Sewing Machine Review: Bernette 38
Everyone remembers their first. Mine was a basic Singer, purchased ~10 years ago because my then-boyfriend encouraged me to “get a hobby.”
Fast forward seven years- I never did pick up sewing, but did get a different boyfriend who became my husband- I finally decided to pick up that hobby. Over the next three years, my skills and projects evolved! My little machine, however, was getting left behind.
Fall of 2021, the time came to upgrade. Starting with my list of non-negotiable features and a budget, I narrowed down my options even deep diving into online manuals…eventually purchasing the Bernette 38, a computerized machine, with the power to sew over that Persephone waistband! It’s quiet enough I can still have a normal conversation while its on; powerful enough to pierce 4-5 layers of denim; and offers various stitches that I’ve never been able to do before (I admit, that I only started testing out the various modes recently). My favorite option? The automatic thread cutter!
The B38 is easy to use– The controls are very intuitive, and I can confirm that it comes with a great instruction manual, something I use weekly! Even if you’re a beginner sewer, you’ll be able to pick up the B38 in no time.
In the last 1.5 years that I have had the Bernette, I have made multiple pairs of denim jeans and canvas bottoms. I sewed a heavy lined wool coat, made delicate cotton blouses, even repaired cycling gear for my husband. The B38 has made it through all those with no issue with uniform stitches (I still go slow- it ain’t an industrial machine that can punch through pennies…IYKYK)!
About Author
Caitlin Snyder
Caitlin is a self-taught sewist living in Los Angeles, California, with her extremely patient husband, happy French Bulldog, and skeptical cat. Her painting and design background inform her need to create. Sewing her wardrobe is her current passion (some say obsession). Laughing over a meal and wine is a close second. Instagram: @caitsnyd_sewsLeave a comment
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8 Comments
Linda Hamilton
I didn’t realize that Bernette had computerized machines. The one we bought our son a while ago is a mechanical model. I just realized it was probably 6 years ago that we bought it for him! Where did the time go. I agree with you that machine instruction books are a very worthwhile item to study.
Linda
Caitlin Snyder
Yes! There are so many great options now- When I started researching computer models, I was overwhelmed by all the options.
Paula Moreshead
I have had my 1974 Bernina Favorit for 35 years, and I’ve never even been tempted by computerized machines that have so many capabilities that mine doesn’t have. But, your review of the Bernette almost tempts me to rethink getting a newer machine. At times, I would really enjoy some of the features you talked about…so I’ll definitely be giving this consideration. Thanks for sharing!
Caitlin Snyder
Take your time to think it through! I have a Viking from the 60’s that my grandmother gave me, and I keep it around- just in case something happens to the newer machine.
Nancy Bee
I guess all good sewing machines are computerized now. My sister gave me her Husqvarna Designer 1 machine. It has been a joy to sew with. But now the motherboard is failing. It’s not supported any more. The repair guy suggests a new one. As far as sewing machines go, it’s not that old. As far as computers go, it’s ancient. I don’t know what to replace it with. A Heavy Duty Singer or this one?
Caitlin Snyder
That is one the thing to factor in- computer technology is changing and at a rapid pace. If you aren’t ready to move to a computer model (that may become obsolete in 5 years), then the Singer Heavy Duty is a great option!! I think Singer has a Heavy Duty computerized option too!
Lesia McQuade
Sounds like you and your B38 are good friends! Thank you for sharing your story and I enjoyed the quality photographs that went with it!
Caitlin Snyder
We are such good friends! Thank you for reading along!