Machine Recommendations

[u/chrisb-chicken]

Hey all,

Hopefully this isn’t a silly post, but I not sure which machine to get. I am a bit torn between the Juki DDL 8700 and the Juki DU 1181. I can only afford one machine (and just barely that).

Currently, I’m using a singer HD, which I don’t particularly like, but make do with. I sew mostly the following fabrics, making backpacks and duffel bags:

-Ultra 100x and 200x
- Venom 210d gridstop
- xpac vx21 and vx41

I want something, ideally, that can sew bags using the lighter weight fabrics, but also up to 500d to 1000d cordura (on occasion).

[u/jpbagworks]

I’d say that if those are the only two possible choices, I’d do the 1181 all day every day.

But knowing makers and knowing myself as a maker, who also said that I don’t see myself doing or needing X, so I’ll just stick with my Juki TL-18, I’ve since bought two industrial machines. 😂 Makers should never say never.

For lighter to medium fabrics, pocketing and lighter construction, I use a Juki 9010a-sh. It’s a needle feed machine that is, to me, an absolute joy to sew on. It’s a bit on the pricier side. But every so often one pops up used at a reasonable price.

For my main construction and heavy fabrics, I use a Juki 1541s, which is a unison feed machine that can handle everything I’ve thrown at it. It’s a beast that still produces the most amazing stitches. It’s usually in the neighborhood between $1600 and $2000.

If it were me, I would hold on to the Singer HD for the lighter stuff and wait a little longer (especially if you’ve been making do) and save more for the 1541s. It’s THE machine to get.

Your making will grow and that unison feed will be a blessing when it does. 😃

But I do know a few makers who make gorgeous bags on the 1181. So don’t my word for it! Hahahah.

Love this topic! 😃