BERNINA L890 Overlocker & Coverstitch Machine
BERNINA's most capable overlocker and coverstitch combination machine perfect for creating professional-grade seams, hems and decorative finishes
Spread the cost from
£119.45 per month over 48 months*
£59.95 £53.96 Save 10%
Madeira Overlock Thread Set: Aerolock Extra Fine 12 x 2000m spools
£135.00 £121.50 Save 10%
£49.95 £44.96 Save 10%
£99.95 £89.96 Save 10%
£51.95 £46.76 Save 10%
Madeira Overlock Thread Box: 12 mixed Aerolock and Aeroflock Reels
Shop with confidence today knowing that our sewing machine prices are the lowest possible. If we lower our prices within 14 days of your purchase, we'll refund you the difference.
Terms and Conditions apply*
This machine comes with BERNINA 2 Year Parts & Labour Warranty. Commercial use: 1-year warranty. If you ever need support or servicing, our friendly team are always here to help.
Changed your mind? You've got 30 days to return any new, unused items in their original packaging.
Need advice?
Our in-house team knows every detail of this machine. Call, message or chat and get honest, expert advice from people who actually sew.
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Our standard width fabric can be cut as a Fat Quarter, measuring 50cm x 1/2 the width of the bolt. Above is an example of how your fabric will be received, depending on the quantity ordered.
We also offer a sample service, where you can order 1 single fat quarter of any standard width fabric, to have at home and compare colours. When you are finished, you can send them back to us for a refund (feel free to contact us for more information on this service).
Our fabric can be cut as a Long Quarter, measuring a minimum of 25cm x width of bolt. We will supply the fabric as a continuous length (eg; if you bought 1.25m it will be sent as one piece of fabric).
BERNINA L890 Coverlock Machine Product Review
The BERNINA L890 is a full-sized overlocker coverstitch combo machine built for sewers who want professional seam finishing and T-shirt quality hems from a single Swiss-engineered machine. Think precision, smooth operation and ease of use for flawless results every time on a sleek machine that will fit seamlessly into your sewing space.
One-step air threading handles all looper threads at the touch of a button, which means setup time is dramatically reduced compared to manual threading. The colour-coded threading path supports quick transitions between overlock, coverstitch and combo configurations, with every step illustrated by animations on the 4.3-inch colour touchscreen.
Micro Thread Control (MTC) is BERNINA's signature tension system on the L890, managing thread tension precisely across all stitch types. The Stitch Optimizer and Creative Sewing Consultant guide stitch selection for specific fabrics and tasks and the Personal Memory stores up to 100 individual stitch settings for repeat use.
The L890 sews with 2, 3, 4 or 5 threads, giving you 27 stitch combinations that cover the full range of overlocking, coverstitching and chainstitch work. Overlock seam widths run from 3 to 9mm; coverstitch widths are 3mm and 6mm; and combo stitches extend to 7–11mm, which means the machine handles everything from fine knit hems to reinforced denim seams. Adjustable differential feed and stitch length can both be altered while sewing for consistent results on stretchy knits, loosely woven fabrics and heavy-duty materials.
The freearm and included slide-on extension table give you a workspace of 143mm to the right of the needle, with a workspace height of 86mm. The BERNINA Free Hand System (FHS) knee lifter is included for hands-free presser foot operation. The swing-out presser foot with automatic swing back and the 2-step presser foot lifter with front-foot-lift make fabric positioning straightforward. Maximum sewing speed is 1,350 stitches per minute, with stitch-by-stitch sewing available for slow, precise work on curves and corners.
The L890 is a game-changer for sewists seeking professional finishes and advanced features for even the most demanding projects.
Key Features
What makes this machine worth it
Machine Type
Overlocker and coverstitch machine, large size
Stitch Range
27 stitch combinations across 2, 3, 4 and 5 threads; overlock, coverstitch, chainstitch and combo stitches
Control Type
4.3-inch colour touchscreen with Expert Mode and Guided Mode
Workspace
143mm to the right of the needle; workspace height 86mm
Threading System
One-step BERNINA Air Threader for all looper threads
Skill Level
Intermediate to professional sewers and dressmakers
Machine Weight
13.4kg
This machine is perfect for
- Professional home sewers wanting thr most advanced combo available from Bernina - this is genuinely the pinnacle of combination machine design from Bernina
- Those who switch frequently between overlock and coverstitch - the touchscreen and air threading make transitions fast and frustration-free
- Sewers who value on-screen guidance - animated tutorials built into the machine mean you never need the manual
- Those working with larger garments - the 14cm+ space right of needle handles larger items like hoodies and bathrobes comfortably
Can sew but not ideal for
- Complete beginners may find the advanced features overwhelming
Not suitable for
- Those who'd find touchscreen technology intimidating rather than helpful
Materials and Build Quality
The BERNINA L890 is a masterpiece built to Swiss manufacturing standards with a full-metal body that keeps the machine stable during sustained high-speed sewing at up to 1,350 stitches per minute. The DC motor runs quietly, the rolled hem lever sits integrated under the stitch plate, and the knife engages and disengages from outside the machine without opening covers.
MTC maintains accurate thread tension across the machine's full stitch range, releasing automatically when the presser foot is raised. The integrated upper looper converter allows switching between overlock and coverstitch modes without manual re-threading, and cutting width is adjustable while sewing for precise seam allowance control.
The remarkable BERNINA Air Threader carries thread through all looper paths automatically, it can be done hands free via one simple step on the foot control. This is particularly practical on a coverlock machine where different stitch types require different threading configurations. The colour-coded threading path and on-screen animations support every configuration change clearly.
The Difference is in the Details
At 1,350 stitches per minute with stitch-by-stitch sewing also available, the L890 covers both fast production runs on jersey garments and slow, controlled work on curves and necklines. Stitch length and differential feed are both adjustable while sewing, which means you can adapt to fabric behaviour without breaking your rhythm. The built-in thread cutter and cut-offs bin keep the workflow moving on longer sessions.
Swiss manufacturing and a full-metal body give the L890 the build quality to handle consistent, intensive use across dressmaking, jersey work and garment construction. The DC motor runs quietly and contributes to mechanical stability over time. BERNINA backs the L890 with a 2-year parts and labour warranty.
The Creative Sewing Consultant guides stitch selection and settings for specific fabrics and project types, so you spend less time in the manual and more time at the machine. The Personal Memory stores up to 100 individual stitch settings for quick recall on repeat projects. Our team at The Sewing Studio are authorised BERNINA retailers - call, chat or email for advice before and after your purchase.
The 4.3-inch colour touchscreen carries helpful animations and tutorials covering all machine functions and setup steps, so you can work through new configurations at your own pace. Expert Mode and Guided Mode give you the choice between full manual control and step-by-step prompts depending on your experience level. Our YouTube channel and website carry additional tutorials to help you get more from the L890.
The BERNINA Free Hand System (FHS) knee lifter allows hands-free presser foot operation, keeping both hands on the fabric during positioning. Speed is controlled via the touchscreen rather than a separate slider, and stitch-by-stitch sewing gives you full control on detailed work. The 2-step presser foot lifter with front-foot-lift makes fabric loading and unloading quick to manage across long sewing sessions.
BERNINA L890: A Machine for Every Maker
And every project
The Coverlock Combo That Covers Everything
One machine handles overlocking, coverstitching and combo stitches across 27 combinations, so you can finish seams and sew professional hems on knits, wovens and stretch fabrics without switching between machines.
Threading That Does Not Slow You Down
Air threading takes care of all loopers at the press of a button. Switching between stitch configurations follows a colour-coded path with on-screen guidance, so re-threading between overlock and coverstitch setups is straightforward rather than frustrating.
Tension You Can Trust
Micro Thread Control sets thread tension automatically when you select a stitch. Clean stitch formation on both sides of the fabric means less unpicking and more time spent making.
Inside the BERNINA L890
One-Step BERNINA Air Threader
A directed air stream carries thread through all looper paths at the press of a button, eliminating manual threading and making stitch changes faster.
Micro Thread Control (MTC)
Sets thread tension automatically when a stitch is selected, giving you the correct starting tension for each stitch type and fabric combination without manual adjustment at the dial.
27 Stitch Combinations Across 2–5 Threads
Works with 2, 3, 4 and 5 threads to produce 27 stitch combinations covering overlock, coverstitch, rolled hems, flatlock, chainstitch and combo stitches.
Colour Touchscreen with Expert Mode and Guided Mode
The intuitive 4.3-inch colour touchscreen controls all stitch selection and settings. Guided Mode walks you through setup with animations; Expert Mode gives direct access to all functions.
Freearm, Extension Table and Free Hand System
The freearm gives access for cuffs and sleeve hems. The slide-on extension table expands the working surface, and the FHS knee lifter operates the presser foot hands-free.
Product Specifications
Accessories In The Box
- Slide-on Table
- Freearm Cover
- BERNINA Tweezers
- Threading Wire
- Brush
- Torx T10 Screwdriver (for needle plate screws)
- Spool Stabilizer
- CS Lock Tool
- Overlocker Oil
- Accessories Box
- Knee lifter/Free Hand System (FHS)
- Cut-offs Bin
- Right seam guide
- Needle Threader/inserter
- Touchscreen Pen
- Foot Control
- Power Cable
- Needle Set × 2 (Knitwear & All purpose)
- Coverstitch Insert
- Spool Discs × 5
- Spool Nets × 5
- Dust Cover
- Knife Cover Insert
Feet In The box
- 1 x Overlock-/Combostitch Foot #C11
- 1 x Cover-/Chainstitch Foot #C13
Machine Dimensions & Weight
- Machine weight: 13.4kg
- Workspace to the right of the needle: 143mm
- Workspace height: 86mm (3 3/8 inches)
- Colour touchscreen: 4.3 inches
Stitch Options and Controls
- Total stitch combinations: 27
- Thread configurations: 2, 3, 4 and 5 threads
- 4-thread overlock: 1
- 3-thread overlock wide/narrow: 2
- 3-thread super-stretch: 1
- 3-thread flatlock wide/narrow: 2
- 3-thread narrow seam: 1
- 3-thread rolled hem: 1
- 3-thread picot stitch: 1
- 2-thread rolled hem: 1
- 2-thread wrapped overlock wide/narrow: 2
- 2-thread overlock wide/narrow: 2
- 2-thread blanket stitch wide/narrow: 2
- 2-thread flatlock wide/narrow: 2
- 4-thread coverstitch: 1
- 3-thread coverstitch wide: 1
- 3-thread coverstitch narrow: 2
- 2-thread chainstitch: 1
- Chainstitch with 3-thread overlock wide/narrow: 2
- Chainstitch with 2-thread overlock wide/narrow: 2
- Overlock seam width: 3–9mm
- Coverstitch width: 3mm and 6mm
- Combo stitch width: 7–11mm
- Stitch length: 0.8–4.0mm
- Maximum sewing speed: 1,350 stitches per minute
Sewing Features and Functions
- One-step BERNINA Air Threader (looper threads)
- Micro Thread Control (MTC)
- Integrated upper looper converter
- Colour-coded threading path
- Expert Mode and Guided Mode
- Stitch Optimizer
- Creative Sewing Consultant
- Personal Memory (up to 100 individual stitches)
- On-screen animations and tutorials
- Stitch selection and settings via touchscreen
- Speed control via touchscreen
- Stitch-by-stitch sewing
- Adjustable stitch length while sewing
- Adjustable differential feed while sewing
- Adjustable cutting width while sewing
- Adjustable thread tension while sewing
- Thread tension release when presser foot raised
- 6-step presser foot pressure adjustment
- 2-step presser foot lifter with front-foot-lift
- Swing-out presser foot with auto swing back
- Needle stop up/down programmable; automatic needle stop up
- Needle up/down with BERNINA foot control
- Rolled hem lever integrated under stitch plate
- Knife engages and disengages from outside the machine
- Safety switch for open cover and raised presser foot
- Thread cutter
- 2 LED sewing lights
- Freearm
- Convenient accessory storage in the threader cover
Needle System
- Needle threader and inserter included
Warranty & Support
The BERNINA L890 is covered by a full 2-year BERNINA parts and labour warranty. Commercial use: 1-year warranty. Our support team at The Sewing Studio are authorised BERNINA retailers and are here to help with setup, technique and servicing throughout the life of your machine.
Product Downloads
Ratings & Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
Let us help with the answers.
What is the difference between an Overlocker and a Coverlock machine?
An overlocker trims and encloses raw fabric edges to create secure, stretch-friendly seams. A coverstitch machine sews the type of parallel-needle hem you see on the inside of T-shirts and knitwear. The BERNINA L890 does both, and adds combo stitches that combine overlock and chainstitch in a single pass, which means one machine replaces two separate pieces of equipment for most garment construction work.
Do I need to re-thread the machine every time I switch between Overlock and Coverstitch?
Switching between configurations does involve re-threading for the relevant stitch type, but the L890's Air Threader handles all looper threads at the press of a button. The colour-coded threading path and on-screen animated guides make the process clear and consistent, so it is much faster than on machines without air threading assistance.
Can the L890 handle thick or heavy fabrics?
Yes. The 6-step presser foot pressure adjustment and the adjustable differential feed give you control over how the machine handles different fabric weights. The combo stitches at widths up to 11mm are particularly suited to reinforced seams on heavier materials, while the differential feed prevents stretching and distortion on knits and loosely woven fabrics.
What is Micro Thread Control and how does it help?
Micro Thread Control (MTC) is BERNINA's thread tension system on the L890. It manages tension across all thread paths simultaneously while the machine is running, responding to changes in stitch type and fabric. The practical result is consistent stitch formation on both sides of the fabric without frequent manual tension adjustments, which is particularly useful when moving between different fabrics or stitch configurations in a single session.
Is the extension table included?
Yes. A slide-on extension table is included with the machine. It provides a larger working surface for garment panels and wider fabric pieces, which is useful when sewing longer seams.
What skill level Is the BERNINA L890 suited to?
The L890 is well suited to intermediate and experienced sewers who sew garments regularly and want reliable coverstitch and overlock results from a single machine. Guided Mode and the on-screen animations make the more complex functions accessible to sewers who are new to coverlock machines, while Expert Mode gives experienced users direct access to all settings without additional steps.
