BERNINA 480

BERNINA 480

Power, speed, perfection and ease

  • 9 mm stitch width for decorative stitches
  • Jumbo bobbin for fewer interruptions
  • Convenient Automatic Thread Cutter
  • Adjustable tension for perfect stitches
  • Easy threading saves you time

BERNINA 480: Highly sophisticated & brilliantly simple

Get a feel for this fantastic machine

Get a feel for this fantastic machine

The next best thing to seeing it in person. This 360-viewer shows you every stunning angle of the BERNINA 480.

See for yourself
Automatic features save time

Automatic features save time

  • Automatic thread cutting
  • Press a button, thread is cut
  • Save time for the most creativity

Threads are cut automatically and the needle lifts leaving your hands free to keep on creating as easily and quickly as you like.

Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure

Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure

  • Thin fabrics? Increase pressure
  • Thick materials? Reduce pressure
  • Sew a variety of materials with ease

The basic setting can be individually adjusted, ensuring the ideal pressure is always used for whatever fabrics and materials you choose.

Big ideas need more space

  • More room for all kinds of projects
  • Slide-on extension table included
  • Spacious and hassle free

The extended freearm offers 7 inches right of the needle and allows plenty of room for projects, quilts and all kinds of creativity.

Easy to navigate touch screen

Easy to navigate touch screen

  • Modern color touch screen
  • Easy to use with simple navigation
  • On-screen support when needed

The on-screen, there-when-you-need-it, Sewing Consultant helps you find the right settings. Make suggested adjustments quickly with the Multi-function knobs.

Hands free and in control

Hands free and in control

  • Hands-free sewing with the knee lifter
  • Your hands guide the fabric anytime
  • Simultaneously raises/lowers presser foot and feed dog
The BERNINA Free Hand System lets you lift or lower the presser foot using only the knee lifter, keeping your hands free to guide your projects.

Perfect stitches perfectly easy

Perfect stitches perfectly easy

  • Sew perfect stitches with 9 mm stitch width
  • Jumbo bobbin means fewer stops
  • Convenient, Front-load bobbin

The BERNINA Hook keeps the stitches consistent and precise, and fast too, sewing at a maximum speed of 900 stitches per minute.

Register your machine and extend your warranty

Register your machine and extend your warranty

Few brands can match BERNINA's reputation for quality of engineering, design and durability. You know that when you buy a BERNINA, you have a sewing companion for the long-term. And that's why we are happy and confident to offer a full 7 YEARS PARTS AND LABOUR WARRANTY on new BERNINA sewing machines purchased from an authorised BERNINA UK stockist. There are terms & conditions which apply (click the link to read them) and then register your machine to give you peace of mind.

More information

Personal advice at your Local BERNINA Store

Over 2,000 BERNINA Stores worldwide offer valuable services to all our customers. Your local BERNINA Store is there to proudly help you, with advice on machines and accessories that best suit your needs, selection of BERNINA Embroidery Software and also in servicing your BERNINA.

Features & Functions

  • Overview
  • Sewing & Quilting
  • General Features
  • Stitches
BERNINA 480

Note:
Not all models and accessories are available in all countries. We reserve the right to make changes in both features and design.

Sewing space to the right of the needle 7”
#

Sewing space to the right of the needle

More sewing and embroidery space to the right of the needle offers comfort and more maneuverability when stitching large and small projects.
Centrally Located Color Touch Screen 4.3” / 10 cm
#

Centrally Located Color Touch Screen

Everything at eye level; it is clear and easy to use. Can be used with fingertip or touchpen and offers touch-scroll selection. Display and backround color can be customized and the screen brightness can be set according to your needs.
Hook system BERNINA Hook
#

Hook system

The CB Hook is the traditional BERNINA mechanism that produces the legendary BERNINA stitch quality at 5.5 mm wide.

The BERNINA Rotary Hook offers the same stitch quality at 9 mm stitch width and bobbin thread monitoring.

The innovative BERNINA Hook maintains legendary BERNINA stitch quality at 5.5 mm and 9 mm stitch widths. An easy bobbin case insertion and large capacity bobbin make this ideal.

The M Class BERNINA Rotary Hook for Longarm machines ensures the legendary BERNINA stitch quality, even at high speeds.
Automatic Thread Cutter
#

Automatic Thread Cutter

The upper and lower threads are cut automatically or at the touch of a button. The top thread is carried to the back side of the fabric. Program 2 types of tie-offs.
Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure
#

Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure

Adjust the presser foot pressure to eliminate skipped stitches and wavy seams on knits.
Tutorial
#

Tutorial

Access Tutorials for sewing, quilting and embroidery techniques. Also provides information about threading, needles and other including animation videos.
Maximum Stitch Width 9

Maximum Stitch Width

The variable Stitch Width can be adjusted while sewing. The 9 mm maximum stitch width available on some models expands your design possibilities.
Automatic Buttonhole / Length Measuring System
#

Automatic Buttonhole / Length Measuring System

Quickly set the length of the One-step Buttonhole. The same buttonhole size can be repeated as often as required. Remains in memory until another stitch is selected.
On-Screen Buttonhole Measuring
#

On-Screen Buttonhole Measuring

A button can be placed directly in the display. The size of the buttonhole is determined by turning the Mulitfunction knobs.
BSR Enabled
#

BSR Enabled

Usability of the BERNINA Stitch Regulator (BSR) on the machine.
Start/Stop Button (stitching without foot control)

Start/Stop Button (stitching without foot control)

As an alternative to the traditional foot control, power the machine using the Start/Stop button and regulate the speed with the Slide Speed Control.

Product brochure – All information at a glance

Download now

Note:
Not all models and accessories are available in all countries. We reserve the right to make changes in both features and design.

Maximum Sewing Speed (stitches per minute) 900

Maximum Sewing Speed (stitches per minute)

High speed with high power.
Maximum Stitch Width 9

Maximum Stitch Width

The variable Stitch Width can be adjusted while sewing. The 9 mm maximum stitch width available on some models expands your design possibilities.
Maximum Stitch Length 6

Maximum Stitch Length

The variable Stitch Length provides a smooth transition from length to length and can be adjusted while sewing.
Adjustable Needle Positions 11

Adjustable Needle Positions

Multiple Needle Positions allow for very precise sewing. You can sew most patterns in any needle position.
Presser Foot Recommendation
#

Presser Foot Recommendation

Indicator shows recommended presser foot for general use of stitch selected.
Presser Foot Library
#

Presser Foot Library

Access a built-in library of current presser feet and accessories.
Security Function for Needle and Stitch Plate
#

Security Function for Needle and Stitch Plate

Select respective needle type (single, double, triple, etc.) and stitch plate type. Automatically limits width function respectively. Prevents needle from hitting foot and/or stitch plate, avoiding damage.
Automatic Buttonhole / Length Measuring System
#

Automatic Buttonhole / Length Measuring System

Quickly set the length of the One-step Buttonhole. The same buttonhole size can be repeated as often as required. Remains in memory until another stitch is selected.
Manual Multi-step Buttonhole
#

Manual Multi-step Buttonhole

The length of the beads is manually determined when sewing. Bartack, eye and securing stitches are preprogrammed. The individual steps can also be selected by scrolling via the arrow icons or by pushing the button «Quick Reverse».
On-Screen Buttonhole Measuring
#

On-Screen Buttonhole Measuring

A button can be placed directly in the display. The size of the buttonhole is determined by turning the Mulitfunction knobs.
Personal Memory

Personal Memory

Record your individually altered stitches for future retrieval. Saved until deleted from the personal program memory.
Import/Export Stitches via USB

Import/Export Stitches via USB

To import and export sewing stitches via a USB stick.
Saving Settings of Stitch Patterns

Saving Settings of Stitch Patterns

Save over the factory default stitch settings to personalize a stitch; remains in effect until you reset to default stitch settings.
Temporary Altered Stitch Memory

Temporary Altered Stitch Memory

Stitch settings are remembered during the sewing session. This saves time when repeating stitches in a project.
Creative Consultant Sewing
#

Creative Consultant Sewing

Get reliable support for various applications and fabrics from the integrated Sewing Consultant. Makes suggestions regarding needles, presser foot, stabilizer etc.
Swipe

Swipe

Immediate delete by selecting stitch in combination and sliding to the right or to the left. Great to use when trashcan not visible.
Drag and Drop

Drag and Drop

Stitch patterns of a combination can be positioned in relation to each other as desired using drag and drop or the multifunction knobs.
Pattern Repeat 1-9
#

Pattern Repeat

Program the machine to stop at the end of a programmed number of repeats.
Pattern Begin
#

Pattern Begin

Start sewing at the beginning of a pattern or sequence wherever you stopped.
Pattern End

Pattern End

No more half-finished patterns; machine stops after pattern is complete. Programmable models offer tie-off and cut.

Product brochure – All information at a glance

Download now
Mirror-image function
#

Mirror-image function

Horizontal or vertical mirroring of the stitch expands the design possibilities.
Elongation

Elongation

Extend stitch pattern length in 1% or 100% steps for decorative effects. Shortest length is 10%; maximum length is 1000%.
Basting Stitch

Basting Stitch

Baste seams, hems and quilts. Maximize the basting stitch length by engaging the Long Stitch Function (on some models).
Continuous Reverse

Continuous Reverse

Sew backwards at a touch of a button.
Securing Stitches

Securing Stitches

Activate or deactivate securing stitches at sewing start.
Programmable Securing Function

Programmable Securing Function

Program the "Securing" button to automatically secure in place or running stitches.
BSR Enabled
#

BSR Enabled

Usability of the BERNINA Stitch Regulator (BSR) on the machine.
Start/Stop Button (stitching without foot control)

Start/Stop Button (stitching without foot control)

As an alternative to the traditional foot control, power the machine using the Start/Stop button and regulate the speed with the Slide Speed Control.
Hopper Mechanism

Hopper Mechanism

The vertical spring presses the sole to the fabric, preventing the material from pulling up with the needle. The result is a neat consistent stitch pattern.
Freearm Sewing
#

Freearm Sewing

The slim freearm is perfect for hemming small tubular pieces, such as baby clothes, pant legs, etc.
Total Number of Sewing Stitch Patterns (incl. alphabets) 994
Alphabets / Monograms 5
Decorative Stitches 250
Button Sew-On Program
#

Button Sew-On Program

Button Sew-On Foot #18 is the perfect tool for easy sewing of buttons, snap fasteners, eyelets and decorations.
Buttonholes / Eyelets 11
Practical Stitches 29
Quilting Stitches 27
Darning Programs 2
Balance Setting
#

Balance Setting

Balance is used to balance forward and reverse stitches so that the stitch formation can be adjusted where necessary to suit the material.
Sewing space to the right of the needle 7”
#

Sewing space to the right of the needle

More sewing and embroidery space to the right of the needle offers comfort and more maneuverability when stitching large and small projects.
Workspace Height 4,3"
#

Workspace Height

The extra height presents more space for quilts and spacious large projects and makes sewing easier in general.
Weight of the Machine 20.9 lb
Measurements (W x H x D) 16.6" / 7.9" / 12.9"
Centrally Located Color Touch Screen 4.3” / 10 cm
#

Centrally Located Color Touch Screen

Everything at eye level; it is clear and easy to use. Can be used with fingertip or touchpen and offers touch-scroll selection. Display and backround color can be customized and the screen brightness can be set according to your needs.
Total Memory 256 MB
Multi-function Knobs
#

Multi-function Knobs

Easily accessible knobs for making stitch adjustments before and during sewing in .05 increments for smooth stitch transitions. Used in embroidery for composing and design alterations.
Spool Holders 2

Spool Holders

Equipt with horizontal and vertical spool holders.
LED Sewing Light 8
#

LED Sewing Light

Bright illumination in the needle area and over the freearm. On some machines the brightness is adjustable.
Semi-automatic Needle Threader
#

Semi-automatic Needle Threader

Easy threading of the needle.
Manual Thread Cutters 4
#

Manual Thread Cutters

Conveniently positioned thread cutters in the area of the bobbin case, the bobbin winder motor and the needle to cut off thread ends.
Total Stitch Control

Total Stitch Control

Permanent or temporary altering of length, width, needle position and other creative functions of all stitches - even while sewing.
BERNINA Adaptive Thread Tension

BERNINA Adaptive Thread Tension

Once the tension is set according to the fabric and thread used, the thread tension is constantly monitored and adjusted automatically, if needed, resulting in the finest stitching.
Hook system BERNINA Hook
#

Hook system

The CB Hook is the traditional BERNINA mechanism that produces the legendary BERNINA stitch quality at 5.5 mm wide.

The BERNINA Rotary Hook offers the same stitch quality at 9 mm stitch width and bobbin thread monitoring.

The innovative BERNINA Hook maintains legendary BERNINA stitch quality at 5.5 mm and 9 mm stitch widths. An easy bobbin case insertion and large capacity bobbin make this ideal.

The M Class BERNINA Rotary Hook for Longarm machines ensures the legendary BERNINA stitch quality, even at high speeds.
Jumbo Bobbin with 70 % more Capacity
#

Jumbo Bobbin with 70 % more Capacity

More thread on the bobbin ensures significantly fewer interruptions in sewing, which is particularly helpful for large quilts or when embroidering.

Product brochure – All information at a glance

Download now
Bobbin Winding while Sewing/Embroidering

Bobbin Winding while Sewing/Embroidering

Fast winding of the bobbin, even while sewing.
Powerful DC Motor

Powerful DC Motor

Full power at all speeds provides for consistent stitching on multiple layers and heavy fabrics.
Hammer Mode

Hammer Mode

Built-in mechanism that drives the needle to stitch through more than 30 layers of fabric. The needle pulsates through the fabric to form the stitch.
BERNINA Free Hand System (FHS)
#

BERNINA Free Hand System (FHS)

Knee operated lever raises the presser foot, lowers the feed dog and releases the thread tension keeping your hands free for guiding the fabric and the height for the fabric passage increases so that even thick layers of fabric can be easily pushed under the presser foot.
Programmable BERNINA Foot Control
#

Programmable BERNINA Foot Control

Replace the back-kick function with securing stitches, Automatic Thread Cutter and raising the presser foot.
BERNINA Foot Control
#

BERNINA Foot Control

Consistent control and a back-kick function to raise and lower the needle. One single push onto the front sews one stitch, one heel push makes the needle move up or down.
Needle Stop Up/Down

Needle Stop Up/Down

The needle can be programmed to stop in the raised (up) or lowered (down) position.
Thread-up Command
#

Thread-up Command

Push the needle up/down button to lower and raise the needle to bring the bobbin thread to the top of the fabric so the threads can be secured manually. Perfect for quilting and free-standing lace.
Automatic Thread Cutter
#

Automatic Thread Cutter

The upper and lower threads are cut automatically or at the touch of a button. The top thread is carried to the back side of the fabric. Program 2 types of tie-offs.
Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure
#

Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure

Adjust the presser foot pressure to eliminate skipped stitches and wavy seams on knits.
Needle Reminder

Needle Reminder

To save the settings for the needle type used.
Tutorial
#

Tutorial

Access Tutorials for sewing, quilting and embroidery techniques. Also provides information about threading, needles and other including animation videos.
On-screen Help
#

On-screen Help

Use the ‘?’ to identify functions and stitches. Built-in animations lead you through processes and provide reminders.
Retractable Feed Dog
Slide speed control
#

Slide speed control

Regulate the speed with the Slide Speed Control.
  • Practical Stitches

  • Buttonholes

  • Decorative Stitches

  • Quilt Stitches

Accessories

Unleash your creativity with the included accessories and be prepared for any creative challenge with a huge variety of optional accessories.

  • Included
  • Compatible
Show all Hide all

Note:
Not all models and accessories are available in all countries. We reserve the right to make changes in both features and design.

Tutorials

  • Threading and getting started sewing with the B 480

  • Touch screen and functions of the B 480

  • Patchwork and quilting with the B 480

  • Sewing buttonholes with the B 480

  • Sewing decorative stitches and letters with the B 480

  • Changing and saving stitches with the B 480

  • Cleaning and oiling the B 480

  • Threading and getting started sewing with the B 480

    Threading and getting started sewing with the B 480

  • Touch screen and functions of the B 480

    Touch screen and functions of the B 480

  • Patchwork and quilting with the B 480

    Patchwork and quilting with the B 480

  • Sewing buttonholes with the B 480

    Sewing buttonholes with the B 480

  • Sewing decorative stitches and letters with the B 480

    Sewing decorative stitches and letters with the B 480

  • Changing and saving stitches with the B 480

    Changing and saving stitches with the B 480

  • Cleaning and oiling the B 480

    Cleaning and oiling the B 480

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use off-brand bobbins?

We recommend to use only BERNINA quality bobbins because using off-brand bobbins can cause unsatisfying thread tension and other problems.

How often should the machine be oiled?

The frequency of oiling depends on the number of the sewn stitches. We recommend to place a drop of oil onto the hook race before sewing for a longer period, but at least when the machine prompts you. When sewing bigger projects, you can oil the machine once a day.

The machine is running very slow.

Check the slide speed control on the front of the machine and move to the right. Here you can set the  maximum speed setting when sewing with the foot control or use it to adjust the speed when working with the start/stop button.
 

What should I do if the message with gears appears?

Cut off the upper thread, raise the presser foot, carefully lift the fabric to cut off the lower thread and any twisted threads. Do not pull! Remove the fabric. Remove the bobbin case, open the hook to check whether any thread is tangled in the hook area and remove it. Also check whether there is any thread under the needle plate. Replace the hook, bobbin case, bobbin and needle plate. Check whether the upper thread is threaded correctly and rethread if necessary.

Whats the use of the vertical spool pin?

Necessary when using a second thread for example sewing with the twin needle.
For stacked (parallel wound) threads, use the vertical spool pin to allow the thread to evenly feed off the spool.
Important: use the foam pad as base.

What is the thread cutter to the right of the machine head for?

It makes threading using the semi-automatic threader easier, since the end of the thread no longer needs to be held manually. Instead, the thread is pulled over the thread cutter  after it has been laid into  the hook of the threader. The threader is then released and the thread is pulled through the eye of the needle. The cutter is available as an optional accessory for models where it is not included as standard.

Support for your BERNINA 480

To ensure that you enjoy your BERNINA for as long as possible, we recommend that you read the detailed operating instructions. Further support information and firmware updates can be found on the support page.

Download manual Support page BERNINA 480

Personal advice at your Local BERNINA Store

Over 2,000 BERNINA Stores worldwide offer valuable services to all our customers. Your local BERNINA Store is there to proudly help you, with advice on machines and accessories that best suit your needs, selection of BERNINA Embroidery Software and also in servicing your BERNINA.