Bernina Bernette 66 has some good features, but it didn’t excite me as a sewer. There are some areas of improvement. And the price is slightly on the higher side.
Bernina Bernette 66 – Main Features
- 26 built-in stitches
- Drop-in bobbin
- 1-step buttonhole
- Extra high presser foot lifter
- Automatic needle threader
Bernina Bernette 66 Sewing Machine Review
Sewing Machine Reviews Recommendation Level : LOW
Bernette 66 is a beginners mechanical sewing machine. The machine has been in the market for some time. It was released way back in 2007. It has 26 built-in stitches including a 1-step buttonhole. The stitch width and length are adjustable. The maximum stitch width is 7mm and stitch length is 4.5mm. The built-in automatic needle threader threads the needle for you.
Reverse sewing lever is conveniently placed on Bernina Bernette 66. You can quickly reach out for it. The drop-in bobbin makes it easier for beginners to handle as you don’t need to remove the side cover as in the case of side loading bobbin. Presser foot pressure is adjustable. There is an extra high presser foot lifter, much like what you see on other sewing machines. It will allow you to sew multiple layers of fabric with ease. The maximum lift is 11mm.
Bernette 66 can be converted for free arm sewing. You can also drop the feed dog for free motion sewing. A sewing light is provided for assistance. The motor used by Bernina is reasonably powerful, capable of delivering 800 stitches/minute. An accessory storage compartment is provided for storing the accessories. A manual thread cutter is also there for easy thread cutting. The built-in handle makes it portable. However the weight is on the heavier side. It weighs 20.3 pounds. Dust cover is included.
Usability
Bernina Bernette 66 has some good stitches on board. However the machine seems to struggle with thick fabrics like denim. Issues like thread jamming and bird nesting have also been observed. Do not expect a lot from this machine. It is good for basic stuffs, it is nothing like your dream machine.
Is It Worth Buying?
Considering the usability and high price tag, I don’t think Bernina Bernette 66 is the best deal yet. You can get flawless machines with lots of features for even lesser price. The best alternative I can suggest is the Brother XR9500PRW. It is less expensive, has quite a lot of features and sews exceptionally well. It is the best sewing machine in the under $200 price category.