Dreamer! In today’s post, we will let you know the types of zippers, what is recommended for using each one, and their advantages.
So stay here and learn all the details below!
First… zippers are the most popular method to close a garment or a pocket, they are easy to purchase and easy to place on the fabric you will work.
Actually, there are different types of zippers, also you can find a wide variety of colors of them that will give a special finish on your sewing project.
So... let's talk about types of zippers!
1. Plastic Zippers
The teeth of this type of zipper are made from plastic chains and closed at the bottom.
This keeps the zip opening limited to the length of the zipper, as there is a ‘stop’ at the bottom of the teeth to prevent it from opening any further.
- Ideal for casual and informal garments, crafts, and upholstery.
2. Open Ended Zippers
Open ended zips are also known as separating zippers.
These zip from the bottom up and you can place it in clothing items like zippered hoodies, dresses, and jackets or coats with a center front or center back zipped opening.
- Ideal for jackets or garments that need to be separated entirely.
3. Metal Zippers
They feature teeth made from either metal chain and are closed at the bottom.
As plastic zippers, this keeps the zip opening limited to the length of the zipper, as there is a ‘stop’ at the bottom of the teeth to prevent it from opening any further.
- Ideal for denim garments, hand-bags, and footwear.
4. Continuous Zippers
The continuous zip is made in one long continuous length and can be cut to the size you need.
And you then purchase zip sliders and pulls separately to better suit your design.
- Ideal for upholstery, linens, suitcases, backpacks, and large fabric canvas.
5. Invisible Zipper
Invisible zippers are a type of zip that doesn’t leave any visible stitching on the garment they’re sewn into.
They have very fine teeth, which, when closed make it concealed, and the tape used is often finer, more mesh-like in appearance.
When sewing in an invisible zipper, you’ll need to stitch the seam very close to the zipping element.
You can achieve the best results when using a dedicated invisible zipper foot for your sewing machine.
- Ideal for delicate garments that require fine finishing.
We invite you to check out our blog post where you will find a step-by-step tutorial on how to sew an invisible zipper.
Or you can check a video directly on our YouTube Channel.
6. Reinforced Zippers
In this type of zip, each tooth is in the shape of a bowling ball.
The design of the line groove on the teeth makes the appearance unique. It provides enhanced zipper strength.
- Ideal for making jackets and bags from dense materials.
Also here we leave you a tip to adjust a longer zipper.
- Remember that you can apply it only as an emergency tip and if your project allows it.
Just make sure you make a few good stitches at the size you want it to be to form a new top.
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First, measure your zipper at the desired length of your project.
Then, mark and make a few stitches over the teeth on the lower end to form a new stop and prevent the slider from slipping out.
Use thick thread, which is double and knotted.
Now, cut the zipper below your stitching to the size you marked before. And it’s ready for your sewing project!
Are you looking for more tips and information about zippers? Here we leave you a chart with some posts on the 123Dreamit! Blog for you to check the content about zippers you want.
Finally… If you have doubts, tell us in the comment box. We will glad to solve your questions!
See you in another post! Bye for now!