BERNINA L860 Overlocker
Cutting-edge technology, user-friendly design and intuitive controls make this an essential tool for sewers who demand perfection.
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£79.59 per month over 48 months*
£65.00 £58.50 Save 10%
£55.00 £49.50 Save 10%
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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.
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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 L860 Overlocker Product Review & Demonstration
The BERNINA L860 is a large, computerised overlocker combining cutting-edge technology with user-friendly design. Designed for sewers who work across a wide range of fabrics, it brings together air threading, touchscreen control and the precision tension engineering BERNINA are known for. Whether you're working on garments, home décor, or creative accessories, the Bernina L860 ensures professional-quality finishes with ease. Built for versatility and efficiency, this machine is a must-have for modern sewers and creative makers.
At 1,500 stitches per minute, the L860 is fast, quiet and built to handle extended use without compromising on stitch quality. The one-step BERNINA Air Threader handles both loopers with a step on the foot control and the built-in needle threader completes the process without any hand threading required. The colour-coded threading path guides you through the full set-up - it really is effortless to set up.
Stitch control on the L860 is handled through a 4.3-inch colour touchscreen, with both Expert Mode for experienced sewers and Guided Mode for those working through less familiar stitch types. The Stitch Optimiser suggests the best settings for your chosen stitch and Personal Memory stores up to 100 individual stitch configurations so your preferred settings are available at any time. Micro Thread Control (MTC) gives you fine adjustment of the over-edge thread length, which is particularly useful on decorative stitches and rolled hems where the finish needs to be exact.
The L860 covers 18 stitch variations including 4-thread overlock, 3-thread super-stretch, flatlock, rolled hem, picot stitch and blanket stitch, with 2, 3 and 4-thread configurations throughout. Adjustable differential feed handles knits and jersey without stretching and fine wovens without puckering, so consistent seam quality is achievable across a wide range of fabrics. The freearm capability is perfect for sewing sleeves, cuffs and tubular items or intricate projects. Finally, the included BERNINA Free Hand System (knee lifter) keeps both hands on the fabric during operation.
Key Features
What makes this machine worth it
Machine Type
Overlocker, large, computerised
Stitch Range
18 stitch variations; 2, 3 and 4-thread configurations
Control Type
4.3-inch colour touchscreen; Expert Mode and Guided Mode
Workspace
5 5/8 inches to the right of the needle; extension table included
Needle System
Built-in needle threader; ELX705 CF needles
Skill Level
Intermediate to professional sewers
Machine Weight
12.8kg
This machine is perfect for
- Designed for sewers who work across a wide range of fabrics
- Sewers who appreciate speed - the L860 can sew up to 1,500 SPM
- Users who appreciate built-in guidance - Guided Mode walks through each step for easy set up
Can sew but not ideal for
- Those who prefer dials to select stitches and settings - this model is controlled using the touchscreen only
Not suitable for
- Sewers wanting a combination overlocker and coverstitch - this is overlocker only
Materials and Build Quality
Enjoy effortless threading with one-touch air technology that quickly threads the loopers for you. A built-in needle threader and clear colour-coded guides make setup fast, simple and stress-free.
Micro Thread Control (MTC) allows you to fine-tune the over-edge thread length for precise and flawless seam edges. Thread tension releases automatically when the presser foot is raised and tension is adjustable while sewing so corrections can be made mid-project without stopping.
The machine runs at up to 1,500 stitches per minute with a 6-step adjustable presser foot pressure system. Two LED sewing lights illuminate the needle area clearly and the safety switch prevents operation when the cover is open or the presser foot is raised.
The Difference is in the Details
At 1,500 stitches per minute, the L860 works through seams quickly without any loss of accuracy. The knife can be engaged and disengaged from outside the machine without opening the cover and the cutting width is adjustable while sewing so you can make changes without stopping. Needle stop up/down is programmable and stitch-by-stitch sewing is available for detailed or delicate work.
Expert Mode gives experienced sewers direct access to all stitch settings, while Guided Mode walks you through set-up for less familiar techniques. The Sewing Studio is an authorised BERNINA retailer. Call, chat or email for advice at any point before or after purchase.
The L860's on-screen tutorials and helpful animations mean you can learn the machine's full capability without reaching for the manual. The Creative Sewing Consultant guides you through the best settings for each technique, so you have expert input at any point in the project. The Stitch Optimiser takes the guesswork out of stitch selection by recommending the best settings for your chosen technique, which means less time troubleshooting and more time sewing.
The BERNINA Free Hand System (knee lifter) raises and lowers the presser foot without using your hands, so fabric stays positioned while you work. The swing-out presser foot with auto swing-back makes both threading and cleaning straightforward. The rolled hem lever is integrated under the stitch plate, so switching to rolled hem requires no separate attachment.
BERNINA L860: A Machine for Every Maker
And every project
Built for Sewers Who Work Across All Fabric Types
From fine jersey to layered wovens, the adjustable differential feed keeps seam quality consistent across the full range of fabrics you work with.
Threading That Doesn't Slow You Down
One-step air threading and a built-in needle threader mean the L860 is ready to sew quickly, so more time goes on the project and less on setup.
Stitch Memory That Works with You
Personal Memory stores up to 100 individual stitch configurations so frequently used settings are available immediately. The Stitch Optimiser takes care of settings for unfamiliar stitches and Expert Mode puts full manual control within reach for sewers who prefer to dial in their own preferences.
Inside the BERNINA L860
One-Step BERNINA Air Threader
A pneumatic system that threads both loopers instantly with a step on the foot control. The built-in needle threader completes the process, so no part of the threading sequence requires hand threading.
Micro Thread Control (MTC)
Gives precise adjustment of the over-edge thread length, which is particularly useful on rolled hems, picot stitches and decorative finishes where the edge quality needs to be exact.
4.3-Inch Colour Touchscreen and Stitch Control
Gives access to all 18 stitch variations and settings in one place. Expert Mode offers direct manual control; Guided Mode steps you through set-up for less familiar techniques.
Freearm and Differential Feed
The freearm provides access for tubular sewing on sleeves, cuffs and trouser legs. Adjustable differential feed manages stretch on knits and prevents puckering on fine wovens while sewing.
BERNINA Free Hand System and Presser Foot
The included knee lifter raises and lowers the presser foot hands-free. The swing-out presser foot with auto swing-back gives easy access for threading, cleaning and re-threading mid-project.
Product Specifications
Accessories In The Box
- Slide-on extension table
- Freearm cover
- Cut-offs bin
- BERNINA foot control
- Right seam guide
- Tweezers
- Manual needle threader/inserter
- Set of ELX705 CF needles, assorted
- Touch pen
- Brush
- Screwdriver
- CS Lock Tool
- Accessories boxes
- Dust cover
Feet In The Box
- 1 x Standard Overlock Foot #L10 (with Tape Guide)
Manufacturers Specifications
- One-step BERNINA Air Threader (for looper threads)
- Colour touch screen: 4.3 Inch / 10cm
- Expert Mode and Guided Mode
- Stitch selection / Settings on the screen
- Personal Memory for 100 individual stitches
- Helpful animations and tutorials
- Creative Sewing Consultant
- Stitch Optimiser
- Freearm
- Sewing space to the right of the needle 5 5/8 Inch
- BERNINA Free Hand System (FHS) with a knee lifter
- Speed control via touchscreen
- Integrated upper looper converter
- Easy to engage and disengage the knife from outside
- Rolled hem lever integrated under the stitch plate
- Adjustable cutting width while sewing
- Thread tension release when the presser foot raised
- Adjustable thread tension while sewing
- 2-step presser foot lifter with front-foot-lift
- Swing-out presser foot with auto swing back
- Workspace height: 3 3/8 Inch
- Built-in needle threader
- Colour-coded threading path
- Needle-stop up/down programmable
- Needle up/down with BERNINA foot control
- Automatic needle stop up
- Stitch-by-stitch sewing
- Micro Thread Control (mtc)
- Adjustable stitch length while sewing
- Adjustable differential feed while sewing
- Safety switch for open cover and raised presser foot
- 2 LED sewing lights
- Thread cutter
- Accessories in the threader cover
Machine Dimensions & Weight
- Machine weight: 12.8kg
- Workspace to the right of the needle: 5 5/8 inches
- Workspace height: 3 3/8 inches
- Control screen: 4.3-inch colour touchscreen
Stitch Options and Controls
- Total stitch variations: 18
- 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
- Overlocker threads: 2, 3 and 4
- Stitch length: 0.8 to 4.5mm
- Seam width: 3.0 to 9.0mm
- Sewing speed: 250–1,500 stitches per minute
Sewing Features and Functions
- One-step BERNINA Air Threader (for looper threads)
- Built-in needle threader
- Colour-coded threading path
- Micro Thread Control (MTC)
- Stitch Optimiser
- Expert Mode and Guided Mode
- Personal Memory for 100 individual stitches
- Creative Sewing Consultant
- Helpful animations and tutorials
- Freearm
- Integrated upper looper converter
- Rolled hem lever integrated under the stitch plate
- Adjustable cutting width while sewing
- Adjustable stitch length while sewing
- Adjustable differential feed while sewing
- Thread tension release when presser foot raised
- Adjustable thread tension while sewing
- Swing-out presser foot with auto swing-back
- 2-step presser foot lifter with front-foot-lift
- 6-step presser foot pressure adjustment
- Needle stop up/down programmable
- Needle up/down with BERNINA foot control
- Automatic needle stop up
- Stitch-by-stitch sewing
- Stitch selection and settings on screen
- Speed control via touchscreen
- Easy to engage and disengage knife from outside
- Safety switch for open cover and raised presser foot
- Thread cutter
- 2 LED sewing lights
- Accessories in the threader cover
Needle System
- Needle type: ELX705 CF (assorted set included)
Warranty & Support
The BERNINA L860 is covered by a 2-year BERNINA warranty covering parts and labour. Our support team at The Sewing Studio is here if you ever need help, servicing or advice after purchase.
Product Downloads
Ratings & Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
Let us help with the answers.
How does the BERNINA Air Threader work and does it thread all the threads?
The Air Threader handles both loopers with a single press on the foot control, using a pneumatic system to pass thread through each looper path instantly. It does not thread the needles, but the built-in needle threader takes care of those, so the full threading process is covered without any hand threading.
What is Micro Thread Control and when would I use it?
Micro Thread Control (MTC) adjusts the length of the over-edge thread, giving you precise control over how the thread sits at the fabric edge. It is most useful on rolled hems, picot stitches and other decorative finishes where the edge quality is visible and needs to be consistent.
Can the L860 handle stretch fabrics like jersey and knits?
Yes. The adjustable differential feed is designed specifically for this. Increasing the differential feed ratio prevents jersey and knitted fabrics from stretching during stitching, so seams lie flat rather than rippling. The feed is adjustable while sewing, so you can make corrections as you go without stopping the machine.
What is the difference between Expert Mode and Guided Mode?
Expert Mode gives you direct access to all stitch settings on the touchscreen, which suits sewers who are familiar with the machine and want full manual control. Guided Mode takes you through the settings step by step, which is useful when working with a stitch type you have not used before or when you want confirmation that the settings are correct for a specific technique.
Does the L860 come with an extension table?
Yes, a slide-on extension table is included in the box. It attaches to the freearm to increase the working surface for larger projects. Removing it gives you the freearm configuration for tubular sewing on sleeves, trouser legs and cuffs.
