Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I choose the right zipper for the type of garment?
- A: Choose a zipper based on its purpose and the thickness of the material. For jackets and hoodies that open all the way, you need a separating zipper, where the two sides come fully apart. For dresses, skirts, cushions or bags, a closed-end (non-separating) zipper is enough, as it stays joined at the bottom. Thicker, sturdier fabrics like denim or leather can handle a metal zipper, while lightweight, delicate materials are better suited to a light plastic coil zipper.
Q: What is the difference between a separating and a non-separating zipper?
- A: A separating zipper can be fully undone at the bottom into two independent sides, which is why it's used on jackets, coats and hoodies that you want to open completely. A non-separating zipper stays permanently joined at the bottom by a fixed stop and is used where the garment only needs to be opened enough to put on — such as dresses, skirts, trousers, cushions or bags.
Q: What is the difference between coil, metal, and molded-tooth zippers?
- A: A coil zipper has teeth formed from a continuous plastic coil; it's thin, flexible and quiet, which makes it well suited to dresses, skirts and lighter garments. A metal zipper has individual metal teeth, is strong and durable, and is the classic choice for jeans and heavier-duty jackets. A molded-tooth zipper has separate plastic teeth cast onto the tape; it's extremely strong and is used on jackets, sportswear and outdoor clothing.
Q: What is an invisible zipper and what is it used for?
- A: An invisible zipper has its teeth hidden on the reverse side of the tape, so once sewn in it can't be seen from the right side of the fabric — from the outside it just looks like a narrow seam. It's used mainly on dresses, skirts and formal wear, where the fastening needs to stay discreet. It's sewn in using a special invisible zipper foot.
Q: How do I measure the correct zipper length?
- A: Zipper length is given in centimeters and measured along the teeth — from the top stop to the bottom end, not including the fabric tape at each end. When replacing an old zipper, measure the original one, or measure the length of the opening in the garment. A slightly longer zipper can be shortened easily on non-metal types; metal zippers need to be shortened carefully because of the teeth.
Q: Should you zip up a zipper before washing?
- A: Yes, we recommend closing the zipper before washing. A closed zipper holds its shape better, won't snag or damage other laundry, and its teeth are less likely to get bent as the drum turns. Clothing with zippers should be washed inside out, and for more delicate zippers it helps to use a laundry bag.
Q: Can a zipper be shortened?
- A: Yes, a zipper can be shortened. Coil and plastic zippers are easy to shorten — measure the length you need, create a new bottom stop with a few hand stitches or a bar tack, and trim off the excess. A metal zipper needs to be shortened more carefully: use pliers to remove the extra teeth at the cutting point and add a new stop so the slider can't come off the end.
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