Bernina Activa 135S Mastery: Setup, Troubleshooting & Creative Techniques

1. Introduction: Unlocking Your Bernina Activa 135S Potential

The Bernina Activa 135S is more than just an entry-level computerized sewing machine—it's a testament to Swiss engineering, designed to empower both budding creatives and seasoned studio owners. With its blend of robust construction and user-friendly features, the Activa 135S stands out as a reliable partner for operational guidance, technical mastery, and creative exploration. Whether you’re threading your first bobbin, troubleshooting a stitch, or experimenting with specialty techniques, this Bernina sewing embroidery machine offers a versatile foundation for embroidery and garment work. In this guide, we’ll walk you through essential setup steps, maintenance protocols, and advanced features—ensuring you get the most out of your investment, project after project.

Table of Contents

• 1. Introduction: Unlocking Your Bernina Activa 135S Potential
• 2. Essential Operation: Threading, Bobbin Winding & Basic Controls
• 3. Technical Specifications & Maintenance Protocols
• 4. Feature Deep Dive: Balance, Buttonholes & Specialty Stitches
• 5. User Experience & Accessory Optimization
• 6. Advanced Garment Embroidery Techniques
• 7. Conclusion: Maximizing Your Investment
• 8. FAQ: Bernina Activa 135S Essentials

2. Essential Operation: Threading, Bobbin Winding & Basic Controls

Mastering the Bernina Activa 135S, a bernina sewing machine embroidery machine, starts with a solid grasp of its fundamental operations. From threading the upper path with Swiss precision to winding bobbins and navigating the intuitive controls, each step is engineered for reliability and ease. Let’s break down the process so you can sew with confidence from day one.

2.1 Upper Threading: Swiss Precision Step-by-Step

Threading the upper path on the Activa 135S is a ritual in precision—one that rewards attention to detail. Begin by placing your thread spool on the horizontal spool pin, ensuring the flat side faces the spool and the thread feeds up and over toward you. Secure it with the appropriate spool disc or cap, as demonstrated in both the manual and YouTube tutorials.

Guide the thread through the rear thread guide, then down the right side of the machine. Here’s where the magic happens: bring the thread up to the take-up lever—but before threading, always turn the handwheel toward you to raise the lever fully. This seemingly small step is the secret handshake of Swiss sewing, ensuring the thread seats correctly and avoids future tension headaches.

Next, pass the thread through the tension discs. Make sure the presser foot is raised at this stage—the tension discs open, allowing the thread to slip between them for consistent tension. If you thread with the presser foot down, the thread may sit on top of the discs, leading to poor stitch quality.

Continue threading down through the guides near the needle, and finally, thread the needle from front to back. Don’t forget the slip mechanism on the right side of the presser foot—this keeps the thread perfectly aligned for smooth operation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Forgetting to raise the take-up lever before threading
• Threading with the presser foot down
• Twisting the thread around the needle instead of passing it straight through

By following these steps and double-checking each point, you’ll set yourself up for flawless stitching—every time.

2.2 Bobbin Mastery: Winding and Lower Thread Retrieval

Bobbin work on the Activa 135S is all about direction and detail. Start by placing an empty bobbin on the spindle, following the arrow to wind the thread through the rear guide and around the pre-tension stud. Wind several turns around the bobbin, press the engaging lever, and use the foot control to start winding. The machine’s automatic stop feature will disengage when the bobbin is full, preventing overfilling.

After winding, use the built-in thread cutter to trim the thread. Insert the bobbin into the case so the thread pulls clockwise—this detail is crucial for proper tension. Feed the thread through the slot and under the spring, ensuring it lies in the T-shaped slit at the end of the spring, as illustrated in the manual schematics.

To retrieve the lower thread, hold the upper thread and turn the handwheel toward you for one complete cycle. The needle will dip down, catch the bobbin thread, and bring up a loop through the stitch plate hole. Use a seam ripper or your fingers to pull both threads under the presser foot and toward the back—this classic move sets you up for a clean, tangle-free start.

Pro Tip:

If you encounter resistance or the bobbin doesn’t click into place, double-check the orientation and ensure the arm of the bobbin case is positioned correctly. Attention to these small details will save you from frustrating thread jams later on.

2.3 First Stitches: Navigating Controls & Safety Protocols

Ready to sew? The Activa 135S greets you with an intuitive LCD display, showing stitch width, length, and needle position—nine positions in total for ultimate flexibility. The screen also indicates the selected stitch number and the recommended presser foot, so you’re never left guessing.

Explore the reverse stitch function for securing seams: press and hold for a quick reverse, or double-press for continuous reverse stitching. The 1/2 speed button is your friend for delicate work or when precision trumps speed. Toggle the needle stop button to choose whether the needle finishes up or down—a lifesaver for pivoting at corners.

Safety First:

• Always turn the power switch to “0” before changing needles, threading, or swapping presser feet.
• Use only original Bernina needle plates to prevent breakage.
• Keep air vents clear of lint and fabric scraps—ventilation is key to longevity.
• Never operate the machine with bent needles or in environments with aerosol products or oxygen in use.

By respecting these protocols, you’ll not only protect your investment but also create a safer, more enjoyable workspace.

3. Technical Specifications & Maintenance Protocols

A Bernina machine is only as good as its upkeep—and knowing the Activa 135S inside out ensures lasting performance. This section dives into its technical anatomy, routine care, and troubleshooting wisdom straight from the manuals and real-world user experience.

3.1 Machine Anatomy: Stitch Capabilities & Engineering

The Bernina Activa 135S boasts a portfolio of 30 stitches—from practical straight and zig-zag to decorative, quilting, and specialty options. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Practical Stitches: Straight, zig-zag, vari-overlock, running stitch, securing stitch, triple straight and zig-zag, blind stitch, double overlock, super stretch
• Buttonholes: Standard, keyhole, straight stitch
• Special Programs: Button sewing-on, darning, basting
• Quilting Stitches: Three dedicated options
• Decorative Stitches: Eight for creative flair

Key Metrics:

• Maximum Stitch Width: 5.5mm
• Maximum Stitch Length: 5mm
• Needle Positions: 9, for pinpoint accuracy

The bobbin case is crafted from high-grade PPSU (polyphenylsulfone), a material known for its durability and heat resistance—think aerospace-level engineering in your sewing room. The feed dog system ensures smooth, even fabric movement, and the manual’s diagrams make it easy to visualize how each part interacts beneath the surface.

3.2 Routine Maintenance: Cleaning & Longevity Tips

Keeping your Activa 135S in peak condition is a ritual worth embracing. After every use, switch off the machine, remove the presser foot and needle, and open the free-arm cover. Unscrew the stitch plate with the provided Torx screwdriver, then use the lint brush to clear away debris—never solvents or sharp tools, as advised in the manual.

For deeper cleaning, remove the bobbin case and open the hook race cover. Wipe the hook and surrounding area with a soft cloth. When reassembling, ensure the hook driver is positioned on the left for proper alignment.

Oiling: While the Activa 135S features a low-mass hook system that typically requires no lubrication, some users on PatternReview note that a drop of oil can reduce noise if the machine starts to sound louder than usual. Always run the machine on scrap fabric after oiling to avoid staining your projects.

Bulb Replacement: If your sewing light dims, replace it with a 12V/5W bulb—after unplugging the machine and letting the bulb cool. Loosen the cover screw, swap bulbs, and reassemble with care.

Sourcing Parts: As the Activa 135S is discontinued, sourcing replacement parts may require reaching out to authorized Bernina dealers or checking online for official manuals and guides. This ensures you maintain authenticity and performance, even as the years roll by.

3.3 Troubleshooting Common Hardware Issues

Every machine hits a snag now and then—here’s how to tackle the most common culprits:

• Thread Breaks:
• Check for debris between tension discs or under the bobbin case spring.
• Replace bent or blunt needles promptly.
• Ensure correct threading with the presser foot raised.
• Skipped Stitches:
• Use only 130/705H system needles.
• Confirm the needle is fully inserted and appropriate for your fabric.
• Feed Jams:
• Clear lint from the feed dog and hook area.
• Avoid pulling or pushing fabric while stitching.
• Bobbin Jamming:
• Remove and reinsert the bobbin if it’s not running smoothly.
• Clean the bobbin case regularly to prevent lint buildup.
• Machine Runs Slowly or Not at All:
• Verify all plugs are properly inserted and the power switch is on.
• Ensure the bobbin winder isn’t engaged.

Remember, software or firmware troubleshooting is not relevant for this model—focus on mechanical checks and regular maintenance for best results. If persistent issues arise, consult your local Bernina dealer for expert service and genuine parts.

With these foundational skills and insights, you’re well on your way to mastering the Bernina Activa 135S—unlocking both its technical prowess and creative potential. Ready to dive deeper? Let’s keep stitching!

4. Feature Deep Dive: Balance, Buttonholes & Specialty Stitches

The Bernina Activa 135S isn’t just about basic sewing—it’s a creative powerhouse packed with nuanced features that let you fine-tune every detail. Whether you’re chasing the perfect stitch tension, mastering buttonholes, or exploring specialty stitches, this section peels back the curtain on the tools that set the Activa 135S apart. Let’s dive into the details that transform good sewing into great sewing.

4.1 Stitch Balance Adjustment for Perfect Tension

Ever noticed your decorative stitches looking a little squished or stretched? That’s where the Activa 135S’s electronic stitch balance function comes to the rescue. This feature lets you correct distorted stitches right from the machine’s visual interface. If your stitches appear compressed or too loose—say, on a dense jersey or a lightweight cotton—you simply activate the balance adjustment via the information icon and scales on the LCD screen.

Here’s how it works:

• Identify the Issue: Look for distortion—are the stitches packed too closely or spaced too far apart?
• Adjust Electronically: Use the balance dial or screen controls to tweak the stitch until the on-screen balance picture matches your fabric’s reality.
• Test and Reset: Always test your adjustments on a scrap of the actual fabric and stabilizer you’ll use for your project. After you’re done (especially with buttonholes), reset the balance to neutral to keep future stitches in line.

This process ensures your decorative, practical, and buttonhole stitches maintain their intended look, regardless of fabric type or thickness. It’s like having a tailor’s magic wand—one twist, and your stitches are picture-perfect.

4.2 Buttonhole Systems: Automatic vs Manual Mastery

Buttonholes can make or break a garment’s finish. The Activa 135S offers both automatic and manual buttonhole systems, giving you the flexibility to tackle everything from delicate blouses to sturdy jackets.

Automatic Buttonholes:

• Three Styles: Standard, keyhole, and straight stitch buttonholes.
• Foot No. 3A: The automatic buttonhole foot uses a lens to precisely measure buttonhole length, ensuring every buttonhole is identical—no guesswork required.
• Programming: Mark only the beginning of the first buttonhole; the machine remembers the length for all subsequent ones.
• Bead Width & Stitch Length: Adjust stitch width for bead thickness and stitch length for density. Any changes can be cleared with the “clr/del” button.
• Gimp Cord Integration: For added strength and a professional finish, use a gimp cord. Hook it onto the foot, and the machine stitches over it, reinforcing the buttonhole.

Manual Buttonholes: Perfect for custom repairs or unusual placements. You control each step—forward bead, reverse bead, bar tacks—using the reverse button for sequencing. The manual method shines when you need to repair or replicate existing buttonholes, or when working with tricky fabrics.

Pro Tip: Always test on your actual fabric and stabilizer before committing. And if you’re sewing buttonholes across seams or thick areas, use the buttonhole leveler plate to keep the foot flat and your stitches even.

4.3 Specialty Stitch Applications: Darning & Quilting

The Activa 135S doesn’t just sew—it repairs, embellishes, and quilts with finesse.

Darning Program:

• Activate the integrated darning program for quick repairs. The auto stitch counter helps you cover worn areas efficiently.
• For small tears (up to 3 cm), use the buttonhole foot No. 3A; for larger areas, the reverse pattern foot No. 1 is your go-to.
• Stretch fabrics? Use a darning ring to prevent puckering and keep your work smooth.

Honeycomb Stitch (No. 19):

• Ideal for stretch fabrics and visible seams. Use a universal or ballpoint needle and the reverse pattern foot No. 1.
• Adjust the balance if needed to keep stitches crisp, and always return settings to neutral after finishing.

Handlook Quilt Stitch (No. 20):

• This stitch mimics hand-sewn running stitches for a classic quilted look. Use monofilament in the upper thread and cotton in the bobbin, and sew at a moderate speed for best results.
• Combine with the open embroidery or walking foot for added control on layered quilts.

Presser Foot Compatibility: Consult the compatibility chart to match feet with your chosen stitch—using the right foot ensures optimal results, whether you’re darning, quilting, or adding decorative flair.

5. User Experience & Accessory Optimization

A sewing machine’s true value isn’t just in its specs—it’s in how it performs day after day, and how seamlessly it adapts to your creative ambitions. Here’s what real users say about the Activa 135S, plus a rundown of must-have accessories and a modern pro tip for embroidery enthusiasts.

5.1 Real-World Performance Insights

What’s it like to live with the Activa 135S? User reviews paint a vivid picture:

• Noise as a Maintenance Cue: If your machine starts sounding like a freight train, it’s time for a cleaning or a drop of oil. Regular maintenance keeps things running smoothly and quietly.
• Thread Jams: Most thread jams stem from threading errors, not machine faults. Proper technique is key—if you don’t rethread correctly, jams are inevitable.
• Reliability: Many owners report a decade or more of trouble-free sewing, highlighting the machine’s robust Swiss engineering.
• Dealer Support: Having a knowledgeable dealer in your corner is invaluable, especially for troubleshooting or sourcing parts for this discontinued model.
• Value Perception: The Activa 135S is often praised as a solid investment—“a good machine for somebody who doesn’t have all the money in the world but still wants a Bernina.”
• Bobbin System Demands: The large bobbin system requires frequent cleaning and occasional oiling—after every bobbin or two—to maintain peak performance.

The bottom line? The Activa 135S rewards attentive care with years of reliable service and creative satisfaction.

5.2 Essential Accessories: Darning Rings to Zipper Feet

Unlocking the full potential of your Activa 135S means having the right tools for the job. Here’s a quick-access guide to compatible attachments:

• Darning Ring: Prevents fabric stretch during repairs—essential for darning and visible mending.
• Binder Foot (#88): Achieve crisp, professional edges with bias tape in various widths.
• Invisible Zipper Foot (#35): Inserts zippers that disappear into the seam, perfect for garments and home décor.
• Ruffler (#86): For gathering and pleating—think ruffled skirts or decorative trims.
• Circular Embroidery Attachment: Enables you to stitch perfect circles and radial patterns for unique embellishments.
• Accessory Box: Stay organized with the built-in drawer system—each foot and tool has its place, reducing downtime and frustration.

Pro Tip: Store your most-used feet in the accessory box’s upright slots for quick identification, and use the spring-loaded bobbin compartments to keep everything secure and accessible.

5.3 Pro Tip: Reducing Thread Jams with Modern Tools

Dense embroidery and thick fabrics can challenge even the most seasoned sewists. Traditional screw-based Bernina embroidery hoops often struggle to maintain even tension—especially on tricky surfaces like denim or towels—leading to thread snags and misaligned stitches.

Enter magnetic embroidery hoops. For garment embroidery, magnetic hoops like those from MaggieFrame offer a game-changing solution. Their powerful magnetic grip ensures stable, even tension across the fabric, drastically reducing the risk of upper and lower thread jams during dense stitching. Unlike screw-based hoops, which can leave hoop marks or slip under pressure, MaggieFrame’s even fabric hold keeps everything in place—no matter how complex your design or how thick your material.

If you’re tired of battling thread jams and hoop burns, consider upgrading to a MaggieFrame magnetic embroidery hoop for your next garment project. It’s like switching from a hand crank to power steering—smoother, faster, and a whole lot more enjoyable.

6. Advanced Garment Embroidery Techniques

Ready to push the creative boundaries of your Activa 135S? This chapter is your springboard for blending decorative stitches, programming custom motifs, and achieving professional finishes on stretch fabrics and zippers—plus a pro tip for handling thick materials with ease.

6.1 Combining Decorative Stitches for Custom Designs

The Activa 135S offers a treasure trove of decorative and quilting stitches, but the real magic happens when you start combining them:

• Layering Stitches: Try pairing the feather stitch (#22) with the stipple stitch (#19) using the mirror function for symmetrical, eye-catching borders or embellishments.
• Memory Programming: Store your favorite stitch combinations in the machine’s memory for quick recall—perfect for repeating motifs or signature designs.
• Stabilizer Selection: When working with activewear or complex stitch layers, choose a stabilizer that matches your fabric’s stretch and weight. This prevents puckering and keeps your designs crisp.

Experiment with combining stitches to create custom Bernina embroidery designs.

Experimentation is key—draw inspiration from patchwork seams, heirloom garments, or even modern sportswear. The Activa 135S’s flexibility lets you be the artist and the engineer, all at once.

6.2 Professional Finishing: Zippers & Stretch Fabrics

Garment construction isn’t just about seams—it’s about finishes that stand up to wear and look sharp inside and out.

• Super Stretch Stitch (#9): Pair this with a ballpoint needle for flawless seams on knits, jerseys, or athletic fabrics. The stitch flexes with the fabric, preventing popped seams.
• Zipper Insertion: Use the adjustable needle position and zipper foot No. 4 to sew close to zipper teeth for a clean, professional look. For invisible zippers, foot No. 35 is your secret weapon.
• Thick Fabrics & Topstitching: Jackets and denim can be tough to keep steady. Here’s where a magnetic embroidery hoop like MaggieFrame shines—its secure grip prevents fabric shifting during topstitching, ensuring your lines stay straight and your finish is flawless.

When you combine the right stitch, the right foot, and a modern hooping tool, even the trickiest fabrics and construction details become manageable—and your results speak for themselves.

Ready to take your Bernina Activa 135S from everyday sewing to extraordinary creations? Dive in, experiment, and don’t be afraid to let your creativity lead the way. And if you’re looking to level up your embroidery stability and efficiency, give MaggieFrame’s magnetic hoops a try—they just might become your new studio essential.

7. Conclusion: Maximizing Your Investment

Mastering the Bernina Activa 135S, a versatile Bernina sewing and embroidery machine, is about more than just learning its buttons and stitches—it's about building a foundation for years of creative productivity. By following best practices for threading, bobbin winding, and regular cleaning, you ensure every project starts on solid ground. Embrace the machine’s advanced features, like electronic stitch balance and specialty programs, to unlock new design possibilities. Remember, consistent maintenance and attention to detail keep your machine running smoothly, while leveraging dealer support is invaluable, especially as the model ages. Ultimately, balancing feature exploration with a commitment to reliability will help small studios and passionate sewists get the most from their investment—project after project.

8. FAQ: Bernina Activa 135S Essentials

8.1 Q: Why does my machine vibrate?

A: Vibration is often a sign that your Activa 135S needs cleaning or lubrication. Lint buildup and lack of oil can increase noise and vibration. Clean the hook area and, if needed, apply a drop of oil as recommended in the manual. Always test on scrap fabric after oiling.

8.2 Q: Can I use metallic thread with the Activa 135S?

A: Yes, you can use metallic thread. For optimal results, set the upper thread tension to approximately 3 and use a size 90 needle. This helps prevent thread breakage and ensures smooth stitching.

8.3 Q: How do I reset my machine’s settings to default?

A: To reset the Activa 135S to its basic settings, press the “clr/del” (clear/delete) button. This reverts all stitch adjustments and settings back to factory defaults, except for the needle stop down and 1/2 speed functions.

8.4 Q: What should I do if the machine isn’t sewing correctly?

A: Double-check that the feed dog button isn’t pressed in, the presser foot and needle are in the correct positions, and all threading steps have been followed precisely. Refer to your manual or dealer for further troubleshooting if problems persist.

8.5 Q: Where can I find a replacement manual or support?

A: If you don’t have a manual, contact your local Bernina dealer or visit berninausa.com. Many manuals for older machines are also available online—often for free or a small fee. Dealer support is recommended for sourcing authentic parts and expert service.

By keeping these essentials in mind, you’ll navigate both everyday sewing and the occasional hiccup with confidence—ensuring your Bernina Activa 135S remains a reliable partner in your creative journey.