Guide the project with both hands while the direct-drive servo responds to the main treadle.
Juki Automatic Plain Sewing Machine with Automatic Footlift DDL7000A
JUKI DDL-7000AS-7 with hands-free presser-foot lift
The full-workflow DDL-7000 package for sewing rooms that value every movement: direct-drive control, programmable backtacks, automatic thread trimming and a fitted pedal-driven foot lift.
- Keep both hands on the work while the powered lifter raises the presser foot for repositioning.
- Finish from the pedal with automatic thread trimming and foot lift at the end of the operation.
- Set repeatable starts and finishes using programmable beginning and ending backtacks.
- Control the pace with a responsive direct-drive servo and an adjustable maximum speed.
DDL-7000AS-7FL · Fitted foot-lift package
*JUKI specification for the compatible AK85C auto-lifter; confirm the exact fitted unit on current Direct Sewing stock.
A smoother seam cycle, controlled from your feet
The powered foot lift matters when you repeatedly stop, turn, remove and replace work. It reduces the need to reach for a hand lever or shift a hand away from the fabric at the end of every seam.
Use programmed start/end backtacks, or call for reverse with the touch-back lever when needed.
Complete the programmed pedal action and the built-in trimmer cuts the needle and bobbin threads.
The fitted auto-lifter raises the presser foot so both hands can stay with the work or receive the next piece.
Designed for sewing rooms where handling time adds up
Alteration rooms
Move quickly through hems, repairs, zips and garment adjustments while keeping both hands close to the work.
Apparel makers
Build consistent seams on common woven and suitable knit garments from samples through repeat production.
Production teams
Reduce repeated hand movements through programmed backtacks, thread trim and pedal-controlled foot lift.
Detailed handling
Raise and reposition the foot without releasing the project—useful around corners, curves and short operations.
Serious studios
A refined straight-stitch workstation for users with permanent space and a high volume of construction sewing.
Training rooms
Lower the speed ceiling for learning, then introduce automatic functions as operator confidence grows.
A complete industrial workstation—not a portable machine head
These genuine Direct Sewing and JUKI images show the machine platform, integrated controls, bobbin winder, needle area and workstation format. Current table, stand and castor details may vary.





Power and control built into the head
The energy-saving 550W AC servomotor drives the main shaft directly. Response is immediate when the treadle moves, while the machine stays quiet between seams instead of idling like a traditional clutch-motor setup.
- Responsive variable-speed pedal control
- Adjustable top-speed setting at the panel
- No separate under-table drive motor
- Integrated control box and power switch
- USB service/power port—not an embroidery design connection

Automation around the stitch—not complexity for its own sake
The fitted lifter raises the presser foot through the pedal sequence so your hands can remain on the fabric.
The machine cuts the needle and bobbin threads at the programmed end of the seam, reducing scissors and long tails.
Set beginning and/or ending reverse stitches for consistent seam locking across repeated operations.
Set the preferred needle stop position to suit turning, removing the work and your handling method.
An adjustable lever close to the needle gives manual reverse control when the programmed sequence is not appropriate.
Illumination reaches the needle from both sides of the needle bar, with five brightness settings at the panel.

Five light levels, directed where the stitch enters
LEDs illuminate from the right and left of the needle bar to reduce the hard shadow produced by a single light direction. Adjust brightness for dark fabrics, pale reflective cloth or changing room light.
Official JUKI animation demonstrating the DDL-7000A lighting system.
Automatic does not mean inflexible
Use programmed backtacks for repeat work, then call for manual reverse from the adjustable touch-back lever when a seam needs individual handling. JUKI's shaft-angle control is designed to reduce needle-breakage risk when reverse is engaged.
- Adjustable touch-back lever height
- Manual reverse remains available
- Automatic start/end reverse can be configured
- Needle-up or needle-down stop setting

DDL-8700, DDL-7000AS-7 or this FL package?
All three are industrial straight-stitch machines. The meaningful difference is how much of the seam cycle the machine handles for you.
| Feature | DDL-8700 package | DDL-7000AS-7 | DDL-7000AS-7FL — this package |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best fit | Dependable, straightforward straight stitch | Automatic seam finishing | Automatic finishing plus hands-free foot lift |
| Motor arrangement | External under-table servo in Direct Sewing package | Integrated direct drive | Integrated direct drive |
| Automatic thread trim | No | Yes | Yes |
| Programmable backtack | No | Yes | Yes |
| Automatic foot lift | No | No | Yes—fitted pedal-driven lifter |
| Powered lift height | Not applicable | Not applicable | 9mm standard for compatible JUKI AK85C |
| Knee lift | Manual knee lift | Up to 13mm | Up to 13mm remains available |
| Maximum speed | Up to 5,500 spm | Up to 5,000 spm below 4mm stitch length | Up to 5,000 spm below 4mm stitch length |
Built around garment and general light-to-medium work
Woven apparel
Cotton, linen, shirting, suiting, uniforms, workwear panels and many common garment fabrics.
Alterations
Trouser hems, side seams, zips, repairs, linings and everyday tailoring operations.
Medium denim
Garment denim with the right DB × 1 needle, thread and reduced speed at bulky junctions.
Homewares
Cushions, pillowcases, bedding, light curtains, napery and other projects with long straight seams.
Suitable knits
Straight construction where appropriate, using the correct industrial ballpoint/stretch needle and testing first.
Light garment leather
Some soft, light leather with the right needle, foot and thread—not heavy leather assemblies.
Sample rooms
Fast, controlled prototyping across varied light-to-medium fabrics with flexible manual and automatic controls.
Repeat production
Consistent start, finish, trim and lift actions when settings are matched to the operation.
JUKI DDL-7000AS-7FL at a glance
| Direct Sewing SKU | DDL7000AS7FL |
|---|---|
| Base machine | JUKI DDL-7000AS-7; light-to-medium material configuration |
| FL package | Fitted pedal-driven automatic presser-foot lifter; JUKI lists AK85C as compatible—confirm current fitted part identification |
| Machine type | Industrial single-needle, bottom-feed, straight lockstitch machine |
| Drive | Main-shaft direct drive with integrated 550W AC servomotor |
| Control system | Operation panel, control box and power switch integrated with machine head |
| Maximum sewing speed | Up to 5,000 stitches/min below 4mm stitch length; up to 4,000 stitches/min at 4mm or longer |
| Factory-set speed | 4,000 stitches/min; the operator can set a lower ceiling to suit the work |
| Maximum stitch length | 5mm |
| Needle system | DB × 1 / 16x231 / 134; #14 standard, #14–18 supported |
| Supported thread range | JUKI specification: approximately #60 to #8 / 200–600 dtex; suitability depends on needle and material |
| Needle-bar stroke | 30.7 ± 0.5mm for the AS configuration |
| Presser-foot lift | 5.5mm by hand lever; 9mm standard powered lift with compatible AK85C; up to 13mm by knee lifter |
| Automatic functions | Presser-foot lift, thread trimming and programmable reverse/backtacking |
| Lighting | Built-in LED illumination adjustable through five levels |
| Lubrication | Forced lubrication; 450ml oil reservoir; JUKI Machine Oil 7 / equivalent ISO VG7 |
| Power specification | Single-phase 220–240V, 50/60Hz configuration is available; JUKI lists 210VA input. Confirm current NZ-stock connection |
| Working clearance | Approximately 260mm from arm to needle; arm height approximately 130mm |
| Machine-head dimensions | Arm 432 × 105mm; bed 476 × 178mm; overall head length approximately 603mm |
| Machine-head mass | Approximately 34kg including motor, control box and covers; table, stand and lifter are additional |
The complete automatic-foot-lift workstation
The current listing presents a genuine JUKI machine, fitted automatic foot lift, complete industrial workstation and starter accessories. Confirm the exact table, stand, castors, electrical lead, assembly and freight format with the team because components may change.
- Genuine JUKI DDL-7000AS-7 head
- Integrated direct-drive servomotor
- Integrated control panel and control box
- Automatic thread trimmer and backtack
- Five-step LED needle lighting
- Fitted pedal-driven presser-foot lifter
- Powered lift integrated with the control system
- Hands-free lift for repositioning and removal
- Manual hand and knee lifting remain available
- Exact fitted part may be confirmed on current stock
- Industrial table and stand
- Multi-function speed-control treadle
- Knee-lifter system
- Thread stand and oil-pan assembly
- Wheels/castors shown; confirm current build
- Genuine JUKI sewing-machine oil
- 30 industrial needles
- Five bobbins
- Screwdrivers / setup tools
- JUKI factory certification
- Instruction and parts information
- DB × 1 / 16x231 needles
- Industrial plain-sewer bobbins
- Clear ISO VG7 industrial sewing-machine oil
- Quality industrial thread matched to the operation
- Current table, stand and castor finish
- Exact fitted auto-lifter identification
- NZ power lead and plug arrangement
- Assembled or freight-ready delivery format
- Access, installation and operator-training needs
DDL-7000A instruction manual
Official operating information for installation, threading, oiling, panel settings, automatic functions, maintenance and error codes.
Open JUKI ManualJUKI AK85C auto-lifter manual
Official installation and adjustment reference for the automatic presser-foot lifter JUKI identifies as compatible with this platform.
Open Auto-Lifter ManualDDL-7000A parts manual
Exploded diagrams and part references for accurate servicing and replacement-part identification.
Open Parts ManualOfficial JUKI catalogue
Review JUKI's DDL-7000A applications, features, model codes, compatible auto-lifter and technical specifications.
Open Official CatalogueTalk with Direct Sewing
Discuss fabrics, model choice, pedal setup, delivery access, training, parts and ongoing New Zealand support.
Contact Direct SewingDDL-7000AS-7 without automatic lift
If you want automatic trim and backtack but prefer manual presser-foot lifting, compare the standard package.
View Standard DDL-7000AS-7What to know before choosing the automatic-foot-lift model
What exactly is the JUKI DDL-7000AS-7FL?
It is Direct Sewing's package built around the light-to-medium DDL-7000AS-7 industrial straight-stitch machine, with a pedal-driven automatic presser-foot lifter added to the standard automatic thread trim and programmable backtack functions.
Is DDL-7000AS-7FL the factory machine model?
The factory machine head is DDL-7000AS-7. “FL” identifies Direct Sewing's fitted foot-lift package. JUKI lists the compatible auto-lifter as an option for the DDL-7000A platform rather than including it on every machine.
Is the automatic foot lift included in this listing?
Yes. The purpose of this listing is the DDL-7000AS-7 supplied with a fitted pedal-driven automatic presser-foot lifter. Confirm the current fitted part identification and package details with Direct Sewing before dispatch.
Which auto-lifter does JUKI specify for this platform?
JUKI's DDL-7000A catalogue identifies the AK85C pedal-driven auto-lifter as the compatible option. Direct Sewing can confirm the exact unit fitted to current New Zealand stock.
How high does the powered foot lift raise?
JUKI specifies a standard 9mm automatic lift for the compatible AK85C. The machine also provides 5.5mm by the hand lever and up to 13mm through the separate knee-lifter mechanism.
Why is the knee-lift figure higher than the automatic lift?
They are different lifting methods. The powered lifter is designed for fast hands-free handling at a standard 9mm, while the knee lifter can provide up to 13mm for extra clearance when required.
Can I still use the knee lifter?
Yes. The compatible automatic lifter can be used alongside the machine's knee-lift arrangement, giving you powered pedal lift for routine handling and manual knee lift when you want it.
How does the pedal-controlled lift work?
The multi-function pedal controls sewing and, through its programmed positions, can call the automatic trim and presser-foot-lift sequence. Direct Sewing can demonstrate the pedal positions and configure settings for your workflow.
Can the automatic lift setting be changed or turned off?
The DDL-7000A control system provides an auto-lifter enable/disable setting and related adjustment. Have the machine set up and demonstrated by Direct Sewing or a qualified industrial technician.
Does the machine do everything automatically?
No. You still guide the fabric, choose settings, start and stop the operation and manage the work. It automates repeat actions around the seam: programmed backtacks, thread trimming and presser-foot lift.
Does it only sew straight stitch?
Yes. It makes a strong two-thread straight lockstitch and reverse lockstitch. It does not zigzag, overlock edges, make buttonholes or sew decorative stitches.
Who is this machine best suited to?
Alteration businesses, apparel makers, sample rooms, production workrooms, fashion training and serious studios where straight stitching is frequent and hands-free fabric control can improve the workflow.
What materials can the AS configuration sew?
It is designed for light-to-medium apparel and general sewing materials such as cotton, linen, shirting, suiting, many uniform fabrics, homewares and medium garment denim. Needle, thread, foot, pressure and speed must still match the job.
Will it sew denim?
Yes, within the machine's light-to-medium range. Use the correct DB × 1 needle and suitable thread, reduce speed at bulky seam crossings and test your actual layer stack. Very thick hems may need specialised setup or a different feed system.
Can it sew leather?
Some soft, light garment leather may be suitable with the correct needle, foot, thread and testing. It is not a compound-feed leather machine and is not the right choice for belts, tack, heavy bags or thick leather stacks.
Is it suitable for upholstery, canvas or webbing?
Only lighter work that falls within its material range. For frequent layered canvas, upholstery, heavy webbing or combinations that creep, ask Direct Sewing about a needle-feed or compound walking-foot machine.
Can it sew stretch fabrics?
It can straight-stitch suitable knits with the right industrial ballpoint or stretch needle, thread, pressure and testing. It does not provide stretch stitches or differential feed, so an overlocker may be a better primary machine for many knit operations.
How fast is the DDL-7000AS-7?
JUKI specifies up to 5,000 stitches per minute when stitch length is below 4mm and up to 4,000 stitches per minute at 4mm or longer. Actual speed should be set for the material, operation and operator.
Do I have to sew at full speed?
No. Set a lower maximum speed at the panel and use the servo pedal for variable control up to that ceiling. Start slowly while learning the multi-function pedal and for precision or bulky intersections.
What does direct drive mean?
The 550W AC servomotor is integrated with the machine head and drives the main shaft directly. This gives quick response and avoids the constant idle running associated with a traditional clutch motor.
Does it trim thread automatically?
Yes. The built-in trimmer cuts the needle and bobbin threads through the programmed end-of-seam pedal action, reducing scissor work and thread tails between pieces.
Does it backtack automatically?
Yes. Beginning and ending reverse stitches can be programmed at the operation panel. The touch-back lever also gives manual reverse whenever the operator needs it.
What is the maximum stitch length?
The standard DDL-7000AS-7 maximum is 5mm. Do not confuse this AS model with heavy-material configurations or optional conversions referenced elsewhere in the DDL-7000A family.
Which needles does it use?
It uses DB × 1 industrial needles, also commonly labelled 16x231 or 134. JUKI lists #14 as standard and #14–18 for the AS configuration. Select point style and size for the material and thread.
Can I use domestic sewing-machine needles?
No. Use the specified DB × 1 / 16x231 industrial system. Domestic 130/705 H needles have a different shank and are not interchangeable.
What type of bobbin does it use?
It uses standard industrial plain-sewer bobbins appropriate to this JUKI hook system. Direct Sewing stocks compatible aluminium bobbins; match replacements to the supplied sample.
Does it require oil?
Yes. It uses forced lubrication from a 450ml reservoir. Use only the specified clear industrial sewing-machine oil—JUKI Machine Oil 7 or equivalent ISO VG7—and follow the manual for level checks and maintenance.
Is the LED work light included?
Yes. Standard LED lighting reaches the needle area from both sides of the needle bar and offers five brightness levels.
What is the USB port for?
It is intended for service/update or compatible low-power accessory use described by JUKI. This is not an embroidery machine and the port does not load designs or decorative stitch files.
Does it come with a table and stand?
The Direct Sewing listing presents a complete workstation with industrial table, stand, treadle, thread stand, knee-lift arrangement and fitted automatic lifter. Confirm the current finish, castors, assembly and delivery format when ordering.
Is it portable?
No. The machine head alone is approximately 34kg before the table, stand and lifter. Plan a permanent workspace and discuss delivery access, stairs and assembly with Direct Sewing.
What power supply does it need?
JUKI offers the DDL-7000A in a single-phase 220–240V, 50/60Hz configuration suitable for markets such as New Zealand. Confirm the exact NZ-stock voltage, lead and plug arrangement before installation.
How is it different from the standard DDL-7000AS-7?
The sewing head, direct drive, automatic thread trim and programmable backtack functions are the same. This FL package adds the fitted pedal-driven presser-foot lifter for hands-free handling.
How is it different from the JUKI DDL-8700?
Direct Sewing's DDL-8700 package is a simpler manual straight-stitch workstation with an external servo. This machine integrates the drive and control system and adds automatic backtack, thread trim and presser-foot lift.
Is it suitable as a first industrial machine?
Yes, if straight stitch matches your work and you have permanent space. Set a low speed ceiling first and arrange a demonstration so the pedal sequence, threading, bobbin loading, oiling and automatic functions are clear.
Can I see or test the machine before buying?
Contact Direct Sewing to confirm showroom availability and arrange a demonstration. Bring representative fabric, thread and the seam construction you expect to sew for the most useful test.
What should I confirm before delivery?
Confirm the current fitted auto-lifter, table and stand finish, castors, electrical connection, assembled dimensions, access through doors or stairs, freight method, installation, training and current warranty support.
Try the pedal. Feel where the FL upgrade saves time.
Bring your fabric and compare the standard DDL-7000AS-7 with this automatic-foot-lift package. Direct Sewing can help match the machine, feed system, setup and delivery plan to the work you actually do.
