Product Overview

The BERNINA Q 16 is a high-quality computerized longarm quilting machine designed for precision and ease of use in small studio spaces . It features a 16-inch throat space (420 mm), making it perfect for handling large quilting projects while being compact enough for home sewing rooms . The machine can be paired with various table options, offering flexibility and stability for different quilting needs .

Key Specifications

Key Features

1. BERNINA Stitch Regulator (BSR)

The Q 16 features the renowned BERNINA Stitch Regulator with three modes, ensuring perfect, consistent stitches regardless of how simple or complex your quilt motif may be . Dual sensors on each side of the stitch hole precisely detect machine and fabric movement .

Available BSR Modes:

• BSR1 - For free-motion quilting with regulated stitch length

• BSR2 - For precise stitch regulation

• BSR3 (Basting) - For temporary basting stitches

• Manual Mode - For quilting without stitch regulation 

2. Digital Thread Tension Control

The unique digital thread tension system assigns a numeric value to the actual thread tension, easily adjustable on-screen at any time. No more guessing—readily track tension settings for known thread and batting combinations for quick set-up. The tension discs release automatically when the presser foot is raised for easy threading .

3. User-Friendly Touch Screen Interface

The centrally located 4.3" color touch screen is clear and easy to navigate with fingertip or touch pen . Features include:

• Customizable display and background colors

• Adjustable screen brightness

• Built-in tutorials for maintenance and operation

• Touch-scroll selection

• On-screen calculator 

4. Kick-Start Function (Quilting Without Foot Control)

The Kick-Start function enables fatigue-free quilting without keeping the foot control pressed. Simply activate via the touch screen, tap the foot control with your heel, and the machine continues sewing—perfect for creating large projects .

5. Advanced Illumination System

50 bright LED lights along the throat space and above the needle illuminate the quilt for enhanced visibility. The brightness is dimmable or can be turned off—an especially helpful option when working with white thread on white fabric .

6. On-Board Bobbin Winder

The independent bobbin winder allows you to quickly prepare customized bobbins with ease from the front of the machine. On-screen pop-up controls let you easily increase or decrease the winding speed according to the thread used. The bobbin winder can operate while sewing .

7. Easy Threading System

The well-positioned thread path and semi-automatic needle threader make threading quick and effortless. The thread tension releases completely when the presser foot is raised for smooth threading .

8. Lower Thread Sensor

A sensor warns when the bobbin thread runs low, preventing unexpected thread run-outs during quilting .

9. User Profiles

Five programmable user profiles allow different quilters to save their preferred settings, including tension, stitch length, and screen preferences .

10. Programmable Foot Control

The back-kick of the foot control can be programmed with various functions including:

• No function

• Securing stitch

• Needle up/down

• Presser foot up/down