Bernina: The Epitome of Reliability in the Embroidery World

Bernina is a household name in the realm of embroidery, synonymous with quality and precision. While it's true that their products tend to command a higher price compared to their competitors, the brand's commitment to functionality and durability has solidified its position as a market leader. What sets Bernina apart is not just its reputation, but the tangible benefits that its customers experience in their day-to-day embroidery. With Bernina, users are investing in a product that not only meets but exceeds their expectations in terms of performance and longevity. As we delve into the world of Bernina, we'll explore what makes this brand such a formidable force. From its cutting-edge technology to its unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction, Bernina has earned its place at the forefront of the industry. Let's uncover the reasons behind its popularity and find out whether the investment in Bernina is truly worth the cost.

1. Is Bernina a Good Brand?

Yes, Bernina is a good brand. The globally welcomed brand earns itself a reliable reputation and its machines are considered premium choices by a vast amount of consumers. First gained fame for the invention of hemstitch sewing machine 130 years ago, the brand went popular worldwide soon. Over the years, the brand continues developing new products to suit diverse purposes. But that’s not the only factor making it a stand out. Its machines are made of more sturdy metal components. Their advanced features further prove it a valuable choice. Additionally, Bernina offers good support service to ensure well-functioning. Machines from normal channel is covered by warranty: 2 years for electrical parts, 5 years for printed circuit boards, and 20 years for mechanical components.

2. Is Bernina a German Company?

No, Bernina is a Swiss brand. Born in Europe, rumors of its German origin might come from the location of its initial factory bordering Switzerland, Germany and Austria, plus its highly-praised product quality. But it is absolutely a Swiss brand created by a family-owned Swiss company. In 1893, a Swiss man, Friedrich Gegauf (1860-1926) founded Bernina in Steckborn, Switzerland. This is a small town where most of its citizens work for the company as it enlarges. It was in 1932 that the brand was given the name of Bernina. Apart from its original manufacturing center in Switzerland, the company built a new factory in Thailand in 1990. So, basically Bernina has nothing to do with Germany, except that their machines are sold to the country.

3. Is Bernina Made In China?

No, the Bernina machine is not made in China. Bernina only has 2 factories located respectively in Switzerland and Thailand. Their Switzerland factory has been in operation since 1893, while it was in 1990 that Bernina’s Thailand factory was founded.

The Steckborn, Switzerland Plant

Originated from Switzerland, the brand has a rich history rooted in the western world. It’s the only machine manufacturer in the industry who still manufactures their products in western countries. As “the mutual proximity of development, testing and assembly is fundamental to the quality of BERNINA products”, the current owner of the company said he has no intention of leaving the historic production site. As Bernina International AG’s headquarter, Steckborn, Switzerland remains symbolic and meaningful for the brand. Today, the state-of-the-art Bernina sewing and longarm quilting machines are crafted with precision there and from this hub, they embark on a journey to reach the hands of enthusiasts and professional craftspeople across the globe.

The Lamphun, Thailand Plant

Like many other high profile brands in western countries, Bernina realized the significant advantages of reducing costs by shifting production to Asia. Though located in Thailand, the factory is under strict Swiss management to maintain high standards of the brand. Nowadays, all Bernina machines from entry-level to 7 Series, as well as the smaller Q Series are produced in the eastern land.

4. Does Bernina Make Just an Embroidery Machine?

No. Bernina makes embroidery machines as well as sewing, quilting machines and sergers.

The company produces a range of machine in the stitching machine industry. From entry-level models to high-end models, their product portfolio includes diverse machines to cater to various consumer needs. Additionally, Bernina owns Brewer and OESD embroidery, further expanding their machine range.

5. What Is the Best Embroidery Format for Bernina?

The best embroidery format for Bernina is .EXP and .ART. Bernina machines support multiple formats and use specific formats for different models. The common file formats include .EXP, .DST, .PES, .ART, .PEC, .JEF, .SEW, .PCS and .XXX format. Each one has its own edges, but .EXP and .ART are the top 2 choices. .EXP is the one compatible across all Bernina machine models. Included 3 main files for differed purposes (.exp, .inf, .bmp), the format exceptionally fit for those who own more than one Bernina machine. .ART is an exclusive format primarily optimized for Bernina systems. So digitizers do not offer designs in this format. But it works perfectly on a Bernina machine, providing the highest level of editing capacity and ensuring a best result.

Both .exp and .art formats allow for intricate detail in your designs. Click here for the complete guide to Bernina embroidery formats.

6. Does Bernina Have Magnetic Hoops?

No, Bernina do not produce magnetic hoops. According to its official website, it only provides normal tubular hoops in clamp tension, screw tension and twist-lock ones.

But if you’d like to get magnetic hoops for your Bernina machine, their are many options designed for it by other companies. For example, the SewTech magnetic hoop for Bernina:

The product is super strong and durable. It remains in good condition after 500,000 times repeated use and destructive testing. With more than  17 sizes, it can meet almost all your embroidery needs. Therefore, it’s ideal for all kinds of fabric hooping. It is perfectly embroidering on:

1. Small patterns and logos on T-shirts, jeans, sweatshirts, hoodies, polo shirts.
2. Bags, such as shoulder bags, gift tags or luggage tags, pet clothes, etc.
3. Baby clothes, onesies, bibs, children’s wear, decorative table napkins or toilet paper, Christmas stockings, belts.
4. Detailed work on cuffs, pockets and chest badges etc.
5. Hats, like beanie, bucket hat.

A packing of hoops contains the following items:

• Hoop Main Part x 1 pcs
• Metal Brackets x 1 pair
• Screws & Screwdriver

7.What Size Is the Mega Hoop?

Size of Bernina Mega hoop: 150 x 400mm /15.75 x 6”

The Mega Hoop is designed for extra-large embroidery project, motif combinations and borders. It is a professional grade hoop with a maximum embroider area of 5.9 x 15.7 inches. As a multi-positional hoop, it has 3 positions for fixing the very hoop onto the machine. And thanks to the template, it’s easy to precisely align the fabric and get exact placement. The table below lists all Bernina machines adapted to the hoop:

For the most professional and concrete information of Bernina Mega Hoop, view the page below and scroll to the bottom. An official published Mega embroidery hoop User Manual is for you to download.

8. How much is the BERNINA Mega Hoop?

The official selling price of Bernina Mega Hoop is $299.99. But purchased from a third party, generally you can get a nearly $40 discount. It’s not sure whether there is a unified pricing agreement, but most dealers sell it at the same price of $264.99. And that’s probably the lowest price you can get for a Mega Hoop. Therefore, we highly suggest that you get a substitute for it.

SewTech embroidery hoops not only have excellent quality but also offer great cost-performance ratio, which can be both a good assistant for your business operations and hobbies.

9. Bernina Hoop v.s. SewTech Hoop

Now we're comparing products designed exclusively for Bernina machines. There's a significant difference between SewTech hoops and Bernina hoops. SewTech hoops focus on the commercial machines, offering a wider range of hoop sizes and industrial hoops. In contrast, Bernina focus more on home machines, generally larger in size, and without magnetic hoops. Besides, specialized quilting machine hoops are a highlight of Bernina as well.

However, they share similarities, too. There are both multi-position hoops and single-position hoops for your selection. Their products are durable and have received excellent market feedback. Mainly targeting at different markets, they offer both qualified embroidery hoops for both commercial use and domestic use. Bernina targets the high-end market, with their hoops superior in both design and texture. But for a pragmatist, the one of best cost-performance ratio is the true king. So anyway, you need to consider your needs reasonably and choose the one best suits you.

Conclusion

Bernina's commitment to innovation and craftsmanship is evident in every stitch. With a global distribution network, they continue to uphold their legacy of quality, ensuring that the art of embroidery thrives for generations to come. Order with us at magnetichoop.com. We would appreciate it if you recommended us to your family members, friends, and others who are equally passionate about embroidery as you and us. To learn more about us, kindly follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and check out videos on our YouTube channel for more content. Visit our blog for insights on sewing, quilting, and embroidery supplies, tools, and products. Explore our websites to purchase high-quality items and Sewtalent magnetic hoops for your business needs. Shop with us today.