BERNINA L660 Overlocker
Combines maximum comfort and ease of use with the latest precision technology for superb results
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This machine is covered by a full BERNINA 2-year parts and labour warranty. And if you ever need support or servicing, our team is 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.
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 L 660 Product Review
The BERNINA L 660 is a superb choice for sewers new to overlocking. It's one of the most intuitive models to set up and use with exceptionally comfortable handling. It's also extremely fast, precise and quiet with smooth operation. It handles everything from a strong four-thread safety seam on sportswear through to a fine two-thread rolled hem on bridal wear. No matter what you sew, you'll complete your projects faster and your handmade pieces will look professional inside and out.
A stand out feature is the ease of threading thanks to colour-coded One-Path Threading, built-in needle threader and the One-Step BERNINA Air Threader for the loopers. The foot swings out to the side providing free access to the needles while the magnetic all-in-one looper cover allows for quick and intuitive threading preparation and you can thread the machine in any sequence. Hold the threads over the Air Threader, press the foot control and the threads are drawn in by air. Thanks to the needle stop up, the loopers are automatically moved to the correct position for the Air Threader. There are clearly defined colour-coded threading paths, which are the same for every stitch.
There are 18 stitch programs, covering four-thread overlock with integrated safety seam, three-thread overlock and super stretch, flatlock, narrow seam, picot stitch, blanket stitch, wrapped overlock and rolled hems in both two and three-thread versions. Stitch width runs from 3 to 9mm and stitch length from 0.8 to 4.5mm, with a finer adjustment band between 0.8 and 1.5mm specifically for rolled hems. The rolled hem selection lever sits beside the stitch plate and switches between rolled hem and overlock without a plate change and the integrated upper looper converter sets the machine up for two-thread stitches without a separate part to fit or lose.
Control comes from a DC motor paired with the BERNINA foot control, giving consistent needle penetration from fine single-layer fabric through to heavy multi-layer seams and allowing stitch-by-stitch sewing when accuracy matters more than pace. The back-kick function on the foot control raises or lowers the needle by half a stitch and needle stop up or down is programmable per project. Micro Thread Control sets the over-edge thread length directly for a clean fabric edge, stepless differential feed from 0.7 to 2 keeps knits flat or gathers deliberately when you want it and three-step presser foot pressure adjustment covers sheer to thick fabrics. Stitch length, cutting width and differential feed all sit on external dials that adjust while you sew and the four thread tension dials are infinitely variable for quick setup.
Everything you need is within easy reach. The practical accessory box with its integrated tool-insert lid keeps everything secure and beautifully organised. Unleash your creativity with the included accessories and be prepared for any creative challenge with a huge variety of optional accessories.
Key Features
What makes this machine worth it
Machine Type
Air-threading overlocker for 2, 3 and 4-thread sewing
Stitch Range
18 programs: overlock, flatlock, rolled hem, picot
Control Type
External dials and levers, adjustable while sewing
Workspace
Extended left by the included slide-on table
Needle Configuration
Two needles, ELx705 system, with built-in needle threader
Threading System
One-Step Air Threader, colour-coded one-path threading
Skill Level
Intermediate through to professional sewers
Machine Weight
9.9kg
This machine is perfect for
- Sewers new to overlocking wanting a machine that's almost effortless to thread with a built-in needle threader, colour-coded thread paths and air threading
- Dressmakers working with a wide range of fabrics - this model has a powerful DC motor and high needle piercing power making it ideal for even challenging materials
- Makers who want a minimalist and modern design in their sewing space
- Sewers who appreciate a well lit sewing area - the bright LED lights are dimmable
Can sew but not ideal for
- The Bernina L 660 is a specialist machine dedicated to overlocking, sewers wanting a combination overlock and coverstitch machine should try our free Machine Match Service and we'll recommend a model suited to your needs
Not suitable for
- Heavy daily use in workshops or teaching environments
- Not sure if this is the machine for you? Try our free Machine Match Service and we'll recommend a model suited to your needs
Materials and Build Quality
The working area to the right of the needle gives you room to turn a sleeve or feed a long hem through without the fabric bunching against the body of the machine. The L 660 offers you bright, generous sewing space for creative freedom with a minimal footprint.
With the integrated BERNINA Free Hand System (FHS) and knee lifter, you can raise the presser foot while simultaneously lowering the feed dog. The needle stop can be programmed down or up via the foot control. The Speed Control and Dimmable Sewing Light offer additional sewing comfort.
The upper knife trims the fabric edge as the stitch forms, and the on/off lever sits on the outside of the machine so it can be disengaged with one finger while you sew. That matters for flatlocking and decorative work where you do not want the edge cut. A separate cutting width dial on the front sets how much fabric the knife removes, and it too can be adjusted mid-seam to match the stitch width you are using.
A stand out feature is the ease of threading thanks to colour-coded One-Path Threading, built-in needle threader and the One-Step BERNINA Air Threader for the loopers. The foot swings out to the side providing free access to the needles while the magnetic all-in-one looper cover allows for quick and intuitive threading preparation and you can thread the machine in any sequence. Hold the threads over the Air Threader, press the foot control, and the threads are drawn in by air. Thanks to the needle stop up, the loopers are automatically moved to the correct position for the Air Threader. There are clearly defined colour-coded threading paths, which are the same for every stitch.
The magnetic all-in-one looper cover opens in one movement to give access to the looper area, and a needle threader is built in at the needle bar.
The Difference Is in the Details
The DC motor delivers consistent needle penetration. From sewing delicate single-layer fabrics to heavy multi-layer projects, the L 660 gives you the control you need. Sew at extremely fast speeds of up to 1,200 stitches per minute or stitch by stitch with maximum precision. This makes it even easier to create precise lines and curves. All this with the smooth operation for which BERNINA has always been known.
BERNINA design their overlockers around parts you can reach and maintain. The looper and stitch-plate area opens up for cleaning with the included brush and needle inserter, and the machine ships with overlocker oil so routine lubrication is straightforward from day one.
Our team at The Sewing Studio are authorised BERNINA retailers with deep product knowledge. Chat with one of our machine experts online or contact us for advice before you buy and for as long as you own the machine. BERNINA provide a detailed operating manual as a free download alongside a dedicated support page for the L 660, covering firmware updates and technical documentation, so the reference material is there whenever you need to check something specific.
BERNINA have produced a full video series for the L 6 Series, taking you from first setup through threading, stitch settings and stitch variations, then on to cleaning and oiling. Each one is presented by BERNINA's own training team in Switzerland. BERNINA Mastery Workbooks for overlockers give you structured practice away from the screen. Further tutorials are available on our YouTube channel to help you get more from the machine.
The BERNINA Free Hand System knee lifter raises the presser foot and drops the feed dog at the same time, leaving both hands free to place and remove work. The presser foot swings out to the left for threading and needle changes, then swings back automatically when you lower it with the hand lifter. A two-step lifter gives extra clearance for bulky layers, and the sewing light dims to suit the fabric you are working on.
BERNINA L 660: A Machine for Every Maker
And every project
Garment Making and Seam Finishing
For dressmakers, the four-thread overlock with integrated safety seam sews and neatens in one pass, which takes a whole step out of every garment. The two and three-thread overlock stitches, wide and narrow, cover edge finishing on hems and facings where you want the seam neatened rather than constructed. The L 660 becomes a machine you switch on for a single seam, not one you save up work for.
Knits, Stretch and Activewear
Jersey, sweatshirting and other knits come off the machine flat and wave free rather than rippled. The three-thread super stretch stitch handles the two-way stretch in swimwear and gymwear and the two-thread flatlock is the softer option for lingerie, worked with texturised nylon thread. Both keep the seam stretching with the garment rather than restricting it.
Decorative Edges and Fine Fabrics
Rolled hems in two or three threads finish scarves, ruffles and bridal wear with a fine edge and finer thread and fabric combinations can be matched precisely. The picot stitch adds a decorative edge on lightweight wovens and knits and flatlock worked with decorative threads produces reversible ladder-stitch effects. Switching between thread types mid-project stays straightforward, so a set of table linen can be finished in one sitting.
Inside the BERNINA L 660
The Air Threader Tube System
Both looper threads travel through sealed tubes that couple when the switch is set to I. Pull roughly 30cm of thread reserve before starting each pass.
Two-Needle Bar and the ELx705 System
The holder takes two ELx705 needles set at different heights. A needle check window confirms seating and a selection slider sets the threader to the correct needle.
How Cutting Width Sets Stitch Width
The cutting width dial sets 5 to 9mm from the left needle to the cut edge. Measured from the right needle, that figure drops by 2mm.
Where Micro Thread Control Works Hardest
Plus values add looper thread at the cut edge while minus values reduce it. BERNINA note the control is most effective at cutting widths between 6 and 9mm.
Differential Feed by Fabric Type
The dial maps to fabric. BERNINA set 2 for gathering fine soft fabrics, 1.5 for jersey and knits, 1 for wovens and 0.7 for nylon tricot and satin.
Product Specifications
Accessories In The Box
- 1 x Dust Cover
- 1 x Power Cable
- 1 x Thread Set for Overlocker
- 1 x Accessories Box
- 4 x Spool net
- 4 x Spool disc
- 1 x Screwdriver
- 1 x Needle set ELx705 CF
- 1 x Foot control
- 1 x Slide-on Table
- 1 x Tweezers
- 1 x Brush/Needle Inserter
- 1 x Spool Stabilizer
- 1 x CS Lock Tool
- 1 x Overlocker Oil
- 1 x Knee Lifter/Free Hand System (FHS)
- 1 x Cut-offs Bin
Feet In The Box
- 1 x Standard Overlock Foot #L11
Machine Dimensions & Weight
- Machine size without Retractable Thread Guide: 300 x 290 x 330mm (11.8 x 11.4 x 13 inches)
- Machine size with Slide-on Table/Cut-offs Bin fitted: 300 x 360 x 480mm (11.8 x 14.2 x 18.9 inches)
- Machine weight: 9.9kg
- Slide-on table: included, extends the sewing area to the left
Stitch Options and Controls
- Total stitch programs: 18
- 4-thread overlock with integrated safety seam
- 3-thread super stretch
- 3-thread overlock, wide (LN) and narrow (RN)
- 3-thread flatlock, wide (LN) and narrow (RN)
- 3-thread narrow seam
- 3-thread rolled hem
- 3-thread picot stitch
- 2-thread wrapped overlock, wide (LN) and narrow (RN)
- 2-thread flatlock, wide (LN) and narrow (RN)
- 2-thread overlock, wide (LN) and narrow (RN)
- 2-thread blanket stitch, wide (LN) and narrow (RN)
- 2-thread rolled hem
- Overlock stitch width: 3 to 9mm
- Stitch length: 0.8 to 4.5mm
- Fine stitch length adjustment for rolled hem: 0.8 to 1.5mm
- Differential feed: 0.7 to 2, stepless
- Rolled hem selection lever: O for overlock, R for rolled hem and picot
- Thread tension: four dials, infinitely variable
- Presser foot pressure: 3 steps, low, medium and high
- Speed selection slider
Sewing Features and Functions
- Illuminated One-Step BERNINA Air Threader for looper threads
- Built-in needle threader at the needle bar
- Colour-coded one-path threading
- Magnetic all-in-one looper cover
- Integrated upper looper converter
- Micro Thread Control (mtc)
- BERNINA Free Hand System (FHS) knee lifter with feed dog drop
- Swing-out presser foot with auto swing back
- 2-step presser foot lifter, raising the foot a further 2mm and tilting the toe 3mm
- Knife engaged and disengaged from outside
- Thread cutter with clamp function
- BERNINA foot control, type LV-1, with back-kick function
- Programmable needle stop, up or down
- Automatic needle stop up as default at each machine start
- Stitch-by-stitch sewing
- Motor: DC
- Sewing speed: 250 to 1,200 stitches per minute
- Maximum fabric thickness: 6mm
- LED sewing light with dimmer and on/off
- Threader light indicating air threader status
- Retractable thread guide
- Magnetic accessory holder
- Carrying handle
Threading & Needle System
- Needle system: ELx705
- Needle holder: two needles, set at different heights
- Needle positions: left overlock needle (LN) and right overlock needle (RN)
- Loopers: upper looper (UL) and lower looper (LL), both air threaded
Warranty & Support
The BERNINA L 660 is covered by a full BERNINA 2-year parts and labour warranty.
Product Downloads
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Air Threader manageable if I have never threaded an Overlocker?
Yes. Lift off the looper cover, flick the threader switch, hold the thread end over the nozzle and press the foot control. No prior overlocking experience is needed to get a clean result first time.
Can I use my existing Overlocker needles?
Only if they are ELx705. BERNINA specify that system for the L 660 and using anything else risks needle breakage. A set is included with the machine, so you have what you need from the start and we stock replacements alongside the machine.
How thick a fabric will it handle?
BERNINA rate the L 660 for material up to 6mm thick. Placing bulky layers under the foot stays manageable at that thickness.
Can I sew without the knife cutting my fabric?
Yes. The upper knife disengages without opening the machine and can be switched back on again at any point. It is useful when the raw edge is already clean and you want the seam neatened without losing any seam allowance, or when working decoratively on a piece that is already finished.
Does an Overlocker replace my sewing machine?
No, the two work alongside each other. An overlocker constructs and neatens stretch seams and finishes raw edges faster and more cleanly than a sewing machine can, but it will not sew a buttonhole, topstitch a collar or insert a zip. The L 660 is compact enough to share a table with your existing machine.
What comes in the box?
Everything needed for the first project. The slide-on table, the Free Hand System knee lifter, the Standard Overlock Foot #L11, an ELx705 needle set, a thread set for test sewing and a full accessory box with tweezers, brush, oil, spool stabilisers, spool nets and screwdrivers.
