If you’re in the market for an industrial walking foot sewing machine, you may be wondering which one is right for you. In this post, we’ll compare the DU-1181N and the DNU-1541S, two popular models. The DU-1181N is a top and bottom feed machine, while the DNU-1541S is a triple feed machine.
Both the 1181N and 1541S are great machines for sewing soft to medium leathers, canvas, vinyl, webbing, and cork—but there are some key differences between them. Here’s a quick overview of each machine to help you make your decision.


What is a Triple Feed Machine?
A triple feed machine is a type of sewing machine that feeds the fabric from the top, bottom, and middle. This allows for more even feeding and fewer wrinkles in the fabric. Triple feed also helps to prevent skipped stitches and fabric slippage.
Benefits of a Triple Feed Machine
There are several benefits that come with using a triple feed machine. First, as we mentioned before, triple feed machines lead to fewer wrinkles in the fabric. This is because the fabric is being fed from three different points, which helps to keep it lying flat.
Second, triple feed machines also help to prevent skipped stitches. This is because the fabric is being fed evenly from all three points, which eliminates the possibility of one side getting ahead or behind and causing a skipped stitch.
Finally, triple feed machines also help to prevent fabric slippage. This is because the fabric is being held securely in place by the three different feeding points.
Features | Juki DU-1181N | Juki DNU-1541S | Winner |
Max. Sewing Speed | 2000 stiches/minute | 2500 stiches/minute | 1541 |
Pricing | $$$ | $$$$$ | 1181 |
Stitch length | 9mm | 9mm | Equal |
Unit Size | 48 X 20 X 48 inches | 48 X 20 X 48 inches | Same |
Needle | 135 X 17 | 135 X 17 | Same |
Thread: T-45 – T-135 | T-45 – T-135 | T-45 – T-210 | Same |
Safety clutch | NO | Yes | 1541 |
Features Comparison
The 1181N sews at a maximum speed of 2500 stitches per minute (spm) and has a working space of 10-1/4″ x 5″. It’s a great machine for small to medium projects.
The 1541S is a little more heavy duty and can sew veg tan leather and upholstery. It has a maximum speed of 2500 spm and a working space of 10″ x 4-1/4″.
If you’re planning on doing a lot of work with veg tan leather or upholstery, the 1541S is the machine you’re looking for. But if you’re mostly working with light to medium materials like soft leathers, canvas, vinyl, webbing, or cork, the 1181N will serve you well.
Both the DU-1181N and the DNU 1541S are high quality industrial walking foot sewing machines. The DU 1181N is a great choice if you’re looking for a fast machine that can handle a variety of fabrics.
If you need a machine that can sew heavier fabrics or multiple layers of fabric, then the DNU 1541S is the better option. Whichever model you choose, you can be confident that you’re getting a durable and reliable machine that will help you sew like a pro!
let’s talk about needles now . There are two main types of needles—135×17 needles and 135×16 needles—and they’re used for different applications. The 135×17 needles are multipurpose needles that can be used for a variety of applications including quilting, embroidery, applique, and serving.
The 135×16 needles are specifically designed for sewing leather and other thick fabrics. When choosing a needle, be sure to select the correct size and type for your project.
Finally, we want to touch on the DNU-1541S machine. This is a heavier-duty machine that can handle larger needles and thicker threads. The DNU-1541S is ideal for projects that require more durable stitches such as denim or canvas. If you’re planning on working with thicker fabrics or larger projects, the DNU-1541S is the machine you need.
Quality
When it comes to sewing machines, Juki is one of the most well-known and respected brands in the industry. Juki machines are known for their high quality, durability, and stitch accuracy.
But did you know that not all Juki machines are made in Japan? In fact, some of their newer models are actually made in China. So, what does that mean for the quality of the machines? Let’s take a closer look.
The DNU-1541S is one of the last Juki machines to still be made in Japan. However, the DU-1181N is now being manufactured in China. So, what’s the difference? Are the Chinese-made machines just as good as the ones from Japan?
The answer is yes! Juki has always had the best manufacturers no matter where their machines are made. The company takes great care in ensuring that their standards are met no matter where the machine is produced.
That’s why you can trust that a Juki machine, no matter where it’s made, will deliver superior quality stitches every time.
One of the things that makes Juki machines so popular is that they come with servo motors. Servo motors are more energy efficient and much quieter than clutch motors. And because they can be adjusted to sew at different speeds, they’re perfect for both beginners and experienced sewers alike.
Plus, if you ever need to add any extra features to your machine, like a needle positioning servo motor, you can easily do so since there’s already a spot for it built into the machine.
If you’re looking for a high-quality sewing machine that will give you beautiful stitches every time, then look no further than Juki. No matter where their machines are made—Japan or China—you can trust that you’re getting Japanese quality through and through.
And with servo motors that are more energy efficient and adjustable speeds that are perfect for any level sewer, a Juki machine is sure to meet all your sewing needs.
So which one to get?
The DU-1181N and DNU-1541S share some features, such as an adjustable stitch length and a reverse feature. They can also both sew medium-weight applications. However, there are also some key differences between the two machines.
For example, the 1181N is a top and bottom feed walking foot while the 1541S is a triple feed walking foot. This means that the 1541S can handle thicker fabrics more easily.
The 1541S also has a higher presser foot lift, which gives you more clearance when working with thick fabrics. Additionally, the 1541S can use heavier needles and thicker threads than the 1181N.
So, which machine is right for you? If you’re looking for a machine that can handle medium to heavyweight applications, we would recommend the DNU-1541S. And it has safety clutch.
However, if you’re only planning on working with medium-weight fabrics, the DU-1181N would be a good choice. Whichever machine you choose, we’re sure you’ll be happy with your purchase!