Juki HZL-F300 Sewing And Quilting Machine Review
If you’re looking for a computerized sewing and quilting machine that can handle decorative stitching and larger projects with ease, the Juki HZL-F300 is an excellent option to consider. With over 100 built-in stitches, industrial-style sewing capabilities, and a host of convenient features like an automatic needle threader and thread cutter, this sewing machine aims to make sewing and quilting as efficient and hassle-free as possible.
In this detailed review, we’ll provide an overview of the key features and performance of the Juki HZL-F300, look at pros and cons based on real owner experiences, and provide recommendations on who this computerized sewing machine is best suited for.
Overview of the Juki HZL-F300 Sewing and Quilting Machine
The Juki HZL-F300 is a computerized sewing and quilting machine that is part of Juki’s Exceed series. Juki is well-known for making high-quality industrial sewing machines, and they have applied that same expertise and technology into the HZL-F300 to bring industrial-style sewing right into your home.
Some of the key features and specifications of this sewing machine include:
- 106 built-in stitches – including 16 buttonhole styles, as well as utility, decorative, quilting, and heirloom stitches
- 3 alphanumeric fonts – for monogramming and personalizing projects
- Automatic needle threader – threads the needle for you with the push of a lever
- Automatic thread cutter – instantly trims top and bobbin threads
- Adjustable sewing speed – up to 900 stitches per minute
- Steel feed dog system – provides smooth fabric feeding even at high speeds
- Large 8″ x 12″ work area – for managing larger projects
- LCD screen – displays selected stitch settings and information
- Hard cover – protects the machine when not in use
This sewing and quilting machine aims to provide computerized convenience in a sturdy machine built for handling all types of projects and fabrics. The combination of industrial-style power and precision with handy features like the automatic thread cutter and needle threader make it a versatile choice for sewists and quilters.
Key Features and Benefits of the Juki HZL-F300
Let’s take a more in-depth look at some of the noteworthy features and benefits of the Juki HZL-F300 sewing and quilting machine:
A Wide Variety of Built-In Stitches
The HZL-F300 comes equipped with 106 built-in utility and decorative stitches, including 16 different buttonhole styles. This wide selection allows you to add decorative details, make buttonholes, sew knits, and more without needing to switch between specialty presser feet and makes this a highly versatile sewing machine.
Popular stitches include:
- 16 one-step buttonhole styles – sensor buttonholes provide consistent, professional results
- Overlock and stretch stitches – ideal for knits and stretch wovens
- Applique and heirloom stitches – for intricate detailing
- Quilting and piecing stitches – handles quilting needs with ease
Having so many stitches at your fingertips enhances creativity and convenience.
Powerful Motor
This computerized sewing machine is equipped with a high-powered motor that allows sewing speeds of up to 900 stitches per minute. This level of speed and power provides an industrial-style sewing experience.
The HZL-F300 can smoothly handle multiple layers of thicker fabrics like denim without slowing down thanks to this powerful motor. This makes it a great choice for quilting, sewing home decor items, or apparel sewing with heavier fabrics.
Automatic Needle Threader
The included automatic needle threader allows you to thread the needle hassle-free with just the push of a lever. This saves time and prevents eye strain.
Convenient One-Touch Buttons
The HZL-F300 has several one-touch buttons that allow you to easily start/stop sewing, cut threads, and control the needle position without needing to take your hands off your project.
The auto thread cutter instantly trims top and bobbin threads with just a button push for fast, clean finishing.
Adjustable Speed Control
The speed control slider allows you to adjust the sewing speed from slow (80 stitches per minute) up to the maximum speed of 900 stitches per minute. This level of control lets you find just the right pace for every project and technique.
The speed slider has a helpful turtle icon indicating the slowest speed setting and a rabbit icon indicating the fastest for intuitive speed adjustment.
LCD Screen
The backlit LCD screen makes selecting stitches, adjusting settings, and viewing key information convenient. It displays:
- The selected stitch pattern for confirmation
- Recommended presser foot for the stitch
- Adjustable stitch length and stitch width settings
- Helpful sewing tips and guides
This user-friendly screen provides clear visibility even in low light conditions.
Hard Cover
A sturdy hard cover is included to protect the Juki HZL-F300 when not in use or when transporting it. This helps prevent dust buildup and accidental damage.
Free Arm Sewing
The removable flat bed extension exposes the free arm for easier sewing cylindrical pieces like pant hems and sleeve cuffs.
Excellent Stitch Quality
According to users, the Juki HZL-F300 produces very high-quality stitches across a range of fabrics from lightweight to heavy thanks to features like the box feed dog system and adjustable presser foot pressure. Stitches are even, consistent, and attractive.
Real Owner Experiences: Pros vs Cons
Based on Juki HZL-F300 reviews from real owners, here are some of the key pros and cons mentioned:
Pros
- Provides excellent stitch quality on a range of fabrics
- Sews very smoothly and quietly
- Easy to set up and learn how to use
- Handy built-in stitches for quilting, clothing, crafts, etc
- Thread cutter, needle threader, speed control are convenient features
- Sturdy construction and durability
- Good value for the price
Cons
- Maximum speed is 900 stitches per minute which is a bit slower than some other models
- Some owners have experienced issues with needle threader jamming
- Bobbin winder may be problematic for some users
- Fairly heavy, not the most portable
- Lack of knee lift may be inconvenient for some
While not perfect, the general consensus based on owner experiences is that the Juki HZL-F300 is an excellent machine for the price that makes computerized sewing and quilting very accessible. Most downsides seem to be minor frustrations.
Recommendations for the Juki HZL-F300
Based on its performance, features, and real owner reviews, here are our recommendations on who the Juki HZL-F300 is best suited for:
- Beginners transitioning from mechanical to computerized sewing
- Quilters who want built-in quilting stitches and a large work area
- Sewists who work on clothing, crafts, home decor and want stitch variety
- Those seeking quiet and smooth operation
- Anyone wanting automated features like automatic thread cutting
- Those needing to handle thick or quilted fabrics
- Sewers wanting good quality at a reasonable price point
This versatile computerized sewing machine is beginner-friendly but has features and power advanced sewers appreciate as well. The automatic needle threading, thread cutting, and control buttons provide convenient computerized assistance without being overly complex to operate.
The Juki HZL-F300 is an excellent choice for quilters thanks to the wide work area, extension table option, and built-in quilting stitches. It also handles stretch fabrics and knits well. While not the absolute fastest model available, the 900 spm maximum speed is sufficient for most.
Overall, sewers and quilters wanting a high-quality computerized machine with user-friendly features at a reasonable price will be well served by the Juki Exceed HZL-F300.
Juki HZL-F300 vs Other Juki Models
Juki’s Exceed line of sewing and quilting machines also includes the HZL-F400 and HZL-F600 which have varying features and price points:
- 106 built-in stitches
- 16 buttonholes
- 3 fonts
- Up to 900 spm
- MSRP $699
- 157 built-in stitches
- 16 buttonholes
- 3 fonts
- Up to 900 spm
- MSRP $899
- 225 built-in stitches
- 16 buttonholes
- 4 fonts
- Up to 900 spm
- MSRP $1199
The more expensive HZL-F400 and HZL-F600 add more stitch options and fonts. But the HZL-F300 offers excellent value with 100+ stitches for quilting, clothing, crafts and home décor for several hundred dollars less.
Other differences include:
- The F600 comes with a knee lift, the F300 and F400 do not but can have one added
- The F600 includes an extension table, optional on the F300 and F400
- The F600 has dual LED lights vs 1 light on the F300 and F400
For most sewers and quilters, the Juki HZL-F300 has all the essential features needed at a pleasing price point. But the F400 and F600 are worth the extra cost for those wanting the top-of-the-line experience.
| Pros | Cons |
| Excellent stitch quality on various fabrics | Maximum speed is 900 stitches per minute which is a bit slower than some other models |
| Wide variety of built-in stitches for quilting, clothing, crafts, home décor, etc | Some issues reported with automatic needle threader jamming |
| Convenient features like automatic thread cutter, speed control, etc | Bobbin winder may be problematic for some users |
| Smooth, quiet operation | On the heavy side so not the most portable |
| Durable construction | Lack of included knee lift |
What Owners are Saying About the Juki HZL-F300
Here are some examples of feedback that owners have provided about their experience with the Juki Exceed HZL-F300 sewing and quilting machine:
“I absolutely love my Juki f300! It has beautiful stitches, sews through just about anything. It’s smooth and quiet too. I don’t take my sewing classes anymore since I have this.”
“This is my first computerized sewing machine – I’m so impressed! It was easy to set up, stitches beautifully, and has so many handy features like the speed control and automatic thread cutter.”
“I’ve made several quilts on my Juki f300 already. It handles thicker fabrics and seams with no issues. The extension table allows me to manage larger quilts. Very pleased so far.”
“Upgraded from an old mechanical singer machine to this Juki and it has made sewing so much more enjoyable! Love all the built-in stitches and that I can save my settings.”
“I sew a lot of knits and stretch fabrics and this machine handles them like a dream. Easy to dial in the right stitch length/width combo.”
“This is a workhorse of a machine! I’ve already sewn through canvas, denim, and other heavy materials with no problem. It just keeps chugging along.”
Positive feedback focuses on the HZL-F300’s smooth operation, stitch quality, handy integrated features, and ability to handle thick fabrics – all at an affordable price point. These owner experiences confirm it as a versatile, user-friendly sewing and quilting machine.
Read: Juki DDL-8100ES Review: A Powerful Industrial Sewing Workhorse
Final Verdict on the Juki HZL-F300
To conclude this thorough review, the Juki Exceed HZL-F300 represents an outstanding blend of features, convenience, and value in a computerized sewing and quilting machine.
It provides the functionality to handle projects of all sizes with a selection of over 100 built-in stitches for everything from quilting to garment sewing to crafting. Helpful automated features like the needle threader and thread cutter make sewing tasks simpler while the steel feed dogs and powerful motor allow smooth sewing across various fabric types. Visibility is enhanced with a backlit LCD display while convenience is furthered by the hard cover for storage and transport.
While a maximum speed of 900 stitches per minute and lack of a knee lift may disappoint some, the Juki HZL-F300 still provides a very well-rounded sewing and quilting experience. With excellent stitch quality, smooth operation, and time-saving touches, most sewers and quilters will be very satisfied with this computerized machine. It receives high marks for quality construction and user-friendly operation at a reasonable price point.
So if you are seeking an efficient, high-performance sewing and quilting machine packed with features right out of the box, the Juki Exceed HZL-F300 is absolutely worth your consideration.