
bernette b35 Product Review and Demonstration
The bernette b35 is an affordable mechanical sewing machine that's genuinely easy to use which makes it a superb choice for sewers that prefer straightforward controls. Setting up is simple, with three dials for stitch width, length and pattern plus a tension wheel you can adjust while you sew.
With 23 built-in stitches covering utility and decorative options, there is plenty of scope for everyday sewing and creative detailing. The 1-step automatic buttonhole handles buttonholes quickly and consistently, and the adjustable stitch width of up to 5mm gives you room to vary your finish.
The machine handles fine fabrics such as silk and chiffon as confidently as heavier fabrics, so it grows with you as your projects change. A 2-stage presser foot lift adds extra clearance for thicker layers and quilting, while the built-in needle threader saves time and eye strain.
bernette is part of the BERNINA family reflecting over a century of Swiss precision engineering. They are built to last with meticulous attention to detail. Both brands use high-quality metal components, tight manufacturing tolerances and robust internal mechanisms rather than cheaper alternatives.
At around 6kg it's lightweight and portable, which makes it easy to carry to classes and sewing workshops. Seven snap-on presser feet come in the box, including zigzag, zip, hem and blind stitch options, giving you a solid foundation for dressmaking and general sewing. It offers excellent stitch quality at an affordable price with dependable results across a range of everyday projects.
Top Uses for the bernette b35

This machine is perfect for
- Beginners looking for an easy to use machine with excellent build quality
- Dressmakers working with delicate fabrics - stitch quality is excellent
- Sewing school/class use - multiple instructors recommend these for teaching beginners
- Those who prefer mechanical simplicity with no electronic or computerised features
Can sew but not ideal for
- Large quilts - small throat space means tight rolling required. Works perfectly for mini quilts, wall-hangings and cushions
Not suitable for
- Computerised features - purely mechanical with no automated functions
- Heavy-duty thick fabric work on a daily basis - not built for continuous use with thick fabrics
- Makers who want an extensive decorative stitch library (there are only 23 stitches)
- Use our free Machine Match Service if you'd like us recommend a model suited to your needs
bernette b35: A Machine for Every Maker
Simple Mechanical Controls
Three straightforward dials make this an easy machine to learn, so new makers can start sewing with confidence.
1-Step Automatic Buttonhole
Neat, consistent buttonholes in a single step, so you finish projects quickly without fiddly manual adjustments.
Lightweight and Portable
Easy to lift and move, so classes, workshops and shared sewing spaces are all within reach.
Inside the bernette b35
High Piercing Power
Strong needle penetration works through delicate and heavier materials alike, giving you dependable results across a wide fabric range.
Two-Stage Presser Foot Lift
The extra lift position adds clearance for thick layers and quilting, so bulky fabric feeds under the foot with ease.
Built-In Needle Threader
The needle threader guides thread through the needle eye quickly, saving time and reducing eye strain.
Adjustable Stitch Width and Length
Dedicated dials control stitch width up to 5mm and stitch length, giving you full creative control over your finish.
Front-Loading Bobbin System
The front-loading bobbin sits securely in place, keeping thread feeding smoothly and tension consistent throughout your sewing.

Product specifications
Key features
- 23 built-in stitches (utility and decorative)
- 1-step automatic buttonhole
- Adjustable stitch width up to 5mm
- Adjustable stitch length
- High piercing power
- 2-stage presser foot lift
- Built-in needle threader
- Front-loading bobbin
- Drop feed dogs
- Mechanical controls with three setting dials
- LED sewing light – bright, energy-efficient illumination of the needle area for clear visibility
Accessories in the Box
- 4 x Bobbins
- 1 x Seam Ripper
- 1 x Needle Set
- 1 x Screwdriver (large)
- 1 x Screwdriver (small)
- 1 x Foot Control
Feet in the box
- 1 x Zigzag Foot
- 1 x Buttonhole Foot with Slide
- 1 x Button Sew-On Foot
- 1 x Zipper Foot
- 1 x Blind Stitch Foot
- 1 x Hemmer Foot
- 1 x Satin Stitch Foot
Manufacturer's Specifications
- Mechanical Sewing Machine
- Machine Type: Sewing & Quilting
- Control Type: Mechanical
- Size: Medium
- Built-in Stitches: 23
- Number of Buttonholes: 1
- 1-Step Buttonhole
- Adjustable Stitch Length
- Adjustable Stitch Width: 5mm
- Drop Feed Dogs
- Needle Threader
- Front-Loading Bobbin
- Maximum Sewing Speed: 860 s.p.m.
- Workspace: 170 mm (approx. 6.7 inches) to the right of the needle
- Approximate Weight: 6kg
Machine Dimensions & Weight
- Weight: 6kg approximately
- Workspace: 170 mm (approx. 6.7 inches) to the right of the needle
- Machine size: 375mm (W) x 170mm (D) x 290mm (H)
Stitch Options & Controls
- 23 built-in stitches, including utility and decorative styles
- 1-step automatic buttonhole
- Adjustable stitch width up to 5mm via dedicated dial
- Adjustable stitch length via dedicated dial
- Mechanical stitch pattern selection dial
- Manual thread tension control, adjustable while sewing
- Drop feed dogs for free motion work
Bobbin & Needle System
- Front-loading bobbin system
- Built-in needle threader
- High piercing power for multiple fabric layers
- Snap-on presser feet system
Warranty and Support
- 2-year bernette parts and labour warranty included
- Authorised bernette service support nationwide
- Expert advice from The Sewing Studio team
Product Downloads
Frequently Asked Questions About the bernette b35
Let us help with the answers.
Is the bernette b35 suitable for beginners?
Yes, this machine is a superb choice for beginners. The three setting dials and simple mechanical controls make it easy to learn, while smooth, even stitching gives you dependable results from your very first project.
How many presser feet are included?
The bernette b35 comes with seven snap-on presser feet, including zigzag, zip, hemmer, buttonhole, button sew-on and blind stitch feet, covering everyday dressmaking and general sewing needs.
Can the bernette b35 handle heavy fabrics?
Yes. High piercing power lets the machine sew through multiple layers of denim, and the 2-stage presser foot lift adds clearance for thick fabric. For frequent heavy-duty work, we recommend a sturdier model.
How does the automatic buttonhole work?
The bernette b35 sews a buttonhole in one step. Fit the buttonhole foot, select the buttonhole setting and the machine completes it quickly and consistently, giving you a neat finish every time.
Is the bernette b35 good for delicate fabrics?
Yes. Its adjustable stitch settings and smooth needle penetration make it well suited to fine fabrics such as silk and chiffon, giving dressmakers reliable results on lightweight materials.
What warranty comes with this machine?
The bernette b35 includes a 2-year parts and labour warranty.
Is the bernette b35 easy to carry to classes?
Yes. At around 6kg the machine is lightweight and portable, so it's easy to lift and take along to classes and sewing workshops.
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).
