Bernette B35 Sewing Machine: Expert Review of Features, Accessories & Supported Techniques

Our Bernette B35 review​ explores the robust mechanical machine designed for sewers of all levels, who appreciate reliability, versatility, and ease of use.

3 simple knobs let you be in command of your stitch width, length, and pattern in an instant. Easily accessible wheel lets you fine-tune your tension on the fly, ensuring perfect stitches every time.

All that lets you handle everyday sewing tasks and creative projects effortlessly.

Bernette B35’s automatic 1-step function delivers professional-looking buttonholes quickly and without any frustration.

You will have a selection of 23 versatile stitches, from essential utility stitches to delightful decorative options.

The Bernette B35 comes equipped with seven practical snap-on presser feet, from the all-purpose zigzag foot to specialized feet for buttonholes, zippers, and delicate hems.

Additionally, the 2-step presser foot lift lets you handle multiple layers and thicker fabrics.

The machine’s high piercing power confidently tackles a wide range of materials, from delicate silks to heavy canvases.

Integrated accessory box keeps all your essential tools – bobbins, brushes, presser feet, and threads – neatly organized and within reach.

Bernette B35 is lightweight and portable enough for easy transportation, that also makes it suitable for classes, workshops, and home sewing spaces with limited storage.

Bernette B35 Features Review:

1. Stitch Variety & Versatility

23 Stitch Patterns collection includes an array of stitches categorized into utility, decorative, and buttonhole options. It covers diverse sewing applications, such as basic stitching, garment construction, decorative embellishments, and home textile projects.

14 Practical Utility Stitches include straight stitch, zigzag, overcasting, blindstitch, triple zigzag, stretch-overlock, and triple straight stitches. That stitches palette offers essential stitches for basic sewing tasks, such as seams, repairs, garment assembly, and finishing techniques.

Stitch Width That Adapts (Up to 5mm) gives you flexibility and control to each stitch, letting you go bold with decorative stitches or keep things neat and narrow when you need extra precision. Suitable for decorative stitches and fabric edging. This adaptability is often highlighted in a detailed Bernette B35 review for its benefit to both beginner and intermediate sewists.

2. Buttonholes & Finishing Touches

Automatic 1-Step Buttonhole system provides fully automated buttonhole process. Just set it, and the machine does the rest. It ensures consistently sized, high-quality buttonholes with minimal effort, perfectly tailored to your button size.

Reverse Sewing Lever enables secure and neat locking of stitches at the beginning and end of seams.

Built-in Thread Cutter allows quick and easy thread trimming directly on the machine, improving workflow, and keeping workspace tidy.

3. Fabric Handling & Precision Control

Adjustable Thread Tension provides precise control over thread tension, for achieving high-quality stitches on different fabric types. At the same time, clearly marked tension dial allows straightforward adjustments.

Retractable Feed Dog enables smooth fabric movement for standard sewing or lowering for free-motion sewing and embroidery tasks. As a result it adds flexibility in performing specialized sewing techniques like darning or freehand embroidery.

Two-Step Presser Foot Lift offers extra height when positioning thick or multi-layered fabrics, like denim, or upholstery.

4. Ease of Use & Setup

Integrated Manual Needle Threader simplifies threading needles, significantly reducing setup time and enhancing sewing efficiency. It can be especially beneficial for users who find manual threading difficult.

Front Loading Hook System (A Classic Approach to Bobbins) is a dependable front-loading hook system that is straightforward to access and manage your bobbins, keeping things simple and reliable, letting you focus on the sewing. This classic bobbin style is a reliable choice often praised in a Bernette B35 review for its simplicity and effectiveness.

5. Workspace & Sewing Speed

170mm Free Arm provides the open space you need for comfortable and precise stitching. It’s designed to facilitate easy sewing of tubular and difficult-to-reach areas, such as sleeves, cuffs, pant legs, and collars, especially useful for garment making and alterations.

Sewing speed up to 700 Stitches Per Minute adds more confidence when handling even the large projects, ensuring their efficient completion. Additionally, it comes with a foot pedal-controlled feature, allowing intuitive speed management, which is helpful for both beginners and advanced users.

Included Accessories:

Comprehensive accessory set that we’re gonna explore in that detailed Bernette B35 review, comes with standard with 7 essential presser feet, helping manage diverse sewing applications effectively.

1. Specialized Presser Feet for Stitching Techniques

Blindstitch Presser Foot is a specialized foot that lets to achieve attractive blind hemming, that seem to disappear on your clothing and home textile projects.

Hemmer Foot features a helix that neatly folds fabric edges twice for attractive, delicate hems.

Zig-Zag Foot is a versatile foot for general sewing projects, such as constructing seams, mending mishaps, and for exploring decorative stitches and patchwork tasks as well.

Buttonhole Foot with Slide is a specialized foot that makes achieving buttonholes with or without cording a simple and satisfying process. The integrated slide ensures consistent sizing, and it even offers the option to incorporate cording for a more structured and professional look.

Embroidery Foot with Clear Sole offers  an invaluable advantage thanks to its transparent base that provides a crystal-clear view of your stitching area, allowing for precise placement.

2. Fastening & Functional Feet

Button-Sew-On Clever Foot makes attaching buttons, rings, and decorative accents effortless, ensuring they’re secured neatly and firmly.

Zipper Foot is about more than just zippers, it’s your trusty guide for sewing along narrow edges. It’s, inserting zippers with professional precision, letting you work on creative projects, including delicate beading.

3. Maintenance & Support Tools

Seam ripper (buttonhole opener) conveniently removes stitches and opens buttonholes.

Screwdrivers (large and small) are handy for machine maintenance and presser foot changes.

4. Stitching Essentials

4 Bernette Bobbins are engineered to maintain consistent thread tension, ensuring precise sewing and embroidery results.

Needle assortment suitable for different fabric types and sewing needs.

5. Storage & Protection

Dust cover protects your machine when not in use.

Accessory storage box offers organized storage for all your sewing tools and accessories.

These included accessories significantly enhance the functionality of the machine and are frequently praised in any Bernette B35 review for offering exceptional value to both beginners and experienced sewists.

Optional Accessories:

These specialized tools are ready to step in when you want to tackle specific techniques or materials. Many of these are highlighted in our Bernette B35 review as valuable add-ons that elevate your sewing experience.

1. Fabric Control & Precision Guides

Seam Guide Right is a handy guide that acts like a built-in ruler, ensuring your stitching stays on track, resulting in straight edges and parallel seams.

Binder Attachment for Unfolded Bias Tape precisely guides and folds the bias tape as you sew, creating clean and consistent bindings in a width of 25 to 28 mm.

2. Specialty Feet for Decorative & Creative Work

Cording Foot provides perfect application of several narrow yarns or cords in a single step, making it simple to add dimension and texture.

Gathering Foot simultaneously gathers fabric and attaches it to a flat piece, letting to add charming ruffles or gathered sections to your garments or home décor.

Darning / Embroidery Foot allows you to guide the fabric directly with your hands, perfect for darning holes, mending tears, and exploring free-form embroidery designs.

Embroidery Foot is specifically designed to provide optimal visibility and control for intricate embroidery details and beautifully formed buttonhole seams.

3. Feet for Functional & Finishing Techniques

Overlocker Foot lets to achieve neat, serged-like edges or add unique decorative finishes to cuffs, hems, and even buttonholes, bringing the functionality of an overlocker right to your Bernette B35.

Invisible-Zipper Foot is a specialized foot, that allows you to sew elegant concealed zippers into clothing and home textiles in so smoothly, they practically disappear.

Straight-Stitch Foot is specifically designed for all straight-stitch tasks. It’s small needle hole provides extra support to the fabric, preventing flagging and ensuring crisp, clean lines.

4. Feet for Challenging or Specialty Materials

Walking Foot features its own set of feed dogs on top, ensuring all layers move together smoothly for even, consistent stitching. That makes working with challenging materials like knits, vinyl, or multiple layers easy.

Non-Stick Zigzag Foot with its non-stick sole glides over materials that tend to stick, like leather, plastic, or vinyl, ensuring smooth, even feeding without any frustrating drag.

5. Needle Set

BERNINA Needle Assortment provides needles in various sizes for optimal stitch quality and fabric care you’re working with.

In any thorough Bernette B35 review, these optional accessories are praised for unlocking the full potential of the machine, offering advanced functionality and precise control for creative and technical sewing alike.

Sewing Techniques Supported by the Bernette B35 Sewing Machine:

The Bernette B35 is equipped with a wide range of built-in stitches and features that make it a versatile machine for both everyday sewing and more advanced creative work.

Many techniques listed below are praised in our detailed Bernette B35 review for their precision, ease of use, and adaptability across various projects.

Straight Stitching

Ideal for general sewing tasks, garment construction, top-stitching, and basting. Stitch length is adjustable up to 4mm for different sewing needs.

Zigzag Stitching

Used for fabric edge finishing, overcasting, appliqué, sewing elastic, decorative stitching, and button-sewing tasks. Stitch width adjustable up to 5mm.

Buttonholes (Automatic 1-Step)

Automatically creates consistent, professional-quality buttonholes quickly. Suitable for various garment types, from casual to formal wear.

Blindstitching

Creates nearly invisible hems on clothing and home textiles, ensuring an elegant finish without visible stitches.

Zipper Application

Efficiently attaches zippers with precision, suitable for clothing, bags, and other creative sewing projects.

Rolled Hem

Quickly produces delicate, attractive hems on lightweight fabrics for garments and home decor projects.

Stretch Stitching Techniques

Includes triple straight stitch, stretch-overlock, and triple zigzag for sewing on stretch fabrics such as knits and jersey, ideal for swimwear, sportswear, and underwear.

Overcasting and Finishing Edges

Provides professional edge finishes to prevent fabric fraying and unraveling, improving garment durability.

Decorative Stitching

Offers decorative stitches such as Vari-Overlock (scallop hems), honeycomb stitch, and satin stitches, perfect for embellishing garments, quilting, and home décor projects.

Smocking

Produces decorative gathering effects, ideal for creating textured garments or decorative fabric patterns.

Appliqué

Precisely attaches decorative fabric pieces onto garments or home textiles with neat, decorative edges.

Darning and Embroidery (Free-hand sewing)

Suitable for repairing fabric tears and holes, or for creating personalized free-motion embroidery and embellishments.

How to Get Started and Prepare for Sewing with Bernette B35 Sewing Machine

Getting started with your Bernette B35 is an exciting step and following these preparation steps will ensure safe, efficient use of your machine. Many steps outlined here are frequently highlighted in a well-structured Bernette B35 review as key advantages for beginners and hobbyists alike.

1. Setting Up the Sewing Machine

Connect to Power Supply:

• Switch off the power button.
• Insert the machine plug into the Power/Foot control connection and plug it into a wall outlet.
• Turn on the power switch to start your machine.

2. Controlling Sewing Speed

Use the foot control to vary sewing speed. Press gently for slower speeds suitable for intricate sewing tasks, or press firmly for faster speeds ideal for longer seams.

3. Presser Foot Adjustment

Use the presser foot lever to raise or lower the foot.

The lever has two positions: normal up and an extra ¼ inch (0.6 cm) lift for thicker materials.

4. Changing and Attaching Presser Feet

Turn off the power switch before changing feet.

To remove, lift the presser foot and push the presser foot release lever.

To attach, align the presser foot pin with the groove on the holder, then lower the foot to snap it into place.

5. Installing Needles Correctly

Ensure power is off before changing needles.

Loosen the needle clamp screw, insert the needle with the flat side to the rear, push it fully upward, then securely tighten the clamp screw.

6. Selecting Needle and Thread Based on Fabric

Follow the included Fabric and Needle Chart provided in the manual:

• Fine fabrics: Use needle sizes #9/65–#11/75 with silk, cotton, or synthetic threads (#80-100).
• Medium fabrics: Use needle sizes #11/75–#14/90 with medium-weight thread (#50–80).
• Heavy fabrics: Choose needle sizes #14/90–#16/100 with heavier threads (#30–50).

7. Setting Up Spool Pins

Raise the spool pin and secure your thread spool. For threads prone to tangling, pass thread through the hole in the spool pin.

8. Winding and Inserting Bobbin

Pull the handwheel outward, guide thread around bobbin-winding tension, and insert thread end through bobbin hole.

Place bobbin on spindle, engage it, and depress foot control to wind. Return spindle after winding.

Insert bobbin into the bobbin case, ensuring thread direction matches arrow, threading under the tension spring and through delivery eye.

9. Threading the Machine

Raise thread take-up lever to the highest position.

Follow threading sequence provided in the manual: guide thread through tension discs, check spring, take-up lever, and thread guide before threading the needle eye from front to back.

Use the built-in needle threader for ease and convenience.

10. Drawing Up Bobbin Thread

Slightly hold needle thread, turn handwheel counterclockwise to draw bobbin thread up, and pull both threads beneath the presser foot.

11. Adjusting Thread Tension

For balanced stitches, adjust the thread tension dial according to fabric type and stitching technique:

• Tension too tight: bobbin thread appears on fabric top side; loosen tension.
• Tension too loose: needle thread appears on the fabric underside; tighten tension.

12. Selecting Stitch Patterns

Use the stitch pattern selector knob to choose desired stitch.

Adjust stitch length (0.5–4mm) and width (0–5mm) using respective knobs based on project requirements.

13. Feed Dog Adjustment

Lower feed dog for free-motion or embroidery work by moving the lever inside the bobbin area as shown in the manual.

14. Beginning to Sew

Raise presser foot, position fabric, lower needle into fabric, lower presser foot, and gently press foot control to sew.

Secure seams by briefly pressing reverse lever at seam beginnings and ends.

These essential preparation steps are often cited in a Bernette B35 review as examples of why this model is so beginner-friendly and versatile. Whether you’re working on simple repairs or creative fashion projects, getting started the right way ensures a smooth and enjoyable sewing experience.

Bernette B35 Sewing Machine Maintenance Tips:

One of the reasons the machine consistently earns praise in every Bernette B35 review is its user-friendly maintenance process.

Following these straightforward steps from the official manual will help ensure your Bernette B35 remains efficient, reliable, and always ready to tackle your creative projects.

Regular Cleaning of the Bobbin Area

Regularly remove and clean the bobbin case and shuttle race to prevent lint and dust buildup. This ensures smooth bobbin function and prevents potential thread jams.

How-to: Open the bobbin cover, remove the bobbin case, and clean the shuttle race area gently with the provided brush.

Shuttle Race Unit Maintenance

Periodically dismantle and clean the shuttle race unit to ensure precise stitching and efficient machine performance.

How-to: Remove the bobbin case, open shuttle race ring holders, remove shuttle race ring, and shuttle. Clean the area thoroughly with a brush and dry cloth, then reassemble carefully.

Proper Oiling

Regular oiling is crucial to maintain the machine’s smooth operation and prolong its life. Only use high-quality sewing machine oil recommended by Bernette.

How-to: Apply 1-2 drops of oil onto the shuttle race area after cleaning. Wipe off excess oil to avoid fabric contamination.

Feed Dog Cleaning

Clean the feed dog regularly to ensure even fabric feeding and smooth sewing operation.

How-to: Remove the needle, presser foot, and stitch plate, then use the cleaning brush provided to remove lint and dust from the feed dog.

Needle Maintenance

Replace needles regularly to ensure sewing quality. Always use straight, sharp needles suited for your fabric type to prevent skipped stitches or needle breakage.

How-to: Check needle straightness regularly and replace any blunt or bent needles immediately.

Storing the Machine Properly

Store your Bernette b35 sewing machine in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat radiators to prevent mechanical issues and maintain optimal performance.

Regular Threading Check

Always ensure correct threading of both the needle and bobbin threads. Incorrect threading can lead to thread breaks, tension issues, and uneven stitches.

Conclusion:

These maintenance practices are often highlighted in a thorough Bernette B35 review as key contributors to the machine’s dependable performance and long-term durability. With just a few minutes of regular care, your sewing machine will stay in top shape for years to come.

Bernette B35 STITCH PATTERNS

Pros and Cons of the Bernette B35 Sewing Machine

Pros	Cons
Affordability: Many customers highlighted that the Bernette B35 offers great value for money. It is appreciated for being an affordable option, especially for those looking for a basic sewing machine.	Limited Features: A few users pointed out the limited number of stitches and features, meaning it may not be suitable for advanced sewing projects.
Ease of Use: Several users noted that the machine is easy to set up and operate, making it a good choice for beginners as well as experienced sewers needing a straightforward, no-fuss machine.	Manual Operation: The machine being mechanical means that some operations like buttonholes require manual intervention, which was seen as a drawback by some users who prefer automatic features.
Lightweight and Portable: Some reviews mentioned that the machine is lightweight, which makes it convenient for transport to classes or for storage in small spaces.	Potential Jamming Issues: A couple of reviews mentioned issues with the machine jamming, although this did not seem to be a widespread problem.
Good for Basic Sewing: Many users found it suitable for basic sewing tasks and small projects, like repairs or simple garments.	Basic for Experienced Users: Some experienced users found the machine too basic for their needs, particularly given its limited automation and stitch variety.
Stitch Quality: Reviews frequently commented on the good stitch quality, which was consistent with users’ expectations from a machine in this category.

Overall, while the Bernette B35 receives positive reviews for its functionality and value, potential buyers should consider its construction material and specific needs for heavy-duty sewing.

COMPARE Bernette B35 WITH SIMILAR MODELS

Personal Experience

I remember when I first got the Bernette B35 sewing machine. It was more than just buying a machine; it was like finding a way back to an old hobby that I hadn’t practiced in a long time. As a kid, I often watched my mom sew on her old 1971 Bernina Bernette, creating beautiful clothes and quilts. Those memories always made me want to try sewing again.

When I came across the Bernette B35 online, it seemed perfect. Although there weren’t many reviews, something about it just felt right, maybe because of its connection to the reliable Bernina brand known for quality.

Opening the box was exciting. The instructions were easy to follow, helping me explore its features, like the 23 different stitches, which included a great one for stretchy fabrics—a must for the clothes I wanted to make. I liked that it was a mechanical machine, meaning it was simple to maintain and wouldn’t need software updates.

Using the Bernette B35 was smooth and enjoyable. Each stitch was consistent, and despite being lightweight, it felt solid. I did have a bit of trouble figuring out the automatic buttonhole feature at first, and it made buttonholes a bit larger than I wanted, but it wasn’t a big deal.

One downside was that it was hard to find extra accessories online, and the machine had more plastic parts than metal, which made me worry a bit about durability. However, these were small issues compared to how much I enjoyed using it.

Conclusion

Overall, this machine wasn’t just about sewing; it was about rediscovering a pastime I loved. Whether I was sewing a simple hem or tackling a thick fabric project, the Bernette B35 was a great companion—reminding me of the joy of making something with my own hands. If you’re looking for a reliable, easy-to-use sewing machine, the Bernette B35 is a wonderful choice.

How Bernette B35 Customers review it:

• “I have many machines of different brands I thought I would give this one a try.So far so good Its been a few months now and I like the machine It is a great machine for beginners also.” – April 7, 2022 by Mary S. (NY, United States)
• “Great machine to learn” – August 20, 2021 by Hector P. (United States)
• “The Bernette 35 is very easy to use which is my sole reason for buying it. I am an experienced sewist and quilter and just wanted something quick and easy for button holes and a few other variations of stitches.” – July 17, 2021 by Deborah M. (MO, United States)
• “Lightweight and perfect for a take me along machine. Straight forward mechanical machine, easy to set up and operate, will be easy to clean and maintain” – April 6, 2021 by Laura M. (United States)
• “I love the simplicity of this sewing machine, no electronics, easy to use.” – March 19, 2021 by Irene M. (MA, United States)
• “Exactly what I wanted. Hassle free, sews perfect stitches, and doesn’t have that cheap toy feel. As a long time owner of manual sewing machines, I’m very pleased with this purchase.” – March 11, 2021 by Margaret L. (MD, United States)

Read more reviews

Bernette B35 Review F.A.Q.

Is the Bernette B35 a computerized sewing machine?

Nope! The Bernette B35 is a straightforward mechanical sewing machine. All stitch adjustments – width, length, and pattern – are easily controlled using the three clearly marked knobs. This makes it user-friendly and a great choice for those who prefer a more hands-on approach.

Is it suitable for beginners?

Its straightforward controls and reliable performance make it perfect for beginners.

How many different stitches does the Bernette B35 offer?

The B35 comes equipped with a versatile selection of 23 different stitch patterns. This includes 14 practical utility stitches for everyday sewing tasks and 9 decorative stitches to add a personal and creative flair to your projects.

Can the Bernette B35 handle thicker fabrics?

The B35 features a 2-step presser foot lift, which provides extra clearance for sewing multiple layers of fabric or thicker materials like denim and quilted fabrics. Its high piercing power also helps to handle a variety of fabric weights effectively.

Does the Bernette B35 sew buttonholes?

The B35 features an automatic 1-step buttonhole function. This makes sewing professional-looking buttonholes quick and incredibly easy. Simply attach the buttonhole foot, select the function, and the machine will stitch a perfectly sized buttonhole in one continuous step.

Can I adjust the stitch width and length on the Bernette B35?

Yes, you certainly can! The stitch width (up to 5mm) and stitch length are easily adjustable using dedicated control knobs on the front of the machine. This gives you the flexibility to customize your stitches to suit different fabrics and project requirements.

Is the thread tension adjustable on the Bernette B35?

The thread tension can be easily adjusted using a conveniently located wheel on the machine. This allows you to fine-tune the tension to achieve balanced and even stitches, especially when working with different types of thread and fabric.

What kind of presser feet are included with the Bernette B35?

Bernette B35 comes with a set of seven essential snap-on presser feet, including:

• Zigzag foot (A)
• Satin stitch foot (F)
• Buttonhole foot with slide (D)
• Button-sew-on foot (T)
• Zipper foot (E)
• Blindstitch foot (C)
• Hemmer foot (J)

These feet cover a wide range of sewing applications right out of the box.

Does the Bernette B35 have a free arm?

Bernette B35 has a free arm with a length of 170mm. This feature is incredibly useful for sewing cuffs, collars, trouser legs, and other cylindrical or small items.

What is the maximum sewing speed of the Bernette B35?

Bernette B35 has a maximum sewing speed of 700 stitches per minute, allowing you to complete your projects efficiently.

Does the Bernette B35 have a needle threader?

Bernette B35 is equipped with a manual needle threader, making the often-fiddly task of threading the needle much quicker and easier.

Does the Bernette B35 have a thread cutter?

The B35 has a manual thread cutter conveniently located on the side of the machine, allowing you to snip your threads quickly and easily after sewing.

Is the Bernette b35 sewing machine portable?

Yes, its compact dimensions and lightweight build make it easy to carry and transport.