Did you know that not all zippers are created equal?

In this course you will learn about these zippers:

• All Purpose
• Invisible
• Separating

You will also go step by step through how to sew each one including when to use each type. From dresses, skirts, jackets, bags, and a fly, you will learn them all!

You will need to purchase several zippers for this course. Please note what they look like with the pictures below. The packaging of most zippers has information you need.

It will state at the top the length and in the middle the type. For this course, color does not matter.

Below are pictures of each.

The parts of the zipper include:

Teeth: May be metal, nylon, or plastic. This is the part that "zips".

Pull: This is the part that you grab to "pull" the zip open or closed.

Stopper: Top and bottom. This keeps the pull from flying off the end.

You will also use two different types of zipper feet for your machine. The regular zipper foot will have two sides for the needle placement. The invisible zipper foot usually does NOT come with your machine and must be purchased separately. (Find one that fits your machine using the make and model of your machine.) See picture below for what they look like.

Supplies You Will Need:

• Zipper foot and Invisible zipper foot for your machine
• Fabric: various scraps OR 1/2-yard cotton or muslin
• (3) all-purpose zippers --7" or longer
• (1) 7"-9" invisible zipper
• (1) Separating zipper (short length for practice or length for your project)
• (1) Zipper with metal teeth (any length)
• **optional** Jeans zipper with metal teeth (or use one of all purpose)
• **optional** 1/4" double sided washable tape
  

All Purpose

Invisible

Separating with metal teeth and with plastic teeth. Note the bottom stopper comes apart.

Each of these will be discussed in further detail in the coming lessons.

Zipper Examples

These are some examples of how different zippers are packaged so that you can find the correct type of zipper you need, as well as the correct length. Pay attention to the descriptors on the packaging to ensure you choose the correct zipper for your project.

Different Types of Zipper Feet

Zipper Feet: Right to left, top to bottom

1 - 3: Zipper feet for home machines

4: Industrial machine zipper foot

5 & 6: Invisible zipper feet shown from the bottom

Zipper Tape