Bernette Funlock b42 Overlock Serger Machine

I had to watch a few videos to make sure that I used it correctly and found some tips and tricks for tying off at the end. So far it’s been great. Starting a stitch can be difficult, but I’m still learning.

I just got this as a replacement for another brand that failed to work well even after 3 months of fighting it. This Bernette f42 was easy to use right out of the box. I spent a couple of hours trying different fabrics out, and it sewed smoothly and cleanly over all of them- from the stretchiest spandex to the thickest crepe. I tried out all 4 stitches, and it looked great on all of them. Then I set it up for the wide 2-needle coverstitch and hemmed a stretch satin bridal gown. LOVE IT. The lift-to-lower, drop-to-raise presser foot lever is a little weird, but it's livable. The looper threading is easy and the instructions diagrams were clear, although it did take me a couple of minutes to figure out the last step. The on-board tool storage is genius. And, lastly, the super bright light is Amazing! I can see what I'm doing!

This machine is a great for a beginner starting out like myself. Easy to thread and learn once you’ve played around with it enough. There is a learning curve like many machines but once you get past that its great. Semi quiet the light is bright but not enough to be a deal breaker.

My first cover stitch machine. I sew mostly knots and love it. Easy to use and works great. The needle threader did break immediately though.

I was hesitant to purchase this machine sight unseen. I have been using Phaff (older German made machine) or Bernina (770QE) for over 20 years. I normally buy my machines at my local dealer. My Bernina dealer does not carry the Bernette line so I was hesitant to purchase this online. I decided to purchase a cover stitch machine to make figure skating dresses that look more professional than using a zig zag stitch to attach the elastic at the openings. I looked at the new Bernina L890 which would have run $7k! Until I know how much I'm going to use a cover stitch machine (I already have an overlock) I hesitated to spend that much money. The Bernette line is made by Bernina but it is a more basic mechanical machine. It is not the same quality as my Bernina (I didn't expect that for only $500). I will say this is a decently made little machine and stitches well. It is good for a cover stitch beginner and/or light use. If I like it and start making a lot of figure skating dresses, I will probably purchase the Bernina L890 down the road if I start making enough money off of dresses to justify the expense. This one may not hold up to long term heavy use but it will be a good start.