Zipper science - everything about zippers
How are zippers constructed and how do they work?
Zippers, also known as zip fasteners, are closure systems based on positive locking. These fasteners are usually made of metal such as aluminum, brass, nickel silver, or increasingly, plastic. When closing, the two teeth are interlocked by the slider, and when opening, they are separated again.
What types of zippers are there and where are they used?
These locking systems can be divided into the following types:
- endless zipper
- concealed zipper
- non-separating zipper
- separable zipper
- Two-way zipper
- waterproof zippers
Zippers are needed and used in various garments, such as:
- bed linen
- bag
- Pants
- Jackets
- jeans
- Pillow
- Dresses
- pencil case
- Swaddle sacks
- Shoes
- Boots
- backpacks
- Bags
- tents
What needs to be considered when sewing in a zipper made from fabric by the meter, and what care tips are there?
How do I sew in a zipper?
Depending on the sewing project, the zipper can be sewn in either exposed or concealed on both sides. If the garment's stability is paramount, as with trousers, skirts, and so on, the more practical, exposed zipper is used. Before the zipper can be sewn in, the seam allowances on the skirt or trousers must first be pressed to the wrong side. The garment is then turned right side out. The zipper is placed under the opening with the right side facing up and securely pinned. Next, the folded edges of the seam allowances are folded over the teeth on both sides and aligned. Then, using a zipper foot, sew along one side of the zipper, approximately half a centimeter from the edge. Once you reach the end of the zipper, leave the needle in the fabric and lift the presser foot. With the needle still in the fabric, turn the garment at a right angle for the bottom seam. Now sew carefully over the zipper, so the speed should be reduced. Once this seam is complete, lift the presser foot again and leave the needle in the fabric. The zipper is then rotated again at a right angle, and the other side is sewn to the fabric half a centimeter away. If the zipper extends beyond the waistband due to its placement, it can be trimmed flush. It is important to ensure that the zipper slider remains on the teeth.
The other option is the concealed zipper. It is frequently used for covers and cases. When sewing a case, for example, it's best to draw a seam line on one of the two pattern pieces, the length of the zipper, at the point where the opening will later be closed. Add a 1.5 to 2 cm seam allowance on both the left and right sides. Once the position is determined, place both pattern pieces right sides together and pin them. Then, sew from the beginning of the seam allowance to the planned start of the zipper using a straight stitch and a short stitch length. Secure the beginning and end of the seam by backstitching. For the middle section, where the zipper will be, sew to the planned end using the longest stitch length. Repeat the same process for the second and final opposite section of the seam allowance. Finally, turn the fabric pieces right side out and press the seam allowance open. Next, the zipper position should be transferred to the seam on the front again, ideally using pins. Turn the project right side out. On the wrong side, position the zipper so that it extends beyond the marked line, with the right side facing up, and secure it well with pins on the other side. The zipper teeth should be aligned with the seam using the longer stitch length. Turn the project right side out again. Using a zipper foot, sew the zipper along the pinned markings, again with a half-centimeter margin, until a closed rectangular seam is formed around the zipper. Secure the seam with a backstitch. Finally, open the wide seam in the middle, revealing the zipper, which is concealed on both sides.
How do you properly care for zippers?
It is recommended to always close plastic zippers before washing to ensure they continue to open and close easily. This recommendation should also be followed for metal zippers, to protect other items in the wash from the sometimes sharp metal teeth. If the zipper pull or slider is lost, it can usually be replaced without having to buy a new one.
Zippers exposed to harsh environmental conditions require proper care to ensure they function properly for a long time. Zippers in backpacks, bags, shoes, boots, or tents should be regularly cleaned of contaminants such as sand, dirt, and other foreign matter. Applying silicone spray is recommended to maintain the zippers, ensure smooth operation, and thus extend their lifespan. Applying silicone-based sprays also creates a light waterproofing effect, which can significantly reduce the penetration of dirt and water particles.
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