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Juki DU-1181N Industrial Top and Bottom Feed Sewing Machine
Over time, Juki industrial sewing equipment has shown to be dependable, strong, and tough. They can withstand steadfast, prolonged use. In addition, they are affordable compared to other brands, and easy to use and maintain. The Juki DU-1181N Industrial Top and Bottom Feed Sewing Machine will be the subject of today’s review. Regarding efficiency and price, this top-notch machine is among the greatest industrial sewing machines on the market.
Juki DU-1181N Overview
The Juki DU-1181N takes the spotlight as the best sewing machine with a walking foot, combining Juki's renowned quality with innovative features. This single-needle, straight stitch, top and bottom feed industrial sewing machine excels in handling medium-weight fabrics with finesse. The unique top and bottom feed technology, coupled with the presser foot, facilitates smooth sewing of medium-weight materials. Enhanced by a whisper-quiet servo sewing motor, this machine is tailor-made for in-home use. The complete unit, featuring the machine head, table, stand, motor, sewing light, drawer, and all necessary components, is ready to unleash its 2000 stitches per minute with a maximum stitch length of 9 mm.
- Bobbin winder and adjustable feed dogs
- Strong and versatile machine
- Has the option of clutch or servo motor
- Assembly can be difficult without proper instructions
Juki DU-1181N Unboxing
Upon unboxing, you’ll get these accessories along with the sewing machine:
- Bobbins
- Oil
- Needles
- Servo Motor
- Plywood Tabletop
- Choice of K-legs or T-legs with Casters
- Magnetic LED Light
- Belt
- Bobbin Winder
- Thread Stand
- Heavy-Duty Industrial Sewing Bench
- Cover
- Drawer
- Instruction Manual
The Juki DU-1181N is a single needle manual type industrial straight sewing lockstitch machine. It makes use of a powerful walking foot as well as a servo-type motor with electronic speed control. Webbing, leather, furniture, heavy-duty canvas, upholstery, light-weight horse rugs, PVC stitching for tarps and packs, and a variety of other heavier materials can all be used with it. One of the more expensive options is the Juki DU-1181N industrial sewing machine. It is one of the most popular industrial sewing machines, and Juki DDL-5550 and Yamata FY5318 are a few well-liked substitutes that fall within the same price range.
Features of Juki DU-1181N
- Excellent operability
- One-needle, top and bottom-feed, lockstitch machine
- Double-capacity bobbin
- Double-capacity hook
- Higher lift of the presser foot
- Adjustable stitch length
- 9 mm maximum stitch length
- 2000 stitches per minute
- Automatic lubricating mechanism
- Low vibration and low noise
- Adjustable feed dog inclination and height
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
- Hand lever
- Heavy-duty walking foot
- Industrial style bobbin winder
- Knee press device for foot lift
- Manual reverse lever
- Side loading large
- 2 mm to 5 mm vertical movement walking foot adjustment
- Normal and reverse stitching
Specifications of Juki DU-1181N
| Maximum Stitch Length | 9 mm (forward and backward) |
| Maximum Sewing Speed | 2000 stitches per minute |
| Lift of the Presser Foot by Hand | 5.5 mm |
| Lift of the Presser Foot by Knee | 15 mm |
| Thread Take-Up | Link Type |
| Needle Bar Stroke | 36.5 mm |
| Alternating Vertical Movement | 2～5 mm |
| Hook | Horizontal-axis full-rotary double-capacity hook |
| Thread | #40 ～ #8 |
| Needle | DP×17 (#21) #14～#23 |
| Pitch Changing Method | By dial |
| Knee Lifter Mechanism | Built on the machine head |
| Distance from Needle to Machine Arm (Workspace) | 261 mm |
| Bed Size | 477 mm × 178 mm |
| Maximum Stitch Width | N/A |
| Number of Buttonholes | N/A |
| Bobbin Type | Large M double-capacity bobbin |
| Needle Type | 135×17 industrial type |
| Heavy-Duty Industrial Sewing Bench | 120 cm x 60 cm |
| Number of Stitch Patterns | Straight Stitch only |
| Maximum Thread Thickness | M20 |
| Product Dimensions | 48 x 36 x 48 inches |
| Product Weight | 250 pounds |
What are some alternatives for the Juki DU-1181N?
The Yamata FY5318, a robust lockstitch sewing machine, is a comprehensive solution for various applications. This complete set, featuring a Juki table style, includes a sewing machine table and Electronic DC Servo Motor for precise control. Assembly is required, offering a hands-on approach. With a sewing speed of 1,350 stitches per minute, 8 mm stitch length adjustment, and a powerful needle bar stroke of 35.0 mm, it effortlessly handles materials up to 3/8" thick. Suited for tasks like upholstery, leatherwork, and more, the FY5318 combines durability with versatility for diverse sewing projects.
- Can easily sew through thick materials
- Can use both clutch motor or a servo motor
- Has variable stitch length and reverse stitching options
- Quieter and runs smoothly
- Built-in bobbin spooler is not impressive
- Instruction manual is not in English
The Juki DDL-5550 is the sewing machine for experts. Additionally, it is really simple to use. The Juki DDL-550 delivers outstanding value for the money, given its remarkable quality. Any skill level may use this machine, which is best suited for light to medium-weight fabrics.
With the servo motor, the speed can be changed from a maximum of 5,500 stitches per minute to hardly any movement at all. This makes it easy for even the least experienced user to quickly learn how to use the machine. It always stitches well, is very efficient, and is just fun to use overall.
- Easy to use
- Sews through dense fabric or multiple layers
- Preassembled
- Fast and Efficient
- Not portable
- Straight Stitch only
Fabrics that can be used with the Juki DU-1181N
The Juki DU-1181N was built to deal with medium to heavy-weight fabrics. Since it will pucker the cloth, it is regrettably inappropriate for light-weight fabrics. With the possibility to install extremely heavy needles, it can accommodate strong weight M20 thread (at most). It can climb over thick seams if it has a high foot lift.
We have listed some common fabric types that this machine can sew below:
- Soft to medium leathers
- Canvas
- Vinyl
- Webbing
- Cork
- Veg tan leather
- Upholstery (automotive, marine and furniture)
Maintenance of the Juki DU-1181N
| Maintenance activities | After each use | Monthly | Once each year | As needed |
| Wipe head with soft damp cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Wipe head with soft dry cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Clean race hook and feed dogs | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Servicing | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Oiling | No | No | No | Yes |
How hefty is the Juki DU-1181N?
The Juki DU-1181N is sold as a whole, with the motor, machine head, sewing light, stand, table, drawer, and all necessary parts installed and prepared to stitch. The fact that it is hefty and will undoubtedly require assistance to assemble is one of its drawbacks. However, given that it produces expert results, you can ignore this minor flaw.
Why do we enjoy sewing with the Juki DU-1181N?
A top and bottom feed industrial sewing machine is the Juki DU-1181N. This implies that your material is fed by the feed dog and presser foot. This machine ensures that you receive an even finish and feeds materials smoothly and very effortlessly. The multifunctional 135×17 needles can be used on this machine to sew almost any type of fabric. Additionally, 135×16 needles with leather points are perfect for sewing leather because they do not leave a big hole in the material. This machine comes with a single-needle and can perform straight stitch only. A servo motor is used to configure the Juki DU-1181N. Compared to clutch motors, servo motors are quieter, more energy-efficient, and you can change the speed. Servo motors for needle positioning are a common addition to machines. With the help of this motor, you may set the machine to stop automatically with the needle up or down button.
The motor’s speed adjustment dial is one of its prominent characteristics. When stitching through heavy materials, you can reduce the pace. The device is also designed to work with medium-weight textiles, while it can certainly sew heavy-weight materials. Overall, you may sew to your heart’s content on a larger scale with this machine. The machine’s quality is improved by the top and bottom feed technology. Not to mention, using the presser foot makes pulling the fabric easier, making sewing easier. On top of all of this, it is extremely efficient and quiet enough, while having stitch quality that is comparable to that of sergers and a top speed of 2000 stitches per minute.
The device is fairly hefty and large. It easily sews medium- to heavy-weight textiles. From vinyl to leather, practically anything may be sewn on it. It won’t be incorrect to refer to it as a true workhorse. It performs demanding jobs admirably and excels at sewing through multiple layers. Make sure to adjust the take-up lever screw located on the machine’s front when moving from heavy to light materials. We found a problem, though, the servo motor runs very quick for some sewing situations even on its lowest setting. But if you’re an expert, the pace will surely appeal to you. It will all be worthwhile in the end, given how much time you can save every day with such incredible speed and being able to complete your projects at a super fast rate.
What distinguishes the Juki DU-1181N from the Juki DNU-1541?
- The maximum sewing speed for the Juki 1181N is 2000 stitches per minute, whereas the maximum sewing speed for the Juki 1541 is 2500 stitches per minute.
- The Juki 1181N and the Juki 1541 share a number of incredible features, like an industrial servo motor and a maximum stitch length of 9 mm, among others.
- Compared to the Juki 1541, which is more expensive, the Juki 1181N is more affordable.
- The Juki 1181N and the Juki 1541 both have the same measurements of 48 x 36 x 48 inches.
- Juki 1181N weighs 250 pounds, compared to Juki 1541’s 80 pounds.
Juki DU-1181N- Our Verdict
Investments in industrial sewing machines are considerable. If you require one, it is likely a sign that you are a severe sewer. The Juki DU-1181N is one of the best industrial sewing machines that Juki makes and you should get it in case you want a reliable long-lasting industrial machine.
Its maximum sewing speed is 2000 stitches per minute, so if you have a lot of sewing skill, you can complete many projects quickly. This machine can successfully complete any stitching operation without any problem, as far as you operate it properly. We hope this machine will last you for many more years to come.
Juki DU-1181N Review
Summary
The Juki DU-1181N is an industrial, single-needle, straight-stitch sewing machine that’s primarily designed for heavy-duty sewing tasks. It’s known for its robust construction and reliability, making it a popular choice for commercial and industrial applications. With a maximum sewing speed of 2,000 stitches per minute, it’s capable of handling heavy fabrics and materials like denim, canvas, and leather with ease. The machine features a large sewing area and a reverse feed mechanism for secure stitching. While it lacks the decorative stitches and computerized features found in some domestic sewing machines, the Juki DU-1181N excels at straight-stitch sewing, making it an excellent choice for those who require durability and speed in their sewing projects, such as in upholstery, leatherwork, and heavy garment construction.
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Happy Stitching.
