A Complete Guide to Invisible Zippers or Concealed Zippers

If you're looking for a versatile and easy-to-use fastener, you can't go wrong with an invisible zipper or concealed zipper. Ideal for a range of garments and accessories, invisible zippers can be sewn in by hand or machine, making them a great option for both beginner and experienced sewers. In this blog post, we'll show you everything you need to know about invisible zippers concealed zippers, from how to insert them to troubleshooting common problems.

What are Invisible Zippers or Concealed Zippers?

An invisible zipper or concealed zipper is a special type of zipper that is used in garments and other items where a traditional zipper would be visible. The teeth of the invisible zipper remain on the reverse side so that it cannot be viewed. This is why it is called an invisible zipper or concealed zipper. The whole zipper becomes hidden within the seam. The only visible part of the zipper is the zipper pull. Though, if the zipper is not installed or sewn perfectly then the zipper becomes visible. But the teeth will not be visible as it is present in the backside.

Generally, the teeth of the invisible zipper or concealed zipper are a bit different than regular zipper. The material of the teeth is usually coiled nylon or polyester. The teeth are very fine compared to the regular zippers.

They are often used in dresses, skirts, and other items of clothing where a traditional zipper would be visible and considered unsightly. Invisible zippers are also used in some types of upholstery and other materials where a traditional zipper would be visible and considered unsightly.

What are the benefits of using Invisible Zippers?

There are several benefits to using invisible zippers.

• First, they are more aesthetically pleasing than traditional zippers.
• Second, they are less likely to catch on other garments or skin.
• Third, they can be more durable than traditional zippers. That means they are less likely to become stuck, their teeth broken, etc. In a regular zipper we frequently face problems like the zipper becomes stuck, sometimes becomes loose and automatically comes down, and sometimes teeth are separated even after you zip them up. In an invisible zipper, you are less likely to face these issues at the early stage.

If you are considering using an invisible zipper in a garment, be sure to purchase a high-quality zipper from a trusted manufacturer. Invisible zippers are available in a variety of sizes, so be sure to choose the size that is appropriate for your dress.

Invisible zipper or Concealed zipper vs Regular zipper

When it comes to zippers, there are two main types: regular and invisible or concealed. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it's important to choose the right one for your project.

• As the name suggests the main difference is that, for invisible zipper or concealed zipper, the zipper teeth are not visible if installed correctly. On the other hand, for regular zippers, the zipper teeth are visible.
• Invisible zipper has a smooth hole-less zipper pull. On the other hand, the regular zippers, in general, has a squared and with-hole zipper pull.
• Invisible zippers are ideal for garments that need a smooth, clean look, like dresses and skirts. They're also relatively easy to install. The main downside of invisible zippers is that they can be more difficult to repair if they break.
• Regular zippers are the most common type of zipper, and they're typically used in jackets, jeans, and other types of clothing. Regular zippers are easy to repair and replace, making them a good choice for projects where durability is more important than aesthetics.
• Though the regular zippers are stronger than invisible zippers, so considered more durable, but in terms of longevity, if installed correctly on a proper garment where invisible zipper can be used, then invisible zippers are more durable than traditional zippers. Which means they are less likely to become stuck or have their teeth broken. With a regular zipper, we often face problems like it becoming stuck, sometimes becoming loose and coming down automatically, or sometimes the teeth separating even after we zip them up. With an invisible zipper, you are less likely to face these issues at the early stage.
• If you are going to open and close the zipper quite frequently then I would not recommend to use the invisible zipper. A regular zipper generally has a hole in the zipper pull which makes it easier to open and close quickly. To make it decorative, the invisible zippers are used in some bags. But the zipper pull is specially designed for them.

When to use an invisible zipper?

Invisible zippers are used in a variety of garments, including dresses, skirts, pants, and even some types of shirts. They are also used in home decors, such as pillows and cushions.

Invisible zippers are not only used for their aesthetic appeal. They are also used because they are less likely to break than regular zippers. Invisible zippers are made with stronger materials and are designed to be more durable.

Invisible zippers can be used on the back of a skirt or any other garment. But this cannot be used in a blouse front or jacket front. You will need a separating zipper here, in case you are not using buttons. Moreover, invisible zippers, though are more durable, and cannot be used on heavy garments like jackets. There you will need a metal separating zipper.

DO NOT use an invisible zipper on a fly in front of a pant. There are reasons not to use an invisible zipper on a fly front. One reason is that it has to take a lot of pressure when you're sitting down. The zipper strength varies from one another. A regular zipper especially a metal zipper is stronger enough. The invisible zipper can pop or break in this zipper.

DO NOT use an invisible zipper if you need to open and close the zipper very frequently. Like a fly in front of a pant. Remember that, in a regular zipper you have a hole on the zipper pull. So it is easy to hold and pull. In an invisible zipper, you do not have that hole in the pull. Moreover, the zipper pull is quite smaller than a regular zipper.

Invisible Zipper troubleshooting

Are you having trouble with your invisible zipper? If so, you're not alone. Many people have difficulty getting their invisible zipper to work properly. There are a few things you can do to troubleshoot your invisible zipper issue.

• First, make sure the teeth of the zipper are aligned. If they're not, the zipper won't close properly.
• Secondly, iron press the zipper. Make sure to press the zipper teeth away from the zipper tape. Your iron temperature should be low, otherwise the zipper teeth can melt down. You will see your zipper teeth are curled towards the backside. But, during the sewing, as you need to sew as close to the teeth as possible, it is beneficial to uncurl the coil teeth and make the zipper as flat as possible. If you iron the zipper, it will help you uncurl the coil which will help to sew closer to the coil.
• Add Interfacing to stabilize the zipper. The interfacing is used to keep a fabric from stretching while you attach it. But is not absolutely necessary.
• Another thing to check is the size of the needle you're using. Invisible zippers require a special needle that is smaller than a regular sewing needle. If you're using a regular needle, that could be the problem.
• The best possible result can be obtained by using the invisible zipper foot.
• Finally, make sure you're sewing the zipper in the correct direction. The teeth should be facing the fabric you're sewing the zipper onto. If they're not, the zipper won't close properly.

If you follow these troubleshooting tips, you should be able to get your invisible zipper to work properly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, invisible zippers are a great addition to any sewer's toolkit as they provide a polished and professional finish to garments. Installing an invisible zipper requires some specialized tools and techniques, but with practice, it can become a quick and easy process. When installing an invisible zipper, it's important to use an invisible zipper foot and pay close attention to stitching close to the teeth without catching them. By following these tips and practising your technique, you can achieve a seamless and sophisticated look on your sewing projects. So don't be intimidated by invisible zippers - give them a try and elevate the quality of your sewing projects.

All Topics Related to Zippers