Bernina sewing machines are not your average machine when it comes to presser feet. Normally when picking out a new foot, you simply have to worry about High Shank, Low Shank, Slant Shank or snap on. Bernina decided to develop their own shank systems that are not compatible with any other brand of machine.
Old Style Feet – Manufactured between 1954 and 1998
Bernina started producing the 530 Record in 1954, this is the first model that had what we call old style feet. The top of the shank has a rounded back and there is no cut-out (see figure A). In the early days of old style feet, the foot number was actually stamped into the metal of the shank. Eventually, Bernina started putting the numbers on a white sticker with black lettering on the front of the shank. During the production of old style feet machines, Bernina increased the stitch width of these machines from 4.5mm (ie-930s) to 5.5mm (ie-1001). There are some incarnations in-between as well including the optical feet. Wherever possible, Bernina had tried to make their feet backward compatible. Tweaks were made to the shank design to ensure that you could not accidentally put 4.5mm wide foot on a 5.5mm machine.
New Style Feet – Manufactured After 1996
New style feet have red lines on the sticker and the foot number is also red, unlike the old style feet that are black. The top of the shank is squared off and has a notch cut out on the top back of the shank (See figure B). These feet are between 5.5mm and 9mm for the stitch width. Since Bernina increased the cone size on the new style feet, you can’t put the wrong size foot on your machine. You may now be wondering how to tell if a specific foot is for the 5.5mm or the 9mm machines? Bernina solved this by numbering their feet and adding one or two additional versions with a letter that follows the number, such as Edgestitch Foot #10C.
No Letter after the NumberIf your new style foot has a number without a letter, it will fit your Bernina models that have the patented CB Hook and a maximum stitch width of 5.5mm. These feet can also be used on 9mm stitch width machines when a 9mm width is not needed, such as when making pin tucks with a #31 foot.
The Letter C after the NumberThis indicates that the foot was made for models that have rotary hook systems and a maximum stitch width of 9mm. The ‘C’ stands for coded and refers to the sensor on the foot that tells the machine to engage the wider stitch width (this is a nice safety feature). The sole of the ‘C’ feet foot is usually wider since the 9mm machine’s feed dogs are wider. There are 2 exceptions: The 2A and 16C do not have a sensor since these feet don’t require the wider stitching.
The Letter D after the NumberThe presser feet that have a D after the number are designed to work with the 8-Series (models 830 and 820) Dual Feed feature. After attaching the foot, the dual feed mechanism is positioned in the cutout on the back of the foot which engages the Dual Feed system. Bernina advises against using these feet, unless you are using the Dual Feed Feature.
Using Standard Low Shank Feet
There are 2 different adaptors available that will allow you to use standard low shank presser feet and snap on feet. Some people prefer this method instead of forking out $20-$50 per Bernina presser foot. If you have other sewing machines, it may make sense financially to invest in more low shank or snap on feet that you can take from machine to machine. If you decide to go this route, I just want to remind you that if your machine uses the presser feet with the sensors, these adaptors will not trigger those sensors.
Use Snap On Presser FeetThis snap on presser foot adaptor is available in both old style and new style. When ordering your generic snap on feet for this shank adaptor, be sure you’re ordering the correct maximum stitch width that your machine has. This is a very convenient shank since you’re able to quickly switch between many different feet without having to remove the shank.
Use Low Shank Presser FeetChances are if you sew, you have low shank feet laying around (or 40). This low shank presser foot adaptor is available in both old style and new style. Simply install this shank like a normal Bernina foot, and then screw your low shank foot to the shank. If you install a low shank foot onto this adaptor, be sure to test with a wide zig zag to make sure the installed foot is wide enough to accommodate your machines maximum stitch width.
I know that’s a lot of information to handle but I hope we simplified it enough to make sense!
209 comments
Hi, Jeremy, I hope you can help me. I have an Aurora 440 QE and a Snap-On Presser Foot adaptor. When I use my Snap-On feet from either my Janome 4623LE Plus or Baby Lock Ellisimo (they are interchangeable), I find many of the feet do not align properly with the hole in the sole plate and therefore are not useable.
One example is the button-hole foot (it looks like the one you have in this picture: https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/snap-on-presser-feet-set-low-shank-11-piece.aspx). If attached, the needle comes down on the blue plastic portion of the foot suggesting the sole is too far forward to be used. In other cases, the opening in the foot is off-center, being a bit to the left of the sole plate hole and not allowing penetration to the entire right side of the hole. An example: the pintuck feet (all of them).
Have you come across this problem before? If so, what do you recommend? I can not afford the Bernina feet and really want to find a solution to this problem. Thank you for any suggestions you may be able to provide.
Hello Jeanne!
I am sorry to report, this scenario is very common. Bernina snap on feet are different from the more common snap on feet, such as the one in the 5011L kit. We do not currently offer snap on feet that work with the adapters. We do, however, carry a large variety of generic feet for Bernina machines. To view what we offer for your machine, click the following link: https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/bernina-440-sewing-machine-parts.aspx?filter.ptype_gmcfeed_1=%20Presser%20Feet&sort.ss_cat_sort=desc&index=1 I hope this helps.
Hi sarah, I am Charles Swan and I have a question about the feet between the Bernina 1630 inspiration plus and the Bernina Artista 180, what feet are compatible between the two machines.
I have a Bernina 1080 Special. I know it is considered an ‘Old Style” machine in terms of its feet. What adaptor would I need to be able to use the Westalee ruler and templates?
Thanks,
Beth
Hi Elizabeth,
You would need to order this adaptor: https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/presser-foot-adaptor-bernina-0019477000.aspx
You would also need to order this Westalee ruler foot: https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/ruler-foot-w-3mm-arc-template-low-shank.aspx
I have a Bernina 1020.would a presser foot from a 870 fit??? Thanks Sarah
Hello. Old style feet question. I have an old 830 Record, the serial number begins 14, so I think it was manufactured in 1974, though I bought it in about 19192. All the feet have the stamped number, except the darning foot which has no number. Mostly, at the top they have just one lug at the top projecting to the left as you look from the front. some have a lug at both sides. Some have a white plastic ‘sticker on the front, and of these, some say Swiss Made. Others have no sticker and are just bare metal. Can anyone tell me what is the difference between these? I’d love to know. And as all the Old Style feet available on line seem to have the double lug configuration, can I assume that they are right for my lovely machine? Thanks
I have an 810.. whats shank is it. I need feeet to go with it, but would like to use for other machines.
Sarah, I have a Bernina 1130 for which my local Bernina dealer says there is no ruler foot. The Clarity website indicates that their ruler foot will work for the old style Bernina with an adapter. Would that be your Presser Foot Adapter, Bernina #0019477000? Thank you for your help. Chell
Does the knee lifter from the 830 also fit the 820?
Unfortunately, I do not know if the 830 knee lifter is compatible with the 820.
I have a bernina 830. Years ago I bought a 2 sole walking foot with seam guides part ch8266
I think they sold me the wrong one cause it won’t work correctly. Any cheap fixes?
gailrayaia@hotmail.com
We do not offer replacement parts for walking feet; however, if you are in need of a new walking foot, we do offer a few options that are compatible with the Bernina 830 (Record): https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/bernina-830-sewing-machine-parts.aspx?sort.ss_cat_sort=desc&keywords=walking%20&index=1
Hi I have a Bernina 910 and just ordered a P60446 walking foot for it as it said this would fit. Will this be okay? How does it differ from the P60445?
Hi! The difference is the compatibility. We can guarantee that the P60446 will work with your machine. We cannot guarantee that the P60445 will work with your machine.
I own a Bernina activa 135. I would like to do ruler work for free motion quilting. What do I need to be able to do so on my Bernina activa 135?
Thank you very much for your assistance.
Hi! You would need to purchase a Bernina Ruler Foot from a local Bernina dealer.
Hi,
I have a Bernina 1008 and am trying to attach the zipper foot. I do not see a way to attach the zipper foot toe the presser shaft. There is no way for it to latch on. Should I get a new presser foot?
Thank you for your help.
Ann Way
Hi, Ann – are you trying to attach a snap on zipper foot?
Will this work on a bernina B790
Hi . I have a bernina 1001 and would like to start doing free motion embroidery . Is the number 24 foot compatible with this model. I also have a Bernina Record which I love would the 24 foot also fit this machine.
Many thanks
Jennifer
Hi! I don’t believe the #24 will fit your machine because your machine uses Old-Style feet. This Free-Motion foot is guaranteed to fit your machine: https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/bernina-freehand-quilting-foot-29.aspx?variant_id=280537
Hello! I have a Virtuoso 153 & I’m interested in doing quilting with the Westalee rulers. What number adapter from Bernina would I have to buy& what Westalee foot! I think my machine is a new style shank as my feet are numbered in red.
Hi! Unfortunately, your machine needs to use a Bernina Ruler Foot. One should be available at your local Bernina dealer.
I have been given 2 Berninas a 1090 and a 930. DO the feet interchage? And are there any other comparisons I should know about?
Hi Sarah, I have a Bernina Artista 640 and am wonderinf if it is a low shank or high shank. I really want to start ruler work and don’t know what feet I would need.
Thsnks Jennifer
Hi, Jennifer! Bernina feet are a little bit different – they aren’t high or low shank. Your Artista 640 machine is classified as “New Style”. Unfortunately, you would have to contact a local Bernina dealer to get a Ruler Foot for your machine. I apologize for the inconvenience.
Hi
Hi Sarah I have a Bernina 1080 and would like to learn to quilt. What kind of quilting foot (feet) do I need to get and is my machine low or high shank?
Thank you so much for your help!!!
Laurie
Hi! Bernina machines are a little different – your machine is neither high nor low shank – it’s the “Old-Style” shank. So, you can use (generally speaking) any Bernina foot labeled “Old Style”.
To start quilting, I recommend a 1/4″ Foot: https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/bernina-quater-inch-guide-foot-57.aspx
and a Walking Foot: https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/bernina-walking-foot-p60446.aspx
If you can afford it, it’s nice to have a Big Quilting Foot: https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/bernina-freehand-quilting-foot-29.aspx
and an Edge Stitch Foot: https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/bernina-edge-stitch-foot-10.aspx
Hello. I have a Bernina 765. It is a special edition manufactured in 2016/2017. Can I use a high or low or both adapter shanks? I would like to get this to reduce the cost of buying presser feet.
Hi! You can save money by using the snap on presser foot adapter: https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/snap-on-foot-adapter-bernina-0060827300.aspx
The low shank presser foot adapter is not compatible with your machine.
Hello. My mother gave me her old Bernina 830.(originally bought sometime in the 1970’s) Can you tell me what walking foot I need for this machine? Thank you.
I have the newer 830 Bernina and I can’t figure out if it is a low or high shank! I’ve been looking at different quilting feet and possibly using the Westalee rulers. Thank you.
Hi! Your machine uses ‘New Style’ Bernina feet. You would use this Westalee Ruler Foot: https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/ruler-foot-w-3mm-arc-template-medium-shank.aspx
You must have the adapter, as well: https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/presser-foot-adaptor-bernina-0083677000.aspx
I have a bernina 220 and would like to purchase a ruler foot, i am not sure what size shank I need, can you advise? Thanks
Hi! We do not sell a Bernina Ruler Foot guaranteed to be compatible with your machine. You would have to see your local Bernina dealer. However, we do have a Westalee Ruler Foot that may fit your machine: https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/ruler-foot-w-3mm-arc-template-medium-shank.aspx
You would need to also get the adapter: https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/presser-foot-adaptor-bernina-0083677000.aspx
Hi Sarah,
My mother had a Bernina she purchased in 1981 that I think was an 830 Record. I do have the serial number. Unfortunately, the machine was stolen (broke her heart) and now I am left with 10 feet, 1 adapter, an embroidery hoop and some other little things. I would like to sell them, but am not sure what machine they will fit. They are the old style (I know that, thanks to the great descriptive article) with the number stamped into the metal, and the rounded back. I was having trouble finding information about the models & their feet. Any help you can give me with the model(s) the feet will fit will be greatly appreciated. Thank you,
Eileen
Hi! The best you can do is tell a potential buyer that they need to have a machine that used old style feet. Otherwise, you can’t guarantee the feet you have will fit. I know that’s frustrating.
I have an old 830 That I was given. It has no attachments. I do know that it uses the “old style”. If you still want to sale the attachments I would be interested in purchasing them. You can send a picture and the price to my email: wait_sb@hotmail.com
Ellen I’m interested msg me
I have the bernina B 880 and am looking into purchasing some of the new rulers for machine quilting. I also have a ruler foot but don’t know what the shank is. High, low?
Hi! Your machine can use this Ruler Foot: https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/ruler-foot-w-3mm-arc-template-medium-shank.aspx
Hi, Pasha.. I have a Bernina 930 Record and just received a #2 foot for overlock stitching. What type of settings do I use with this? I thought it would help instead of zigzagging my seams since I don’t have a serger. Thanks– Melissa
I have a Bernina 750. I want to purchase some quilting templets. Is my machine a high shank?
Hi! I believe your machine uses the New Style Feet. In order to use the Westalee Sew Steady Rulers (https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/ruler-foot-w-3mm-arc-template-medium-shank.aspx), you need the #77 adapter: https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/presser-foot-adaptor-bernina-0083677000.aspx
Hi Sarah:
For Christmas I received a Bernina 570QE which came with 5 feet; #1Reverse pattern foot; buttonhole foot #3A; zipper foot #4; #5 blind stitch; open embroidery foot #20 and a BSR. I basically quilt (just new to it) and want to do stitch in the ditch and I presume I need a walking foot to do this?? what do I need?
Hi, Karen! You can use a Walking Foot (https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/generic-bernina-walking-foot-50n.aspx), or you can use an Edge Stitching Foot to do stitch in the ditch work: https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/bernina-edge-stitch-foot-10n.aspx
Hi Sarah,
I recently purchased the Bernina 330. Will mainly sew with lycra. Can you please advise what presser foot is needed for this type fabric?
Hi, Trina! I like to use a Walking Foot and I decrease my presser foot pressure. We have a Walking Foot for your machine here: https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/generic-bernina-walking-foot-50n.aspx
Hi, trying to buy a new walking foot for my Bernina B580E, could you tell me if it has a 9mm width opening? Thank you
Hi! We do not currently have a 9mm Bernina Walking Foot guaranteed to fit your machine. I’m so sorry.
I’ve seen some old style feet for sale with 1 of the side tabs missing, pictures look like it was designed that way. It would be the right tab if installed in the machine. What is the story on these feet? They appear to have the numbers as part of the casting.
Hi! May I have the model of your Bernina?
Model 817
I asked the original publisher of this post if he was familiar with what you described. Some of the “new style” feet have ‘1 tab’, like this: https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/bernina-freehand-quilting-foot-29n.aspx
I need to find a 1/4 inch foot for my bernia model 930
Hi! This is the 1/4″ Foot for your Bernina 930: https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/bernina-quater-inch-guide-foot-57.aspx
I have a bernina nova purchased in 1981. I cannot for the life of me figure out how to attach the walking foot. Help! Are there online instructions?
Hi, Ginna! Do you know the full model number of your Bernina?
I have a Bernina Nova 900 also, I have the instructions for my walking foot and would be happy to pass along a copy.
I have a Bernina 830 purchased in 1972. Is it considered a low shank machine?
Hi! Your Bernina is not low shank. Your Bernina uses “old style feet”. We have a list of the feet guaranteed to fit your machine here: https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/bernina-830-sewing-machine-parts.aspx#filter:ptype_gmcfeed_1:$2520Presser$2520Feet
Hello! My mom has a Bernina 807 and had asked for a walking foot for Christmas. I’m not sure which number she would be. Do you know which would be the correct for to her machine, or do you have a link to the right one? Any advice would help! Thanks!
Hi, Whitney! This Walking Foot is compatible with your mom’s Bernina 807: https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/bernina-walking-foot-p60445.aspx
I want to purchase snap-on adapter as well as a low shank adaptor for my Bernina 880. Could you provide a link or directions for how I might do this? Thanks!
Hi! Your machine uses the new style feet.
This is the shank for snap on feet: https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/snap-on-foot-adapter-bernina-0060827300.aspx
We no longer carry the low shank adapter for new style machine. I’m so sorry.
Also, please note that the snap on feet adapter is finicky. Not all snap on feet are guaranteed to fit that adapter.
Hi, can you tell me if there is a walking foot that will fit my 1630? I have an 830 and I have a walking foot that fits the 830 but it does not fit the 1630. I sometimes see people selling a walking foot and they say it fits the 830, 930, 1130, and 1630, but how can that be? My walking foot is genuine Bernina and as I said, it only fits my 830. Thank you for your help!
Karen