Hi Nancy, Congratulations on your Bernette. I have not actually used one, but I know that many of these early machines did come with patterns already included without using a card. From the manual for the machine (https://www.bernina.com/getdoc/35fabcf4-56d0-4e29-...), I have verified that it does come with alphabets and frame designs. I believe you would need a card for some other options.

Additionally, since it is a second-hand machine, you might also check the machine memory. The previous user may have loaded some additional designs into memory.

I'm not familiar with that box, Rene. Can you check the box to see if you can find the manufacturer? If so, let me know the manufacturer or any other info you can find and I'll see if I can find their contact information for you.

~Heather
[email protected]

Romie,Last week I bought the same machine, you just purchased used. But mine didn't come with the hoops or cards. How are you liking it. Have you found any cards for it and if so may I know where? Also have you found out what year it is?

T.I.A.,Tami

Hi Tami!

Mine came with 6 cards so i was lucky in that sense. It came with a hoop and i have a friend who had that same machine and is showing me how to use it. What fun! She says the machine is from 1984. Hope this helps. Also i did find that EBay sells used cards. I have not bought any since my machine came with plenty for me to lear with but you can try them.

Hi Romie,

Try this:

To find out how old your Bernina sewing machineis, all you have to do is look at the model number. The four-digit model numbers start around the 1980s and on up. The three-digit model numbers ended in the mid-80s and go back to the 1950s, except for the Activa 100 and 200 series.

https://sewingiscool.com/bernina-models-history/

I need some assistance. My top thread is not catching the bobbin thread. Any suggestions? I cleaned the machine, changed needle and thread. Thanks

Hi, Kristie. Thanks for the question. We're sorry you're having trouble. I found the following information on Brother's website. Please follow the link below for suggestions. We hope this helps resolve your issue.

https://support.brother.com/g/b/faqend.aspx?c=us&lang=en&prod=hf_ce8080eus&faqid=faqh00000018_000

P.S. These tips should be helpful, regardless of your machine brand.

~Heather
[email protected]

need the instruction manual for this machine as well as hoops.

Hi, Cynthia. Please see my co-worker Kirsten's reply regarding instruction manuals...

https://www.embroidery.com/help.ec?docID=1515

Regarding hoops, they can also be sourced online. Here's one source I found that looks like a good place to start:

http://www.allstitch.net/department/bernina-deco-500-embroidery-hoops-10539.cfm

~Heather
[email protected]