
BERNINA 590E Product Review
The BERNINA 590E is a precision-engineered combination machine that brings sewing, quilting and embroidery together in one powerful package. Built around the renowned BERNINA Hook system, this machine delivers up to 1,000 stitches per minute with remarkable quietness and consistency. The 8.5-inch workspace to the right of the needle provides generous room for larger projects, while 16 bright LED lights illuminate your work area with clarity. This is a machine built for makers seeking professional-grade capabilities and the highest levels of precision and finish in their sewing.
With 1,774 built-in stitches, the 590E offers an extraordinary creative range. The selection includes 499 decorative stitches for embellishment, 60 quilting stitches for patchwork and free-motion work, 38 utility stitches for everyday sewing, and 18 one-step buttonhole styles, including an eyelet. Nine built-in stitch fonts let you add personalised text to garments and quilt labels with ease. Every stitch is adjustable by length and width through the intuitive 4.3-inch colour touchscreen, which means you can fine-tune each stitch to suit your fabric and project requirements.
The embroidery capabilities of the 590E match its sewing capabilities. There are 275 beautiful built-in designs. The optional Mega Hoop offers a generous 400×150mm embroidery field for large-scale designs and endless embroidery, while the optional Midi Hoop (265×165mm) handles smaller projects with precision. Thread Away Mode and Invisible Secure deliver clean embroidery results on the top side of your work, eliminating manual trimming. Pinpoint Placement lets you position designs with accuracy by matching two points on-screen to markings on your hooped fabric, which means complex placement tasks become straightforward.
The BERNINA Stitch Regulator (BSR) comes included as standard, giving quilters consistent stitch length during free-motion work. The BERNINA Dual Feed system feeds fabric evenly from above and below, making light work of slippery materials like chiffon and challenging layers like leather. Adaptive Thread Tension automatically adjusts for different fabrics and threads. The Free Hand System (knee lift) lets you raise the presser foot while keeping both hands on your work, which is invaluable for appliqué, pivoting and manoeuvring bulky projects. With on-screen tutorials, Sewing and Embroidery Consultants and comprehensive accessory options, the 590E grows with your skills and ambitions.

Key Features
What makes this machine worth it
Machine Size
Medium-sized combination unit
Stitch Range
1,774 built-in stitches including 499 decorative
Control Type
4.3-inch colour touchscreen
Workspace
8.5 inches to the right of the needle
Embroidery Area
400 × 150mm (15.7" x 5.9")
Skill Level
Designed for intermediate to professional users
Machine Weight
11kg with sturdy frame construction
Connectivity
USB interface for PC connection

This machine is perfect for
- Passionate sewers looking for a machine that can do it all including handle tricky or unusual fabrics
- Quilters who enjoy free-motion quilting - the BERNINA BSR is included with this model
- Sewers upgrading from mid-range Bernina (3-series) looking to add embroidery to their sewing room
- Sewers who value quieter operation - the BERNINA Hook is noticeably quieter than competitors"
Can sew but not ideal for
- Complete beginners may find the advanced features overwhelming
Not suitable for
- This machine is not WiFi enabled - custom designs are easily transferred by USB
Materials and Build Quality
The BERNINA 590E is built around the legendary BERNINA Hook system, engineered in Switzerland for quiet, high-speed operation. This rotary hook design delivers up to 1,000 stitches per minute with minimal vibration and exceptional stitch consistency. The hook accommodates BERNINA's Jumbo Bobbin, which holds up to 70% more thread than standard bobbins, reducing the frequency of bobbin changes during longer projects.
This engineering translates into tangible benefits to the machine. You'll experience fewer interruptions during quilting or embroidery sessions, with the larger bobbin capacity keeping you stitching for longer. The quiet operation makes extended sewing sessions more comfortable, while the precise hook timing ensures every stitch forms correctly, even at maximum speed on demanding fabrics.
The BERNINA Dual Feed system is integrated into the machine, feeding fabric evenly from both above and below the needle plate. This built-in walking foot engages easily when needed and tucks away when not in use. Combined with Adaptive Thread Tension that automatically adjusts for different fabrics and thread types, the 590E handles everything from delicate chiffon to multiple layers of denim without manual adjustments.
These systems work together to prevent common sewing frustrations. Slippery fabrics stay aligned without shifting, stripes and plaids match at seams, and quilted layers feed smoothly without puckering. The automatic tension adjustment means you spend less time testing on scraps and more time completing your projects with consistent, professional results.
Sixteen bright LED lights are positioned to illuminate the entire needle area and throat space without shadows. The 8.5-inch workspace to the right of the needle provides ample room for handling larger projects like quilts, curtains and full garments. The included slide-on extension table further extends your working surface, supporting fabric weight and improving control on bigger makes.
This thoughtful design reduces eye strain during long sewing sessions and makes detailed work more precise. The generous workspace means you're not constantly fighting to manoeuvre fabric, and the shadow-free lighting lets you see exactly where your needle will drop. For quilters working on large projects or sewers tackling evening wear, this combination of light and space makes a noticeable difference.
The Difference is in the Details
The BERNINA 590E streamlines your workflow with automatic features that save time on every project. The automatic thread cutter operates three steps in one: cutting the thread, lifting the needle and raising the presser foot. The Jumbo Bobbin holds up to 70% more thread than standard bobbins, reducing interruptions. Bobbin winding while sewing or embroidering means you can prepare your next bobbin without stopping. For embroidery, Thread Away Mode and programmable jump stitch cutting keep your work clean, while colour resequencing optimises multi-colour designs for fewer thread changes.
BERNINA machines are renowned for their durability and the 590E continues this tradition. Swiss engineering and precision manufacturing ensure long-term reliability, while the robust BERNINA Hook system is designed to perform consistently over many years of intensive use. BERNINA backs this machine with a 7-year warranty covering parts and labour, reflecting confidence in its construction. Regular oiling and cleaning as directed in the manual will keep the 590E running smoothly for decades.
The 590E includes on-screen help, sewing tutorials and embroidery tutorials to guide you through every feature. The Creative Consultant offers direct on-screen support when you need answers quickly. BERNINA's ArtLink software is available as a free download for importing and organising designs.
Built-in tutorials cover sewing basics, decorative stitching, buttonholes, quilting techniques and embroidery operations. The setup program guides you through initial configuration, while on-screen help explains functions as you use them. Our YouTube channel and website offer additional tutorials and project ideas. BERNINA's online community provides patterns, inspiration and troubleshooting support to help you master your machine and explore new techniques with confidence.
The 4.3-inch colour touchscreen provides intuitive navigation with clear icons and responsive controls. Multi-function knobs let you adjust stitch width and length without scrolling through menus. The Free Hand System (knee lift) raises the presser foot and lowers the feed dog with your knee, keeping both hands free for fabric control. The pivot and hover function lifts the presser foot slightly when the needle is down, making it easy to adjust fabric position. Sixteen LED lights eliminate shadows, and the quiet motor reduces fatigue during extended sessions.
BERNINA 590E: A Machine for Every Maker
And every project
Three Disciplines in One Machine
The 590E combines professional sewing, quilting and embroidery capabilities in a single machine offering the ultimate in quality, convenience and ease of use.
BERNINA Stitch Regulator
The BSR comes as standard, delivering consistent stitch length during free-motion quilting
Perfect Embroidery Results Every Time
Thread Away Mode and Invisible Secure work together to produce clean embroidery on the top side of your work, eliminating the need for manual thread trimming.
Inside the BERNINA 590E
Built-In Computerised Stitch Library
The 590E comes pre-loaded with 1,774 stitches including 499 decorative designs, 60 quilting stitches, 38 utility stitches and 18 buttonhole styles. Browse and select through the colour touchscreen with real-time stitch previews.
Precision BERNINA Dual Feed
The integrated Dual Feed system feeds fabric evenly from above and below, handling slippery silks, stretchy knits and multiple layers with consistent results. It engages easily and tucks away when not needed.
Professional Embroidery Module
The included embroidery module supports both Mega Hoop (400×150mm) and Midi Hoop (265×165mm) for versatile project sizing. Pinpoint Placement, endless embroidery and on-screen design editing give you full creative control.
Automatic Thread Cutter System
The automatic thread cutter handles three actions in one: cutting thread, lifting the needle and raising the presser foot. Manual thread cutters are positioned at four convenient points around the machine for quick trimming.
Adaptive Thread Tension
The machine automatically adjusts upper thread tension based on your fabric and stitch selection, reducing the need for manual testing and ensuring consistent stitch quality across different materials.


Product Specifications
Accessories In The Box
- 1 x Embroidery module
- 1 x Soft cover with pocket
- 1 x Accessories box
- 1 x Free Hand System (FHS)
- 1 x Slide-on table
- 1 x Seam guide for slide-on table
- 1 x CutWork/Straight stitch plate
- 3 x Spool disc
- 4 x Bobbin
- 2 x Foam pad
- 1 x Touchscreen pen
- 1 x Seam ripper
- 1 x Height compensating tool
- 1 x Selection of needles
- 1 x Screwdriver red (slot)
- 1 x Brush
- 1 x Sewing machine oil
- 1 x Power cable
- 1 x Programmable foot control
- 1 x Bobbin case
- 1 x Magnetic accessory box
- 1 x Quilting guide
Hoops in the Box
- 1 x Large Oval hoop with template (10"x5.7"/255x145mm)
- 1 x Medium hoop with template (5.1"x3.9"/130x110mm)
Feet In The Box
- 1 x BERNINA Stitch Regulator (BSR)
- 1 x Reverse-pattern foot #1C
- 1 x Reverse-pattern foot #1D
- 1 x Overlock foot #2A
- 1 x Buttonhole foot with slide #3A
- 1 x Zipper foot #4D
- 1 x Blindstitch foot #5
- 1 x Open embroidery foot #20C
- 1 x Embroidery foot #26L
Machine Dimensions & Weight
- Machine size (W×D×H): 461mm × 200mm × 327.5mm (18.1″ × 7.9″ × 12.9″)
- Machine weight: 11kg
- Sewing space to the right of needle: 8.5 inches / 215mm
- Free arm: Yes, with slide-on extension table included
Stitch Options & Controls
- Total stitch patterns: 1,774
- Utility stitches: 38
- Decorative stitches: 499
- Quilting stitches: 60
- Cross-stitch programs: 40
- Buttonholes (including eyelet): 18
- Sewing alphabets: 9
- Maximum stitch width: 9mm
- Maximum stitch length: 6mm
- Needle positions: 11
- Maximum sewing speed: 1,000 stitches per minute
- LCD display: 4.3-inch colour touchscreen
Sewing Features & Functions
- BERNINA Hook system with Jumbo Bobbin
- BERNINA Stitch Regulator (BSR) enabled for straight stitch and zigzag
- BERNINA Dual Feed (BDF) integrated
- Adaptive Thread Tension
- Automatic thread cutter
- Automatic presser foot lift
- Automatic presser foot pressure
- Pivot and hover function
- Semi-automatic needle threader
- Start/stop button for stitching without foot control
- Slide speed control
- Needle stop up/down programmable
- Upper and lower thread indicators
- Pattern start/end function
- Triple stitch capability
- Stitch elongation
- Automatic buttonhole length measuring system
- Programmable securing function
- Darning programs
- Button sew-on program
- Bobbin winding while sewing or embroidering
- USB interface for PC connection
- BERNINA foot control with back-kick function
- On-screen help and tutorials
Embroidery Features and Functions
- Maximum embroidery speed: 1,000 stitches per minute
- Built-in embroidery designs: 275
- Embroidery alphabets: 7
- On-screen editing: positioning, mirroring, rotating, scaling, and combining
- Pinpoint Placement for precise design positioning
- Group and Ungroup function
- Colour Wheel for thread colour selection
- Thread Away Mode
- Invisible Secure and Smart Secure
- Programmable jump stitch cutting
- WordArt text creation
- Endless embroidery capability
- Colour resequencing
- Sequence control
- Basting function
- Undo/Redo function
- Position recall
- Freearm embroidery
- Personal memory for embroidery designs
- Importing stitch patterns
- BERNINA ArtLink embroidery software (free download)
- Embroidery tutorial and Sewing and Embroidery Consultant on-screen
- Supported embroidery formats: EXP, DST, PES, PEC, JEF, SEW, PCS, XXX
Bobbin and Needle System
- Hook system: BERNINA Hook (rotary)
- Bobbin type: BERNINA Jumbo Bobbin (holds 70% more thread)
- Bobbin access: Front-loading
- Bobbin winding: Can wind while sewing or embroidering
- Thread sensors: Upper and lower thread indicators
- Spool holders: 2
Warranty & Support
7-Year BERNINA Warranty Included. Enjoy complete peace of mind with a full 7-year BERNINA warranty covering parts and labour when purchased from an authorised BERNINA UK dealer. For any warranty claims or servicing, the machine will need to be returned to us. Our support team is here to help arrange this and assist with any questions.
Product Downloads
Ratings & Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
What embroidery formats can the 590E use?
The BERNINA 590E accepts standard embroidery formats and is compatible with BERNINA ArtLink software (free download) for importing and managing designs. You can transfer designs via USB connection from your PC.
How many stitches and embroidery designs are built in?
The machine includes 1,774 built-in stitches covering utility, decorative, quilting and buttonhole options, plus nine alphabets. Embroidery designs can be imported via USB, and the machine supports endless embroidery for continuous border patterns.
What maintenance does the BERNINA 590E require?
Lint should be removed from the bobbin area regularly. The BERNINA Hook area requires occasional oiling as directed in the manual. For annual servicing and any repairs, contact a BERNINA approved service centre. The Sewing Studio are an approved service centre. Do not attempt internal maintenance beyond what the manual specifies. Chat with one of our machine experts online or contact us to arrange servicing.
Is the BERNINA Stitch Regulator included?
Yes, the BERNINA Stitch Regulator (BSR) comes as standard with the 590E. The BSR delivers consistent stitch length during free-motion quilting regardless of how fast or slow you move the fabric, supporting both straight stitch and zigzag.
Can beginners learn on the BERNINA 590E?
The 590E is designed for intermediate to professional users, but dedicated beginners can learn on this machine with time. Built-in tutorials, on-screen help and the Sewing and Embroidery Consultant provide guidance as you develop your skills. The intuitive touchscreen makes navigation straightforward.
What is the difference between the midi hoop and mega hoop?
The Midi Hoop offers a 265×165mm embroidery field for medium-sized designs. The Mega Hoop provides a larger 400×150mm field for big designs and endless embroidery. Both hoops are included with the machine.
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).