I spent £1500 on a Sewing Machine, was it worth it?

#JukiDX7 #JukiSewingMachine #SewingMachine
The Juki HZL-DX 7 has so many useful functions, so I am showing you some of them today - the video would be an hour long if I showed you everything that this can do, but please leave a comment if you would like to see a part 2 to this review.
I am a garment sewist rather than a quilter so I haven't tested sewing a quilt on this machine yet, but I'm sure it is more than capable of handling it.
The Juki DX7 is a higher end sewing machine rather than a basic beginner sewing machine, but the manual is really clear so it is easy to learn to use. This video is not sponsored and it is my own opinion of the machine after using it for a few months.
Time stamps:
0:00
0:50 Lettering
5:59 Buttonholes
9:47 Function Buttons
13:44 Foot pedal
14:35 Knee Lift
16:55 Trimming threads with the foot pedal
Link to my unboxing video:
• New Sewing Machine Unb...

[@user-ff2sj5zv8v]

I've also got a DX7 it is the most brilliant machine ever. The stitch quality is awesome, I've never had a duff button hole, it sews through anything. I'm not a quilter but I have made a couple of quilts and it was brilliant. I don't know how I managed without a knee lift before. You'd have to prise it out of my cold dead hands if you wanted to take it away from me.

[@halesmoore]

I also have a knee lift for my Brother machine which I never used but think it’s probably due to the height of my desk as it’s awkward. This is definitely the best machine I’ve owned

[@rewritingastory]

Very nice machine. I didn't think I needed a new machine until watching this video. 😬

[@halesmoore]

😁

[@theyorkshiresewgirl]

Loved watching this Hales! I’m just starting to use mine and I’m literally in love! I didn’t realise how amazing a more expensive machine could be! Definitely worth the money in my opinion 😊

[@halesmoore]

Yes I agree, it was 3 times the price of my Brother machine but now I know why!

[@lynnshepard7485]

Cool machine, Hales! I’d say it’s worth the price just for the floating presser foot option! 💗

[@Indydi]

The DX5 has that function too, and in the U.S., it's much cheaper right now.

[@debbiebauckham2287]

Great review, I’ve been considering upgrading for a while, particularly like the adjustable foot pressure option, my Mum’s old 70s machine had this as standard and I was amazed when I found modern ones often do not. Re. The buttonhole foot optional clamping plate, you may find this very useful if you’re trying to sew a buttonhole when the fabric is not all an even thickness. I bought the optional plate for my Janome as I had encountered problems when trying to sew buttonholes on a collar stand or near the top of the front on a shirt near the collar where the buttonhole foot hit the thicker fabric above. The plate has completely solved this.

[@halesmoore]

Oh thanks for the tip. I honestly prefer zips to buttons 😂 but you can’t really have a zip up blouse! Or maybe you can! It’s a great machine and I’d recommend trying one out if you can.

[@jorgerobles628]

Very nice review!!!! I have both the DX-7 and DX2000QVP, but I never paid more than 650.00 USD for each- I bought them as Pre-owned, but both looked like new, and apparently hardly used. They were traded in, but they were serviced by a JUKI-certified technician. Those two machines are in my opinion, very capable and versatile machines. They can do sewing very well, as well as quilting. But they do not have the ability of doing machine embroidery, and that is a shame they can't, given the high quality these Juki machines are. But because of the Hover function, the variable speed control, and the stitch plate that can be changed from Zig-Zag to straight stitch with a small lever, you can do Free Hand Motion embroidery. To do so, I set my machines to a medium speed, the stitch plate to straight stitch, with the presser feet down, and the use the foot control to control the start-stop function, and they do a great job for that!!!! But I found out that these two machines are exactly the same in all specs. The only difference that exist is actually cosmetic- one has a darker blue in the face plate, and the DX2000QVP comes with two accessories that in the DX-7 are extra when you purchase them new- the Large extra spool for large thread cones, and the Extra accessory box with five different presser feet. But because I bought them used, I was able to add those two items to the DX-7 that were also used but in like new condition for less than 20.00 USD both. I realy very happy and satisfied with my machines!!!!!! And again, I love this review,, This Lady explains so clear and goes directly to the specifics, I hope to watch part 2!!!!!!!!

[@halesmoore]

Thanks so much for taking the time to leave a comment. I’m not sure the other model you mentioned is available in the UK but I’m really happy I bought the DX7, yes it’s a bit pricey but there weren’t any 2nd hand machines available- I guess no one wants to part with their Juki which must be a good sign!

[@Fattiapples]

That’s awesome you got a great price. Where did you get the machines from?

[@thesewingtrolleydolly7736]

It's a nice machine Hales, so glad you’re enjoying it.🙌🏾

[@halesmoore]

It makes sewing something more enjoyable when the machine glides through without any issues

[@suek7086]

That is an amazing machine Hales. Most of it would be wasted on me but I can still drool over it.

[@halesmoore]

I never knew about such functions until I tried this one out and don’t think I could go back now! Although I still love my vintage machine😊

[@jackieblakemore56]

Wow Hales!! That’s a fantastic machine. Maybe a little complicated for me ? I had been thinking of purchasing a JUKI, a couple of years ago, as they’re fantastic machines, but I’ve gone off sewing for myself a year or so ago. I find it too expensive, fabric, pattern etc, compared with ready to wear. I will continue with sewing for some of my grandchildren though. Xx

[@halesmoore]

The Juki manual makes it so easy to learn and it’s laid out really well, much better than my Brother F420. I agree sewing can be expensive and I’ve cut back on fabric etc that I purchase, particularly with rising living costs, but sewing gives me an escape from the worries of the world. I’ll never have a fully me made wardrobe and I can’t see myself ever making jeans but I hope to make fewer garments which are key pieces and fit me well. I will still buy T-shirts from H&M as I think it’s all a balance 😊

[@ClaireWhoMakesThings]

Congratulations on your new machine Hayley. I’d be tempted if I can save enough next year. I definitely need a new one or a repair, my machine is knackered. The needle threader broke, the presser foot struggles to lift up, so I have to fight to get fabric onto the machine.

[@halesmoore]

My needle threader broke on my last machine not long after getting it but it’s a nice option to have when it works. Sounds like you’re needs a good service, but it gets to the point when you have to think is it worth paying out on a machine compared to how much it’s worth. I ran a machine into the ground then upgraded as the machine wasn’t worth investing in. I then donated it to a charity who repair them and send them to Africa. Win win

[@ClaireWhoMakesThings]

@@halesmoore I will give somewhere call, and get a quote maybe. X

[@janeford551]

Hi hun after watching your two videos and the Yorkshire girl sews, I went out and bought one of these machines xxxx

[@halesmoore]

Oh wow! Exciting stuff, I hope you like it as much as I do!

[@hannahcoleman2940]

Great demo thank you 🙏💚☘️

[@Fattiapples]

can it do decorative stitches bigger than 7mm?

[@Bogu83]

I also got DX7 recently and I just love it. When it comes to the button hole foot, I sewed jeans recently and I was really struggling with the button hole. It would just get stucked and just stitch in one place. After removing all stiches for the 3rd time and almost crying over my beautiful jeans getting destroyed because of this button hole distaster (on any other fabric scrap it made beautiful button hole but on the actual jeans just got stucked each time) I realised that I could attract this bottom plate and try with it. And that just solved the issue. I finally managed to get a nice button hole and it even covered the damage all the previous stiching and seam ripping distaster. So this piece can be necessary also for thick fabrics. I found the pivot feature annoying and I prefer to use the knee lift instead. All in all, 1.500 eur well invested and I recommended it to anyone!

[@halesmoore]

Oh that’s interesting about the buttonhole foot, I don’t make many garments with buttonholes (prefer a zip!), so I haven’t used it much so that’s good to know. The pivot is good for me as I don’t use a knee lift- it can probably be switched off? So glad I bought this machine

[@Bogu83]

@@halesmoore Yes pivot can be switched off. I also love the programmable foot pedal, same as you I set it to cut the thread, so handy. I love the dx7, I think we will be friends for years 😍

[@karenclaassen9761]

I am In love 🥰 with this sewing machine, but I need to save some money , I have to work a few more night shifts to get one ☝️

[@halesmoore]

My husband worked crazy hours last year so told me I should buy something with the money so it didn’t just go on bills. Well worth saving for if you can.

[@Daelilian]

I am trying to decide between the dx5 and 7. I really dislike the first standard font that comes with juki, as it just seems so blocky and not so easy to read for people who have disabilities like my sister. Is there a way to program it so that the 4th font option is available in place of the first? I would honestly probably only use the 4th option. But I also don't want to pay a lot more just for a font. I also can't find examples for a good comparison of all 4 fonts anywhere. I want to be able to sew my sisters name on her items as she tends to constantly lose her items as she is an adult who was cognitively assessed at a 2-3 year old level a few years back so she also can't tell me what happened to her items either.

[@Fattiapples]

After pushing presser foot button down, can you just start sewing or do you have to push the needle down button first?

[@halesmoore]

Hi I couldn’t remember so quickly tried it on my machine. Once you’ve lowered the presser foot you can indeed just start sewing without having to lower the needle separately as the machine will automatically lower it when it starts sewing.

[@Fattiapples]

@@halesmoore ah thank you so much for quickly trying it 🙂

[@susanfells4893]

Very informative I have a juki and love it only problem I have I tried to plug my foot pedal in and it keeps beeping and won’t work any suggestions why would be helpful thanks X

[@halesmoore]

Hi, I'm not sure, but on my Brother machine I had problems when I plugged the pedal in and it turned out to be a problem with the connection just inside where the cable went. Think you may need to get someone to look at it.

[@Jin04115]

I have the f series exceed 300. The lowest machine in that series and it stitches beautifully. I'm not too wowed about the bells and whistles as much as how a machine stitches. I have has no bobbin issues, I have the cut off button on the foot pedal, I bought a walking foot and knee lifter. I paid 517.00 us dollars add about 150.00 for some of the extras. I do like the floater system. Does this machine stitch better than the lower series that i have? I just can't justify the higher cost unless I do a trade in. Juki machines are excellent.

[@halesmoore]

Hi I’m not familiar with your model as not all the models are available in the UK. The foot pedal thread cutting is really useful. I’ve used the floating function a few times with thicker fabrics which helps to keep the fabric from getting stuck under the foot. I’m sure the general stitching is the same quality across the models

[@sewdysfunctional4889]

Features aside, is it actually good to sew with? I'm wondering about a new machine, trying to decide between this and a Pfaff. My main concern would be spending all that money and then still finding it is a nightmare with trickier fabrics 🤣

[@halesmoore]

It sews really well. I went to a dealer and took along a variety of different fabrics to try out on the machine and it didn’t struggle at all. I’ve made a sweatshirt on mine as well as sewn viscose etc. the function buttons help the machine to handle different fabrics. The Pfaff has the IDT foot but the Juki has box feed which means although there is an optional walking foot attachment you don’t really need to use it as the regular box feed eliminates the need for the other foot. If you can try one out then do so but I filmed this review after using it for a few months first as wanted to see how it actually handles fabrics. I haven’t been disappointed. I hemmed jeans and it didn’t break a needle going over the seams, I just slowed the stitching down and it glided through.

[@sewdysfunctional4889]

Guess I'd better start saving then! Thanks 😊

[@nanettelangton2849]

Would be the best machine I have ever brought,love it

[@hanameriah851]

I think to buy the juki hzl f300. But i live in tunisia nd i m afraid if it comes to me with defaults which can happen to any new machine. My brother lives abroad and he Will command it for me. Is it durable? Can it sew thin and thick fabric? I am so impatient to have a good sewing machine especially after learning for two years thé basics of sewing! Thank you for your attention . I noticed that you explain adorably

[@halesmoore]

Thanks for your comment, it can be tricky having a sewing machine delivered as it could get damaged in transit. I’m really pleased with this machine, I’ve sewn Velcro onto canvas fabric with no issue, as well as a wool coat and also T-shirts. The only thing is that you can’t use any brand of needle - in my previous machines (Brother etc) I could use anything, but I have to stick to one brand, which is fine.

[@hanameriah851]

@@halesmoore oh thanks for answering me. God bless you

[@halesmoore]

@@hanameriah851 I’m not familiar with the industrial, but I’d imagine it uses the same needles. I use Schwartz needles in mine.

[@KevinFlores-rc1lq]

​@@halesmooreim curious if this dx7 is good for leather upholstery? Theres also a organic leather made from cactus leaves called desserto that I'd love to see if this would work on

[@halesmoore]

@@KevinFlores-rc1lq the Juki has a box feed system which helps to carry fabric through the machine - almost eliminating the need for a walking foot. I haven’t sewn leather on my machine yet but I’d imagine that if you have the right kind of foot and needle then it shouldn’t be a problem. Maybe I’ll make another video showing what fabric it can sew through.

[@sharvo6]

Have you used it on any lightweight silk?

[@halesmoore]

Not yet as it’s not a fabric I usually use, but there is a function to change the feed dogs so the gap is smaller for more delicate fabrics to stop them getting trapped in the machine if that makes sense

[@sharvo6]

@@halesmoore absolutely, thanks!

[@rhondaa18]

Hi there. Excellent review. Just curious, regarding needles, can you use any good brand needle, or does the Juki take “proprietary” Juki brand needles only? Thanks.

[@halesmoore]

Ah this is a good question as I had problems threading with using my existing needles so now I have to use Schmetz needles. It doesn’t like Hemline, Klasse or Prym.

[@rhondaa18]

@@halesmoore schmetz are very good needles, are fairly easy to get, and usually cross brands well.

[@onelisashow]

Hales this machine looks too nice for me, lol! Did it take long to learn all the functions?

[@halesmoore]

It’s so good and quick! The manual is mainly pictures which I like so it’s really easy to use so didn’t take long to learn at all and for new functions the manual makes it simple to use. My Brother machine had an overly complicated manual and I still don’t know how to use everything on it!

[@nanettelangton2849]

What to know how to do numbers

[@zawan4360]

Dx 7 can sew denam let me know plz whats the price

[@halesmoore]

Yes it can sew denim. You would need to contact your local supplier for pricing information.

[@zawan4360]

@@halesmoore 😊 thanx

[@3goldfinger]

Only a matter of time before they break down, then you find out they are not repairable.

[@timgidney3189]

Juki dealer here, they can be repaired but are the most reliable of all the brands I service. Plus they are easy to take apart and therefore cheaper. Never had any Juki returned in 14 years.

[@Fattiapples]

@@timgidney3189that’s interesting to hear. My local dealer said they don’t recommend juki domestic machines since support isn’t good and doesn’t perform better than other domestic machines. Makes me think juki isn’t as reliable. Do you find the juki come in a lot for repairs vs others. I keep seeing bobbin and tension issues (and bird nesting) for the dx series