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Reviews: Bernina 560 Sewing Machine – Pros, Cons & Comparison (2024)

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reviewsbernina 560So, you’re thinking about getting the Bernina 560 sewing machine but want to know if it’s the right choice. Let’s take a closer look.

The Bernina 560 has received some glowing reviews from users who praise its versatility, functionality, and ease of use. One user raves about the machine’s ability to handle sewing, embroidery, and quilting with a wide range of stitches and five alphabets. The large touchscreen, Bernina stitch regulator, and memory function also get a thumbs up for making the machine a breeze to use.

There are some happy customers who are glad they invested in the Bernina brand, calling it an "incredible and professional machine". The automatic features and included accessories are also a big plus.

Of course, there’s more to uncover—from performance and convenience to how it stacks up against other models.

Key Takeaways

  • The Bernina 560 sewing machine is a jack-of-all-trades, offering sewing, embroidery, and quilting features, with a whopping 676 stitches and 5 alphabets to play with.
  • Its large, bright touchscreen display and intuitive functionality make it a breeze to use, like having your own personal sewing assistant.
  • With a maximum sewing speed of 1,000 stitches per minute and a 9mm maximum stitch width, this machine is versatile and efficient, suitable for a range of projects.
  • You’re not just buying a machine; you’re joining a community. Bernina offers a global support network with over 2,000 stores worldwide, providing tailored advice and servicing for your investment.

Bernina 560 Features and Benefits

Bernina 560 Features and Benefits
The Bernina 560 sewing machine packs a punch with its impressive features and user-friendly design. From its expansive stitch library to its bright touchscreen interface, this machine offers a seamless blend of functionality and convenience, making it a top choice for both beginners and seasoned sewists alike.

676 Stitches and 5 Alphabets

The Bernina 560 offers a mind-boggling 676 stitches and 5 alphabets, giving you a ridiculous amount of variety for your projects.

You can easily create unique, decorative stitches and embroidery designs with this machine. Whether you’re a font fanatic or a stitch enthusiast, the Bernina 560 has you covered with its impressive range of options:

  • 676 stitches to play with
  • 5 distinct alphabets
  • 160 dedicated embroidery stitches

Large, Bright Color Touchscreen

The Bernina 560 sports a large, bright colour touchscreen that’s a dream to use.

It’s intuitive, with a clear display and simple navigation.

You won’t find yourself squinting or struggling to see what’s on the screen, even in low light.

The touchscreen interface is super responsive, making it a breeze to select stitches, adjust settings, and access the machine’s many features.

It’s like having your own personal sewing assistant at your fingertips!

Built-in Sewing and Embroidery Consultant

The Bernina 560’s built-in Sewing and Embroidery Consultant is like having your own personal guru.

It’s a handy feature that guides you through stitch and embroidery selections, offering suggestions and advice to streamline your creative process.

No more second-guessing or poring over manuals.

This feature makes it easy to tap into the machine’s extensive capabilities, so you’re never lost in your sewing journey.

Intelligent Memory Function and BSR Capability

The Bernina 560 offers an intelligent memory function, letting you store stitch combos in its 8 MB memory. No more writing down settings or guessing what worked last time. Plus, its BSR capability gives consistent stitch lengths, even on curves. No more wonky seams!

Expandable Embroidery Possibilities

The Bernina 560 offers a lot of potential when it comes to embroidery options.

You can purchase an optional embroidery module to expand your capabilities.

This lets you create your own designs and edit them on-screen.

Plus, with 70 built-in embroidery patterns, you can start stitching right away.

Sewing and Embroidery Performance

Sewing and Embroidery Performance
For sewing and embroidery, the Bernina 560 is a speedy and versatile machine. It can sew up to 1000 stitches per minute and has a maximum stitch width of 9mm, giving you the flexibility to create a range of designs.

Maximum Sewing Speed of 1000 Stitches Per Minute

The Bernina 560 Sewing Machine offers an impressive maximum sewing speed of 1000 stitches per minute, allowing you to fly through your projects. This speed is a significant advantage, especially when working on larger pieces or time-consuming embroidery designs.

Here are some key benefits of this feature:

  • Increased productivity: With a higher stitch speed, you can complete projects faster.
  • Efficiency: The machine’s speed can help you quickly tackle multiple layers of fabric or intricate designs.
  • Time-saving: The Bernina 560’s speed can be a game-changer, especially if you’re working on a tight deadline or have a large volume of sewing to complete.
  • Versatility: This feature makes the machine suitable for a range of projects, from quilting to embroidery.

Maximum Stitch Width of 9 Mm and Length of 5 Mm

The Bernina 560 offers a 9mm max stitch width and a 5mm stitch length, giving you ample room to experiment with various stitch patterns and designs.

This feature caters to those seeking to explore beyond basic stitches, allowing you to create intricate embroidery patterns.

Whether you’re a novice or an expert, the machine’s stitch width and length options open up a world of creative possibilities.

11 Adjustable Needle Positions

The Bernina 560 offers 11 adjustable needle positions, giving you precise control over your sewing and embroidery projects.

This feature lets you fine-tune the needle’s position to the left or right, making sure your stitches are accurate and your patterns are perfectly placed.

Whether you’re creating intricate embroidery designs or sewing precise seams, the adjustable needle position setting helps you get your stitches exactly where you want them.

Automatic Buttonhole and Length Measuring System

Say goodbye to wonky buttonholes and uneven stitching—

The Bernina 560’s automatic buttonhole and length measuring system brings precision and consistency to your sewing projects.

No more fiddly manual adjustments or uneven results.

With 11 adjustable needle positions and a maximum stitch width of 9mm, you can create perfectly sized buttonholes with ease.

The machine’s memory function also helps you keep your settings for future projects, so you can get the same flawless results every time.

70 Built-in Embroidery Patterns and On-Screen Editing

The Bernina 560 shines with 70 built-in patterns, giving you a wide range of designs to choose from.

But that’s not all – you can also edit these designs on-screen, making it easy to personalize your projects.

Rotate, mirror, or change the size of your chosen pattern to make it truly unique.

This feature is perfect for those who want to add a custom touch to their embroidery projects.

Convenience and Accessories

Convenience and Accessories
The Bernina 560 Sewing Machine offers a range of convenient features and accessories to enhance your sewing experience. From an extended work surface to intuitive touchscreen operation, you’ll find a host of useful additions that make this machine a pleasure to use.

Slide-on Table for Extended Work Surface

The Bernina 560 offers a slide-on table that extends your work surface, providing a convenient space for larger projects.

This is especially useful if you’re working with bulky fabrics or quilts.

No more struggling with limited space and fabrics bunching up.

The slide-on table gives you the freedom to spread out and work comfortably.

It’s like having your very own sewing room expansion!

Accessories Box for Storage

The Bernina 560’s accessories box is a handy feature that simplifies your sewing experience:

  • Spacious Interior: Offers roomy storage for all your sewing essentials.
  • Organization Central: Keeps your tools organized, so you’re not frantically searching for that extra bobbin.
  • Time-Saver: No more wasted minutes hunting down the right foot or thread spool.
  • Protects Your Machine: Easy access to accessories means your machine stays in top condition.
  • Enjoyable Sewing: Focus on your creativity, not the hassle of misplaced items.

Automatic Thread Cutter and Intuitive Touchscreen Operation

The Bernina 560 also boasts an automatic thread cutter, saving you time and effort with its swift and precise cuts. Plus, its intuitive touchscreen operation makes navigation a breeze. With a simple tap or swipe, you can access a world of features and functions, making your sewing experience seamless and efficient.

USB Interface for Data Transfer and Multi-Function Knobs

The Bernina 560 also boasts a USB interface for data transfer, allowing you to easily move your designs and projects onto the machine.

This feature is perfect for those who want to explore new patterns and ideas without the hassle of complicated data transfers.

The multi-function knobs also make navigation a breeze, giving you the power to quickly adjust settings and get back to creating.

Reverse Pattern Foot, Overlock Foot, and Other Included Accessories

The Bernina 560 comes with a variety of presser feet to handle different tasks.

The reverse pattern foot is a must-have for precise pattern sewing, and the overlock foot is perfect for creating professional-looking edges.

You also get a buttonhole foot with a slide, a zipper foot, and a blindstitch foot.

These feet give you the flexibility to tackle a range of projects right out of the box.

User Experience and Support

User Experience and Support
When you’re investing in a new machine, you want to know you’ve got backup if things go awry. The good news is, the Bernina 560 sewing machine has got your back with detailed operating instructions and a global support network of over 2,000 stores.

Detailed Operating Instructions and Support Information

You’re not alone when it comes to mastering your Bernina 560. You’ve got detailed operating instructions at your fingertips, along with a support page offering firmware updates to keep your machine humming.

But wait, there’s more! With over 2,000 stores worldwide, you can easily find a local Bernina expert to give you personalized advice and keep your machine in tip-top shape. It’s like having your own personal sewing guru.

Over 2,000 Stores Worldwide for Advice and Servicing

If you ever need advice or servicing for your Bernina 560, you’re in luck! With over 2,000 stores worldwide, you’re never far from expert help. This global network means that no matter where your creative adventures take you, you’ve got backup. Whether you’re a pro or a newbie, it’s good to know this level of support is out there.

Tailored Advice From Local Stores

If you’re the type who prefers local, personalized advice, you’re in luck.

With over 2,000 stores worldwide, you can get personalized guidance and servicing for your Bernina 560.

This means you can walk into a store near you and get hands-on help from experts who know the ins and outs of this machine.

Whether you’re a newbie or a pro, this kind of local support can be a game-changer, taking your sewing skills to the next level.

Comparing Bernina 560 to Other Models

Now, let’s see how the Bernina 560 stacks up against other models on the market. We’ll put it head-to-head with the Janome Craft Sewing Quilting Machine to see how it fares when it comes to features, performance, and overall value.

1. Janome Craft Sewing Quilting Machine

Janome JNHMC7700QCP Craft Sewing andView On Amazon
If you’re weighing the Bernina 560 against the Janome Craft Sewing Quilting Machine, here’s the lowdown. The Janome model boasts a spacious 11-inch workspace, perfect for quilting projects. It cranks out 250 stitches and has a high-visibility LCD touchscreen. You’ll also get 1,000 stitches per minute, a variety of decorative stitches, and a monogram embroidery feature. But, it falls short with a B+ rating for its owner’s manual and the company not providing promised extra items. So, if you’re after a user-friendly machine with a simple interface, the Bernina 560 might edge ahead.

Best For: The Janome 7700QCP is best for quilters and sewers who value a large workspace, a variety of stitches, and a user-friendly touchscreen interface.

Pros
  • Spacious 11-inch workspace ideal for quilting projects
  • High-visibility LCD touchscreen for easy navigation
  • Variety of decorative stitches and a monogram embroidery feature
Cons
  • B rating for the owner’s manual, indicating potential for confusion
  • Company did not provide promised extra items, causing disappointment
  • Requires annual servicing by a Janome technician, adding to maintenance costs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why should you buy a Bernina 560?

The Bernina 560 is a versatile machine with user-friendly features and a simple interface. It’s got a bright touchscreen, 676 stitches, a slide-on table, and more. It’s a great option for embroidery and sewing enthusiasts.

Is the Bernina 570 a good sewing machine?

The Bernina 570 is a sewing machine with a difference – it’s also a computer. So, there’s a learning curve. Some users say it’s too difficult to learn without lessons, but others recommend dealer classes and YouTube videos to get to grips with it.

Does the Bernina 560 have embroidery?

Yes, the Bernina 560 does have embroidery capabilities. There are 70 built-in embroidery designs and 5 alphabet fonts. You can also take an online course to master the embroidery function.

Can a Bernina 560 sew a quilt?

The Bernina 560 is perfect for quilting. It has a free hand system that raises and lowers the presser foot, leaving your hands free to guide your quilt. You can also add the Bernina Stitch Regulator for free-motion quilting.

Is Janome better than BERNINA?

It’s a tough call, like choosing between chocolate and vanilla. Janome machines are sturdier, more affordable, and have better customer service. But Bernina machines are easier to use, can sew intricate stitches, and offer more features.

Are BERNINA machines made in China?

No, Bernina sewing machines aren’t made in China. They’re manufactured in Switzerland and Thailand.

Which BERNINA machines are still made in Switzerland?

The B880, the Q20, the Q24, and the most expensive machines in the 5 series are made in Switzerland. The 8 Series is also made there.

Which BERNINA machines are made in Thailand?

All of Bernina‘s lower-priced machines, from entry-level to the 7 Series, are made in Thailand, as well as the Q Series and Activa, 3 Series and Aurora machines.

Whats the difference between the Bernina 560 and 570?

The Bernina 560 is a 9mm machine with a rotary hook, more stitches, and upper and lower thread sensors. The 570 is a quilting machine with 5mm stitches and doesn’t have thread snips or upper and lower thread sensors.

Can you embroider hats with the Bernina 560?

Yes, you can embroider hats with the Bernina 560. The Hoop ‘N’ Buddyz cap insert is compatible with the Bernina large oval hoop and embroidery-capable machines from the B 180 E model to current machines.

How long does the Bernina 560 usually last?

With proper maintenance, your Bernina 560 will last for years. Regularly clean and replace parts, and troubleshoot common issues like thread cutter problems and hand wheel issues. Keep it well-maintained and it’ll be your trusty sidekick for ages.

How often do you need to oil the Bernina 560?

No need to fret over oiling the Bernina 560. It doesn’t require external lubrication, but an annual service from a certified technician is recommended. Keep your machine purring with this simple step.

Can the Bernina 560 sew through leather?

Yes, the Bernina 560 can sew through leather, but it’s important to pick the right needles, threads, feet, and settings. Leather that’s 3oz or less is best for a domestic Bernina machine.

Conclusion

So, is the Bernina 560 the dream machine you’ve been searching for?

Well, with its versatility, functionality, and glowing reviews, it’s definitely a strong contender. The Bernina 560 ticks a lot of boxes with its impressive features, performance, and convenience. Plus, with Bernina’s worldwide support and advice, you’re not just buying a machine, you’re joining a community.

The choice is yours, but with the Bernina 560, you’ll be sewing, quilting, and embroidering like a pro in no time.

Avatar for Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is the founder and editor-in-chief of sewingtrip.com, a site dedicated to those passionate about crafting. With years of experience and research under his belt, he sought to create a platform where he could share his knowledge and skills with others who shared his interests.