Zippers are every designer’s best friend. Finding the perfect technique to install a zipper, is one of the most versatile skills to have in the fashion industry! They are essential to a ton of everyday staple garments like skirts, pants, and jackets that need a simple, yet effective closure. There are hundreds of types of zippers that can easily make their way into the design aspect of your garment, or for utility purposes! Just think about clothing you may have seen in retail stores, or even your own closet. There are chain, coil, separating zippers, and of course one of Mood’s most popular, invisible zippers!
So It’s no wonder why the wide range of different types of zippers can be intimidating for some. Having so many choices can be daunting, but imagine the possibilities of what you can create! It can definitely be tricky to do without some of the essential tools you’ll need for this project. But with these basic steps below, I am confident you can install a zipper, and demystify one of the final steps in your garment construction process.
Alright, so let’s get down to business. Step one is to change your presser foot, to a zipper foot as depicted above. Now do you have some pins ready for your project? Yes? Good! So grab the garment that you want to add your zipper to. Be sure to keep the zipper pull facing the right side, and have the wrong side pinned to the zipper edges and opening.
Folding over the opening before pinning your zipper to it can be immensely helpful, while stabilizing your zipper while sewing. Your next step will be to use your sewing machine to sew down the length of your zipper and opening, until you reach the stopper. Back tack on your first, and last few stitches to keep them secure on both sides!
Check over your handiwork. Once you’ve successfully made it down both sides, your next step is to trim the excess threads and test the zipper! Believe me, this is the best part, because you get to make sure everything looks neat and tidy. It’s definitely not because it’s the easiest step. 🙂
After pressing your garment one last time, it’s time to admire all of your hard work! Have you ever installed a zipper before? What’s your favorite zipper to use? Let me know in the comments if you have any tips and tricks of your own!
If I’m installing a centered or lapped zipper, I baste the seam first, it gives a much more even result.
That sounds like a fabulous idea, especially for those looking to have more stability and less puckering!