Bernina L860 User manual

BERNINA L 860
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
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ................. 6
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 ............................................... 16
Overview - Threading area .......................................... 17
Overview - side ........................................................... 18
Overview - Back panel ................................................ 19
Symbols on the machine ............................................. 20
1.5 Overview - standard accessories ............................. 22
Included accessories .................................................... 22
1.6 Details of the screen ............................................... 26
Software operation ..................................................... 26
Screen structure .......................................................... 29
Home screen .............................................................. 30
Sewing screen ............................................................ 31
2 Setting up the machine ...................................... 35
2.1 Working area ......................................................... 35
Connecting the machine ............................................. 35
Switching the machine on/off ..................................... 36
2.2 Thread stand .......................................................... 36
Preparing the retractable thread guide ........................ 36
Attaching the spool stabilizer ...................................... 37
Place the spool disc ..................................................... 38
Using the spool net ..................................................... 38
2.3 Foot control ........................................................... 39
Connect the foot control ............................................ 39
Press the foot control .................................................. 39
Acoustic signal ............................................................ 40
2.4 Presser foot ............................................................ 40
Positioning the presser foot up/down .......................... 40
Lifting the front foot ................................................... 41
Lifting the presser foot up/down with the knee lifter ... 42
Swing the presser foot in/out ...................................... 42
Changing the presser foot .......................................... 43
2.5 Needle area ............................................................ 44
Needle Holder .............................................................. 44
Changing the Needle ................................................... 44
Using the built-in needle threader ................................ 46
Threading the needle manually .................................... 48
Positioning the needles up/down .................................. 49
Adjusting the needle stop up/down .............................. 49
2.6 Machine covers ....................................................... 50
Open/close the Threader Cover .................................... 50
Open/close the looper cover ......................................... 51
2.7 Handwheel ............................................................. 51
2.8 Sewing Assistance ................................................... 52
Using the thread cutter ................................................ 52
Attaching/removing the knee lifter ............................... 52
Attaching/removing the cut-offs bin ............................. 53
Attaching/removing the freearm cover ......................... 53
Attaching/removing the slide-on table .......................... 54
Fixing the touch screen pen .......................................... 54
Attaching/removing the seam guide ............................. 55
3 Setting up software ............................................. 56
3.1 Setup Program ........................................................ 56
Adjusting the sewing speed ......................................... 56
Adjusting screen brightness/sewing light ...................... 57
Activating the audio signals .......................................... 57
Setting up the firmware ............................................... 58
Personalize the sewing screen ...................................... 58
Presser foot indicator ................................................... 59
3.2 Querying the Tutorial .............................................. 59
3.3 Activating the eco mode ......................................... 60
4 Sewing start ......................................................... 61
4.1 Check before starting to sew .................................. 61
4.2 Selecting the fabric ................................................. 61
4.3 Selecting the thread ................................................ 61
Selecting the needle thread .......................................... 62
Selecting the looper thread .......................................... 62
4.4 Selecting the needle ................................................ 63
Needle overview ........................................................... 64
Detect defective needles .............................................. 65
4.5 Fixing fabric layers ................................................... 65
5 Stitch ..................................................................... 66
5.1 Stitch type .............................................................. 66
Overlockstitch .............................................................. 66

Table of Contents
5
5.2 Select stitch by application ..................................... 67
Edge serging ............................................................... 67
Seam .......................................................................... 68
5.3 Stitch selection on the screen ................................. 69
Selecting a stitch directly ............................................. 70
Selecting/Editing a stitch from the Personal Memory ... 70
Using the stitch recommendation of creative
consultant .................................................................. 72
6 Machine settings ................................................. 73
6.1 Setting the knife .................................................... 73
Knife on/off ................................................................ 73
Setting the cutting width ............................................ 74
6.2 Upper looper converter hooked in/hooked out ....... 75
6.3 Adjusting the thread tension .................................. 76
6.4 Adjusting the differential feed ................................ 78
6.5 Setting the rolled hem selection lever «O/R» .......... 81
Overlocking «O» ......................................................... 81
Rolled hem «R» .......................................................... 81
6.6 Setting the mtc micro thread control ...................... 82
6.7 Setting the presser foot pressure ............................ 83
6.8 Adjusting the stitch width ...................................... 84
Changing the stitch width via the needle position ....... 84
Changing the stitch width via the cutting width .......... 84
6.9 Adjusting the stitch length .................................... 84
7 Threading ............................................................. 85
7.1 Preparing for threading .......................................... 86
7.2 One-step BERNINA air threader .............................. 87
Performing a pulse drive ............................................. 87
Threading the looper threads UL/blue, LL/red .............. 88
Threading the looper thread with an auxiliary thread .. 89
Circumventing the air theader .................................... 90
Using the threading wire ............................................ 92
7.3 Threading the needle thread .................................. 93
Threading the overlock needle thread LN/yellow ......... 93
Threading the overlock needle thread RN/green .......... 94
7.4 Changing the thread .............................................. 95
Knotting thick thread .................................................. 95
Changing the needle thread ....................................... 96
Changing the looper thread ........................................ 97
8 Sewing test .......................................................... 98
8.1 Performing a sewing test for an overlock stitch ...... 98
8.2 Stitch optimizer ...................................................... 98
9 Practical overlocking ............................................ 99
9.1 Securing overlock stitches ....................................... 99
Sewing in the overlock chain at the start of the seam ... 99
Sewing in the overlock chain at the end of the seam .... 99
Securing overlock stitches ............................................100
Knotting the overlock chain .........................................100
9.2 Undoing overlock stitches ....................................... 100
9.3 Sew blanket stitch ................................................... 101
9.4 Gathering ............................................................... 102
Increasing the differential feed .....................................102
Pulling the needle thread .............................................102
9.5 Sew outer corners ................................................... 103
9.6 Sewing inner corners .............................................. 104
9.7 Sewing inner curves ................................................ 105
9.8 Sew outer curves and circles ................................... 105
9.9 Using the tape guide ............................................... 106
10 Care and maintenance ......................................... 107
10.1 Firmware ................................................................ 108
Selecting a language ....................................................108
Information on the firmware ........................................108
Restore factory settings ................................................109
Updating firmware .......................................................110
Calibrate screen ........................................................... 112
10.2 Machine ................................................................. 112
Cleaning the machine .................................................. 112
Cleaning the looper area ..............................................113
Cleaning the air threader pipes ....................................114
Cleaning the screen .....................................................114
Cleaning the suction feet ............................................ 114
Oiling the machine .......................................................114
11 Errors and faults ................................................... 115
11.1 Troubleshooting ...................................................... 115
12 Storage and disposal ........................................... 117
12.1 Storing the machine ................................................ 117
12.2 Transporting the machine ....................................... 117
12.3 Dispose of the machine ........................................... 117
13 Specifications ....................................................... 118
Index ..................................................................... 119

Important safety instructions
6
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Please be aware of the following basic safety instructions when using your
machine. Before using this machine, read instruction manual carefully.
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.

Important safety instructions
7
• 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.
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 must not play with the machine.
• 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.
• The power cable for USA and Canada (power plug NEMA 1-15) may only be
used for a maximum supply voltage of 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.

Important safety instructions
8
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.

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 operating 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.
Maintenance 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 grounding 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. Only original spare parts should be used for service and
repairs. 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 is committed to the protection of the environment. 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 high-risk hazard which can lead to serious injuries or potentially even death if not 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 are available for sewing comfortably with tried-and-tested Swiss
quality.
In addition to this instruction manual for your BERNINA L 860 the following information products are
enclosed.
The current version of your manual as well as many other information about the machine and the accessories
can be found on our website www.bernina.comwww.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. I 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.
https://www.youtube.com/BerninaInternational
Available in English and German.
inspiration – the sewing magazine in the online shop
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! Please have a look at https://www.bernina.com/inspiration

My BERNINA overlocker
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BERNINA Blog
Subtle instructions, free sewing patterns and embroidery motifs 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.
https://www.bernina.com/blog
Provided in English, German and Dutch.
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 keep updated and we are happy to show you one or two highlights
from the world of BERNINA.
https://www.bernina.com/social-media

My BERNINA overlocker
13
1.4 Machine overview
Overview - Front
1
2
3
4
5
7
8
911
10
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
6
1 Knife on/off 10 Thread deflection fingers
2 Cutting width dial 11 Thread tension fine adjustment
3 Freearm cleaning cover 12 Thread guiding plate
4 Freearm 13 Needle threader cover
5 Guide rail 14 Knife cover insert
6 Sewing light 15 Looper cover
7 Thread cutter 16 Cut-offs bin snap-in opening
8 Thread guide on the headframe 17 Connection for knee lifter (FHS)
9 Needle thread take-up lever cover 18 Suction feet

My BERNINA overlocker
14
Overview - Needle area
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
12
13
10
11
1 Stitch plate 8 Needle holder
2 Screws of the stitch plate 9 Needle checking window
3 Presser foot spring 10 Needle screws
4 Standard Presser Foot overlock 11 Thread guide on the needle holder
5 Presser foot shaft 12 Overlock needles ELx705CF
6 Needle threader lever 13 Feed dog
7 Needle threader selector

My BERNINA overlocker
15
Standard Presser Foot overlock
A
B
C
D
E
A Cutting line at cutting width6 D 1 cm distance to the cutting line
B Right needle for OL (RN) E Tape Guide
C Left needle for OL (LN)

My BERNINA overlocker
16
Overview - Looper area
1
2
34
5
6
8
7
1 mtc micro thread control dial 5 Upper looper converter
2 Rolled hem selection lever 6 Lower looper
3 Knife 7 Air threader pipes upper looper
4 Upper looper 8 Air threader pipes lower looper

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

My BERNINA overlocker
18
Overview - side
2
1
3
6
7
4
8
5
9
1 Carry handle and recessed grip 6 Foot control connection
2 Handwheel 7 Power switch
3 Magnetic holder for touch screen pen 8 Power cable connection
4 USB connection (covered) 9 Type label
5 Air vents

My BERNINA overlocker
19
Overview - Back panel
1
2
3
5
6
8
9
4
7
1 Spool pin 6 Thread cutter
2 Spool pin 7 Presser foot lifter
3 Carry handle 8 Presser foot release lever (red)
4 Retractable thread guide 9 Guide rail
5 Presser foot pressure wheel

My BERNINA overlocker
20
Symbols on the machine
The symbols on the machine are for your guidance and give assistance when adjusting settings and
threading the machine.
LN
(Left needle for OL)
left overlock needle thread
Thread path yellow OL
RN
(Right needle for OL)
right overlock needle thread
Thread path green OL
UL
(Upper looper)
Upper looper thread
Thread path blue OL
Thread path blue air threading
circumvention
LL
(Lower looper)
Lower looper thread
Thread path red «LL»
Thread path red air threading
circumvention
Thread path not used
ULC
(Upper looper converter)
Upper looper converter
activated/deactivated
CW
(Cutting width)
Cutting width
SL
(Stitch length)
Stitch length
DF
(Differential Feed)
Differential Feed