Zip It Up! A Beginner’s Guide to Zippers in Bag Making
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If you’ve ever found yourself thinking that fitting a zip is scary, then you’re not alone. Zips can feel a bit daunting at first, but once you've used them a time or two, you'll be using them all the time.
Why Zips Matter in Bags
While simple closures like magnetic snaps are easy to install, fitting a zip will give your bag a more professional finish. Not only that, they make your bag more secure and funnily enough, they actually give your bag structure. Whether it’s No. 5 zip tape for a recessed zip for the main compartment or a No. 3 closed end dress zip for an internal pocket, a zip can elevate your bag from “homemade” to “handcrafted.”
Types of Zippers
1. No. 5 zip tape with nylon teeth
Brilliant for bag making, you can cut the tape to the size you need and add a coordinating zip pull. The nylon teeth are soft and flexible, making it easy to sew over, greatly reducing the chance of breaking a needle, which can be a very scary experience
2. Metal Zippers
Gorgeous and sturdy, metal zips can add a touch of luxury to your bag. They're not as forgiving as nylon when sewing (you don’t want to break a needle on the teeth!), but they’re perfect for structured bags or where the zip is a visible feature.
3. Continuous Zipper Tape
An economical choice! Buy it by the yard and cut it to the size you need. Add your own zipper pulls – perfect for custom sizing, especially if you’re making lots of bags or experimenting with patterns.
Where and How to Use Zips
- Recessed Zips – Sit below the top edge of your bag for a neat, professional finish.
- Top Zips – Sewn straight into the top seam, great for pouches and boxy bags.
- Zipped Pockets – Interior or exterior, a zipped pocket adds security and style.
Tips for Sewing with Zippers
- Use a zipper foot to sew close to the teeth.
- Use double sided tape to keep your zips in position while sewing
- Add zip tabs at each end to neaten up the finish and reduce bulk.
Make It Pretty!
Zips aren’t just functional – they can be decorative too. Choose a contrasting zip tape for a pop of colour, go bold with gold or rose gold teeth, or match your zip pulls to your bag hardware for a beautifully cohesive look.
At Bobbin Girl, we stock a lovely selection of zipper tape and pulls in silver and rainbow finishes so you can match your zip to your bag’s personality perfectly.
Happy bag making,
Bobbin Girl x