Stitching too tight on top

If your Bernina 930 record sewing machine is experiencing issues with zigzag stitches and straight stitches, here are some troubleshooting steps you can try:

1. Check the needle: Ensure that the needle is properly inserted and not bent or dull. Replace the needle if necessary, making sure to use the correct needle type and size for the fabric you are sewing.
2. Adjust the stitch width and length: Verify that the stitch width and length settings are properly adjusted for the desired zigzag stitch. Refer to your machine's user manual for instructions on how to adjust these settings correctly.
3. Clean and lubricate the machine: A build-up of lint or lack of lubrication can affect the machine's performance. Clean the bobbin area and other accessible parts of the machine using a soft brush or lint brush. Apply a drop of sewing machine oil to the recommended areas as specified in the user manual.
4. Check the tension: Improper tension can lead to skipped stitches. Ensure that the upper thread tension is properly adjusted for the fabric and thread you are using. Consult the user manual for guidance on adjusting the tension correctly.
5. Test with different fabrics and threads: Try sewing on different fabrics using different types of thread to determine if the issue is specific to certain materials. This will help identify whether the problem lies with the machine or the materials being used.
6. Have the machine serviced: If the above steps do not resolve the issue, it may be necessary to have your Bernina 930 record serviced by a professional. There could be underlying mechanical issues that require expert attention.

It's important to note that the Bernina 930 record is a vintage sewing machine, and finding a qualified technician with experience working on older models may be beneficial if further repairs or adjustments are needed.

The G2 Stitch series on the Bernina 1530 Inspiration is a set of decorative stitches that are programmed into the machine's memory. To access these stitches, follow these steps:

1. Turn on your Bernina 1530 Inspiration sewing machine.
2. Use the stitch selector dial or buttons to select stitch number 800, which is the starting point for the G2 Stitch series.
3. Once you've selected stitch number 800, you can use the stitch length and width adjustment dials or buttons to customize the stitch to your desired specifications.
4. To access the other G2 stitches, simply press the "next" or "previous" button on the stitch selector panel to cycle through the stitch numbers. The G2 stitches are numbered 801 through 811.
5. Select the G2 stitch you want to use, adjust the stitch length and width as desired, and start sewing!

It's important to note that the G2 Stitch series is not available on all models of the Bernina 1530 Inspiration, so if you're having trouble accessing these stitches, it's possible that your machine may not have them. In that case, you can consult your machine's manual or contact a Bernina dealer for assistance.

Hm, am wondering if it is seizing. How long since it has had a thorough clean and oil? Seizing happens when the old oil dries and begins to stick the machine parts.

Wheel on right side that controls the needle up and down is very tight...

I don't know a whole lot about sewing machines and coudnt tell you much without seeing it, but I had that problem and discovered that my needle was bent.

have you tried changing the needle?
have you tried adjusting the top tension?

then you need to call the shop that serviced the machine & tell them
about the problem that the machine won't backstitch & see what they
say

Are you absolutley sure you're not getting a problem with stitch formation on, for example, wide zig-zag. Check again, using a different colour top and bottom and make sure that the stitch is being formed properly with only the top colour on top and bottom colour on the bottom. It sounds as though the bottom loop is not being picked-up by the hook properly. Make sure you've thoroughly cleaned-out any fluff under the stitch-plate and remove the hook/shuttle and give the hook race a good clean and give it a single drop of oil, even if you've got the lightweight part-plastic hook/shuttle fitted.

How long has it been since you've performed a thorough cleaning and oiling of your 930? These older 930 are great machines but they do need regular TLC to keep them operating smoothly. It could be the old oil has dried and is causing the stitch selector to stick.

I've used the following process to remediate several older Berninas, as well as regular maintenance on my 930:


Wheel on right side that controls the needle up and down is very tight...

There isn't an automatic button hole on this machine. You can do it manually. Thread the bobbin thread as usual, but put it through the little hole on the hook in the bobbin case. Set the stitch length between 0 and 1, like a nice satin stich. Set the needle position to the far left and the stitch width to 2. Sew down the left side. Center the needle, set the width to 4 and lower the feed dogs, stitch about 6 stitches across the bottom. Then reverse the direction, set the needle to the right, stitch width to 2 and go back up the right side. Lower the feed dogs again, set a wide stitch and finish the top.

Another good option is to buy a universal presser foot shank from Bernina and then attach an old cam type buttonhole attachment from Singer. They make beautiful buttonholes and you can even do a keyhole button hole.

Sometimes when I need to use heavy thread for top stitching to reinforce a seam that has come undone, I will use the heavy thread on the top and regular thread on the bottom. I haven't tried it the other way around for hemming but I would think it would work. I do not currently have a Bernina.