Juki HZL-DX5 Sewing Machine Review

Description

The Juki HZL-DX5 is a top-tier sewing and quilting machine designed for both hobbyists and professional sewers. This machine is equipped with advanced features that cater to a wide range of sewing needs, from basic garment construction to intricate quilting projects. With its robust build and extensive stitch options, the HZL-DX5 promises precision, reliability, and ease of use, making it a valuable addition to any sewing room.

Basic Info About Juki HZL-DX5 Sewing Machine

The Juki HZL-DX5 stands out with its comprehensive set of features and specifications:

• Number of Stitches: 185 pre-programmed stitches, including both decorative and functional stitches.
• Buttonhole Options: 16 different buttonhole styles with an advanced buttonhole sensor for perfect results.
• Alphabet Fonts: 3 types of alphabet fonts for monogramming and personalization.
• Dimensions: 17.5″ x 11.5″ x 8.25″
• Weight: 21.6 lbs
• Work Space: 8″ x 4.4″

This machine is designed to deliver professional-quality results, whether you’re sewing lightweight fabrics or tackling heavy-duty projects like quilting.

Key Features of The Juki HZL-DX5 Sewing Machine

The Juki HZL-DX5 is packed with features that enhance its functionality and user experience:

1. Floating Presser Foot: Ideal for free motion quilting, this feature slightly lifts the presser foot to avoid fabric bunching.
2. Multi-Function Foot Control: Customize the heel switch to perform functions such as raising the presser foot, trimming threads, reverse stitching, or single stitching.
3. On-Screen Presser Foot Recommendation: The LCD display suggests the appropriate presser foot based on the selected stitch.
4. Automatic Needle Threader: Simplifies the threading process, saving time and reducing eye strain.
5. Thread Trimmer Button: Automatically trims both the bobbin and needle threads.
6. Knee Raiser/Lifter: Allows you to lift the presser foot using your knee, freeing up your hands for fabric manipulation.
7. Box Feed System: Ensures consistent, high-quality stitches on all types of fabrics, from thin cotton to thick denim.
8. Straight Stitch Slide Plate: Easily switch to a single needle hole for precise straight stitching.
9. Free Arm: Perfect for sewing cylindrical items like sleeves and pant legs.
10. Integrated Accessory Storage: Keeps presser feet, bobbins, and tools organized and within reach.

Specifications:

The Juki HZL-DX5 boasts impressive technical specifications that ensure high performance:

Juki HZL-DX5 Sewing Machine Specifications

Included Stitches: Juki HZL-DX5 Sewing Machine

The Juki HZL-DX5 offers an extensive selection of 185 built-in stitches, including:

1. Straight Stitch: Ideal for seams and topstitching.
2. Zigzag Stitch: Perfect for finishing raw edges and adding stretch to seams.
3. Blind Hem Stitch: Creates nearly invisible hems.
4. Overlock Stitch: Mimics the effect of a serger for finishing edges.
5. Triple Straight Stitch: Provides extra strength for reinforced areas.
6. Triple Zigzag Stitch: Offers both strength and flexibility.
7. Scallop Stitch: Adds a decorative touch to edges and hems.
8. Buttonhole Stitch: Creates professional-looking buttonholes in various sizes.
9. Decorative Stitches: A variety of patterns for embellishing projects.
10. Alphabet Fonts: Three types of fonts for monogramming and personalization.

This diverse stitch selection ensures that users have the right tool for virtually any sewing task, from functional construction to decorative finishing.

Performance of the Juki HZL-DX5 Sewing Machine

The Juki HZL-DX5 delivers exceptional performance, making it a favorite among quilters and sewers:

• High Sewing Speed: Capable of sewing up to 1,050 stitches per minute, allowing for quick project completion.
• Box Feed System: Ensures even feeding of fabric, preventing bunching, and ensuring consistent stitch quality.
• Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure: Allows for fine-tuning based on fabric thickness, ensuring optimal results.
• Automatic Thread Tension: Maintains consistent tension for perfect stitches.
• Knee Lifter: Enhances control and efficiency, especially useful for quilting and large projects.
• Free Motion Quilting: The floating presser foot and adjustable presser foot height make free motion quilting a breeze.
• LED Lighting: Brightly illuminates the work area, reducing eye strain and improving accuracy.

JUKI HZL-DX5 HD Sewing Super Quilter Plus Machine

Advanced Features:

The HZL-DX5’s floating presser foot function is ideal for free motion quilting, and quilting fans will adore it. This machine is perfect for quilters because of its innovative function that lifts the presser foot slightly, which eliminates unnecessary fabric bunching and makes it easy to switch between ordinary stitching and free motion quilting.

An additional time-saving feature of the HZL-DX5 is the on-screen presser foot suggestion tool. Just select your favorite stitch, and the machine’s easy-to-use LCD screen will show the suggested presser foot. By using the recommended feet, you may easily obtain amazing results.

Muti-Function Foot Control:

A multifunction foot control is a characteristic of the HZL-DX5 super quilter, which sets it apart from most non-Juki brand machines that cost less than $3,000. The customizable heel switch is activated by pressing with your heel. You can customize the heel switch to do one of the following useful tasks: lift the presser foot (ideal for projects involving quilting), cut threads, secure a stitch by reversing the stitch, or use a single stitch for optimal control and precision.

Included Accessories Of The Juki HZL-DX5 Sewing Machine

The Juki HZL-DX5 HD Sewing Super Quilter Plus Machine comes with a comprehensive set of accessories designed to enhance your sewing and quilting experience. These accessories ensure you have everything you need to tackle a wide range of projects, from basic garment construction to intricate quilting.

Presser Feet

• General Purpose Foot: Versatile for most sewing tasks.
• Buttonhole Foot: For creating perfect buttonholes.
• Manual Buttonhole Foot: For manual buttonhole adjustments.
• Overcasting Foot: Ideal for finishing raw edges.
• Blind Stitch Foot: For nearly invisible hems.
• Zipper Foot: For inserting zippers with precision.
• Walking Foot: Essential for quilting and sewing multiple layers.
• Patchwork Foot: Perfect for piecing quilts.
• Quilt Foot: Designed for free motion quilting.

Additional Accessories

• Bobbins (x4): Extra bobbins for uninterrupted sewing.
• T-Shaped Screwdriver: For easy maintenance and adjustments.
• Seam Ripper: For removing stitches cleanly.
• Lint Brush: Keeps your machine clean and lint-free.
• Assorted Needle Set (HAx1): Includes various sizes for different fabrics.
• Twin Needle: For decorative twin needle stitching.
• Spool Caps (Small, Medium, Large): Keeps thread spools in place.
• Auxiliary Spool Pin: For using additional spools of thread.
• Quilting Guide: Helps maintain consistent quilting lines.
• Knee Lifter: Allows hands-free lifting of the presser foot.
• Instruction Manual: Comprehensive guide to using your machine.
• Instructional DVD: Visual guide to help you get started.

Optional Accessories

• Rolled Hem Foot: For creating narrow hems.
• Button Sew-on Foot: For attaching buttons.
• Clear Quilting Foot: For better visibility during quilting.
• Cording / Embroidery Foot: For adding decorative cords and embroidery.
• Pearl Foot: For sewing pearls and beads.
• Presser Foot with Guide: Ensures straight seams.
• Binder Foot: For attaching bias tape.
• Zig-Zag Hemming Foot: For zig-zag hemming.
• Open Toe Quilting Foot: For better visibility during free motion quilting.
• Applique Foot: For precise applique work.
• Cording Foot: For adding cords to your projects.
• Invisible Zipper Foot: For installing concealed zippers.
• Smooth Presser Foot: For sewing sticky or difficult fabrics.
• Eyelet Punch: For creating eyelets.
• Wide Extension Table: Provides extra workspace for larger projects.
• Open Toe Presser Foot: For better visibility during sewing.
• Edge Sewing Foot: For precise edge stitching.

Key Features of the Accessories

General Purpose Foot

• Versatile: Suitable for most sewing tasks.
• Easy to Use: Quick to attach and remove.

Buttonhole Foot

• Automatic Adjustment: Ensures perfect buttonholes every time.
• Multiple Styles: 16 different buttonhole options.

Walking Foot

• Even Feeding: Ideal for quilting and sewing multiple layers.
• Smooth Operation: Reduces fabric shifting.

Knee Lifter

• Hands-Free Operation: Allows you to lift the presser foot using your knee.
• Enhanced Control: Frees up your hands for better fabric manipulation.

Quilting Guide

• Consistent Quilting: Helps maintain straight quilting lines.
• Adjustable: Can be set to various widths.

Instructional DVD

• Visual Guide: Helps you get started with your machine.
• Step-by-Step Instructions: Covers all basic functions and features.

Types of Stitches Offered by the Juki HZL-DX5 Sewing Machine

The Juki HZL-DX5 HD Sewing Super Quilter Plus Machine is renowned for its extensive range of stitches, making it a versatile tool for both sewing and quilting enthusiasts. Here is a detailed breakdown of the types of stitches this machine offers:

Stitch Categories

1. Decorative Stitches

• Floral Patterns
• Geometric Designs
• Scallop Edges
• Lace-like Patterns

2. Functional Stitches

• Straight Stitch: Ideal for seams and topstitching.
• Zigzag Stitch: Perfect for finishing raw edges and adding stretch to seams.
• Overlock Stitch: Mimics the effect of a serger for finishing edges.
• Blind Hem Stitch: Creates nearly invisible hems.
• Triple Straight Stitch: Provides extra strength for reinforced areas.
• Triple Zigzag Stitch: Offers both strength and flexibility.

3. Buttonhole Stitches

• 16 Buttonhole Styles: Includes various sizes and styles to match different button types.
• Automatic Buttonhole Sensor: Adjusts the size of the buttonhole to match the button, ensuring perfect results.

4. Alphabet Fonts

• 3 Types of Alphabet Fonts: For monogramming and personalization.

5. Quilting Stitches

• Free Motion Quilting: Allows for creative and intricate quilting designs.
• Patchwork Stitches: Ideal for piecing quilts together.

6. Specialty Stitches

• Applique Stitches: For attaching appliques with precision.
• Cording Stitches: Adds decorative cords to your projects.
• Invisible Zipper Stitches: For installing concealed zippers seamlessly.

7. Utility Stitches

• Elastic Stitches: For sewing stretchy fabrics.
• Reinforcement Stitches: Adds extra durability to seams.
• Darning Stitches: For mending holes and tears.

8. One-Point Patterns

• Single Motif Stitches: Ideal for adding small decorative elements to your projects.

9. Character Stitches

• Alphabetic/Numeric Fonts: Up to ten often-used patterns such as names and initials can be saved in the memory.

Key Features of Stitches

Decorative Stitches

• Versatile Designs: Enhance the aesthetic appeal of your projects.
• Customizable Length and Width: Adjust to suit your specific needs.

Functional Stitches

• Essential for Everyday Sewing: Covers all basic sewing needs.
• High-Quality Finish: Ensures professional results.

Buttonhole Stitches

• Automatic Adjustment: Ensures perfect buttonholes every time.
• Multiple Styles: 16 different buttonhole options.

Alphabet Fonts

• Personalization: Add names, initials, and custom text to your projects.
• Three Font Styles: Offers variety in design.

Quilting Stitches

• Precision and Control: Ideal for detailed quilting work.
• Versatile Applications: Suitable for both free motion and patchwork quilting.

Specialty Stitches

• Creative Applications: Perfect for unique and decorative sewing tasks.
• Enhanced Functionality: Adds versatility to your sewing projects.

Utility Stitches

• Practical Use: Essential for garment construction and repair.
• Durability: Ensures long-lasting seams.

One-Point Patterns

• Decorative Elements: Adds small, intricate designs to your projects.
• Easy to Use: Simple selection and application.

Character Stitches

• Memory Function: Save frequently used patterns for quick access.
• Customization: Personalize your sewing projects with ease.

Types of Fabrics the Juki HZL-DX5 Sewing Machine Can Handle

The Juki HZL-DX5 HD Sewing Super Quilter Plus Machine is designed to handle a wide variety of fabrics with precision and ease. Thanks to its advanced features and robust construction, this machine can manage everything from delicate materials to heavy-duty fabrics. Here’s a detailed look at the types of fabrics the Juki HZL-DX5 can handle:

1. Lightweight Fabrics

• Cotton: Ideal for quilting, dressmaking, and general sewing projects.
• Silk: Perfect for delicate garments and fine sewing.
• Chiffon: Suitable for lightweight, flowing garments.
• Linen: Great for summer clothing and home decor items.

Key Features for Lightweight Fabrics

• Straight Stitch Slide Plate: Prevents fabric from being pushed into the needle hole, ensuring perfect needle penetration.
• Box Feed System: Maintains consistent contact with the fabric, preventing shrinkage and ensuring even stitches.

2. Medium-Weight Fabrics

• Polyester: Commonly used in clothing and home decor.
• Rayon: Ideal for dresses, blouses, and linings.
• Wool: Suitable for tailored garments and outerwear.
• Blends: Various fabric blends used in everyday clothing.

Key Features for Medium-Weight Fabrics

• Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure: Allows for fine-tuning based on fabric thickness, ensuring optimal results.
• Automatic Thread Tension: Maintains consistent tension for perfect stitches.

3. Heavyweight Fabrics

• Denim: Perfect for jeans, jackets, and heavy-duty projects.
• Canvas: Suitable for bags, upholstery, and outdoor gear.
• Leather: Ideal for accessories, garments, and home decor.
• Twill: Commonly used in workwear and durable clothing.

Key Features for Heavyweight Fabrics

• Box Feed System: Ensures even feeding of thick fabrics, preventing bunching and ensuring consistent stitch quality.
• Walking Foot: Essential for quilting and sewing multiple layers, providing smooth operation and reducing fabric shifting.

4. High Pile Fabrics

• Terry Cloth: Used for towels, bathrobes, and baby items.
• Velvet: Suitable for luxurious garments and home decor.
• Fleece: Ideal for warm clothing and blankets.

Key Features for High Pile Fabrics

• Box Feed System: Evenly feeds hard-to-sew high pile fabrics, ensuring smooth and consistent stitches.
• Float Function: Prevents uneven seams by slightly raising the presser foot, preventing layers from shifting.

5. Stretch Fabrics

• Jersey: Commonly used in t-shirts, dresses, and activewear.
• Lycra/Spandex: Ideal for swimwear, sportswear, and dancewear.
• Knit Fabrics: Suitable for comfortable, stretchy garments.

Key Features for Stretch Fabrics

• Elastic Stitches: Provides flexibility and stretch in seams.
• Triple Zigzag Stitch: Offers both strength and flexibility, ideal for stretchy fabrics.

6. Specialty Fabrics

• Applique: For adding decorative elements to garments and quilts.
• Cording: Adds decorative cords to your projects.
• Invisible Zipper: For installing concealed zippers seamlessly.

Key Features for Specialty Fabrics

• Specialty Stitches: Includes applique and cording stitches for creative sewing tasks.
• Invisible Zipper Foot: Ensures precise installation of concealed zippers.

Pros and Cons of the Juki HZL-DX5 Sewing Machine

Pros

1. Extensive Stitch Options

• 185 Built-in Stitches: Includes both decorative and functional stitches, providing versatility for various sewing projects.
• 16 Buttonhole Styles: The advanced buttonhole sensor ensures perfect buttonholes every time.
• 3 Alphabet Fonts: Ideal for monogramming and personalization.

2. Advanced Features

• Floating Presser Foot: Prevents fabric bunching and allows for smooth free motion quilting.
• On-Screen Presser Foot Recommendation: LCD display suggests the appropriate presser foot for the selected stitch, saving time and ensuring optimal results.
• Multi-Function Foot Control: Customizable heel switch for raising the presser foot, trimming threads, reverse stitching, or single stitching.

3. Superior Fabric Handling

• Box Feed System: Ensures consistent and high-quality stitches on all types of fabrics, from lightweight cotton to thick denim.
• Straight Stitch Slide Plate: Prevents fabric from being pushed into the needle hole, ensuring perfect needle penetration for delicate fabrics.
• Float Function: Slightly raises the presser foot to prevent uneven seams, especially useful for sewing multiple layers.

4. User-Friendly Design

• Automatic Needle Threader: Simplifies the threading process, saving time and reducing eye strain.
• Knee Raiser/Lifter: Allows hands-free lifting of the presser foot, enhancing control and efficiency.
• LED Lighting: Brightly illuminates the work area, reducing eye strain and improving accuracy.

5. High Performance

• High Sewing Speed: Capable of sewing up to 1,050 stitches per minute, allowing for quick project completion.
• Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure: Fine-tunes based on fabric thickness, ensuring optimal results.
• Automatic Thread Tension: Maintains consistent tension for perfect stitches.

6. Comprehensive Accessories

• Wide Range of Presser Feet: Includes general purpose, buttonhole, overcasting, blind stitch, zipper, walking, patchwork, and quilt feet.
• Additional Tools: Comes with bobbins, screwdrivers, seam ripper, lint brush, needle set, spool caps, auxiliary spool pin, quilting guide, knee lifter, instructional manual, and DVD.

Cons

1. Price

• High Cost: The Juki HZL-DX5 is a premium machine with a higher price point, which may not be affordable for all users.

2. Weight

• Heavy: Weighing 21.6 lbs, it may be less portable compared to lighter models, making it less convenient for users who need to move their machine frequently.

3. Complexity

• Learning Curve: The extensive features and advanced functionalities may be overwhelming for beginners, requiring time to learn and master.

4. No Built-in Storage for Accessories

• Storage Limitations: While it includes a wide range of accessories, the machine does not have built-in storage compartments, requiring users to find alternative storage solutions.

5. Noise Level

• Moderate Noise: Some users may find the machine to be noisier than expected, which could be a concern in quiet environments or shared living spaces.

6. Manual Tension Adjustment

• Requires Adjustment: Although it has automatic thread tension, some fabrics may still require manual adjustments, which can be challenging for beginners.

7. Limited Warranty

• Warranty Period: The machine typically comes with a limited warranty, which may not be sufficient for some users who prefer longer coverage for peace of mind.

Conclusion

The Juki HZL-DX5 Sewing Machine is a versatile and powerful tool that offers a wide range of advanced features and extensive stitch options, making it an excellent choice for both hobbyists and professional sewers. Its superior fabric handling capabilities, user-friendly design, and high performance ensure professional-quality results for various sewing and quilting projects. However, its higher price point, weight, and complexity may be potential drawbacks for some users. Overall, the Juki HZL-DX5 is a reliable and efficient sewing machine that caters to the needs of serious sewing enthusiasts.

FAQs About the Juki HZL-DX5 Sewing Machine

1. Is the Juki HZL-DX5 suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Juki HZL-DX5 is suitable for beginners. It features an automatic needle threader, on-screen presser foot recommendations, and easy-to-use controls, making it accessible for those new to sewing. However, its advanced features also cater to experienced sewers.

2. What types of fabrics can the Juki HZL-DX5 handle?

The Juki HZL-DX5 can handle a wide variety of fabrics, including:

• Lightweight Fabrics: Cotton, silk, chiffon, linen
• Medium-Weight Fabrics: Polyester, rayon, wool, blends
• Heavyweight Fabrics: Denim, canvas, leather, twill
• High Pile Fabrics: Terry cloth, velvet, fleece
• Stretch Fabrics: Jersey, lycra/spandex, knit fabrics

3. What are the key features of the Juki HZL-DX5?

Key features include:

• 185 Built-in Stitches: Decorative, functional, and quilting stitches
• 16 Buttonhole Styles: With an advanced buttonhole sensor
• Box Feed System: Ensures consistent fabric feeding
• Floating Presser Foot: Prevents fabric bunching
• Multi-Function Foot Control: Customizable heel switch
• Automatic Needle Threader: Simplifies threading
• Knee Raiser/Lifter: Hands-free presser foot control
• LED Lighting: Illuminates the work area

4. How do I maintain the Juki HZL-DX5?

Regular maintenance includes:

• Cleaning: Remove lint and dust from the bobbin area and other parts.
• Oiling: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for oiling.
• Needle Replacement: Change the needle regularly to ensure clean stitches and prevent fabric damage.
  Refer to the user manual for detailed maintenance instructions.

5. Does the Juki HZL-DX5 come with accessories?

Yes, the Juki HZL-DX5 comes with a comprehensive set of accessories, including:

• Presser Feet: General purpose, buttonhole, manual buttonhole, overcasting, blind stitch, zipper, walking, patchwork, and quilt feet
• Additional Tools: Bobbins, T-shaped screwdriver, seam ripper, lint brush, assorted needle set, twin needle, spool caps, auxiliary spool pin, quilting guide, knee lifter, instruction manual, and instructional DVD

6. Can I use the Juki HZL-DX5 for quilting?

Yes, the Juki HZL-DX5 is well-suited for quilting. It features:

• Box Feed System: Ensures even feeding of fabric layers
• Floating Presser Foot: Prevents fabric bunching
• Straight Stitch Slide Plate: Ideal for free motion quilting
• Wide Table: Provides extra workspace for large projects (optional accessory)

7. How do I change the stitch pattern on the Juki HZL-DX5?

To change the stitch pattern:

1. Select the Stitch: Use the backlit keypad to choose your desired stitch.
2. Adjust Settings: Customize the stitch length and width as needed.
3. On-Screen Guidance: The LCD display will suggest the appropriate presser foot for the selected stitch.

8. What is the maximum sewing speed of the Juki HZL-DX5?

The Juki HZL-DX5 can sew up to 1,050 stitches per minute, allowing for quick project completion.

9. Does the Juki HZL-DX5 have a warranty?

Yes, the Juki HZL-DX5 typically comes with a limited warranty. The exact terms and duration may vary, so it’s best to check with the retailer or manufacturer for specific warranty details.

10. Can I use the Juki HZL-DX5 for free motion quilting?

Yes, the Juki HZL-DX5 is equipped for free motion quilting. It features:

• Floating Presser Foot: Allows for smooth free motion quilting
• Straight Stitch Slide Plate: Prevents fabric from being pushed into the needle hole
• Adjustable Presser Foot Height: Ensures easy movement of fabric

11. How do I use the automatic needle threader on the Juki HZL-DX5?

To use the automatic needle threader:

1. Lower the Lever: Place the thread in the guide and lower the lever.
2. Thread the Needle: The threader will automatically pass the thread through the needle eye.
3. Release the Lever: Pull the thread loop through to complete the threading process.

12. What is the Box Feed System on the Juki HZL-DX5?

The Box Feed System is an advanced fabric feeding mechanism adapted from Juki’s industrial sewing machines. It ensures consistent and high-quality stitches on all types of fabrics by maintaining continuous contact with the fabric, preventing bunching and ensuring even feeding.

13. Can I adjust the presser foot pressure on the Juki HZL-DX5?

Yes, the Juki HZL-DX5 allows for stepless adjustment of the presser foot pressure, enabling fine-tuning based on the thickness and type of fabric being sewn.

14. Does the Juki HZL-DX5 have an automatic thread cutter?

Yes, the Juki HZL-DX5 features an automatic thread trimmer that cuts both the bobbin and needle threads, enhancing convenience and efficiency.

15. How do I use the knee lifter on the Juki HZL-DX5?

To use the knee lifter:

1. Insert the Lever: Attach the knee lifter lever to the front of the machine.
2. Lift the Presser Foot: Use your knee to raise the presser foot, freeing up your hands for fabric manipulation.
3. Lower the Presser Foot: Release the lever to lower the presser foot and resume sewing.

All Used Image Credit : Juki.Co.Jp