machine demonstrations, including working Q Series sit-down and frame longarms
- BERNINA Mastery Classes, individual introductions and specialist tuition
- In-house BERNINA-trained engineers providing servicing, repairs and after-sales support
- Carefully prepared pre-loved and ex-demonstration machines
- Flexible payment options and free UK mainland sewing machine delivery
At Quilt Direct, our commitment doesn't end when you purchase your machine. We're here to help you enjoy your BERNINA, develop your skills and explore new creative possibilities for years to come.
Thank you for sewing with us. Happy sewing!
Visit us on beautiful Dartmoor
Our BERNINA Studio is situated near the historic market town of Tavistock, part of the UNESCO Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape World Heritage Site, with Dartmoor National Park and the beautiful Tamar Valley National Landscape on our doorstep.
Why not make your visit to Quilt Direct part of a short break or holiday in Devon? Combine a personal BERNINA machine demonstration, a specialist class, or time exploring our Studio with the stunning Dartmoor countryside, Tavistock's historic Pannier Market, and the many attractions of West Devon and Cornwall.
Whether you're visiting for a day or staying a little longer, we look forward to welcoming you to Quilt Direct.
Vendor:Bernina PX
Vendor:Bernina
Vendor:Bernina PX
Vendor:Bernina
Vendor:Bernina
Vendor:Bernina
Vendor:Bernina
Vendor:Bernina
Vendor:Bernina
Vendor:Bernina
Vendor:Bernina
Vendor:Bernina PX
Vendor:Bernina
Vendor:Bernina
Vendor:Bernina
Vendor:Bernina
Vendor:Bernina
