I have the new Bernina 820 and am having a hard time with the BSR. Every time I try to practice and machine quilt, I get it to only do a few stitches and then I get one long one. No matter how slow I go as I make a curve I get a very long stitch. I was wondering if anyone has this machine and can make a suggestion on what I am doing wrong. I have read the book and think I am setting it all up right, few locking stitches, etc.
Thanks for any help.....

I wish I could say that I am using an 820, but that would be a dream. I cannot complain, I have a 630 and love it. About the BSR, remember that the machine is not only going to sew as fast as you move the fabric, it will also move at a speed related to the desire size stitch. I suggest to reduce the size of the stitch to 1.5, make sure the needle is not dull, and hold the fabric tight, on both sides of the needle. I like the BSR set on the setting where it only moves if I am moving and stops when I stop. Keep on practicing. Is the only way you get used to it.

I've got the 830. Have you had the new spring and washer installed in your BSR? If not, you should make an appt. with your dealer to do so. This may help solve your problem. Also, lowering your stitch length may help too, like Maride said. But, definitely get the new spring and washer!

I agree with you,Maria. I have the 440. I like to use the BSR in mode 2. It regulates to my movement of fabric. I go at a slower pace and try to keep my movements smooth. I think practice is the best way to get better.
I am making some pot holders to practice stippling then I have them to give away.

Yes, I still think something must be up with my husband, because I got it for Christmas! I absolutely love it. I keep practicing but the same thing keeps happening. I just got the machine in December, would the bsr already need a new spring and washer? I have only tried it a few times. Thanks.

I love this board....You guys are really on it...so fast. Thanks again.

Yes, you need the BSR unit upgraded. Tell your dealer you're having issues and want the new spring and washer. They should know what you're talking about. It took my service tech only like 20 mins. to do it. So, you shouldn't have to make an appt. Though, they may have to order the parts from Bernina.

Laura, I have the Bernina 820 and had problems straight out with the BSR. Once they replaced the spring with a heavier duty one, everything went very smoothly. However, upon the 2X computer note that general maintenance was coming soon, (you can x out of the first 1X 2X times), like a good little seamstress, I took machine in for maintenance checking even though nothing was wrong but from that point on, I have had problems. The cutter snags thread and get jammed (spent over an hour clearing it just last night), then the needle threader would not work and they put in a new part only to have the part literally fall out by the next evening of sewing. After asking for a new cutting blade and adjustment, again, the automatic cutter does not cut either the bottom or the top threads. I am keeping a running list of date and what has happened to cause my time away from quilting and the next time in, I plan to talk with store owner in addition to the repairman. Considering the price tag of the 820, this is unheard of durability and service compared to the two other Bernina's which never gave me any tears and continue to sew beautifully. I do understand, however, that Bernina is retraining servicemen....for what I am not sure. Hopefully, Bernina will restore my faith in them soon and I hope you get a new BSR spring immediately.

You questioned if your BSR would already need a new spring and washer.....the way it was first explained to me was that the factory installed a light weight spring compared to the one actually needed for the 820s and 830s. And, indeed, when my new spring was installed, it was visibly heavier weight and even when I operated it up-down in my hand, it was a harder push. Good luck.

I am so sorry you have had so much trouble. I have not had any problems at all. I also have a family run sewing machine shop that I feel will help me. They have been very helpful in guiding me in the use of the machine. I will call them in the morning regarding the spring. Thanks for your help and good luck...