I can’t get the tension on my Bernina 65 correctly set. There are three dials on the top that I find no reference for in the directions. PLease help

The manual for the Bernina Bernette 65 are available from the manufacturer here: https://www.bernina.com/getdoc/6d2754b8-af09-4edb-a6a6-7a4c57965b8d/bernette-55-65-80e-90e . The three dials, from left to right, are thread tension, stitch length, and stitch width (page 9, page 12 of the PDF). See page 24 (page 42 of th ePDF for the pictures of the appearance of the correct tension versus the incorrect top thread tension. For best tension testing, use different color top and bobbin threads. Do use the same thread type and needle appropriate for your fabric and use scrap from that same fabric. In general, if the top thread is visible on the under side of the stitched fabric, increase the tension (turn the dial to a higher number). If the bobbin thread is visible on the top of the fabric, reduce the tension (lower number). Make sure that the machine is properly threaded. (Make sure that the presser foot was up during threading and is raised when you adjust the tension dial.) Start with the tension at 4 and change the tension in small steps. (Do not turn the dial more by 0.5 before stitching a line to test the tension again. You want to avoid over-correcting.) When the tension is correct, the top and bobbin threads will meet between the two layers of fabric for a normal seam.

I hope this helps.

Cindy Wells
(These steps are the same for any sewing machine with user tension adjustments.)