Details: By Saurav Dasgupta

Different types of zippers: A complete guide to zippers for Garments

A zipper is a fastening device used to join two pieces of fabric or other material. The two pieces are joined by interlocking teeth on each side of the zipper. Zippers are used in a variety of applications, including clothing, luggage and other bags, shoes, tents, and other products.

If you're looking for more information on zippers, this is the guide for you. We'll cover everything you need to know about zippers, including how to choose the right zipper for your project, how to install a zipper, and how to troubleshoot common zipper problems.

Whether you're a sewing novice or a seasoned pro, this guide will give you the information you need to get the perfect results every time. So let's get started!

There are a variety of different types of zippers available in the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. You need to choose the right one based on your need.

Table of Contents:

Different types of zippers: A complete guide to zippers for Garments
History of Zippers
The Different Types of Zippers Based on the Material of Their Teeth
The Different Types of Zippers Based on Zipper Functions
How To Sew A Zipper Without A Zipper Foot
Conclusion
Know Your Sewing Kit

History of Zippers

Though we often take zippers for granted, this simple invention has a fascinating history. Zippers are made up of two rows of interlocking teeth, and they were first used in clothing in the early 1900s. Metal teeth zippers became particularly popular in the 1920s.

At the time, they were considered a more modern and sophisticated alternative to buttons. They quickly became a popular fastening for clothing, including men’s trousers, women’s dresses, and children’s clothing. Today, zippers are used in a wide variety of applications, from clothing and luggage to cars and boats.

The most common type of zipper is the plastic zipper, which is used in a variety of applications. Plastic zippers are available in a variety of colors, sizes, and styles. They are also relatively inexpensive and easy to use.

Another type of zipper is the metal zipper, which is more durable than the plastic zipper. Metal zippers are available in a variety of colors, sizes, and styles. They are also more expensive than plastic zippers.

The third type of zipper is the invisible zipper, which is used in garments such as dresses and skirts. Invisible zippers are not visible when the garment is worn. They are available in a variety of colors, sizes, and styles.

The fourth type of zipper is the coil zipper, which is made of a coiled metal wire.

You can classify zippers based on different parameters.

The Different Types of Zippers Based on the Material of Their Teeth

Types of Zipper Teeth

You can divide zippers into different categories based on the material of the teeth. The most common types of zippers based on the material are molded plastic zippers, coil zippers and metal zippers.

Metal Teeth Zippers

A metal teeth zipper is a type of zipper where the teeth are made of metal. They are more durable than plastic teeth zippers and are often used in heavy-duty applications such as outerwear. Metal teeth zippers can be made with either aluminium or brass teeth.

Advantages of metal teeth zippers over other types of zippers

There are many different types of zippers, each with their own advantages. Metal teeth zippers are one type of zipper that has several advantages over other types.

Metal teeth zippers are more durable than plastic zippers and can withstand more wear and tear. They are also less likely to break than plastic zippers.

Metal teeth zippers are also more resistant to heat and cold than plastic zippers. This means that they are less likely to warp or melt in extreme temperatures.

Overall, metal teeth zippers are a more durable and reliable option than plastic zippers. If you are looking for a zipper that will last, metal teeth zippers are a great choice.

This type of zipper is often used in clothing, such as jackets, jeans, and skirts. Metal zippers are available in a variety of colors, sizes, and styles.

Disadvantages of metal teeth zippers over other types of zippers

They are also more expensive than plastic zippers. Metal teeth can be noisy and can damage the fabric of the garment if they are not lined up properly. They are also more difficult to repair if they break.

There are many other types of zippers based on the material of the sliders and the tape. But we have here described only the classifications based on the material of the teeth.

Molded plastic zippers

Molded plastic zippers are a type of zipper where the teeth is made from plastic. They are often used in garments and other items that require a durable and strong zipper. Molded plastic zippers are available in a variety of colors and can be customized to match the color of the garment or item.

Advantages of molded plastic zippers over other types of zippers

Molded plastic zippers are becoming increasingly popular in a variety of industries. Their advantages over metal zippers include weight reduction, corrosion resistance, and the ability to be molded into a variety of shapes and sizes. This makes them ideal for use in a variety of applications, including luggage, outdoor gear, and marine equipment.

Molded plastic zippers are used in a variety of clothing types, including jackets, activewear, and swimwear. This type of zipper is created by molding plastic into the desired shape, which can provide a more durable and water-resistant option than other types of zippers.

Molded plastic zippers are widely used in a variety of applications, from clothing to luggage. However, there are some disadvantages to using molded plastic zippers.

Disadvantages of molded plastic zippers over other types of zippers

One of the main disadvantages of molded plastic zippers is that they are not as strong as metal zippers. They can break easily, especially if they are used frequently. Additionally, molded plastic zippers can be difficult to repair if they break.

They can become warped or misshapen over time, making them difficult to use. Additionally, molded plastic zippers can fade or discolor in sunlight.

Finally, sometimes molded plastic zippers can be more expensive than metal zippers. This is because they are often mass-produced, which drives up the cost. Additionally, sometimes molded plastic zippers can be difficult to find in stores, as they are not as widely available as metal zippers.

Coil Zippers

If you're looking for a lightweight zipper that is both flexible and strong, then a coil zipper is a great option. Coil zippers are made with teeth that are coiled nylon or polyester, which are then either stitched or woven into the tape. This construction makes coil zippers very strong and durable, while still being lightweight. The coil zippers are also known as CFC zippers.

Advantages of coil zippers over other types of zippers

Coil zippers are widely considered to be the superior type of zipper for a number of reasons. Here are just a few of the advantages that coil zippers have over other types of zippers:

Coil zippers are more durable than other types of zippers. This is because the coil teeth are interlocking, which makes them less likely to come apart.

Coil zippers are also smoother than other types of zippers. This is because the coils allow the teeth to glide smoothly over one another, which makes for a smoother zipper action.

Coil zippers are available in a wide range of colors. This is because the coils can be dyed to any color desired. This is not the case with other types of zippers, which are typically only available in a limited number of colors.

If you are looking for a superior zipper, then a coil zipper is the way to go. These zippers are more durable, smoother, and available in a wider range of colors than other types of zippers.

Disadvantages of coil zippers over other types of zippers

Coil zippers are made of a continuous coil of nylon or polyester teeth that are interlocked. They are often used in heavy-duty applications such as bags, tents, and sails because they are strong and durable. However, coil zippers sometimes can become difficult to open and close, and they are also more likely to jam than molded plastic zippers.

The Different Types of Zippers Based on Zipper Functions

There are many different types of zippers based on their function.

Invisible Zippers

An invisible zipper is a type of zipper that is used in garments and other items where a smooth, clean look is desired. This type of zipper is made with special teeth that are almost invisible when the zipper is closed. This is because the teeth is actually at the back side.

Invisible zippers are a great choice for many different projects, including dresses, skirts, pants, and more. They can be a bit more difficult to install than other types of zippers, but the results are worth it. If you're looking for a sleek and sophisticated look, then an invisible zipper is definitely the way to go.

How to Sew an Invisible Zipper Step by Step

Open-ended Zippers or Separating Zippers

An open-ended zipper is a type of zipper that can be fully opened, separating the two sides of the zipper. Open-ended zippers are often used in garments such as jackets and coats, where they allow the user to easily put on and take off the garment.

Closed-end Zippers or Closed Bottom Zippers

Closed end zippers are basically opposite to open ended zipper. The two sides cannot be separated. It has a bottom stop and a top stop which restricts the two sides of the zippers to be separated from each other. This type of zipper is often used for pants, skirts, and other garments that are meant to be worn close to the body.

There are two way open ended zippers are also available where two sliders exist. But this type of zippers are not that popular.

The zippers can be classified based on weight, length, width of the teeth and other perimeters as well. But here we have described the classifications based on the material of the teeth and functionality only.

How To Sew A Zipper Without A Zipper Foot

We have shown 3 methods in the following video.

Method 1:

The first method is appropriate if you are looking to sew a zipper in the back of a dress i.e. in the back of a Kurti or in the back of a frock. Basically this method is appropriate to sew a zipper on any cloth which has a half pointed slit.

Method 2:

The second method is appropriate if you are looking to sew a zipper in a pillow cover or cushion cover, side of a blouse, shoulder opening. If you are looking to sew a zipper in the front opening of a jacket like garment, crop length top, then follow this method. Basically, this method is appropriate to sew any cloth with open slit area.

Method 3:

The 3rd method of how to sew a zipper is also appropriate for any front opening. But it is more appropriate for any bottom ware. For example, a pant or a trouser.
In all the methods, we have shown, how to sew a zipper, without a zipper foot. We have not used any zipper foot. But you can use a zipper foot as well.

Conclusion

In conclusion, zippers are an essential part of our daily lives, serving as a fastener for various products, such as clothing, bags, and accessories. With their different types and styles, zippers can offer functionality, durability, and aesthetic appeal, catering to various needs and preferences. Understanding the different types of zippers available can help us make informed decisions when it comes to selecting the right zipper for our projects. Whether it's a coil zipper, metal zipper, plastic zipper, or invisible zipper, each has its unique characteristics, strengths, and weaknesses. By choosing the right zipper for our needs, we can ensure that our products have the best possible functionality and longevity.

Know Your Sewing Kit

It is important to understand the types and use of different sewing materials before starting a sewing course because each material behaves differently and requires different techniques and tools to work with. Familiarizing oneself with these materials beforehand can help to ensure that projects are successful and that the sewing process is smoother and more enjoyable.