Zippers are very useful in our day to day life usage. and it also comes in different types. SO if we can understand different kind of zippers and its characteristics it will help us to choose the right kind of zippers. Lengths, types and materials, so always select the best zipper type and material to improve the appearance and durability of your sewing project. Zipper teeth are manufactured from three types of materials—metal, molded plastic chain and coil (nylon). Zippers also fall Into three categories—tooth, coil and invisible. Zippers can be open at one or both ends, closed at both ends or invisible.
1. Nylon Coil Zipper (Also Known as an All-Purpose Zipper)
This zipper is the most common zipper option and can be used to make a variety of projects. Coil zippers are thin, lightweight zippers with small teeth and are made of plastic with polyester sides and come in a variety of colors. The endless varieties of colors available make this zipper a great choice when making garments since you can usually find a match for the fabric you’re working with. This lightweight zipper can bend and flow with the garment and doesn’t weigh down the material like a heavier type of zipper would.
2. Invisible Zippers
As I mentioned earlier, this is my favorite type of zipper to use since the sides of the zippers are not visible when the garment is completed. Unlike the nylon coil zipper, the coil for an invisible zipper is located on the back of the zipper, which hides it from view. The only part of the zipper that is exposed is the tear drop pull at the top of the zipper. This zipper is also lightweight and has very fine teeth. An invisible zipper can be tricky to sew, and I recommend ironing the zipper open before pinning it to your garment. You can also use an invisible zipper foot which helps to create the best seam.
3. Molded Plastic and Metal Zippers (Also Known as a Jeans Zipper)
Both molded plastic and metal zippers have teeth that have been molded at regular intervals on both sides of the zipper tape. Molded plastic zippers are molded out of plastic and metal zippers can be made from aluminum, nickel or brass. Both of these zipper options are very sturdy and do well when using heavier material.
1. Closed-end metal zipper. 2. Open-end metal zipper. 3. Two way open-end metal zipper. 4. Two way closed-end metal zipper. 5. Reversible slider. 6. Air and water tight metal zipper. 7. Double side teeth metal zipper.
4. Separating Zippers (Also Known as Open Ended Zippers)
Separating zippers can be unzipped from both the top and bottom of the zipper after being installed. You can purchase these zippers with either metal or plastic teeth. The type of teeth should be chosen based on the fabric of the garment. i.e. use a metal separating zipper with a heavier material/fabric as the material wouldn’t pull/sag from the weight of the zipper.
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