bernette b68 Airlock Overlocker & Coverstitch Machine
A 2-in-1 overlocker and coverstitch machine that’s easy to use with air threading and 31 stitches for a professional finish
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£37.07 per month over 48 months*
Free Mini Vacuum Cleaner worth £55!
£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
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This machine is covered by a Bernette 2-year parts and labour guarantee. If you need support or servicing our team is here to help.
Changed your mind? You've got 30 days to return any new, unused items in their original packaging.
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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).
bernette b68 Airlock Product Review & Demonstration
The bernette b68 Airlock is an all-in-one solution designed for ambitious sewers seeking professional-quality results with advanced features in one convenient model.
Combining the precision of a coverstitch machine with the efficiency of an overlocker, the b68 makes it easier than ever to create strong seams, perfect hems and decorative finishes. It's a great choice for sewers stitching activewear using stretch fabrics like Lycra or delicate bridalwear where a rolled hem creates an elegant finish.
Threading the loopers is handled by an automatic air threader. A push of a button sends the looper thread through with a puff of air, replacing one of the most fiddly tasks on a traditional overlocker. Colour-coded thread paths makes threading the needles easy.
For sewers who work with knits, jersey or stretch fabrics, built-in differential feed prevents puckering and stretching. Micro Thread Control (mtc) enables you to fine tune setting for a clean and professional overlock seam. The 31 stitch options include 2-, 3-, 4- and 5-thread configurations, rolled hems, flatlock, super-stretch and safety stitches.
The 130mm of workspace to the right of the needle gives coverstitching the room it needs for larger garments, with the included slide-on table and matching coverstitch insert extending that surface further. The integrated freearm slides into use for cuffs, sleeves and narrow tube work, while five LEDs light the sewing area for accurate threading and stitch placement.
Key Features
What makes this machine worth it
Machine Type
Overlocker and coverstitch combination machine
Stitch Range
31 stitches across overlock, coverstitch, chainstitch and combo
Control Type
Manual dials with adjustable presser foot pressure
Workspace
130mm (5 inches) to the right of the needle
Needle Configuration
2-, 3-, 4- and 5-thread setups with ELx705 needle system
Coverstitch Width
2.8mm narrow, 5.6mm wide
Skill Level
Confident beginners through to advanced sewers
Maximum Speed
1,300 stitches per minute
This machine is perfect for
- Sewers wanting both overlock and coverstitch without buying two machines
- Makers who struggle with threading - air threading system for loopers, allowing quick and stress-free setup
- Knit garment makers needing complete construction capability (overlock seams + coverstitch hems)
- Home sewers wanting near-professional results without professional complexity in one compact machine
Can sew but not ideal for
- Frequent mode switching - makers needing to switch constantly between overlock and coverstitch within same project would benefit from having separate models for each task
Not suitable for
- Sewers needing one function only - you'll pay for capabilities you won't use
- Complete beginners who'd be overwhelmed learning two machine functions simultaneously
Materials and Build Quality
bernette machines are part of the BERNINA family. They are built with the same Swiss quality and precision engineering standards that BERNINA is known for. Combining overlock and coverstitch in one chassis means a single machine handles work that would otherwise need two, which means fewer machines to service and less clutter.
Say goodbye to complex threading with the air threading system for loopers, allowing quick and stress-free setup. It uses a stream of air to automatically blow the looper threads through the threading channels. Instead of manually guiding thread through complicated looper paths with tweezers, you simply insert the thread into the threading port and press the lever - the thread is instantly pushed through the looper.
The b68 Airlock offers a generous amount of workspace for a combination overlocker/coverstitch machine. There is 130mm of space to the right of the needle, which gives you far more room to comfortably handle larger projects, especially when coverstitching garments, hems and bulkier fabrics.
The included large slide-on table also expands the sewing area further, making fabric handling smoother and more controlled for projects like activewear, knit garments and home décor sewing.
The Difference is in the Details
The b68 runs at up to 1,300 stitches per minute for long seams and hems. Air threading cuts looper setup to a button press, mtc keeps tension steady through fabric changes and adjustable presser foot pressure adapts to different weights as they come.
Bernette is part of the BERNINA family built with the same meticulous attention to detail. They are built to last, reflecting over a century of Swiss precision engineering. Both brands use high-quality metal components, tight manufacturing tolerances and robust internal mechanisms. With readily available parts and strong service support, Bernette machines are designed to deliver reliable performance over years of use.
The Sewing Studio is an authorised Bernette retailer with decades of experience helping sewers get the most from their machines. Our in-house team is here to talk through threading, stitch selection or troubleshooting before and after purchase. Chat with one of our machine experts online or contact us through our help centre.
You'll find a detailed tutorial on the b68 key features as well as how to get started on our YouTube channel.
Five LEDs light the sewing area for accurate threading and stitch placement at any time of day. The integrated freearm makes cuffs, sleeves and narrow tube work straightforward, and the knee lifter raises and lowers the presser foot so both hands stay on the fabric while you work.
bernette b68 Airlock: A Machine for Every Maker
And every project
The Stretchwear Specialist
Stretch fabrics need stable and elastic seams. For sewers regularly making dancewear, yoga, swimwear or sportswear from Lycra, rib knits or anything that moves with the body, the differential feed and Micro Thread Control ensure a robust and neat finish without puckering.
A Professional Finish
Seams matter just as much as silhouettes. Durable and well constructed clothing lasts longer and looks more professional. The b68 handles bulk and multiple layers with ease. It's ideal for finishing curtains, cushions and home furnishings as well as structured garments and coats or mixed-fabric projects that need strength.
Two-In-One Convenience
Save on cost, reduce workspace clutter and enjoy the convenience of handling professional seam finishing and stretch hems with a single versatile setup. The b68 Airlock is designed for makers who value speed, simplicity and a smoother sewing experience. With effortless air threading, intuitive controls and combined overlock and coverstitch functionality in one machine, it helps you spend less time setting up and more time creating.
Inside the bernette b68 Airlock
Air Threading System
A push of a button sends compressed air through the looper channels to thread them in seconds. This replaces the most time-consuming part of overlocker setup and makes thread colour changes practical mid-project.
Micro Thread Control (mtc)
This system holds tension balanced internally as cutting width or fabric thickness shifts during sewing. You set tension once at the start of a project and the machine maintains seam consistency throughout.
Overlock and Coverstitch in One Chassis
Combining both functions in a single machine means you construct seams and finish hems in one workflow without swapping between units. The 31 stitches cover overlock, coverstitch, chainstitch and combo configurations.
Differential Feed for Stretch Fabrics
Two sets of feed dogs move at independently adjustable rates, preventing knits from stretching and lightweight fabrics from puckering. This is what gives jersey, Lycra and lightweight wovens a clean professional finish.
Workspace, Freearm and Lighting
The 130mm working area with slide-on table and coverstitch insert gives larger projects room to move. The integrated freearm handles cuffs and sleeves, with five LEDs lighting the needle area throughout.
Product Specifications
Accessories in the Box
- Knee Lifter
- Slide-on Extension Table
- Cut-offs Bin
- Knife Cover Insert
- Coverstitch Insert
- Coverstitch Insert for Slide-on Table
- Freearm Cover
- BERNINA CS Lock Tool
- BERNINA Needle Set
- BERNINA Tweezers
- Needle Threader/Inserter
- Spool net x 5
- Spool Stabiliser x 5
- Spool Cap x 5
- Threading wire
- Retractable thread guide
- Upper looper converter
- Screwdriver x 2
- Brush
- Accessory Box
- Foot Controller
Feet in the Box
- Standard Overlock/Coverstitch Combo Foot
Manufacturer Specifications
- Speed (stitches/minute): 1300
- Width overlock stitches: 3-7mm
- Sewing light: 5 LEDs
- Sewing space to the right of the needle: 5 Inches
- Micro thread control (mtc): YES
- Overlock stitches: 2, 3 and 4 thread
- Coverstitch: 4 thread
- Coverstitch (wide/narrow): 3 thread
- Chainstitch: 2 thread
- Automatic air threader for the looper thread: YES
- Number of stitches: 31
- Rolled hem: 2 and 3 thread
- Super-stretch stitch: 3 thread
- Flatlock: 2 and 3 thread
- Narrow seam: 3 thread
- Wrapped overlock: 2 thread
- Safety stitch: 4 and 5 thread
- Coverstitch width: 2.8 / 5.6mm
- Combo stitch width: 7.8-12.6mm
- Combostitch-Function: YES
- Cover-function: YES
Machine Dimensions & Weight
- Machine weight: 8.9kg
- Machine size (W x D x H): 43cm x 27cm x 29cm
- Workspace: 130mm (5 inches) to the right of the needle
- Sewing light: 5 LEDs
- Slide-on table included
Stitch Options and Controls
- Total stitches: 31
- 2-, 3- and 4-thread overlock stitches
- 4-thread coverstitch
- 3-thread coverstitch (wide and narrow)
- 2-thread chainstitch
- 2- and 3-thread rolled hem
- 3-thread super-stretch stitch
- 2- and 3-thread flatlock
- 3-thread narrow seam
- 2-thread wrapped overlock
- 4- and 5-thread safety stitch
- Combo stitch function
- Cover function
- Maximum sewing speed: 1,300 stitches per minute
- Width of overlock stitches: 3 to 7mm
- Coverstitch width: 2.8mm and 5.6mm
- Combo stitch width: 7.8 to 12.6mm
- Stitch length: 1 to 4mm
Sewing Features and Functions
- Automatic air threader for the looper threads
- Colour-coded threading paths
- Micro Thread Control (mtc)
- Differential feed
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Knee lifter
- Integrated freearm
- Lay-in tension dials
- Cut-offs bin included
Warranty & Support
The bernette b68 Airlock is covered by a 2-year parts and labour guarantee. Our support team is here if you ever need help or servicing.
Product Downloads
Ratings & Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
Let us help with the answers.
What is the difference between an Overlocker and a Coverstitch Machine?
An overlocker trims and finishes raw edges with a wrapped seam, while a coverstitch machine creates the parallel rows of stitching you see on the hems of t-shirts and activewear. The b68 does both, so you get construction and finishing from one machine.
How does the Air Threading System actually work?
A puff of compressed air carries the looper thread through its internal channel when you press the button. It removes the trickiest part of overlocker setup, particularly when you switch thread colours or move between projects.
Can the b68 handle stretch fabrics like jersey and Lycra?
Yes. The differential feed adjusts how the front and rear feed dogs move relative to each other, so knits and lightweight stretch fabrics travel through without puckering or stretching out of shape.
Do I need to reset tensions when I change fabric?
Not in the way you would on a standard overlocker. Micro Thread Control balances tension internally when cutting width or fabric thickness changes, so you set it once and the machine adapts as you work.
Is this machine suitable for beginners?
It is approachable for confident beginners, particularly because the air threader and colour-coded paths remove the steepest part of the overlocker learning curve. That said, getting full value from the 31 stitch options does take some practice.
Can I use standard sewing machine needles?
No. The b68 uses the ELx705 needle system, which is designed specifically for overlockers and coverstitch machines. A starter set is included with the machine.
