In the picture below I have two different metal zippers in different sizes.įormal clothing, cushions, handbags, skirts, dresses, pants. The width between these two edges in millimeters is the zipper size. This number is referring to the size of the zipper teeth, measuring from one outer edge of the teeth to the other.

When you are shopping for zippers you may see a little # symbol with the zipper size next to it. Let’s take a look at the different types of zippers in action:

These are commonly used in formal wear and many styles of dresses. This means that once it is sewn into your project, the zipper itself should not be visible from the right side. The teeth of an invisible zipper are on the backside of the zipper. Invisible zippers are a little different than the others. Meaning the slider doesn’t move as smoothly up and down the teeth as the other two, especially when compared to the coil. Another thing to be cautious of is that they tend to “stick” a bit more than the others. While you might like the statement the metal teeth make in your apparel, be careful of the weight! They are far heavier than their nylon, polyester and plastic counterparts. They are perfect for heavy-duty coats, duffle bags, and leather projects. Metal zippers have metal teeth that are clamped onto the zipper tape. Molded plastic zippers are great for children’s clothing, tote style bags and more. The shape of the teeth makes them a bit stiffer than the coil zippers. This construction uses very cheap materials which usually make them the most cost-effective option.

Molded plastic zippers have the teeth molded and melted directly onto the zipper tape. The texture of the teeth is a lot more subtle than the plastic or metal zipper teeth as well which may make it a good choice for bags and pockets where you don’t want your zipper standing out. This makes it a great choice for knit jackets or other lightweight projects. The way it is constructed makes is very flexible. The teeth are made of coiled nylon or polyester that is either stitched or woven into the tape. There are three main types of zippers that you will come across – coil, stamped plastic, and stamped metal.Ĭoil zippers are a popular lightweight zipper.

Retainer Box – Secures the zipper together and prevents your slider from coming off of the bottom of the zipper (separating zippers only)Įditor’s Note: Enjoying this zipper lesson? Put it to use on our Bravado Jeans!.

Insertion Pin – Secures the opposing side of the zipper in the Retainer Box (separating zippers only).

Bottom Stop – Prevents your slider from coming off of the bottom of the zipper (closed bottom zippers only).

Tape – The fabric that the Teeth/Chain is attached to.

Pull Tab – What you use to move the Slider Body up and down.

Slider Body – Joins and separates the teeth as it slides up and down.

Top Stop – Prevents your slider from coming off the top of the zipper.

Now that we know the difference between those two, let’s take a look at the anatomy of a zipper: These are typically found in jackets and coats. Separating – A separating zipper, well, you guessed it – separates. With a little coaching and a lot of awesomeness, you’ll be adding this suckers to your projects left and right! The Anatomy of a Zipperīefore we really break down the anatomy of a zipper, you’ll need to understand the two basic classes of zippers – closed bottom and separating.Ĭlosed Bottom – A closed bottom zipper has a bar that goes across both sides of the base of the zipper (called the bottom stop), which keeps the zipper in one piece.

Walmart zipper pulls