We often get asked about the Juki DU-1181N and the Juki DNU-1541S. People ask about their differences and their similarities. In this post we will breakdown the two machines.
Walking Foot
Yes, both the DU-1181N and the DNU-1541S are industrial walking foot sewing machines. However, they are different types of walking foot machines.
The 1181N is a top and bottom feed walking foot machine. That means that the presser feet (top) and the feed dog (the teeth on the bottom) feed your material.
The 1541S is a triple feed machine. This means that the presser feet, the feed dog and the needle all work together to feed your material.
A triple feed machine will feed material smoother, more easily and it ensures that you get an even finish.
Technical Specifications
| Juki DU-1181N | Juki DNU-1541S |
| Max. Sewing Speed: 2,000 sti./min. | Max. Sewing Speed: 2,500 sti./min. |
| Max. Stitch Length: 9mm | Max. Stitch Length: 9mm |
| Presser Foot Lift by Knee: 1/2" | Presser Foot Lift by Knee: 3/4" |
|
Needle: 135x17 (sizes 16-22) 135x16 (sizes 18-22) |
Needle: 135x17 (sizes 16-23) 135x16 (sizes 18-23) |
| Thread: T-45 - T-135 | Thread: T-45 - T-210 |
| Bobbin Size: M | Bobbin Size: M |
| Safety Clutch: No | Safety Clutch: Yes |
| Work Space Under Arm: 10-1/4" x 5" | Work Space Under Arm: 10" x 4-1/4" |
Applications
While the two machines can sew many of the same applications, the DNU-1541S can sew heavier-weight applications.
The 1181N and 1541S can both sew the following:
- Soft to medium leathers
- Canvas
- Vinyl
- Webbing
- Cork
Since the 1541S is more heavy duty it can sew more applications, such as:
- Veg tan leather
- Upholstery (automotive, marine and furniture)
Needles & Thread
As seen in the technical specifications, the two machines use the same types of needles and can handle most of the same size threads.
135x17 are multipurpose needles that can be used to sew virtually any application that you sew on the 1181N or on the 1541S.
135x16 are leather point needles that are ideal for sewing leather because the needles do not leave as large of a hole in the leather.
The machines differ in that the DNU-1541S can handle larger needles, up to size 23, and thicker threads, up to T-210.
Bobbins, Bobbin Case & Presser Feet
While the DU-1181N and the DNU-1541S use the size bobbin, M, the two machines use a different bobbin case (see photo above), and they have different style of presser feet (see photos below).
Both machines do have other style of presser feet available, such as: zipper feet and cording feet.
Origin
Most sewing machines are now made in China, including many Juki models. The DNU-1541S is one of the last machines that is still made in Japan.
The DU-1181N is made in China. Do not let this discourage you. Juki has the best manufacturers no matter where they have their machines made.
Motors
The DU-1181N and the DNU-1541S can be setup with either a servo motor or a clutch motor. 99.9% of our orders have a servo motor installed on it.
Servo motors are more energy efficient and much quieter than clutch motors, and servo motors allow you to adjust the speed.
A popular addition to machines are needle positioning servo motors. This motor allows you to program the machine to stop with the needle in the down position or in the up position.
Please contact us for further information on needle positioning servo motors.
Prices
DU-1181N - $1,295 - Click here for product page
DNU-1541S - $1,795 - Click here for product page
These prices includes the sewing machines complete and fully assembled with the table top, table stand, motor, thread stand, table drawer and magnetic LED light.
In Conclusion
The DU-1181N and the DNU-1541S have several similarities:
- Same needles
- Same bobbin
- Adjustable stitch length (up to 9mm)
- Reverse feature
- Can sew the same medium-weight applications
But the two machines also have their differences, such as:
- 1181N is a top and bottom feed walking foot
- 1541S is a triple feed walking foot
- Different bobbin cases
- 1541S can use heaver needles and thicker threads
- 1541S can sew heavier-weight applications
- 1541S has a higher presser foot lift
The 1541S can do everything the 1181N can do and more. We would suggest the 1181N for only medium-weight applications, and we would recommend the 1541S for medium to heavyweight applications.