Bernina L 890 User manual

BERNINA L 890
QUILTERS EDITION
User Manual

Welcome
3
Dear Bernina Customer,
Congratulations on the purchase of your BERNINA Overlocker!
With BERNINA, you have selected a product that will impress you for years to come. For our family has made
customer satisfaction our number one priority for more than 100 years. It is my personal goal to offer you
Swiss innovation and precision at the highest level of perfection, future-oriented sewing technology, and
comprehensive customer service.
With the new Overlocker Series, BERNINA launches extremely modern models which have been developed by
our engineers in Switzerland. In addition to meeting the highest standards of modern technology, we have
also focused on the design. After all, we are selling products to creative people like you, who place great
emphasis on the language of design in addition to demanding the best quality. Thus, for the first time, our
Overlocker models have a free arm as seen in the classic BERNINA sewing and embroidery machines. The
new world of overlocking guarantees you all of this and more.
Enjoy creative sewing, embroidering and overlocking with BERNINA and stay informed about the various
accessories. Visit us at www.bernina.com and allow yourself to be inspired to create new sewing projects.
And don’t forget to make use of service and maintenance offers from our highly trained authorized BERNINA
dealers. I wish you lots of pleasure and many creative hours with your new BERNINA.
H.P. Ueltschi
Owner
BERNINA International AG
CH-8266 Steckborn

Table of Contents
4
Table of Contents
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ........................................ 7
Important Information ........................................ 9
1 My BERNINA overlocker ...................................... 11
1.1 Introduction ............................................................ 11
1.2 BERNINA quality control .......................................... 11
1.3 Welcome to the World of BERNINA ........................ 11
1.4 Machine Overview .................................................. 13
Overview - front .......................................................... 13
Overview - needle area ................................................ 14
Overview - looper area ................................................ 15
Overview - threading area ........................................... 16
Overview - side ........................................................... 17
Overview - rear ........................................................... 18
Symbols on the machine ............................................. 19
Default values ............................................................. 21
1.5 Overview - Standard Accessories ............................. 21
Included accessories .................................................... 21
1.6 Details of the screen ............................................... 25
Software Operation ..................................................... 25
Screen structure .......................................................... 28
Home screen ............................................................... 29
Sewing screen ............................................................. 30
2 Setting Up the Machine ...................................... 34
2.1 Working Area ......................................................... 34
Connecting the machine ............................................. 34
Switching the machine on/off ..................................... 34
2.2 Spool Holder ........................................................... 35
Preparing the retractable thread guide ........................ 35
Attaching the Spool Stabilizer ..................................... 36
Place the Spool Disc .................................................... 36
Using the Spool Net .................................................... 36
2.3 Foot Control ........................................................... 37
Connect the foot control ............................................. 37
Press the foot control .................................................. 37
2.4 Presser Foot ............................................................ 38
Positioning the Presser Foot Up/Down ......................... 38
Lifting the front foot ................................................... 39
Lifting the Presser Foot Up/Down with the Knee Lifter . 39
Swing the presser foot in/out ...................................... 39
Changing the Presser Foot .......................................... 40
Removing/Fitting the Presser Foot Shaft ....................... 40
2.5 Needle Area ............................................................ 41
Needle Holder ............................................................ 41
Changing the Needle .................................................. 41
Needle Pad ................................................................. 42
Threading the Needle Manually .................................. 43
Positioning the needles up/down ................................ 44
Adjusting the needle stop up/down ............................ 44
2.6 Machine Covers ..................................................... 44
Open/Close the Threader Cover .................................. 44
Open/close the looper cover ....................................... 45
Removing/attaching the knife cover insert .................. 45
Removing/attaching the coverstitch insert ................... 46
2.7 Handwheel ............................................................ 47
2.8 Sewing Assistance ................................................. 47
Using the Thread Cutter ............................................. 47
Attaching/Removing the Knee Llifter ........................... 48
Attaching/Removing the Cut-offs Bin .......................... 48
Attaching/Removing the Freearm Cover ...................... 48
Attaching/Removing the Slide-on Table ...................... 49
Attaching/removing the seam guide ........................... 49
3 Setting up software ............................................ 50
3.1 Setup Program ....................................................... 50
Adjusting the sewing speed ........................................ 50
Adjusting screen brightness/sewing light .................... 50
Activating the audio signals ........................................ 51
Setting up the firmware .............................................. 51
Personalize the sewing screen ..................................... 52
Presser foot indicator .................................................. 52
3.2 Querying the Tutorial ............................................. 52
3.3 Activating the eco mode ........................................ 53
4 Sewing Start ........................................................ 54
4.1 Check before starting to sew ................................. 54
4.2 Selecting the Fabric ................................................ 54
4.3 Selecting the thread ............................................... 54
Selecting the needle thread ........................................ 55
Selecting the looper thread ......................................... 55
4.4 Selecting the needle .............................................. 56
Needle overview ......................................................... 57
Detect Defective Needles ............................................ 58
4.5 Fixing Fabric Layers ................................................ 58
5 Selecting a Stitch ................................................ 59
5.1 Stitch Type ............................................................. 59
Overlock Stitch ........................................................... 59

Table of Contents
5
Coverstitch .................................................................. 62
Chainstitch .................................................................. 62
Combostitch ............................................................... 63
5.2 Stitch selection on the screen .................................. 64
Selecting a stitch directly ............................................. 64
Selecting/Editing a stitch from the Personal Memory ... 65
Using the stitch recommendation of creative
consultant ................................................................... 66
6 Machine Settings ................................................. 67
6.1 Preparing the Machine for Overlock or Overlock/
Chainstitch Combo ................................................. 67
6.2 Preparing the Machine for Cover- and Chainstitch .. 67
6.3 Setting the Knife ..................................................... 67
Setting the Knife On/Off ............................................. 67
Setting the cutting width ............................................ 68
6.4 Setting the upper looper on/off .............................. 68
6.5 Upper looper converter hooked in/hooked out ........ 69
6.6 Adjusting the thread tension ................................... 70
6.7 Adjusting the differential feed ................................ 71
6.8 Rolled Hem Selection Lever «O/R» .......................... 74
Selecting Overlocking «O» .......................................... 74
Setting Rolled Hem «R» .............................................. 74
6.9 Setting the mtc micro thread control ...................... 75
6.10 Setting the presser foot pressure ............................. 76
6.11 Adjusting the Stitch Width ...................................... 77
Changing the stitch width via the needle position ....... 77
Changing the stitch width via the cutting width .......... 77
6.12 Adjusting the stitch length ..................................... 77
7 Threading ............................................................. 78
7.1 Preparing for threading ........................................... 79
7.2 Threading the Needle Thread .................................. 80
Threading the Left Overlock Needle Thread LN/Yellow . 80
Threading the Right Overlock Needle Thread RN/Green
.................................................................................... 81
Threading the Left Coverstitch Needle Thread LC/
Yellow ........................................................................ 82
Threading the Center Coverstitch Needle Thread CC/
Green ......................................................................... 83
Threading the Right Coverstitch Needle Thread RC/
Blue ............................................................................ 84
7.3 One-step BERNINA air threader ............................... 84
Performing a pulse drive .............................................. 84
Threading the Looper Threads UL/blue, LL/red, CL/
purple ......................................................................... 85
Threading the looper thread with an auxiliary thread ... 86
Circumventing the air theader ..................................... 87
Using the threading wire ............................................. 88
7.4 Changing the Thread ............................................. 89
Knotting Thick Thread ................................................ 89
Changing the Needle Thread ...................................... 90
Changing the Looper Thread ...................................... 91
8 Sewing Test ......................................................... 92
8.1 Perfoming a Sewing Test for an Overlock Stitch ..... 92
8.2 Perfoming a sewing test for an coverstitch ............. 92
8.3 Perfoming a Sewing Test for an Chainstitch ........... 92
8.4 Stitch optimizer ..................................................... 93
9 Practical Overlocking .......................................... 94
9.1 Securing Overlock Stitches ..................................... 94
Sewing in the Overlock Chain at the Start of the Seam 94
Sewing in the Overlock Chain at the End of the Seam 94
Securing Overlock Stitches .......................................... 95
Knotting the Overlock chain ....................................... 95
9.2 Removing a Stitch .................................................. 95
9.3 Securing Coverstitches ........................................... 96
Securing Cover- and Chainstitches at the Start of the
Seam .......................................................................... 96
Securing the Stitches at the Seam End and Detaching
the Thread Chain ........................................................ 96
9.4 How to Undo Coverstitches ................................... 97
Undoing Coverstitches ................................................ 97
9.5 Sew blanket stitch ................................................. 97
9.6 Gathering .............................................................. 98
Increasing the differential feed ................................... 98
Pulling the Needle Thread ........................................... 98
9.7 Sew Outer Corners ................................................ 99
9.8 Sewing Inner Corners ............................................ 100
9.9 Sewing Inner Curves .............................................. 101
9.10 Sew Outer Curves and Circles ................................ 101
9.11 Sewing a Hem ....................................................... 102
9.12 Joining Seams ........................................................ 102
10 Care and Maintenance ....................................... 103
10.1 Firmware ............................................................... 103
Selecting a language .................................................. 103
Information on the firmware ...................................... 103
Restore factory settings .............................................. 104
Updating firmware ..................................................... 105
Calibrate screen .......................................................... 106
10.2 Machine ................................................................ 107
Cleaning the Machine ................................................ 107
Cleaning the looper area ............................................ 107
Cleaning the Air Threader Pipes .................................. 108

Table of Contents
6
Cleaning the screen .................................................... 108
Cleaning the Suction Feet ........................................... 108
Oiling the Machine ...................................................... 108
11 Errors and Faults .................................................. 109
11.1 Troubleshooting ..................................................... 109
12 Storage and disposal ........................................... 111
12.1 Storing the Machine ............................................... 111
12.2 Transporting the machine ....................................... 111
12.3 Dispose of the machine .......................................... 111
13 Technical data ...................................................... 112
Index ..................................................................... 113

Important safety instructions
7
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Please be aware of the following basic safety
instructions when using your machine. Before
using this machine, read instruction manual
carefully.
DANGER
To protect against electric shock, the following
instructions must be observed.
• Never leave the machine unattended
when it is connected to the power supply.
• Immediately after use and before
cleaning, switch off the machine and
disconnect the power cable from the
outlet.
In order to protect against injury, the following
instructions must be adhered to.
• Do not look directly into the LED lamp
with optical instruments (e.g.magnifying
glass).
• If the LED lamp is damaged or defective,
have the LED lamp checked or repaired at
your local authorized BERNINA dealer.
• Switch off the machine before working in
the needle area.
• Before starting the machine, attach all
protection guards and close the covers.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of burns, fire, electric shock
or injury to persons, the following instructions
must be observed.
General Facts
• This machine may only be used for the
purpose described in this instruction
manual.
Working Environment
• Do not use the machine outdoors.
• Only use the machine in dry rooms.
• Do not use the machine in a humid area.
• Do not use the machine in rooms where
aerosol products (sprays) are being used.
• Do not use the machine in rooms where
oxygen is dispensed.
Technical Condition
• Never use the machine when it is damp.
• Do not use the machine if it is not
working properly.
• Do not use the machine if a cable or the
plug is damaged.
• Do not use the machine if it has been
dropped, damaged or has fallen into
water.
• If the machine is damaged or does not
work properly, have the machine checked
or repaired by your local authorized
BERNINA dealer.
• Keep all ventilation openings of the
machine and the foot control free of lint,
dust and loose cloth.
• Do not use the machine if the ventilation
openings are blocked.
Accessories and Supplies
• Only use the accessories recommended by
the manufacturer.
• Always use the original BERNINA Stitch
Plate.
An incorrect stitch plate can result in
needle breakage.
• Use only straight needles of good quality.
Bent or damaged needles can cause
needle breakage.
• This machine is double-insulated (except
for USA, Canada and Japan).
Use only identical replacement parts. See
instructions for Servicing of double-
insulated products.
• To lubricate the machine, only use the
supplied overlocker oil.

Important safety instructions
8
Safety Instructions
• While operating the machine, all
protective inserts must be in place and all
covers must be closed.
Appropriate Use
• The machine may be used, cleaned and
maintained by children older than eight or
by people with reduced physical, sensory
or mental capabilities or if there is a lack
of experience and knowledge as long as
they have been given instructions.
• Furthermore, these persons must be
supervised while working with the
machine, and/or they must know the safe
operation of the machine and be aware
of the resulting hazards.
• Children are not allowed to play with the
system.
• Special care should be taken when the
machine is operated by or in the presence
of children.
• Only use the machine with the supplied
power cable.
• USA and Canada only: Do not connect
power plug NEMA 1-15 to circuits
exceeding 150volt-to-ground.
• Only use this machine with the supplied
foot control of type LV-1.
• Do not insert any objects into the
openings of the machine.
• Do not place any objects on the foot
control.
• While sewing, guide the fabric gently.
Pulling and pushing the fabric can cause
needle breakage.
• Keep fingers away from all moving parts.
• Special care is required in the needle area,
the loopers and the knife.
• For activities in the needle area - such as
threading the needle, changing the
needle, threading the looper or changing
the presser foot - switch off the machine.
• To switch off, set the power switch to
«0».
• When protective covers are removed,
when the machine is oiled or when other
cleaning and maintenance operations
mentioned in this instruction manual are
carried out, switch off the machine and
disconnect the power plug from the
outlet.
• Pull the plug out of the outlet by pulling
on the plug. Do not pull on the cable.
Safety Signs on the
Machine
Sign Purpose
CAUTION
MOVING PARTS,
TO REDUCE RISK OF
INJURY, SWITCH OFF
BEFORE SERVICING
CLOSE DOOR BEFORE
OPERATING MACHINE
AVERTISSENMENT
PIÈCES EN ROTATION!
POUR RÈDUIRE LES RISQUES DE
BLESSURES COUPER LE COURANT
AVANTTOUTE OPÈRATION D‘ENTRETIEN
FERMER LE VOLETAVANT DE METTRE
EN MARCHE LA MACHINE À COUDRE
Caution; moving parts.
To reduce the risk of injury,
switch off the machine before
maintenance work.

Important Information
9
Important Information
Availability of the Instruction Manual
The instruction manual is supplied with the machine.
• Keep the instruction manual safe at a suitable place near the machine to have it at hand in case that you
need to look up something.
• If you pass the machine to a third party, always include the instruction manual.
• The latest version of the instruction manual can be downloaded at www.bernina.com
Proper Use
Your BERNINA machine is conceived and designed for private household use. It answers the purpose for
overlocking fabrics as it is decribed in this instruction manual. Any other use is not considered proper.
BERNINA assumes no liability for consequences resulting from improper use.
Equipment and Scope of Delivery
Example images are used in these instructions for the purposes of illustration. The machines shown in the
images and the accessories shown therefore do not always match the actual items included with your
machine. The supplied accessory can vary depending on the country of delivery. You can acquire any
accessories mentioned or shown that are not included in the scope of delivery as optional accessories from a
specialist BERNINA dealer. Further accessories can be found at www.bernina.com.
For technical reasons and in order to improve the product, changes may be made to the equipment of the
machine and the scope of delivery at any time and without prior notice.
Servicing of Double-insulated Products
In a double-insulated product two systems of insulation are provided instead of grounding. No grounding
means is provided on a double-insulated product nor should a means for grounded be added to the product.
Servicing a double-insulated product requires extreme care and knowledge of the system and should only be
done by qualified service personnel. Replacement parts for a double-insulated product must be identical to
the original parts in the product. A double insulated product is marked with the words: «Double-Insulation»
or «double-insulated».
The symbol may also be marked on the product.
Environmental Protection
BERNINA International AG is committed to environmental protection. We strive to minimize the
environmental impact of our products by continuously improving product design and our technology of
manufacturing.
The machine is labeled with the symbol of the crossed-out wastebin. This means that the machine should
not be disposed of in household waste when it is no longer needed. Improper disposal can result in
dangerous substances getting into the groundwater and thus into our food chain, damaging our health.
The machine must be returned free of charge to a nearby collection point for waste electrical and electronic
equipment or to a collection point for the reuse of the machine. Information on the collection points can be
obtained from your local administration. When purchasing a new machine, the dealer is obliged to take back
the old machine free of charge and dispose of it properly.
If the machine contains personal data, you are responsible for deleting the data yourself before returning the
machine.

Important Information
10
Explanation of Symbols
DANGER Designates a danger with a high risk which can lead to serious injuries or even death unless it is avoided.
WARNING Designates a medium-risk hazard which can lead to serious injuries if not avoided.
CAUTION Designates a low-risk hazard which can lead to minor or moderate injuries if not avoided.
NOTICE Designates a hazard which can lead to material damage if not avoided.
You will find tips from BERNINA sewing experts next to this symbol.

My BERNINA overlocker
11
1 My BERNINA overlocker
1.1 Introduction
Since the introduction of the overlocker for household use in the early 80s, they have become a standard
sewing tool and are here to stay. Overlockers not only sew faster than conventional sewing machines, they
also achieve more steps in just a single operation, which saves time. Seams are cut back, seamed and
finished simultaneously in one task. Due to the Differential Feed, particularly fine fabrics or very elastic
materials can be processed professionally.
Stitches varieties of 18 overlock stitches, 5 cover stitches and 4 combo stitches are available for sewing
comfortably with tried-and-tested Swiss quality.
In addition to this instruction manual for your BERNINA L 890 the following information products are
enclosed.
The latest version of the instruction manual as well as much more information about the overlock machine
and accessories can be found on our website https://www.bernina.com
1.2 BERNINA quality control
All BERNINA machines are assembled with utmost care and are subjected to an extensive functionality test.
The subsequent thorough cleaning does not exclude the possibility that thread remnants may still be found
in the machine.
1.3 Welcome to the World of BERNINA
Made to create, this is the slogan of BERNINA. Not only with our machines do we support you in the
implementation of your ideas. In addition to the offers listed below, we offer you lots of suggestions and
instructions for your future projects as well as the opportunity to exchange ideas with other sewing, quilting
and embroidery enthusiasts. We wish you lots of pleasure.
BERNINA YouTube channel
On YouTube we offer a wide range of how-to videos and support concerning the most important functions
of our machines. You can also find detailed explanations many presser feet, meaning that your projects will
be a complete success.
youtube.com/BerninaInternational
Available in English and German.
«inspiration»- the creative sewing magazine and online store with cutting patterns
Are you looking for ideas, sewing patterns and instructions for great sewing projects? In this case, the
BERNINA magazine «inspiration» is exactly what you need. Three times a year, inspiration offers fantastic
sewing and embroidery ideas. From seasonal fashion trends to trendy accessories and practical tips to
original decorations for your home or cute sewing ideas for children.
The magazine is available in English, German, Dutch, and French.
In our online shop you can purchase «inspiration»as an e-magazine or as a print version, either as individual
issues or as a subscription. Furthermore, there are many individual downloadable cutting patterns to
discover! Have a look at:
inspiration.bernina.com
And follow us on Instagram (inspiration.sewing.magazin).

My BERNINA overlocker
12
BERNINA Blog
Subtle instructions, free cutting patterns and embroidery designs as well as many new ideas: All this you can
find in the weekly blog of BERNINA. Our experts give useful tips and explain step by step how you can
achieve the desired result. In the community you can upload your own projects and exchange experiences
and ideas with other sewing and embroidering enthusiasts.
bernina.com/blog
Available in English, German, Dutch and French.
BERNINA Social Media
Follow on social networks to learn more about events, thrilling projects as well as tips and tricks all about
sewing, quilting and embroidering. We will keep you informed and we are looking forward to presenting
you the one or the other highlight from the world of BERNINA.
bernina.com/social-media
BERNINA World App
Download the BERNINA App from the App Store to your smartphone and enjoy direct access to all product
information. The accessory organizer gives you an overview of your accessories and those you still would like
to have. Furthermore, you have direct access to the customer portal, the blog and the "inspiration" online
store, and you can always find a BERNINA dealer near you. The app is available in the Apple App Store and
the Google Play Store.
Direct links can be found at: bernina.com/app

My BERNINA overlocker
13
1.4 Machine Overview
Overview - front
1
2
3
4
5
7
6
9
8
10
13
15
14
16
17
21
18
20
12
19
11
1 Knife on/off 12 Screen
2 Cutting width dial 13 Thread tension fine adjustment
3 Freearm cleaning cover 14 Thread guiding plate
4 Freearm 15 Thread deflection fingers
5 Guide rails 16 Threader cover
6 Sewing light 17 Knife cover insert/coverstitch insert
7 Thread cutter 18 Looper cover
8 Thread guide on the headframe 19 Cut-offs bin snap-in opening
9 Needle thread take-up lever cover 20 Knee lifter (FHS) connection
10 Coverstitch threading slot 21 Suction feet
11 Thread take-up lever guide

My BERNINA overlocker
14
Overview - needle area
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
1
2
1 Stitch plate 7 Needle checking window
2 Standard presser foot overlock/coverstitch 8 Needle screws
3 Presser foot spring 9 Thread guide on the needle holder
4 Presser foot shaft 10 Overlock needles ELx705 CF (2 pcs.)
5 Presser foot lifter 11 CS needles ELx705 (3 pcs.)
6 Needle holder 12 Feed dog
Standard presser foot overlock/coverstitch
A
B
C
D
E
F
A Cutting line at cutting width 6 D Right needle for CS (RC)
B Right needle for OL (RN) E Center needle for CS (CC)
C Left needle for OL (LN) F Left needle for CS (LC)

My BERNINA overlocker
15
Overview - looper area
1
4
7
8
10
9
2
3
6
5
1 mtc Micro Thread Control Dial 6 Lower Looper
2 Rolled Hem Selection Lever 7 Chain Looper
3 Knife 8 Air Threader Pipes Upper Looper
4 Upper Looper Converter 9 Air Threader Pipes Lower Looper
5 Upper Looper 10 Air Threader Pipes Chain Looper

My BERNINA overlocker
16
Overview - threading area
1
2
3
6
7
8
9
10
11
5
4
1 Threader cover 7 Upper looper on/off
2 Accessories storage 8 Threading chart
3 Looper cover 9 Air threader nozzles
4 Coverstitch insert 10 Air threader connector on/off
5 Knife cover insert 11 Needle pad
6 Air threader circumvention

My BERNINA overlocker
17
Overview - side
3
2
1
4
5
6
8
7
1 Carry Handle and Recessed Grip 5 Foot Control Connection
2 Handwheel 6 Power Switch
3 Magnetic Holder for Touch Screen Pen 7 Type Label
4 Air Vents 8 Power Plug Socket

My BERNINA overlocker
18
Overview - rear
4
1
5
7
9
6
3
2
8
1 Thread stand 6 Thread cutter
2 Spool pin 7 Presser foot lifter
3 Carrying handle 8 Presser foot release Lever (red)
4 Retractable thread guide 9 Guide rails
5 Presser foot pressure wheel

My BERNINA overlocker
19
Symbols on the machine
The symbols on the machine are for your guidance and give assistance when adjusting settings and
threading the machine.
• Overlock Stitch Formation «OL»
• Coverstitch Formation «CS»
LN
(Left needle for OL)
Left Overlock Needle Thread
LC
(Left needle for CS)
Left Coverstitch Needle Thread
Thread Path Yellow «OL»
Thread Path Yellow «CS»
RN
(Right needle for OL)
Right Overlock Needle Thread
CC
(Center needle for CS)
Center Coverstitch Needle
Thread
Thread Path Green «OL»
Thread Path Green «CS»
UL
(Upper Looper)
Upper Looper Thread
RC
(Right cover needle for CS)
Right Coverstitch Needle Thread
Thread Path Blue «OL»
Thread Path Blue «CS»
Thread Path Blue Air Threading
Circumvention
LL
(Lower Looper)
Lower Looper Thread
Thread Path Red «LL»
Thread Path Red Air Threading
Circumvention
CL
(Chain Looper)
Chain Looper

My BERNINA overlocker
20
Thread Path Purple «CL»
Thread Path Purple Air Threading
Circumvention
ULC
(Upper Looper Converter)
Upper Looper Converter
Activated/Deactivated
Upper Looper On/Off
CW
(Cutting Width)
Cutting Width
SL
(Stitch Length)
Stitch Length
DF
(Differential Feed)
Differential Feed
O/R
(Overlock/Rolled Hem)
Rolled Hem Selection Lever
Overlock «O» / Rolled Hem «R»
Knife On/Off
mtc
(Micro Thread Control)
Micro Thread Control (mtc)
FHS
(Free Hand System)
Knee Lifter (FHS)
Presser Foot Pressure
Air Threader
Knife Cover Insert
Coverstitch Insert