Meet my new Bernina 475 QE
I want you to meet my newest sewing machine, a Bernina 475 QE! I’ve had good and bad experiences with Bernina, but this is turning out to be a really good one. Let’s hope it stays that way even after the honeymoon is over!
This post is NOT sponsored by Bernina. All opinions are my own.
About the Bernina 475 QE
Many quilters say Bernina is the gold standard of sewing machines. They are, indeed, very well-made, solid machines. They range in size, function and features (as most brands do). The 475 QE (quilter’s edition) is on the modest end of the line up. It’s smaller than most and it doesn’t have a billion stitches and automatic “everything”. For me, less is more in this case. Although, I just read that it does come with 840 stitches (40 of which are for quilting).
I wanted a machine that was user-friendly and didn’t require a technology degree to operate. I previously owned the Bernina 770 QE and it was too much for me. It’s a little like Goldilocks trying to find something that is just right. I think I found it.
Here are some of the key features of the Bernina 475 QE:
- Automatic thread cutter
- Semi-automatic needle threader
- Tie-off function
- Jumbo bobbin
- Knee lift
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Touch screen that is easy to use
It comes with an accessory case to store extra feet, bobbins and notions. This is a big improvement from the old plastic cases (they looked like a Barbie Doll case) that came with the older models.
What I love about this machine
There are quite a few things I love about this machine. First, is the stitch quality. The stitches are beautiful and it feeds through bulky seams like butter. I’m talking about those flying geese points that tend to get smooshed to the side by some machines. This thing is like a tractor! It’s strong and durable.
I love the patchwork foot (#37) that’s included. It gives me a perfect 1/4″ seam allowance. I also appreciate that it’s 1/4″ on both sides of the needle. This allows me to stitch on either side of a diagonal line instead of just the left side. That’s so handy!
Many of the newer Bernina machines have jumbo bobbins, as does the 475 QE. This is such a nice upgrade! We’ve all been frustrated by the bobbin running out, but this doesn’t happen as frequently with a jumbo bobbin. You can see the size difference below.
The touchscreen makes it easy to see the stitch you’re using and the current stitch settings. You can make adjustments easily with the knob controls to the right of the touchscreen as well. I love that you can adjust any stitch to any length and width by increments of .1 mm. It’s those micro adjustments that I appreciate when using a blanket stitch with applique, for example.
And with the touch of a button, I can cut the threads or I can tie-off the stitches with a securing stitch. This is so nice and easy!
Overall, this is a user-friendly machine that should last a very long time. It has all the features I need without me feeling overwhelmed. I just love the quality of Bernina.
What I don’t love about it
It’s not all sunshine and flowers with my new sewing machine. I’ll be honest that there are a few things I don’t love. The first thing that comes to mind is the front loading bobbin. It’s just a fiddly thing that is going to take practice to get it in and out smoothly. I much prefer the ease of a top loading bobbin.
I wish it came with a larger extension table. This one works fine for piecing, but for quilting a larger quilt it might become a chore. The same is true of the throat (harp) space – it’s 7″ wide which isn’t that big.
This is a heavy machine. It weighs just over 20 lbs. which is on the heavier side for a “pack up and go” situation. But, that’s probably why it’s so strong and durable. It’s definitely not a deal breaker for me. I did buy the extra trolley that it fits into perfectly, which I’m glad to have.
There is no automatic presser foot lift (hover) which is handy for pivoting during applique. I became used to this feature on my Baby Lock sewing machines, so I’m having to re-learn how to use the knee lift on this one. It’s not that bad, but if I had to design my dream machine, it would include the automatic presser foot lift.
The Bernina 475 QE does not come with a walking foot. This doesn’t affect me because I already own one, but for most people it adds additional cost. They are one of the best walking feet on the market, but also one of the most expensive.
Why a new sewing machine?
I had no intention of buying a new machine, but it made sense to purchase this one. My main sewing machine has been a Baby Lock Crescendo. You can read about it here. After cleaning the dust bunnies from underneath the throat plate, it started making a clicking sound. Since it was past due for a routine maintenance service, I brought it in for servicing.
In the meantime, I took out my original Bernina sewing machine, a 440 QE. I hadn’t used it in over five years, so I thought it would be fun to sew with it for a while. When I turned it on, nothing happened. It was dead to the world, and it was going to cost over $800 to fix it. I really loved this machine, but it didn’t make sense to spend that much money to repair it.
As it turns out, my local Bernina dealer was having a sale. I was able to purchase this new Bernina 475 QE for $1,899. It’s a nice upgrade, plus I get to use all of the old presser feet and accessories from my old machine. That’s really what sold me on this new purchase. Call it justification, if you will.
However, I had buyer’s remorse immediately after leaving the parking lot. What did I just do? What was I thinking? After sewing with it for one day, I let go of any second thoughts. It’s been three weeks now, and I’m so happy with this machine. (I think my Crescendo is beginning to feel neglected.)
Thanks for reading about my new Bernina 475 QE. I hope it was helpful for those who are thinking of making that big purchase. I think it’s a great option for quilters who want a quality machine with just the right amount of functionality to suit their needs.
You can find my previous sewing machine advice and adventures here. I’ll see you soon with a new tutorial that is perfectly timed for the holidays!
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Hi Julie
If it helps, I had a Virtuosa years ago and bought a Sew Steady Portable table for it. It gives a much bigger surface, fits onto your specific shape of machine bed and adjusts with little legs.
I’m in the UK but it was made in Idaho
Hope they are still in business
Julie
My first Bernina in 2006 was a 440QE. It is my go-to machine when I attend retreats. And, yes, it is a work horse. The last time I had it serviced, my technician informed me that as of 2025, Bernina will no longer be making parts for this model. I take very good care of my machine because I love it. In 2022 I purchased a B 570 Quilters Edition. You are right, there is a lot more stress to learning all the bells and whistle of this machine. Actually, I wanted to cancel my purchase a week after purchasing, but my store wouldn’t let me. I’m thinking your new machine might just be the answer.
Thank you for sharing your experience. It’s helpful.
Thank you for sharing, Julie. I LOVE your personal write ups about your machines and experience and it gives all of us information that is helpful or at least information! I recall you writing about your 440 and that you’d never give it up. I am sorry that it gave out on you. I have a 440 that I purchased from a friend and Maria Shell uses when she come to town 🙂 – and I got myself the 480 Kaffe Edition a couple of years ago. It’s just such a handy size for travel and it fits perfectly into the Gadget I table. I took table and 480 to Asilomar the last two years for the 5 days Empty Spools workshops. So, if you are looking for a wider table and lower setting, the Gadget I works for this machine. Thanks for sharing!
That was a really great review! Thanks for posting it. I will share it with my quilt guild. You were very thorough on pros and cons! I appreciate you!
Cheers
April
Hi Julie
Congratulations on your new baby!
I still have my 440QE which is a workhorse. The 475 is obviously an updated version with the great jumbo bobbin and auto thread- cut which I miss. I use #97 inch foot as is is wide enough to cover the whole feed dogs, when I don’t use the walking foot… which was included back then with the 440QE.
Enjoy!
Thank you for sharing the pros and cons of your new machine. Does it have a reminder for your bobbin getting close to the end? I know at some point I will need to buy a new machine. Many friends have Berninas and love them. I have a Pfaff from 1999 and a Featherweight. My Pfaff dies have the bobbin notification which I love. My eyesight has changed and will probably continue to change so that will be a factor when I buy a new machine. Thanks again.
I was glad to hear of your upgrade. I felt much the same about my upgrade to the 570, but mine does have the hover. I expect it is the last new machine for me…but one never knows! I have especially grown to love the large bobbin and filled with Aurifil it lasts forever! I do find that it needs a lot more oiling than my 440, and oil it nearly every time I sew.
Thank you for this! I have been keeping a list of what I most want in a new machine, someday, and your review is a big help. I had no idea that “jumbo bobbins” existed, although I was expressing a desire for them last week. And I thought a thread cutter and a tie-off were the same thing–I might have made a terrible mistake had I not known, with your help, to clarify what I need, which is the tie-off. Someday, that is.
Julie,
Thank you so much for sharing your experience with your new Bernina. I bought my current Bernina in 1980, and have been considering getting a new machine. Recently, I test drove the Eversewn machine and liked the some of the newer features, but it was clunky and noisy compared to my old Bernina. In 2023, I considered the 750QE, but was not prepared to spend that amount of money, even though I had been quilting quite a bit. The 440QE has a much better price point. Since I live in Los Altos, would you be willing to share where you purchased the 440QE? Thanks again for your wonderful newsletters. Always insightful and interesting.
Congratulations on your new machine! Great review of the 475QE, BTW. So glad the ‘remorse’ thoughts just flitted on by :-). With all the help, tips and free patterns you share with us, you’ve definitely earned a new machine. Happy stitching ~ PattiK
@Patricia Hall, the 475QE doesn’t come with a walking foot, which can be confirmed on the Bernina website. I have one, and I agree with Julie that knee lifter is inferior to hover (but better than nothing). I keep forgetting to remove mine when I raise my table to clean and oil the bobbin area. Removing and inserting the bobbin case gets pretty easy with practice, but putting the spindle piece back in is seldom easy. Also, the jumbo bobbins cost a lot, but there are clones on Amazon that work fine for me.
I was excited for your new purchase of a bernina machine. I have always used bernina machines for over 55 years. Love the phrase “nothing sews like a bernina”
I wish you many happy years with always full bobbins at hand…….enjoy!!!
clara
I used the B475 this summer at the Land Cruise in Shipshewana. It’s a great machine!
So very nice to hear an honest opinion of a brand of sewing machine. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Thank you for your review! I purchased the Bernina 475QE Kaffe Special Edition just because of the beautiful Aqua color! I had never had a Bernina. But I have fallen in love with the beautiful straight stitches for piecing and I can take it to class with the matching trolley it came with. Like you mentioned, it can sew thru a bunch of seams easily without clunking over them. I too have a Baby Lock Aria which I need to turn in and get serviced. I’m afraid a board went out. It turns on but can’t get it do anything. Right now I am having fun sewing with this beautiful Bernina!
Very helpful & honest assessment, Julie!
Julie thd QE means quilters edition so it should have had a walking. Foot I have 3 Bernina machines my first was 1280 love it and still use it . Next was 750 QE.
It had been a good machine but I had to learn alot now inoughgg to ausrc 440 QE . It is much like the 1280. I love to use the 1280 anyway love that you got yourself a new machine. Enjoy
Patty
Thanks so much for sharing your information about your new machine. I just lost one machine of mine and one of my Mom’s because they hadn’t been used enough and just don’t always run well again. I felt badly but I didn’t know that could happen.
Your info. was very helpful. I own a Pfaff and I have been considering a Bernina, but the local store is not one of my favorite for how they treat certain people. It is a fantastic store, with lot’s of fabric, but….customer service is important to me. There is another shop about an hour away but, not so convenient, Your machine sounds great. I get what you mean about having to learn more with a lot of technology. Just relearning a machine is enough. But I would want a bigger opening, than 7 inches. And a walking foot. Pfaff’s walking foot is amazing. Anyway, I really appreciate your information ; it will help me when I decide to make a decision. I think you made an excellent choice!
I am a Pfaff girl, not a Bernina girl. You can order larger table from https://www.sewsteady.com/ I have bought more than one through the years. They are cut to order to fit your machine. Since they are a US based company and that’s where you live, you don’t have to deal with the CAD to USD exchange rate like I do. Enjoy your new machine. I’m sure it will bring many happy hours of 1/4″ seams.
Interesting read. I’m a bit surprised that you didn’t go for a 9mm width (since you do applique) but maybe Bernina doesn’t make them anymore. I have sewn on the 440QE for so many years and thought about getting a new machine with a bigger throat but didn’t. I was at a quilt retreat this summer and was surprised how many people had the 440QE. Onward sew!!