Finding the right industrial sewing machine for you can be tricky. With so many options available, how can you be sure you're investing in the right equipment? That's where we come in!
Lockstitch sewing machines are used for general sewing where seams aren't required to stretch. They produce a straight stitch which is reversable (looks the same on both sides of the fabric). When looking for a lockstitch for working with light-medium weight fabrics, Juki's DDL range is one of the most popular due to their reputation for quality seams and durable construction. In this post we run through 3 of the standout models in this range and how to choose between them.
Juki DDL-8100e - Best for those who are happy to get stuck in
The Juki DDL-8100e is a great value basic machine. With Juki's reputation for consistent quality, choosing the right machine within the range is mainly about personal preference. This model in particular usually appeals to sewers who prefer to keep things simple.
- Durable machine which produces consistently high-quality seams
- Operated manually – the operator trims the thread, backtacks, changes settings, and uses the knee lift manually.
Juki DDL-7000A-7 - Best for increased productivity
The mid-range DDL-7000a-7 is one of our most popular machines. It produces the same great quality seams as the DDL-8100e but has additional automatic features to improve productivity.
- Durable machine which produces consistently high-quality seams
- Has automatic functions including thread trimming, backtack, and footlift
- Has a built-in control panel for changing settings
- Comes with a built-in LED needle light to illuminate the sewing area
Juki DDL-9000C – Best for consistency and production lines
Finally we come to the all-singing, all-dancing DDL-9000C. It has all the automatic features of the 7000a, but is also fully digital. This means you can easily change and save your ideal sewing settings, and even transfer them between different machines of the same type via USB or contactless using an Android tablet. This is particularly useful if you have a production line in place and want to achieve consistent results. All these features do come with a higher price tag, however!
- Durable machine which produces consistently high-quality seams
- Has automatic functions including thread trimming, backtack, and footlift
- Is fully digital, meaning that ideal settings can be set, changed, saved, and transferred between different machines of the same type using USB or via contactless connection to an Android tablet
- Has a “bird’s nest prevention” feature which trims the thread closer to the fabric for a tidy finish
- Comes with a built-in LED needle light to illuminate the sewing area
Trying to compare these machines? Use our handy chart for reference!
These machines are all available to order via our website and are delivered fully built with the highest quality components, set up, and tested by our team. Feel free to get in touch with any questions you may have and we’ll be happy to help!
Click to view our demo video on Instagram and see each of these machines in action!