This month, we’re talking about zippers, one of the most useful and versatile closures you can add to your sewing projects, but inserting them neatly can sometimes feel tricky! That’s where the Zipper Foot comes in. This presser foot is specially designed to help you sew close to the zipper teeth or coil without the needle hitting the foot, giving you a clean, professional finish every time.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the basics of the Zipper Foot, share tips on working with zippers in a variety of projects, and inspire you with creative zipper projects you can try at home!
What Is It?
Let’s start with how we got the Zipper Foot in the first place. This foot was invented to address a challenge in sewing: how to stitch close to the teeth of a zipper without the needle hitting the zipper’s metal or plastic parts. Zippers themselves were first created in the late 19th century, but it wasn’t until the early 20th century that we saw them used widely in garments and accessories. As zippers started to become a common closure method, sewists needed to find a specialized tool that allowed precise stitching along the narrow edge of the zipper tape.
Early zipper feet were simple but effective attachments that could be mounted on most domestic sewing machines, allowing the needle to sew on either side of the zipper. Over time, improvements have led to adjustable feet compatible with different zipper sizes and sewing machine models, making zipper installation more accessible and professional-looking for home sewists and industrial applications alike.
Benefits and Uses
The zipper foot is an essential tool because it allows precise stitching close to the zipper teeth without interference. It also helps prevent needle breakage and skipped stitches, making zipper installation smooth and professional, right from home. Beyond zippers, this versatile foot is also useful for other detailed sewing tasks that require stitching close to bulky edges or trims.
With the Zipper Foot you can:
Sewing various types of zippers (invisible, separating, metal, and nylon coil)
Attaching piping or cording for decorative edges
Topstitch close to bulky trims or seams
Sewing along the edges of thick fabrics or multiple layers
Using the zipper foot not only improves the accuracy of your stitching but also speeds up the sewing process by allowing you to work confidently close to the zipper teeth. Its versatility makes it a valuable tool beyond zipper installation, helping you achieve professional finishes on a variety of projects.
Tips for Using the Zipper Foot
Sew slowly and carefully near zipper stops to avoid needle breakage.
Use pins or basting tape to hold the zipper securely in place before stitching.
Practice on scrap fabric to get comfortable with needle placement and foot adjustment.
Backstitch at the start and end of your zipper seam to reinforce.
Zipper Projects to Try
Ready to try your hand at using a zipper foot? Below are five zipper projects featuring video tutorials from our JUKI team!
1. Quilted Laptop Bag: Join Alba in this detailed tutorial where you’ll learn to create a quilted laptop bag using the JUKI Haruka TL-18QVP. This project includes quilting tips, adding pockets, zipper installation, and attaching a comfortable strap, perfect for stylish, functional protection on the go.
2. Laptop Sleeve: Looking for a simple zipper project? This laptop sleeve tutorial guides you through making a slim, personalized cover for your laptop. It’s a great introduction to sewing zippers with style and function!
3. Binder Zipper Bag: Perfect for back-to-school organization, this project uses a nylon zipper to create a handy pencil and supply holder that fits in a three-ring binder. Created on the Kokochi DX-4000QVP, it’s a practical, beginner-friendly zipper bag with lots of uses.
4. Diagonal Zipper Bag: This stylish zipper bag is ideal for makeup, tickets, or toiletries and is made using the DX-2000QVP and MO-2800 serger. The tutorial shows how to sew with batting and cotton thread, perfect for an easy, functional accessory!
5. Make-Up Bag: Here our Brand Ambassador Nicole Moore demonstrates how to sew a travel-friendly make-up bag with the JUKI TL Series machine, personalized with embroidery. This project is suitable for all skill levels and perfect for gifting or personal use.
Mastering the zipper foot can open a world of creative possibilities, making zipper installation easier and more precise! Whether you’re sewing bags, garments, or accessories, this simple yet powerful tool can help you achieve clean, professional results every time.
Grab your zipper foot, explore the projects we’ve shared, and take your sewing skills to the next level with confidence! Visit your nearest JUKI dealer here to find the right accessories for your project today.
This year, get ready to level up your crafting game because JUKI has just dropped a variety of new accessories for 2024 that’ll make your sewing adventures a breeze!
From the innovative EB-1 buttonhole device specially crafted for the TL series to the whimsical hearts and wings ruler set and the versatile tears and tails ruler set, JUKI has unleashed an exciting collection of new notions for your sewing projects.
Check out our new 5-piece scissor set, ready to tackle any cutting task with finesse or the convenient pen oiler for seamless machine maintenance, and brace yourself for the stylish new trolley bag designs available in small and large sizes. We’re about to explore all that’s new!
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your stitching journey, these new JUKI accessories will elevate your crafting experience. Join us as we take a closer look at these game-changing tools, unpacking their features and discovering how they can revolutionize how you approach your sewing projects. So, grab your threads and bobbins because we’re about to embark on an exciting exploration of JUKI’s latest offerings for 2024!
EB-1 Button Hole Device
The EB-1 by JUKI is a game-changer for sewists aiming to elevate their garment creations. Its compatibility with the TL semi-industrial sewing machine marks a revolutionary leap in buttonhole creation, empowering creators to effortlessly add that perfect finishing touch to their chic dresses or stylish shirts.
This accessory boasts various features designed to ensure precision and convenience with every stitch! From setting button diameters ranging from 5mm to 32mm seamlessly to offering a Clear Presser Foot for easy alignment, the EB-1 prioritizes user-friendly functionality. Moreover, its flexibility allows adjustments in zigzag and knife widths, stitch density, and even sewing speed, putting creative control firmly in the hands of the sewist.
One of the standout features of the EB-1 is its remarkable memory function! This function retains the latest settings, ensuring consistent performance throughout your projects. Its versatile four-direction layout for buttonhole placement opens doors for compatibility with various sewing endeavors. Including essential accessories like different height correction plates and non-slip sheets enhances stability and precision, enabling professional-quality buttonholes with ease.
Say goodbye to fighting with your buttonhole projects and welcome a new era of sewing simplicity with the EB-1. This indispensable tool guarantees flawless results, whether sewing for style or functionality!
Hearts and Wings ruler set
The new Hearts & Wings Ruler Set from JUKI isn’t just a set of tools; it’s a gateway to unleashing boundless creativity for sewists! Specifically designed to be used as templates with the quilting ruler foot, this set opens up a realm of possibilities for stitching intricate and captivating designs. Dive into a world of fun as you explore the various rulers within this kit, each offering its unique flair to elevate your sewing projects. With tools like the Cable Tool, Mini Heart, Traditional Hearts, Feathered Hearts, and Bird Bracket Chain, your creative journey becomes a canvas waiting to be adorned with captivating patterns!
Dive into nature-inspired motifs, envisioning sprawling vine-like cable patterns reminiscent of twisting branches or delicate feathered hearts mirroring the grace of natural elements. Or, explore city-themed designs with structured, geometric heart outlines, infusing an urban vibe into your creations. Try your hand at whimsy and playful designs with the Mini Heart ruler. These rulers open doors to crafting lively and fun patterns that add a touch of joy and creativity to any project! Whether mirroring nature’s serenity, capturing cityscapes’ vibrancy, or infusing playful elements, the Hearts & Wings Ruler Set empowers sewists to bring their envisioned designs to life with precision and flair.
Tears & Tails Ruler Set
The new ruler kit we’ve released is the Tears & Tails Ruler Set! This set is a transformative addition for any sewing enthusiast diving into quilting or decorative stitching. Like the ruler set above, you’ll want to pair this set with the quilting ruler foot before diving into creative exploration!
With a diverse range of rulers, such as the Mini Teardrop, Small Teardrop, Nautilus Baby Long Tail, Nautilus Long Tail, Mini True Teardrop, and Small True Teardrop, the possibilities for crafting intriguing and diverse patterns are endless. Whether envisioning delicate tear-shaped motifs or intricate nautilus-inspired designs, this comprehensive set empowers you to craft captivating patterns that add depth and personality to your projects.
Create delicate and flowing patterns reminiscent of leaves, petals, or even gentle ripples on water using teardrop and nautilus-inspired rulers. Or to transition city-inspired designs, employ structured and linear motifs that echo the architectural elements or the bustling energy of an urban landscape. These rulers offer a gateway for sewists to craft designs from their dreams onto projects, whether in quilts, garments, or other textile creations!
JUKI 5 Piece Scissor Set
Crafted exclusively by Famore for JUKI, the 5-piece Scissor Set is a game-changer for your sewing, quilting, or crafting room! The scissor set is built with medium powder blue handles that are not just stylish but also super comfortable, and it includes a matching zipper case –the perfect home for these beauties!
These scissors and snips are like a dream team for your fabric-cutting adventures! This set has covered you, from precision cutting to tackling those pesky seams with the surgical seam ripper. Trust me, once you get your hands on these, you won’t want to let them go! This set includes scissors, snips, tweezers, and a surgical seam ripper.
JUKI Pen Oiler
Let’s discuss a game-changer for your machine maintenance routine—the JUKI Pen Machine Oiler! Imagine having this nifty tool in hand, perfectly crafted to reach those nooks and crannies of your sewing machine that always seem impossible to lubricate. This oiler is like a secret weapon, ensuring your beloved JUKI machines perform at their best!
Whether you’re rocking a TL semi-industrial powerhouse or a long arm series beauty, this pen oiler’s got your back, keeping those gears turning smoothly with its precise applicator designed to hit all the right spots. It’s like giving your machine a spa day—because, hey, they deserve some TLC, too, right? If you’re all about keeping your sewing sanctuary in tip-top shape, this oil pen is about to become your new best friend. Smooth stitching sessions await!
JUKI Trolley Bags
Lastly, let’s discuss the new design for our JUKI trolley bags that makes your machine-toting life a breeze! The bag has a sleek Chenille fabric exterior, spiced with classy gray details and an embroidered JUKI logo. They come with a front pocket and two inside mesh wall pockets, helping you bring all those notions you’ll need for your class or retreat!
These bags fit most sewing machines and sergers in JUKI’s lineup, giving your beloved gear a comfy ride with options to load from the front or the top. Whether you’re lugging around your MO-3000QVP or your Kokochi DX-4000QVP, these trolley bags are the perfect wingman for your sewing adventures. Curious about dimensions? They measure 10″ wide, 19″ long, and 16″ tall and 23″ wide, 12.5″ long, and 16″ tall. Those sizes are a roomy nest for your machine to relax while traveling!
So, say hello to your new trusty sidekick for your sewing escapades—the JUKI trolley bags are ready to roll!
To learn more about our latest accessories, visit us here today!
Continuing from last week, today we’re going to introduce the final 13 shops from our JUKI National Accounts. At JUKI, we know that great feeling you get when you find your favorite sewing shop!
Whether it’s because they carry unique fabrics, accessories you need, or that JUKI sewing machine you love, they’re here to help you create. So follow along below as we finish introducing our current National Account dealers and how you can reach out to them today!
Lake Loveland Sewing Company
Located in Loveland, Colorado, come and visit the Lake Loveland Sewing Company! Offering various options from the JUKI sewing line, from long-arm machines to sergers, their team is excited to help your designs come to life with the suitable machine and accessories you need!
Check out their notions, fabrics, and classes offering the chance to learn new skills and create fun projects! To find out more about Lake Loveland Sewing Company, visit us here today.
McDougal Sewing Center
What began as a humble small store in the Houston Heights area known as Bob McDougal Sewing Machine Co. has transformed into today’s McDougal Sewing Center, one of America’s largest sewing machine dealers! Focused on building long-term customer relationships through honesty and hard work, customers can enjoy a sense of friendliness the second they walk through the doors!
On top of their customer service, their shop has benefits focused on the quilter advancing in their skills. Enjoy benefits like their no-risk, one-year trade-up program, unlimited machine usage classes, professional technical service, and more! If you’re in the Katy, Texas, area, you can visit their shop today! Check out their location and learn more about McDougal Sewing Center’s machines, services and classes by visiting our page here today.
NorCal Sewing and Vacuum
At Norcal Sewing & Vacuum Center, you’ll find a family-owned business ready to help you find the suitable machine for your needs! Offering sewing machine repair services, a diverse inventory of notions, parts, and accessories, and old fashion customer service, you’ll be able to learn more about the JUKI product line and which features and machines are best for you.
To visit Norcal Sewing & Vacuum Center and learn more about their customer benefits, visit here today!
Pocono Sew & Vac
If there’s one thing Pocono Sew and Vac has, it’s an experience! After serving customers for over 40 years and with a team of over 15 people, most with 30-40+ years of industry experience, you can trust that their team is ready to help you start creating! So test-drive their extensive line of JUKIs before you buy, attend classes in their growing education department and trust that your machine is in good hands when shopping at Pocono Sew and Vac, located in the beautiful Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania.
Need project supplies? Find 3,000 bolts of fabric from the best designers, collect your sewing notions and join their club to receive even greater savings on their already marked-down fabrics. Want to visit Pocono Sew & Vac? Visit our site here today to learn more!
Quilters HQ
To help you become the best quilter, stop by Quilters HQ the next time you’re ready to begin creating! Providing you with the best tools, notions, fabrics, and JUKI sewing or longarm machines, their team is prepared to help you get started today.
Since 2017, this family-owned and operated quilt shop has provided edge-to-edge quilting services, sewing and quilting classes, workshops, and a service and repair team ready to help you maintain your machine. Want a sneak peek of what Quilters HQ can offer? Check out their LIVE sew-along! Visit their Facebook site every Tuesday from 6 – 7 pm for tutorials, inspiration, new products, and more. To learn how you can visit Quilters HQ and meet their team, visit us here today!
SEW-MINI Things
What was once known as Perrine Sewing & Vacuum Center in the late 1960s in Perrine, FL, has now transformed into the beloved SEW-MINI Things in Lake County, Florida! Offering a variety of our JUKI Sewing and Long-arm sewing machine line, SEW-MINI things is ready to help you find the perfect machine for your project needs.
Here you’ll be able to find a diverse collection of 3900 bolts of fabrics, grab those notions you need for your next project, and receive expert assistance from their team when you visit their shop! To find out more about SEW-Mini Things, visit our website here today.
Southeast Sewing Products
Southeast Sewing Products, also known as Sewingmachine.com, first started in 1982 with one location in Atlanta, before 1995 when owner Mel Tramell expanded the business onto the online world! With two locations in the Atlanta area and a large warehouse, Southeast Sewing Products is ready to help you find the perfect machine by offering you the chance to test-drive your dream picks.
With over 60 years of business, owner Mel Tramell is an enthusiastic leader with a knowledgeable staff ready to teach you those tips and tricks to sewing and quilting on your new machine. Learn more by clicking here today!
The Fabric Center
Quilters all over the Midwest know about The Fabric Center! Located in Morris, Illinois, with over 7,000 bolts of fabric choices, a large variety of JUKI products, and a large assortment of quilting patterns, books, and notions quilters like you can visit knowing you’ll find what you need! In addition, their staff is ready to answer your sewing and quilting questions and help you test-drive and find the perfect machine for your space!
Enjoy the perks of buying from The Fabric Center by using their phone and in-person technical support, attending their post-purchase one-on-one machine lessons to get you comfortable with your machine’s ins and outs, and using their authorized service center when the time comes! Whether you’re a new quilter ready to dive in or an experienced quilter looking for fun new patterns and fabrics, The Fabric Center can help your project ideas come to life. Please find out more by visiting us here today!
The Sewing Machine Shop
Those familiar with the San Francisco Bay Area will love The Sewing Machine Shop! Located near many cities, this shop is ready to help quilters and sewists like you find the perfect machine and tools to help your project dreams come to life. Filled with our JUKI Sewing and Long-arm sewing machine line, you’ll easily find the suitable machine for your project needs and sewing space!
Enjoy their shop showroom and experience the machine before buying by test-driving on various fabrics and machine options. Also, sign up for their sewing class to familiarize yourself with your new machine! If a repair is needed, you can return to The Sewing Machine Shop and know your machine is in capable hands with their award-winning service department. To learn more about The Sewing Machine Shop and how you can visit, click here!
The Sew’n Place
Providing the community of Fayetteville, PA, with quilting and sewing essentials since 1982, check out The Sew’n Place! Family owned and operated, their shop goal is to help all customers that walk through their front door find the perfect machine for their project needs.
Check out their large selection of premium cotton fabrics, Horn sewing cabinets, sewing notions, rotary cutting tools, quilting supplies, books, patterns, and more! Here you’ll find the tools you need and a large selection of JUKI sewing and long-arm quilting machines ready to help you start crafting. With over 30 years of experience on their staff that offers repairs services, a wide range of sewing and quilting classes, and knowledgeable support, stop by The Sew’n Place to find your next machine! Visit us here today to learn more about The Sew’n Place and how you can visit.
The Stitching Post
Opened in 1986, The Stitching Post is here to find suitable sewing machines and fabric for your projects! Operating out of the heart of corn country, Washington, Indiana, you’ll find a wide variety of materials, books, patterns, and notions. As Southwest Indiana’s largest quilt store, they pride themselves as a space for quilters to visit and leisurely browse its extensive fabric collection and JUKI machine line!
From our long-arm quilting machines to our sergers and even direct to-garment printer RICOH Ri 100, you’ll find suitable machines for your dream projects here.
Welcoming visitors to their version of heaven, quilting in the country, you can learn more about The Stitching Post and how to visit them by going here!
Tops Vacuum and Sewing
A community name in the sewing and quilting world, Tops Vacuum and Sewing offers eleven retail locations with certified technicians and a variety of our JUKI machine line. With Tops, you’ll receive free delivery and set-up on all long arms in the continental US, free shipping on all orders over $50 in the continental US, a free Quilt Motion lesson, and so much more! These benefits make shopping with Tops Vacuum and Sewing fun and easy!
If you’re looking for a sewing machine or thinking about purchasing your sewing machine online, check out Tops Vacuum and Sewing and learn more by visiting us here today.
Village Sewing Center
If you’re located near Santa Rosa, California, it’s time to check out Village Sewing Center! Opened for more than 40 years, this sewing center offers hundreds of options for your crafts. Whether you’re working on quilts, embroidery, or creating garments, owner John Furtado pride themselves in having the basics you’ll need to get started.
Enjoy browsing a variety of JUKI sewing and quilting machine options, browse their large collection of fabric choices, and attend one of their sewing classes to learn a new skill or build a new project! Lastly, shop with comfort, knowing this shop is ready to handle your JUKI repairs and answer any technical questions! If you want to meet Village Sewing Center’s knowledgeable staff and browse their collection visit our site here for more information!
Why Shop at a National Account Dealer?
One-On-One Training: Throughout the year, JUKI trainers visit these dealers to keep their staff up to date on the newest JUKI home products to help provide you with reliable support during and after your purchase.
Qualified Service Department: JUKI’s National Account Retail Dealers maintain a qualified service department, which is trained on JUKI products and has direct support from JUKI America. They’ll be able to help you keep your JUKI expertly tuned up.
JUKI Access: National Account Dealers have access to the entire JUKI Home Sewing product line including direct-to-garment printing, compact commercial embroidery system, longarm quilting, and tabletop quilting along with a full line of sewing machines and sergers for you to experience.
Wherever you’re located, JUKI is working on bringing you the sewing and longarm machines you love and want! Our National Account dealers are a great place to start, thanks to their goals of being your one-stop shop offering notions, fabrics, machines, and so much more. To learn more about our National account dealers and how you can visit one, check out our site here.
As we grow our sewing and quilting skills, we sometimes wish we had more features, feet accessory options, stitch options, and more. It can be hard to decide when it’s time to upgrade our beloved sewing machines, but an upgrade may be needed if you face issues like needle breakage, your machine stalling on large products, or not having enough space to create.
Today we’re going to cover upgrades in JUKI. From our beginner machines to more advanced options, we recommend the best upgrade options depending on your current JUKI. Whether you’re a quilter, garment creator, or focus on home décor, creating is best done when your machine is ready to handle your projects.
Things to Consider Before Upgrading
Before you search for a new machine, sit down and think about what features, presser feet, stitches, and more you’ll want to use on your sewing machine. Keeping these notes in mind, you’ll be able to begin your search with a clear idea of what you need, and then you can focus on the more bell and whistle options that you want.
Workspace
Do you have a dedicated space for your sewing and quilting? Or are you commonly moving your machine around to create? An important thing to remember when shopping is your machine’s size and weight. For example, if you’re a quilter with a designated room, you can plan for stand-up or sit-down machine options with large workspace areas. However, if your workspace is your dining table on the weekends, consider a machine that can be easily moved and put away.
Features and Accessories
If you’ve been working on a simple beginner machine, chances are you’re working with a small number of stitch options and a few features. However, sewing machines are now equipped with many features and capabilities that can make your sewing experience fun and easy!
Depending on the type of projects you want, features like button sewing, zig-zag stitch, and more can help you build your skills and create professionally finished projects. If you enjoy quilting, finding a machine with a dual feed function can be extremely useful when creating, helping you enjoy the process better. If you’re a common user of heavy fabrics, you’d want to find a machine that offers durability and semi-industrial strength.
Completing a Test-Run
Don’t forget to try it out before your buy! If you can test-drive your dream machine options, you can see if you like the features, power, and size of a machine before purchasing. When we upgrade our sewing machine, we’re looking for one that will be durable and long-lasting, which means this can be an investment. Before purchasing, you want to ensure that the machine can handle your current and future project ideas while allowing you to learn new skills and techniques easily.
5 Features to Keep In Mind
Finally, before purchasing your sewing machine, we want to share five features we believe sewists shouldn’t live without! Making your experience easier, these features were created to help you create your projects easier and faster while teaching you new techniques.
Needle Down/Up
If you’re creating quilts, home décor, or even garments having needle up/down features can be essential in creating clean finished projects. By setting the machine, so it stops with the needle down in the fabric, you now have greater control and can turn or pivot the fabric you’re working on.
2. Automatic Buttonhole
Any project requiring a button can be completed faster and more efficiently with an automatic buttonhole. Machines that offer this feature usually come with a small variety of buttonhole options, allowing you to create pieces for garments, quilts, or decorations. Test-drive the machine before purchasing, test out the button holes to ensure you like the options available, and check out how easy this feature is to work.
3. Needle Position
While some sewists may overlook this feature, being able to change the needle position can help you achieve particular looks on your projects. For example, you can change the needle position from left to right if your machine has a zig-zag stitch. In addition, some machines come with multiple options for needle positions, like our DX-4000QVP, which allows you to quickly move the needle to the ¼ position with a tap of a button.
4. Automatic Tension
If you’re quilting or creating a garment piece, you know that changing tension between your project pieces can be a hassle and time-consuming when you first begin. A feature sewists appreciate is the Automatic Tension. Allowing you to switch between fabrics with ease, the machine will automatically pick up the tension it needs to be at for you to create your projects and lower the amount of work you need to do!
5. Dual Feed
Lastly, a Dual Feed feature is perfect for you if you’re a quilter. By allowing the fabric to feed from both top and bottom evenly, this feature can easily handle fabrics that shift or are bulky. So now, when you’re creating your family quilts, you’ll have less stress in dealing with shifty fabric or those thick seams.
Upgrade Recommendations
If you’re planning to upgrade your sewing machine, we’ve created a list below of machine recommendations depending on your current model. Whether creating quilts, apparel, or handbags, having the right features as you grow your skills will help you make those professionally finished projects you’re aiming for.
Suppose you’ve found more room to create and a designated space for your machine to fill, look into a sit-down or stand-up quilting machine! While a table-top quilting machine is perfect for many quilters, upgrading to a sit-down quilting machine will allow your projects to grow and flourish.
A sit-down machine like the J-150QVP offers straight-stitch and quilting like your TL-18QVP. This way, you can create your quilt pieces while working on other projects like your garment pieces and home décor. The throat space is larger on this machine as well! Now you’ll have a 12-inch spacious throat space and a 30″ x 30″ table where you can open optional leaves for even more room and easily create larger quilts!
For an even larger workspace, we recommend the J-350QVP! Like the J-150QVP, you’ll have a 12″ throat space for creating. However, your quilt space has just expanded immensely! You now have the option to convert your machine to a 5′, 7′, 10′, and 12′ frame. This frame will allow you to create quilts as large as king size.
If your focus is quilting, and you have a designated space in your home for your machine, we recommend checking out the J-350QVP Stand-Up! Upgrading from the J-150QVP to the J-350QVP will allow you to upgrade your quilt size and use new features like the Quilt Creative Touch 5.
The J-350QVP Stand Up offers options in 5′, 7′, 10′, and 12′ feet frames. From twin-sized quilts to king-sized, you’ll easily be able to free-motion quilt designs onto your quilts and enjoy the new digital aspect of quilting. Thanks to the QTC5 program that you can get as an add-on to your machine, you can now free-motion quilt with the tap of a finger.
The Quilter’s Creative Touch 5 is a user-friendly add-on that allows you to easily design and layout your projects using a Windows tablet or PC. Powered by quilt motion, the system will stitch designs onto your quilt with over 220 options. You can also master creating your designs and personalizing your quilts!
Creating apparel is fun and exciting, but it’s best when you have the right machine! If you’ve been working on clothing projects and notice you wish you had more stitch options.
Compared to the 70-HW, which holds 80 stitch patterns and five buttonhole patterns, the F Series begins with 106 stitches, including 16 professional buttonholes and three lettering fonts! Decorative stitches are a fun and easy way to add personality and texture to your garment pieces. Line your skirts, add them to your handbags or use them in home décors like table runners and pillows. The lettering options let you go the extra mile and personalize your projects!
Another bonus of upgrading your machine to the HZL-F or DX Series is the accessories available to you. Now you can use presser feet like the 1/4″ Guide Foot, Invisible Zipper Foot, Smooth Presser Foot, and more. These accessories will help your skills in garment sewing grow and allow you to test new techniques you couldn’t do on your other model machine before.
If you’re looking for a machine upgrade that goes the extra mile, we recommend the DX Series! Using a touchscreen, you can easily master the stitches and feature options on your machine. Beginners and sewists can enjoy the large selection of options available for decorative stitches, letter stitching, buttonhole options, and other features like needle positions and automatic tension.
The HZL-G Series is an excellent machine for a beginner sewist. Still, if you find your project skills outgrowing the capabilities of your sewing machine, we recommend upgrading to the DX series. While both sewing machines are computerized, the DX-4000QVP offers a 7″ touch screen that goes the extra mile for sewists testing new techniques.
While the G series offers excellent features like the automatic needle threader, free motion quilting, and powerful feeding for heavy projects, the DX offers these features and more that can ease the creation process. Now, with the DX series, you’ll be able to adjust stitch length easily, presser foot pressure, combine decorative stitching, and much more.
Designed to help you create everything under the sun, the DX series is perfect for the sewist ready to dive into their sewing journey! With the ability to make home décor, quilt, and sew garment projects, you’ll be able to excel in new techniques and project types while enjoying the ease of sewing due to the intelligent technology used in the DX machines. With features like a bobbin thread sensor and the visualization of stitches on the DX-4000QVP, you now have a concrete idea of your stitches and designs before creating.
Whether upgrading to a computerized or a stand-up quilting machine, finding the right one that can grow with you is crucial! It can be exciting to test our skills and create projects we’ve been dreaming of, so make sure to have the suitable machine and tools on hand when you need them. If you were upgrading your machine today, which one would you choose? Let us know down below!
To find a JUKI dealer near you, visit us here today!
Have you been watching sewing videos? And find yourself interested in patterns and crafts? We’re here to help you find a suitable computerized beginner machine with JUKI! Finding your first machine can be daunting, especially with all the features and products out there, but we’ve all been there!
To help you learn about machine features, accessories, and more, we’ll dive in on some key things you should keep in mind when searching. Buying a suitable machine doesn’t mean buying the most expensive machine, but instead the best machine for you.
Let’s start this guide by reviewing what a computerized sewing machine is.
A computerized machine offers the most effortless experience for the new sewist in today’s world. Ran by a computer, all functions on the sewing machine can be easily controlled. Precise and loaded with multiple features, these machines can offer unforgettable experiences.
Every feature can now be controlled with a computer. From stitch length to the order of decorative stitches you use, it is all broken down at a touch of a button. For those that find themselves growing in their sewing journey, a computerized machine is an excellent tool for having versatile options for creating.
What Stitches Do I Need?
Choosing a suitable machine will depend on what projects you’re creating! This is why it’s essential to know what type of stitches you’ll need. While computerized sewing machines come with many stitch options, below, we’re going to list some key ones you should keep an eye out for, as well as some extras!
The Must-Have’s
The Straight-Stitch: Adjustable from 0 – 5mm, the straight stitch can be used for locking stitches at 0mm or moved to 5mm for basting and gathering. The average stitch length will be 2.5 mm for most projects. Remember, you’re going to be trying your hand at different projects when you first start, so make sure you’re versatile in your projects by changing the stitch length.
Zig-Zag Stitch: Adjustable in length and width, the zigzag stitch is used for stretchy materials.
The Add-On’s
Buttonhole Stitch: An automated version of the zigzag stitch, a buttonhole stitch will secure your buttons well when creating.
Stretch or Knit Stitch: Plan on sewing with knits? The stretch or knit stitch is the ideal choice. Stretch your knits without worrying about popping stitches once stitched using the feature. Zig-zag can get the job done, but stretch or knit stretch will make the job easier.
Blind Hem Stitch: No matter your project, a blind hem stitch is a great feature, which basically hides your hems on skirts, pants, and more.
Let’s Talk Features
After you’ve decided on what stitches you’ll want, think about what features you’re looking for. Now in days, many machines offer features that make sewing easy and fast. While these aren’t needed, think of those features that will improve your experience. To start you off, we’re going to go over some top features all sewist love!
Lighting: make sure to find a machine with good lighting! From needle threading to seeing your stitches, we want to be able to see our project come together.
Needle Threader: Make life easier with these features! This feature offers you a chance to thread your needle without the work.
Needle Up/Down: Use the needle up/down feature when turning fabric or pivoting.
Adjustable Speed Control is another feature that is perfect for new sewists wanting to experiment with different speeds.
Moveable Needle Position: Attach zippers and top stitching easily with the ability to move the needle position.
Built-In Free Arm: Attach sleeves, work on tight projects, and more using a built-in free arm, usually found when removing the accessories box.
Don’t Forget Accessories and Presser Feet!
Accessories from HZL-70HW-A
Depending on what projects you plan to create, it’s best to have the right accessories and presser feet on hand. So let’s go back to that question from earlier, what do you plan on creating?
Quilting is easier done when you have the right feel with you. So look for presser feet like the ¼ GuideFoot and a Quilt Guide. While your machine may not come with these two accessories, they will help you when you begin creating your projects.
Are you looking to create home décor? First, search for presser feet like an Invisible Zipper Foot, Applique Presser Foot, or Gathering Foot. As long as your machine is compatible with these feet, you can now add professional finishing touches to your table mats, pillows, and more.
Our JUKI Recommendations
If you’re looking at JUKI for your first electrical and computerized sewing machine, we have some great options all beginner sewists can enjoy!
Compact and easy to use, the HZL-70HW-A and HZL-80-HP-A offer easy storage and travel! So take this sewing machine to your classes and retreats as you begin your journey. With features all sewists enjoy, like the automatic needle threader, needle up and down, and dropping down the feed dogs to free motion quilt, it offers the chance to grow in your skills and make your experience fun.
Equipped with 80 or 197 stitch patterns (depending on the machine you enjoy best), buttonhole patterns, and a variety of accessories, it offers beginners the opportunity to create various projects. It also includes the zipper foot, decorative stitch foot, blind stitch hem foot, and so much more, helping you build your accessory kit from the first purchase.
What we like to call a beginner’s dream, the HZL-LB Series is user-friendly and comes with a complete range of features in a small compact size! Experts and beginners can enjoy features like an automatic needle threader, stitch control, drop feed, needle up/down, and more. So whether you’re focusing on quilt creation or taking on your couch pillows, it can help your projects become a reality.
Simple in its design, the HZL-LB Series offers 20 to 100 stitch patterns (depending on whether you love the HZL-LB5020 or HZL-LB5100 more), allowing quilters and apparel sewists to create seamless designs with ease on their projects.
Moving to a fully computerized machine, we’re moving onto an option some beginners might shy from, but it does include those features they’ll love! The HZL-G Series offers you the chance to take on big projects while being easy to use and beginner friendly. It also provides a box-feed system, allowing you to create beautiful seams even at a beginner level.
Still offering those features we love like the automatic needle thread and up/down. You also get a larger sewing space and a fine overcasting stitch.
The machine also offers the chance to easily work with heavy material, like denim, and has a large variety of presser feet options for garments, quilters, and home décor sewists to enjoy when they’re creating. JUKI even offers kits compatible with this machine curated for heavy users, quilters, and those that love adding a creative touch.
When It’s Time To Buy
Decided what machine you want to get and are ready to buy? Then, contact your nearest JUKI dealer here! We always recommend finding your local dealer when you can go for two big reasons: training and support.
Finding a dealer that can assist you in setting up and finding a suitable machine is essential when you’re entering the world of sewing. In addition, these shops can offer you sewing classes, maintenance support, technical support, and much more.
Now that you have a plan for what you’re looking for, we hope this helps you find the right machine for you!
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