Juki HZL-K85 Sewing Machine Review: Everything You Need To Know
The Juki HZL-K85 is a popular computerized sewing and quilting machine from the reputable Juki brand. With its range of features and variety of stitches, it appeals to beginners and more advanced sewists alike.
But how does it actually perform? Is it worth the investment? In this comprehensive Juki HZL-K85 review, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this model to determine if it’s the right fit for your sewing needs.
Overview of Features
The Juki HZL-K85 comes equipped with a wide range of features, including:
- 150 built-in stitches – 100 letters/numbers/symbols, 30 decorative stitches, 12 basic stitches
- Easy-select stitch selection via buttons and LCD screen
- Automatic needle threader for effortless threading
- Built-in thread cutter for quick trimming
- Variable speed control up to 750 SPM
- Automatic presser foot pressure adjustment for sewing thick fabrics
- Backlit LCD screen for viewing selections
- Hard cover for storage and transport
- Built-in sewing alphabet for basic monogramming
- Onboard storage for accessories
It also includes 8 one-step buttonhole styles for buttons of varying sizes. With so many included features, it’s clear this Juki model offers plenty of versatility for most sewing projects.
Review of Stitch Quality
One of the most important factors for any sewing machine is stitch quality. Here’s an overview of how the Juki HZL-K85 performs in this crucial category:
- Straight stitch – Produces excellent straight stitches overall. Some users report issues with uneven straight stitching.
- Decorative stitches – The built-in decorative stitches provide consistent, high-quality results. Great for embellishing projects.
- Buttonholes – The one-step buttonhole stitches create professional-looking buttonholes with dense, durable construction.
- Quilting – Many quilters are impressed with the HZL-K85’s quilting capabilities. It handles thick layers without issue.
The majority of users agree that this Juki model produces very high-quality stitches, comparable to more expensive machines. It’s especially praised for its precise built-in buttonholes. The quality allows sewers to tackle projects of all types.
Ease of Use
Another major selling point of the Juki HZL-K85 is its user-friendly design and easy operation:
- Easy threading – The automatic needle threader eliminates frustration and gets you sewing faster.
- Quick stitch selection – Simply use the buttons to choose your desired stitch.
- Helpful manuals – It includes an instruction manual and DVD to get you up and running quickly.
- Intuitive controls – Buttons are clear and allow for effortless adjustments mid-project.
- Manageable size/weight – Weighing in at just 15.6 pounds, it’s portable and easy to handle.
From threading to selecting stitches to adjusting settings, most users find this computerized Juki very intuitive to use right out of the box. It’s ideal for beginners but also offers enough settings to appeal to intermediates.
Performance With Fabric Types
How does the Juki HZL-K85 handle sewing various fabric types? Here’s an overview:
- Lightweight fabrics – It easily handles delicate fabrics like silk and satin without puckering.
- Heavy fabrics – The machine powers through multiple layers of denim or canvas without hesitation.
- Stretchy knits – The stretch stitch prevents wavy seams when sewing knits and jersey.
- Quilting fabrics – It provides stability for sewing through thick batting and layered quilts.
Whether you’re working with silky dressmaking fabrics or heavy canvas for bags, the Juki HZL-K85 has the versatility to sew them all. The automatic presser foot pressure adjustment prevents lightweight fabrics from sticking and allows even feeding.
Noise Level
One downside reported by some owners is noise while operating, especially at high speeds. The main complaints are:
- Motor noise when running at full speed (750 SPM)
- Vibration noise from internal components
- Noisier than other models in this price range
While not unbearably loud, it’s not as quiet as more expensive computerized machines. The noise is most noticeable at max speed while sewing long seams. Some users mitigate this by lowering the speed when possible. Others aren’t bothered at all by the volume.
Known Issues
No sewing machine is perfect. Here are some common problems experienced with the Juki HZL-K85:
- Bobbin issues – Some users report bobbin tangles and nesting resulting in locked stitches. This may indicate a defective bobbin case.
- Feed dog problems – In some cases, the feed dogs don’t grip fabric properly resulting in uneven feeding.
- Short power cord – The cord is quite short which limits placement options. An extension cord resolves this.
While not experienced by all users, these are the most reported grievances with this model. Many are able to resolve them by contacting Juki support. As with any sewing machine, there is some risk of receiving a “lemon” with manufacturing flaws.
Accessories
One perk of buying the Juki HZL-K85 is the wide range of accessories included:
- Presser feet – Zigzag, zipper, buttonhole, blind hem, and more
- Bobbins
- Needles
- Screwdriver
- Spool caps
- Spool pin
- Seam ripper
- Quilting guide
- Foot controller
- Dust cover
- Instruction manual
Having multiple presser feet provides versatility for installing zippers, hemming, quilting, and more. The included accessories give you everything you need to get started sewing and quilting. Juki also sells additional optional accessories like rufflers and walking feet.
Warranty Coverage
The Juki HZL-K85 comes with a decent warranty package:
- 5 years limited on mechanical parts
- 2 years limited on electrical parts
- 90 days limited on labor
Having 5 years of protection on the key mechanical components provides valuable peace of mind on your investment. Just be sure to work with an authorized Juki dealer for repair services to qualify for the warranty coverage.
Price and Value
With an MSRP around $599, the Juki HZL-K85 falls into the mid-range price point for computerized machines. For the price, you get:
- High-quality construction
- Sturdy internal components
- Reliable performance
- Wide selection of built-in stitches
- Helpful accessories
- Good warranty
Considering the above factors and performance capabilities, we feel the Juki HZL-K85 provides excellent value for money. While not dirt cheap, it delivers professional results that rival more expensive machines. The brand name also commands respect.
Juki HZL-K85 Review Summary
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Professional stitch quality | Noise at high speeds |
| User-friendly operation | Occasional bobbin issues |
| Good value for price | Short power cord |
| Quality construction | Not the cheapest |
| Helpful accessories included |
Read: Juki HZL-LB5100 Review: A Versatile Computerized Sewing Machine
To wrap up this review, the Juki HZL-K85 is a very solid mid-range computerized sewing and quilting machine. It offers excellent stitch quality and easy usability perfect for beginners or intermediate sewers.
While not without some drawbacks, most issues are easily remedied or negligible. For sewists seeking professional results without breaking the bank, the Juki HZL-K85 is a reliable choice worth considering. We hope this detailed review helps you determine if it meets your needs!