If you are a serious hobbyist quilter, a professional seamstress, or anything in between, the Juki TL-2000Qi may just be the workhorse you need in your sewing room.
Considered one of the most powerful mid-range sewing machines on the market, the TL-2000Qi is not for beginners. It is designed with the advanced sewer in mind to produce quality professional designs.
In this Juki TL-2000Qi review article, we will take a look at what features the machine has, the pros and cons of the machine, and some of the most pressing questions buyers have before committing to the machine.
Let’s get started!
Juki TL-2000Qi Review Overview
Juki is a Japanese company dedicated to making quality industrial and household sewing machines. Founded in 1938, they are one of the most popular brands of sewing machines globally.
The TL-2000Qi is one of their mid-tier models because it has the durability and power of an industrial machine at a fraction of the cost.
In fact, Juki also makes a higher-end model called the TL-2010Q. We chose to look at the TL-2000Qi instead, because – while the 2010Q is a fantastic machine – the TL-2000Qi is more affordable and accessible.
What we like:
- All metal chassis
- Wide throat for quilting
- Table extender to support larger projects
- Fast sewing speeds
- Walking foot attachment
What we don’t like:
- Only one stitch option
- Expensive compared to other heavy-duty options
Key features
The TL-2000Qi is such a popular machine because of its wide variety of features and accessories. Let’s take a look at some of the best ones.
Heavy-duty body
The Juki TL-2000Qi definitely puts the “heavy” in heavy-duty! With an all-metal body and long throat, it is a big and heavy machine.
If you are thinking it might be difficult to move it around your sewing room, you are probably right. However, the size and weight are essential for the type of sewing machine the TL-2000Qi is.
The all-metal construction (no plastic parts here!) is a staple of industrial sewing machines. Even the hardest plastics can bend and break, while metal can take almost any abuse you can think to hurl at it.
The long neck design is a feature you will find on most quilting machines. It allows you more room to maneuver while quilting and keeps the sides of your quilt from getting in the way of your stitching.
Powerful motor
Another staple of any industrial machine is a powerful motor, and the TL-2000Qi absolutely delivers on that front.
The TL-2000Qi is fast. It can perform 1500 stitches per minute, which means you can produce great pieces at a fraction of the time, and you’ll never have to wait for a lagging machine to catch up with you.
A strong motor also means that the Juki TL-2000Qi can handle thicker and stronger materials than your average sewing machine.
Things like denim, leather, and plastics require more power to sew through than lighter materials do. If you are looking to use those materials, a powerful machine is a must.
Quality stitching
The stitch quality of the TL-2000Qi is impeccable. Your lines will always look professional and well-done with this machine.
The drawback to the great quality is that you only have the option for one type of stitch. The TL-2000Qi isn’t like the ever-popular computerized machines with hundreds of different stitches straight from the box.
The TL-2000Qi does one thing and it does it extremely well. So if you don’t mind the limited range, you can enjoy professional results every time.
Automatic thread trimmer
An automatic thread trimmer is one of those options that quilters love. When you are maneuvering two full hands of fabric around, it’s nice to not have to drop them to trim a thread.
LED lighting
When you are sewing, you need as much light as possible to ensure the needle goes exactly where you want it.
The TL-2000Qi has a row of powerful LED lights behind the needle arm that illuminate your working area and aid in precision.
Speed-variable motor
The TL-2000Qi may have a powerful motor, but it can go as slow as a snail when you need it to. With a variable-speed motor, you can slow down your stitch speed to accommodate delicate materials or intricate lines.
Pedal-controlled presser foot
A pedal-controlled pressure foot is another great feature to use when your hands are full. You can lift or lower the pressure foot with your knee, so there is no need to take your hands off your project for even a moment.
Manual feed dog adjustment
One of the best features on the machine is the ability to raise and lower the feed dogs manually. This allows you to maneuver tight corners and turn your work with ease.
It is also helpful if you are using a material that requires extra slow speeds, such as delicate and gauzy fabrics. You can actually use this feature to sew your project manually, one stitch at a time.
Extension table
The TL-2000Qi comes with an extension table that adds extra space to help support quilts and other large projects.
The extension table is a fantastic accessory because it is removable. So you can use it as needed and remove it when you want the machine to have a smaller footprint in your workspace.
Special presser feet
The 2000Qi includes four incredibly useful presser feet: standard, walking foot (even feed), quilting, and zipper.
While they don’t seem like much, these choices allow you to complete a variety of projects from quilts to garments to heavy bags and purses.
Who is the Juki TL-2000Qi for?
The TL-2000Qi is an excellent option for the serious hobbyist or small business. Anyone who is looking to sell their sewing creations but can’t invest thousands into an industrial machine can benefit from the TL-2000Qi’s powerful features.
FAQs
Let’s take a look at some of the most common questions that prospective buyers ask about this machine.
Is this machine industrial?
While it is incredibly durable, the TL-2000Qi is not technically an industrial sewing machine. It is a heavy-duty household machine that produces exceptional results, making it a suitable option for small businesses and professionals.
Can this machine handle heavy materials like leather and denim?
To an extent. As mentioned above, it is not an industrial machine, so it is not specifically built for leather or denim work.
However, many users have reported in their reviews of the machine that it is great for hemming jeans and that they have successfully fed several layers of denim and light leather through the machine with no issues.
Keep in mind that you will most likely need to equip the machine’s even feed presser foot to work with thicker materials. You will also need a diamond-tipped leather needle to pierce through the tough fabrics.
How long is the throat?
The throat (the open area between the needle arm and the side of the machine) is 9” wide. This is much more space than that of a typical sewing machine and allows users more room to maneuver bulky items like quilts.
Can you quilt with this machine?
Yes! As already mentioned, it comes with a quilting presser foot for just such a task. The wide throat and extension table can also aid in your quilting endeavors by providing your project extra clearance and support.
Wrapping it up
Well, there you have it! Everything you need to know about the Juki TL-2000Qi heavy duty sewing machine.
If you have hands-on experience with this machine, or if you have any questions we haven’t covered in our review – feel free to leave them in the comment section below.
