Juki HZL-F600 Review

Juki HZL-F600 is true workhorse. The only drawback is the thread tension that requires some adjustment.

Juki HZL-F600 Computerized Sewing And Quilting Machine Features

  • 225 stitch patterns
  • Automatic needle threader & thread cutter
  • Box feed mechanism
  • Knee lifter
  • Bigger throat

Juki HZL-F600 Review

Juki HZL-F600 ReviewSewing Machine Reviews Recommendation Level : HIGH

This is not a $300 sewing machine. Since you are going to spend a lot of money on this, you need to have a real close look at this sewing machine before buying. Juki HZL-F600 comes with 225 built-in stitch patterns along with 4 fonts for monogramming and 16 automatic buttonhole styles. This is a sewing machine designed to sew heavy to light weight fabrics. Juki claims that there will be no fabric shrinkage while using extremely light weight fabrics. To improve the stitch quality, box feed system is provided instead of conventional oval motion feed. Box feed eliminates fabric shrinking or shifting.

The larger work space of HZL-F600 is another point to note. The workspace comes around 8″ wide x 12-1/4″ long, which is about 4-inch larger than normal workspace you get on similar sewing machines. The extra wide table is really useful while working on large quilts. Being a computerized sewing machine, all controls are viewed on the LCD screen. The screen is slightly larger than normal (which is a good thing, especially for those with sight issues). For ease of use, frequently used stitches can be selected using direct selection buttons (more like the speed dialing option in our cellphones). The stitch width and length can be adjusted using the knobs sitting just under the LCD screen. The stitch chart containing all the stitches is provided on the lid of the machine.

Juki HZL-F600 comes with a knee-lifter, with which you can easily raise or lower the presser foot. The presser foot can be lifted up to 12mm. The most interesting feature on this machine is the automatic thread cutter. You can use the automatic thread cutter in two ways. One is to use the thread cutter button and the other way is by pressing the heel side of the foot pedal. Both needle and bobbin thread will be cut automatically (a great feature). You can sew the machine without the foot controller. You can use the start/stop button and speed control slider for that purpose. Automatic needle threader, drop-in bobbin with clear cover, LED work lights are some other features of this sewing machine. The work light is bright enough for sewing in the dark without the help of any external lighting.

Usability

The speed control slider on Juki HZL-F600 works its magic. You can go really fast if you want, with the high speed setting. This is a heavy machine. It weighs 21.6 pounds, which clearly suggests that most parts are made of metal. Sewing machines made of metals are the best for heavy duty fabrics. This machine also has the programmable needle up/down feature, which is really useful for quilters. Thread cutting using the foot pedal adds a lot to the ease of use, as you can cut the thread in one go.

The operation is very quiet, you won’t be having much trouble. The user manual is very clear and detailed. The machine even has an area to store the knee lifter and the foot pedal (this is something that you won’t see on other machines). Straight stitches look nice and straight. This is a sturdy machine and I guess this will last for a long time (unless the electronic parts go crazy). There is a decent variety of decorative stitches to choose from (so there is enough room for creativity). The Juki HZL-F600 works exceptionally well with heavy duty fabrics. It sews through multiple layers of denim like a breeze.The machine comes with a good variety of accessories.

Limitations

Sometimes you might have some trouble getting the right amount of tension. It is very frustrating, but once you get it right, it works flawlessly.

Pros

  • Stitch quality
  • Thread cutter
  • Works well on heavy and light weight fabrics
  • Easy to use
  • Knee lifter
  • Larger throat space

Cons

  • Tension issue

Is It Worth Buying ?

Juki HZL-F600 is a well made machine except for the tension issue. You can always find faults with every sewing machine, even the ‘almost perfect machine’ will have some drawbacks. So I think, the tension issue not a big thing to worry about. Tension issue apart, it is a great sewing machine that works equally well on both heavy and light weight fabrics. The feedback provided by the users is also pretty good.


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