Content

• To step
• Part 1 of 2: Inserting a zipper
• Tips
• Necessities

Using a zipper can seem tricky for someone who is new to sewing clothes. While it takes some patience and practice, this skill is well worth the effort and your time. Being able to use a zipper is a very useful skill if you want to make your own clothes or for other sewing projects that involve working with zippers.

To step

Part 1 of 2: Inserting a zipper

1. Purchase a zipper that is the right size and style for your project. Zippers come in a wide variety of colors, styles and sizes. Choose the zipper that is most suitable for your project.
   • If you cannot buy a zipper of the right length, buy a zipper that is slightly longer than the seam opening where you want to place it. This gives you some leeway in fitting the zipper and helps prevent hitting the end stop of the zipper with your sewing needle, causing it to break.
2. Wash the zipper first to prevent shrinkage. This is only necessary if your zipper is made of natural materials. Follow the directions on the package, as most zippers are made of synthetic materials, but some of natural fibers, such as cotton.
3. Place the stabilizer on the seam of your project. Follow the instructions for the iron-on stabilizer to complete this step. In most cases, you will be placing the thin strips of stabilizer on the wrong side of your fabric, right next to the seam. Then iron over the fabric and nonwoven so that the nonwoven can adhere to the fabric.

Tips

• If you want to use basting stitch, you can also use double-sided clear tape to temporarily hold a zipper in place before sewing it on.
• Some people use a glue stick to temporarily hold the zipper in place. This method usually works better than clear tape, and the glue is easily washable. However, do not use this method on fine fabrics as it can irreparably damage the fabric.

Necessities

• Sewing machine
• Zipper foot
• Zipper
• Scissors
• Pins
• Seam ripper