Bernina 950 Commercial X40 & Industrial X50 high speed Sewing Machines
Bernina 940 & 950 Sewing Machines
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| Bernina 950 shown with some stitch samples on polyester woven fabric 2 layers, no interfacing. Horrible fabric, pretty color and stitches 950 does not sew any 'stretch' 2 stitch forward, one stitch back, stitches, like the 930, but is all mechanical. 930 uses electronics for needle up/down and stretch stitches, so a 930 would be more likely to develop electrical problems, the 950 should last longer, theoretically, if properly maintained, and used within the parameters it was designed for. |
Bernina provides more educational information to their customers, than most other current home sewing machine manufacturer, which really tends to make customers feel very loyal to their brand. European sewing machine manufacturers typically have many professional sewing experts, whose job it is to create workshops, classes, projects, and write manuals, as well as create educational software, videos and other educational materials, to help buyers get the most out of their sewing machine systems, which tends to built great customer loyalty!
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| 950 stitches The right leverust be flipped to the back, to sew any stitches 1 through 20 |
Because of these advantages, the Bernina Favorite and industrial sewing machines, truly are favorites of professional sewing EXPERTS, who need more speed, but still need a variety of stitch capabilities. These fashion designers, dressmakers, costumers, alterations shops, tailors, and cottage industry sewing. Keep in mind, industrial sewing does not mean heavy sewing, industrial sewing is PRODUCTION sewing, and for small businesses, a machine capable of a variety of stitches, but at higher speeds, the Bernina 950 fills that niche market.
Keep in mind, because the Bernina 940 and 950 are not self oilers, you need to oil them regularly, if sewing production style.
While home sewing machines are absolutely wonderful, for those who choose to make a career in sewing, or running their own sewing business, it is sometimes best to invest in a true commercial, or industrial sewing machine. I don't usually recommend industrial sewing machines for beginners, or home sewers, because of the higher speeds, and the fact that such high speeds often scare beginners away from sewing, as well as there being such a high risk of the person sewing their hand to the machine or project.
FABULOUS 5 STEP BUTTONHOLE!!
FABULOUS 5 STEP BUTTONHOLE!!
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| Cheap polyester woven fabric, 2 layers, buttonholes still came out beautifully, with no problems! To sew on knits, remember to switch to a ballpoint needle (as with all machines), to avoid skipped stitches. I sewed a buttonhole on a knit shirt for a family member, using the 950, it took only a minute or two, came out perfect! |
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| BERNINA 850/950 twin needle adapter front view |
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| 850/950 twin needle adapter bottom view, large holes are thread guides, small holes for needles |
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| Bernina 850/950 twin needle needlebar adapter back view |
A home sewing machine usually sews 1,100 stitches per minute, or slower (800 is top speed of most inexpensive home machines since the 1990's, most home sewers seem happier in the 30 to 50 stitches per minute range, but commercial machines usually have speeds up to the 2,500 range, while industrials range from those speeds, all of the way up to 6,000 stitches per minute, depending on the particular machine & motor configuration, and whether the machine is to be run by a human, or a robot (machinery can run at higher, more precise speeds, when no human is at risk of being sewn, lol).
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| Industrial clutch motor, power switch on right of table, accessory drawer on left end Adjustable light in addition to machine's built in light, and an industrial thread stand allows use of large thread cones, to save money on thread |
What are some of the differences between most (but not all, since there is a wide variety of industrial sewing machines, with most having only 1 dedicated type of sewing task) industrial sewing machines, & home sewing machines?
True industrial sewing machines sew at much higher speeds, and usually have a completely separate motor, a clutch motor, or a servo motor, which instead of being attached to the machine, is bolted to the underside of an industrial sewing table, with a long belt, and an industrial bobbin winder, installed beside the machine, on the industrial sewing table. The clutch motor is turned on with a switch, & runs continuously, but the machine only engages, when you push the pedal, to engage the clutch of the motor.
Servo motors only run when you push the pedal, most can be adjusted to any speed range desired, from slow to dangerously fast, up to the limits of the specific motor.
One of the biggest differences between a commercial (some people call these semi- industrial) sewing machines, and a true industrial sewing machine, are typically the motor size, but also, the lubrication system. Commercial, semi-industrial machines are not expected to be kept running 24/7, though they may be run 8 hours a day, 5 days a week, or less, like for a dressmaker, tailor, costumer, fashion designer, alterations shop, don't always need a pressurized, self lubricating oil pump system, and the oil bath which the machine sits in, because they stay in the lower speed ranges, however, they do require more frequent oiling, because they do not have the lubrication system.
A commercial sewing machine is not always run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, which is why they don't necessarily require the built in lubrication system, but a commercial sewing machine can have either a built on motor, of higher speed & strength than a home sewing machine (Bernina's commercial machines typically sew at almost twice the speed of their home sewing machines.)
An industrial factory sewing machine is expected to run as much as 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and has the built in pressurized lubrication system, including the oil bath, which the machine typically sits in, and the pressurized, pump lubrication system, helps these high speed machines stay cool, so their metal parts don't overheat, and melt together.
One of the biggest differences between a commercial (some people call these semi- industrial) sewing machines, and a true industrial sewing machine, are typically the motor size, but also, the lubrication system. Commercial, semi-industrial machines are not expected to be kept running 24/7, though they may be run 8 hours a day, 5 days a week, or less, like for a dressmaker, tailor, costumer, fashion designer, alterations shop, don't always need a pressurized, self lubricating oil pump system, and the oil bath which the machine sits in, because they stay in the lower speed ranges, however, they do require more frequent oiling, because they do not have the lubrication system.
A commercial sewing machine is not always run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, which is why they don't necessarily require the built in lubrication system, but a commercial sewing machine can have either a built on motor, of higher speed & strength than a home sewing machine (Bernina's commercial machines typically sew at almost twice the speed of their home sewing machines.)
An industrial factory sewing machine is expected to run as much as 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and has the built in pressurized lubrication system, including the oil bath, which the machine typically sits in, and the pressurized, pump lubrication system, helps these high speed machines stay cool, so their metal parts don't overheat, and melt together.
Industrial sewing machines typically use titanium coated needles, or similar specially hardened needles, to avoid the needles overheating from the friction caused by the higher speeds, so the needles won't bend and break, requiring expensive down time, during production, to replace the needles, and rethread the machines.
Be aware, using titanium needles, if you choose to push a sewing machine beyond the limits it was designed for, can damage your machine. These Bernina's are designed for clothing weight sewing, not heavy duty upholstery, thick leather, or sail weight canvas. The nylon gears can break, under too heavy of use, as can your needlebar. For those heavier industrial sewing, look for a walking foot, or multi feed industrial designed for heavier sewing. It will save you money, and a lot of time, and frustration.
Of course, industrial & commercial machines also have some other mechanical adaptations, which allow them to operate at higher speeds, for many more hours at a time, which is why most industrial machines are so much heavier, and built of cast iron and steel, not just aluminum & plastic.
Of course, industrial & commercial machines also have some other mechanical adaptations, which allow them to operate at higher speeds, for many more hours at a time, which is why most industrial machines are so much heavier, and built of cast iron and steel, not just aluminum & plastic.
The following information is from the Bernina flyer for the Bernina 950, it is not my opinion, or anything I came up with, it is the official Bernina description for their industrial 950 sewing machine.
BERNINA
Nothing Sews Like a Bernina. Nothing®
Key Features
Below are just a few of the great features you’ll find on the 950. Stop by your local BERNINA Dealer
for a complete demonstration of everything this machine has to offer.
950 Industrial
Power, speed,
precision
and
reliability
for the
cottage industry
sewer.
This machine was
engineered specifically
for high-volume, semicommercial
sewing. Its
outstanding combination
of simplicity, high speed
and exceptional BERNINA
stitch quality make the 950
Industrial a perfect match
for the cottage industry.
In addition, compared
to other home sewing
machines, the 950 also
offers the solid construction
and durability you need to create project after project, year after year.
From piecing, appliqué work and costume construction to freehand embroidery,
garment construction and freehand quilting, this versatile machine will see you
through. Fast. Note: this machine requires a stand and motor, available separately
from your Bernina Dealer.
Semi-Commercial Features
2000 Stitches per Minute
With more than double the speed of the
typical household machine, the 950
increases production and profitability
while decreasing the time it takes to
complete a project.
Large Fabric Passage Space
The 950 has a large fabric passage space
between the needle and the right side of
the machine. This allows quilters all the
room they need to manage the layers of
the quilt as they stitch.
High Quality Rotary Hook
BERNINA’s high quality rotary hook
delivers the finest stitch quality even
at top speed and does not require
an oil pan.
Stitch Versatility
5 Needle Positions
You can place any stitch in five
different positions without moving
the fabric.
20 Decorative & Practical Stitches
With the flick of a lever, you can select
any of the machine’s wide range of built-in
utility and decorative stitches.
5 Step Buttonhole
Get perfect buttonholes on any fabric. Our
5-step semiautomatic buttonhole delivers
even, adjustable density on both forward
and reverse beads.
Feed Dog Drop
This easy-to-access switch lets you
drop the feed dogs for any
freemotion work such as quilting or
embroidery.
Stitch Pattern Indicator
By indicating the beginning, middle
and end of a pattern, the stitch
pattern indicator ensures that you
always know exactly where you are.
Hands-Free Presser Foot Lifter
With more than double the speed of the
typical household machine, the 950
increases production and profitability while
decreasing the time it takes to complete a
project.
Rigidly-Guided Needle Bar
Generally found only on the highest
quality industrial machines, the guided
needle bar ensures the truest straight and
zigzag stitches possible. Locked in place,
the bar keeps stitches on perfect course,
regardless of fabric thickness.
One-piece Metal Presser Feet
Seven presser feet included; most of
BERNINA’s extensive foot collection can
be used with the 950. Not only does this
enhance the 950’s functionality, it makes
any sewing project faster and easier.
Technical Specifications
Features Benefits
Stitch Versatility, cont. High Quality, Solid Construction
At 2000 stitches per minute, the 950 is twice as fast
as home sewing machines; you can produce more in
a shorter time.
Has the penetration power needed for sewing
multiple layers without stalling.
Precision stitching resulting in perfectly straight
stitches.
Has a combination of utility and decorative stitches
that makes it right for any sewing situation.
Position the stitching where you want it without
moving the fabric.
No need to add a hopper device as needed by other
commercial machines.
Easy to change from regular sewing to freemotion
stitching without the use of any additional accessories.
The foundation for longevity and trouble-free
operation, this helps prevent needle breakage, hook
damage, and skipped stitches.
Has no flat area to weaken the needle resulting in
reduced needle breakage and deflection.
High Speed
Heavy Duty Commercial Clutch Motor
Rigidly Guided Needle Bar
Stitch Package of 20 Stitches
Five Needle Positions
Built-in Darning Device
Convenient Feed Dog Drop
Double Rotation Rotary Hook
Industrial Needle System 287WH
(round shank needle)
You’re can always keep your hands on the fabric for
control in guiding and maneuvering it. Lift to position
one for placing or repositioning fabric under the
needle. Position two holds the foot in the “up” position;
press it again to lower.
Bobbin case fits into back of machine for ease of
insertion which reduces wrist strain.
Easy access, no need to add separate accessories
such as thread lubricator and pretensions for unusual
threads. Sews all types of threads, thickness
and types of fabrics with ease.
Saves time because bobbins can be wound while
sewing.
Compatible with feet and accessories from Model
1630 and below, including the Walking Foot (note:
walking foot cannot exceed 1000 stitches per
minute). Lets you stitch any desired application
with the right tools. Provided presser feet include
all-purpose foot, zipper foot, blind hem foot, darning
foot, embroidery foot, and buttonhole foot.
Personally adjustable for ease of use. Ergonomically
designed to reduce fatigue; stays in place.
One year limited warranty - see your BERNINA®
dealer for details.
Magnetic Bobbin Holder
Gooseneck Lamp
Industrial Cone Thread Stand
Presser Foot Lifter
Conveniently Located Bobbin Case
Conveniently Located Tension Dial
Bobbin Winder
Features Benefits
Optional Accessories
Large Foot Control
Warranty
Accessory Presser Feet
After a Facebook group member posted a photo of a Bernina 641 for sale in their area, and wanted to know more about the specific model, July 3rd, 2018, the group's "self styled resident Bernina expert" admitted this- "it might be one o' them theer new-fangled jobs. I never heard of it as regards vintage machines...there's a 640-2 vintage model".
I shared details about the '40 machines, including their speed, and that the '50 models are set up with clutch or servo motors, & sew 2,000 stitches per minute.
The self styled "expert" immediately claimed I was wrong, demanded that I delete my information about Bernina's '40 commercial Favorit & '50 industrial sewing machines, told me she had notified an administrator, claiming I was "digging a hole for myself", and trying to make people damage their machines (which if true, would be grounds to be kicked out of the group). (She has some good advice, and experience, as well, but if you give correct advice, and get attacked verbally, with pirhana style enthusiasm, you will know of whom I write, lol!)
After this woman claimed the '40 & '50 models never existed, to ensure that the administrator & group members could look the official information up themselves, here is a copy of the link I shared with the group,
https://www.bernina.com/en-GB/Products-GB/BERNINA-products/Sewing-Quilting-and-Embroidery/BERNINA-Classic-Series/BERNINA-950-Industrial
Another informative blog about this machine is found here.
