b77 Bernette Sewing Machine Review
I like to think of bernette sewing machines as the “little sister” models of BERNINA machines. But how does the top of the line bernette sewing machine really stack up against BERNINA standards? Keep reading to hear my thoughts!
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Transparency disclaimer: At this time, String & Story is a bernette dealer. We sell these machines because we believe that are reliable and an awesome value. I frequently choose to sew on the b77 even though I also own a BERNINA 590. In the past I have also sewn on a Juki J-150, several Singer machines, and a Kenmore
Bernette sewing machines are designed by BERNINA, and I often describe them as the “little sister” line of machines. They are the Toyota to BERNINA’s Lexus, the GMC to Cadillac, etc. These machines focus on newer sewists, folks looking for a more affordable price point, and folks looking for a reliable and highly functional back up machine.
Video Review
Machine Overview
The Bernette b77 is the top of the line sewing machine in the bernette brand (the b79 has embroidery as well). At a glance, the b77 boasts an impressive lineup of features and accessories:
5-inch color touchscreen for easy navigation
Multi-function knobs for quick operation
Sewing consultant for valuable tips included
Dual feed for fast, even fabric feed
Programmable foot control with back-kick function
Semi-automatic needle threader
500 stitches including 17 different buttonholes
8 presser foot soles and large extension table included
Not to mention a 9” throat space! What a win for quilters, especially! The b77 is $1999 USD MSRP— an amazing deal for these features and functionality.
Review
Features and functions are amazing, but the real test for me was sewing and quilting on the b77. My main machine for the year before this has been a BERNINA 590— how would the bernette stack up against the BERNINA reputation for smooth, intuitive, classy, yet workhorse machines?
The b77 passed the vibe check at once. Sewing is smooth and powerful, and the similarities to the BERNINA interface means that making adjustments on the bernette was very intuitive to me. I love the dual function nobs for adjusting my stitches and that the display screen gives a visual representation of the stitches as I’ve adjusted them. The display screen also makes recommendations for certain feet based on the stitch you’ve selected. The stitch quality is superb.
Speaking of feet, I LOVE that the b77 comes with a hopping foot for free motion quilting. From the moment you open the box, you have the core feet you need for piecing, FMQ, and garment sewing. Combined with the large extension table and throat space, this machine will keep up with even quite ambitious quilters and garment sewists.
The biggest difference I noticed between my BERNINA and the b77 is that the auto-tension is not quite as reliable. For free motion quilting, do test and adjust your tension before you begin just to be safe (an excellent best-practice anyway).
In my opinion, this machine is ideal for:
New sewists who want to invest in a machine that will last and grow with them
Intermediate sewists looking to upgrade from an entry level machine
Experienced sewists looking for a reliable and affordable backup or travel machine
Why buy from String & Story
Shopping for a machine can be overwhelming and intimidating, not to mention high stakes since you’re looking to make a substantial investment into a machine you’ll be spending a lot of time with. In light of that, why should you buy from String & Story?
If you’re local to the Duluth, GA area, we are excited to offer in person testing of the machine, troubleshooting, and open-sew time during shop hours— which means buying a machine from us comes with access to a local sewing community. Huzzah!
But what about if you’re online?
String & Story was one of the first quilting companies to offer independent, online education back in 2017— that means we have a lot of experience offering customer service and support virtually
We actually sew on the bernette machines we offer, both in store and at home. That means when we are helping you learn the machine, we are speaking from hands-on experience, not just reading the manual or attending a training to know the “right answers.”
We offer an amazing library of digital classes and resource and host an impressive online community. Buying a machine from us means that you are part of a wholistic quilting and sewing experience— where you can grow your skills, meet new friends, and get tailored help with the machine as needed (and miss our b77 tutorials playlist on YouTube)
Ready to experience the fun and features of the b77?
Resources
YOUTUBE: b77 tutorials playlist
Free Ebooks in the Quilting Rockstar Library
BLOG: How to Sew a Burrito Pillowcase (ideal for new sewists)
COURSE: Library of Online Courses
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