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Juki HZL 29Z Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Juki HZL 29Z review was originally written in 2014, and has been revised and updated in 2023. HZL by Juki is a line-up of multiple sewing machines which we have added to this post. We have also added alternative mechanical sewing machines from other brands that are similar to the Juki HZL 29Z.
While visiting Stuart Sew and Vac in Jensen Beach, Florida, I happened upon the Juki HZL 29Z. Anyone who knows me knows that I am drawn to any and all shades of pink. The cute pink flower drew me in like a magnet. There was no way I would leave that store without reviewing this very basic mechanical sewing machine.
Juki HZL 29Z- Overview
The Juki HZL-29Z is a basic, mechanical sewing machine that is perfect for beginners and hobbyists. It has 12 built-in stitches, including a straight stitch, zigzag stitch, and a buttonhole stitch. It also has a reverse stitch button for backstitching. The machine is easy to use and operate, with a simple control panel and a large, easy-to-read stitch selector dial. The HZL-29Z is also lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you to sewing classes or workshops. If you are looking for a basic, mechanical sewing machine that is easy to use and affordable, the Juki HZL-29Z is a great option.
In addition to the adorable pink flower and stitch selection dial, the Juki HZL 29Z has an on board stitch guide, an automatic needle threader, an oversized reverse stitch button and a clear see through bobbin cover.
The stitch length and width adjustment dial is on the right side, next to the balance wheel.
What features does the Juki HZL 29Z come with?
- 11 utility and decorative stitch options
- One four step buttonhole
- 2 straight stitch needle positions
- On board thread cutter
- Automatic needle threader
- Reverse stitching
- Drop in bobbin
- On board accessory storage
- Free arm
- Snap on presser feet
What Are Some Alternatives to the Janome Juki HZL 29Z?
The Singer M3330 Making the Cut Sewing Machine, featured on Amazon Prime's MAKING THE CUT, is the machine you might want to add to your sewing room if you're searching for a reasonably priced sewing machine with enough capabilities for beginners who want to learn how to sew and for advanced sewers who want to make a variety of sewing projects. This machine offers 97 stitch applications, adjustable stitch options, a built-in needle threader and a built-in cutter for efficiency, and "Making the Cut" technology for unique designs. Its one-step buttonhole, LED lighting, and durable metal frame make it perfect for quilting, garment making, and DIY projects. The included essentials make it ideal for project kick-starts.
- Offers 97 stitch applications, suitable for various fabrics and sewing projects
- Full metal frame ensures long-lasting performance, providing stability during use
- Built-in needle threader and one-step buttonhole simplify the sewing process
- Long-lasting LED lighting provides bright, cool-to-touch illumination for precise work
- You won't be able to use this basic sewing machine, if you're a top-tier professional, to work on complex sewing jobs
The Singer 4423 Heavy-Duty, hailed as the best value for money, caters to a diverse range of projects with its 23 built-in stitches. Ideal for both beginners and seasoned sewers, its automatic needle threader minimizes eye strain, while the high-speed capability of 1,100 stitches-per-minute ensures swift completion of tasks. The heavy-duty metal frame adds durability, allowing it to effortlessly handle thick fabrics. With a comprehensive set of accessories, this workhorse is a reliable companion for various sewing ventures.
- Blazing fast
- Compared to other Singer sewing machines, the top-load bobbin is easier to use
- Amazing sewing power for both thin and thick fabrics
- Sensitive foot pedal for beginners
- Needle threader only works when the needle is perfectly up
Surprisingly economical, the Brother XM2701 is a mechanical sewing machine that is both intuitive enough for novices to build confidence and skill and versatile enough to tackle more complex projects as the sewer's skills advance. With 27 built-in stitches, automatic needle threading, and a jam-resistant drop-in bobbin, it caters to a range of everyday projects. The included accessories and 25-year warranty enhance its value. Surprisingly sophisticated for its price, this machine offers a wealth of features and a lifespan measured in years, while having the benefit of unlimited assistance with Brother's At Your Side support.
- Designed for a broad range of users, including beginners and advanced sewers
- 27 built-in stitches and multiple accessories cater to a variety of sewing projects
- Automatic needle threader and jam-resistant drop-in bobbin enhance ease of use
- Backed by a 25-year limited warranty and Brother's At Your Side support for technical assistance
- It offers fewer built-in stitches compared to some other models
- While great for portability, it may vibrate more during heavy-duty sewing tasks
Working on the Juki HZL 29Z
When it comes to winding the bobbin and threading the Juki HZL 29Z, I would certainly recommend this machine for use by a child. The easy to follow on board guides are so well laid out that I have no doubt a child of eight or older will be able to master those two tasks in no time whatsoever.
Selecting stitches, however, may prove to be a little bit of a challenge for a younger child. The stitch selection guide on front of the machine is paired with the stitch selection dial.
In my opinion, the on board guide is not really necessary since each stitch is shown on the large, easy to manipulate dial. Adjusting the stitch length is easy enough, but when you add the option of adjusting the width to the very same dial, then things could get a bit complicated for someone who is not familiar with the workings of a sewing machine.
If you are working with a straight stitch or one of the utility stitches, adjusting the length is as simple as turning the dial so that the lower end of the markings is aligned with the indicator. However, when working with decorative or zigzag stitches, you cannot adjust the width of your stitches without turning the dial to the area where the stitch width adjustment options are displayed.
The challenge is to achieve personalized length and width settings simultaneously. I fiddled around with the settings and came to the conclusion that it is virtually impossible to deviate from the original stitch length settings while setting a customized stitch width setting at the same time.
The stitches I did get were flawless. Each stitch was perfectly formed, secure and well defined. I did encounter one very unexpected challenge, though. The Juki HZL 29Z vibrates quite a bit. I’m not exactly certain for the reason, but while sewing, the spool pin fell off – carrying with it the spool cap, felt and thread. I can just imagine what I looked like crawling under the display counter of Stuart Sew and Vac retrieving these items and then screwing the spool pin in place.
Once the spool pin was securely in place, I didn’t have any more problems with it falling off. I really think the issue was that the spool pin was simply not screwed in all the way when I started.
It is even possible that without the heavy vibrations, it might not have fallen off in the first place.
What fabrics can you use on the Juki HZL 29Z?
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
| Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Knits(Medium to heavyweight only) Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Upholstery | Leather/suede Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers |
What accessories come with the Juki HZL 29Z?
- 2 Snap on presser feet
- Standard multi-purpose foot
- Buttonhole foot
- Bobbins
- Needles
- Spool pin cap
- Vertical spool pin
- Felt
- Seam ripper/Brush
- Screwdriver (small)
- Screwdriver
- Dust cover
- Owner’s manual
How to maintain and take care of the Juki HZL 29Z?
| Maintenance activities | After each use | Monthly | Once each year | As needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clean race hook and feed dogs | Yes | No | No | No |
| Wipe head with soft dry cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Wipe head with soft damp cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Lubricate | No | No | No | Yes |
| Service by sewing machine repair professional | No | No | No | Yes |
The Juki HZL Line-Up
The HZL line-up by Juki features multiple sewing machines ranging from simple home sewing machines to indutrial grade models built for commercial use. Models like Juki HZL 300, Juki HZL 400, Juki HZL-80HP, are some bestsellers. We have listed the top picks for you down below.
The Juki HZL-F300, the flagship of JUKI's Exceed series, seamlessly merges industrial sewing prowess with user-friendly design, making it a powerful workhorse for sewing and quilting projects. The box feed mechanism ensures precise stitching through various thickness levels, delivering impeccable results. With 106 stitch patterns, 3 fonts, and 16 automatic buttonholes controlled by electronic sensors, this machine offers a versatile range for creative endeavors. Its one-touch automatic threading and pedal-controlled thread cutting streamline the sewing process, allowing projects to flow smoothly. The LED light illuminates your path, enhancing visibility. The HZL-F300 stands as a reliable companion for both experienced sewists and beginners alike.
The Juki HZL-F400 is an advanced, computerized sewing machine that is perfect for intermediate and experienced sewers. It has 230 built-in stitches, including a variety of straight stitches, zigzag stitches, and decorative stitches. It also has a 1-step buttonhole function, a needle threader, and an automatic thread cutter. The machine is easy to use and operate, with a large, easy-to-read LCD display and a simple control panel. The HZL-F400 is also lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you to sewing classes or workshops.
The Juki HZL-F600 takes the lead in the sewing and quilting machine industry. The tool has the potential to impress you with its professional performance and user-friendly features. Why should you invest in this machine? The reason is that it comes ahead with a sturdy motor designed to sew thick materials such as denim and several quilting layers, which other machines fail to do. Furthermore, you can unleash your creative side by making the most out of 255 stitch patterns and 16 buttonholes completely automatic. And do not forget the bonus part: it offers a large working space, bright LED lighting for you to navigate the instructions, and a box feed system to guarantee precision and ease so you can continue with your complicated sewing projects.
HZL 70HW is a launch by Juki that goes quite a while back in time. It is a fairly simple computerized sewing machine that accommodates beginners and is smooth and reliable. It is also very conveniently lightweight and easy to carry around. Among key features, it has 80 stitch patterns, 5 buttonhole patterns, free motion quilting, drop feed, automatic needle threader, reverse stitch, etc., and a lot more. It also has inbuilt LED lights for the user’s convenience.
The Juki HZL-80HP seamlessly blends industrial sewing technology with user-friendly features. Its innovative box feed system ensures precise feeding, eliminating material shrinking and shifting for superior stitch quality on light to heavy fabrics. With 180 sewing patterns, including font options, it accommodates diverse creative projects. The machine effortlessly handles a spectrum of materials, from delicate to heavy, with no fabric shrinkage. Boasting a wide underarm space, automatic needle threader, LED light, and fine overcasting stitch, the HZL-80HP enhances both functionality and comfort for sewing enthusiasts tackling large-scale projects. The eight high-quality buttonhole options further elevate its versatility and appeal.
- Light-weight
- Portable
- Ideal for home decors, repairs, and alterations
- Not suitable for heavy-duty work
Summary: Juki HZL 29Z review
All in all, the Juki HZL 29Z is a good sewing machine. The stitch quality is by far superior to many other machines in its class.
The large stitch selection dial is easy to use. Although the stitch width and length adjustment might be a bit of a challenge for young beginners, I think this machine could be a good teaching tool.
I am however more concerned with the vibration. The Juki HZL 29Z is a solidly built machine. I can see no reason for it to vibrate as much as it does.
Although the machine I reviewed was on a display shelf rather than a sewing table, I don’t believe the problem was with the display, especially since I have reviewed other machines in that same store that were displayed the very same way.
When it’s all said and done, I am comfortable recommending the Juki HZL 29Z for use by anyone who can live with the vibration. In all honesty, the vibration took me by surprise.
This is a definite exception to the Juki reputation for making solid, steady sewing machines and sergers. Don’t get me wrong. The Juki HZL 29Z is solidly built and you can definitely feel that while sewing on it.
Perhaps this problem with vibration is also why I could not find anything about the HZL 29Z on the Juki website… nothing at all – not even in the ‘older models’ section. I did, however, find it for sale on various other websites, including amazon.
If you are willing to go ahead and purchase this machine with the understanding that there is a lot of vibration, visit your local Juki dealer and ask for a demonstration or purchase it sight unseen from one of the many on line vendors who offer it for sale.
You will not be disappointed with the stitch quality and making the adjustment to the limited stitch length and width setting options is minor when you stop to think about it.
The good news is all of the HZL 29Zs I found for sale on the internet were selling for significantly less than the MSRP of $319.
Juki HZL 29Z Review
Summary
The Juki HZL-29Z is a basic, mechanical sewing machine that is perfect for beginners and hobbyists. It has 12 built-in stitches, including a straight stitch, zigzag stitch, and a buttonhole stitch. It also has a reverse stitch button for backstitching. The machine is easy to use and operate, with a simple control panel and a large, easy-to-read stitch selector dial. The HZL-29Z is also lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you to sewing classes or workshops.
However, some reviewers have noted that the machine can be quite noisy and vibrates a lot when in use. Additionally, the stitch selection dial can be difficult to turn, especially for younger or less experienced sewers.
Overall, the Juki HZL-29Z is a good sewing machine for beginners and hobbyists who are looking for a basic, easy-to-use machine. However, those who are sensitive to noise or vibration may want to consider a different model.
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Happy Stitching.
Hi There! I bought this machine because I wanted something simple and strong enough to stich my pleather fabric. It works very well. I can sew a button hole, but I can’t sew a button. It did not come with a button foot, just a button hole foot. Can you please demonstrate how I can sew a button with this machine? Other machines use a digital display to change the settings. I can’t do this with my machine. Would you know how? This is all new to me.
Thank you!
Cindy Roper
Even my HZL F-600 did not come with a button fitting foot. However, if you read the manual, it directs you to use one of the regular feet. I found that the button slipped out from under the foot too easily, so I just sewed my buttons on with my Brother SE-400. But, before you panic, read the manual.
Do you know what is the difference between 29z and 27z…? Just only color…?
Why not place the machine over a thick rubberized pad… the kind sold in a roll? Kindly advise and thanks,
May Bingham
I just purchased the HZL-29Z from eBay and the tension is way off. I’m having trouble adjusting it, and need some assistance ☹️