So many little details make our YKK zippers differ from each other. Whether you want them water resistant or not, separating or non-separating, by-the-yard or molded tooth, reversible pull, locking pull, or single pull, we have what you need. It can get complicated pretty fast, and you should know how to choose the zipper that will work best for your project. We hope this guide can help you in your search, and ensure you pick your zipper correctly. 

Zipper Basics

Zipper Structure

• Top Stop: Prevents the slider from detaching at the top of the zipper.
• Slider: Moves along the teeth, joining or separating them.
• Pull: The handle used to operate the slider.
• Teeth / Chain: Interlocking pieces that hold the zipper closed.
• Tape: The fabric strip to which the teeth are attached.
• Bottom Stop: Stops the slider from detaching at the bottom (for closed-end zippers).
• Retainer Pin: Fits into the retainer box to align the zipper halves (for separating zippers).
• Retainer Box: Anchors the zipper halves and keeps the slider from detaching at the bottom (for separating zippers).

Storage and Temperatures of Zippers 

To maintain the quality of zippers, store them in a controlled environment with a temperature range of 5–35 ºC and a relative humidity between 45–85%. Extreme conditions can lead to fading, damage, or rust.

When using heat on zippers and coils, it is important to understand the appropriate temperature to apply. The recommended heat level when ironing a coil zipper is up to 160ºC  or 320°F; however, never iron a water-repellent zipper. 

Ensure that the zipper is fully closed with the puller aligned correctly, avoiding reversed or upright positions. Place a cloth over the zipper before ironing, as direct contact with the iron can cause melting, warping, or discoloration.

Zippers in the Wash

Ensure zippers are closed before washing or drying to avoid snagging and potential damage to other clothing. Wrapping the zipper with a cloth can further protect the hardware from damage. It is also recommended to bleach your items before, or not at all, when there are zippers and coils on your item as it will cause discoloration. 

 It is always safer to air-dry items with zippers and coils to prevent the hardware from shrinking or warping. 

Zipper Sizes and Uses (simplified)

Types of Zippers

Plastic Molded Tooth

Plastic molded tooth zippers are a type of zipper with teeth made from molded plastic, typically polyacetal resin. These teeth are individually shaped and set at regular intervals along the zipper tape, providing strength and durability. Molded tooth zippers are versatile and widely used across various applications.

Common Uses:

• Jackets and coats
• Backpacks and bags
• Tents and outdoor gear
• Luggage
• Boots and heavy-duty apparel

Coil

Coil zippers are made with a continuous coil of plastic or nylon sewn onto the zipper tape. These zippers are known for their flexibility, lightweight design, and smooth operation, making them one of the most commonly used types.

Common Uses: 

• Clothing (dresses, skirts, and pants)
• Handbags and purses
• Lightweight jackets
• Sportswear
• Tents and sleeping bags

Metal

Metal zippers are a traditional and durable zipper type made with individual metal teeth attached to the zipper tape. They are known for their strength, reliability, and classic appearance, making them a popular choice for various applications.

Common Uses:

• Denim (jeans, jackets)
• Heavy coats and leather apparel
• Boots and footwear
• Bags and luggage
• Industrial and workwear

Invisible Zippers

Invisible zippers are a specialized type of zipper designed to blend seamlessly into a garment, making them virtually undetectable from the outside. They are characterized by their concealed teeth and understated appearance, making them ideal for formal and fitted clothing.

Common Uses:

• Dresses and gowns
• Skirts
• Formalwear
• Lightweight tops and blouses
• Pillows and cushions
• Pockets

Zipper Features

Water-Resistant

Designed to provide a barrier against moisture, making them ideal for outdoor and technical applications. They feature specialized coatings or constructions that repel water while maintaining smooth functionality.

Separating 

Also known as open-end zippers, are designed to completely separate into two parts when unzipped. They feature a unique mechanism at the bottom that allows the zipper halves to disconnect, making them ideal for garments and items that require full opening.

Non-Separating 

Also known as closed-end zippers, are designed to stay connected at one end, preventing the zipper halves from completely separating. These zippers are commonly used in items where full separation is not required.

By-The-Yard  

By-the-yard zippers are customizable zippers sold in continuous lengths, allowing users to cut and create non-seperating zippers in the desired size. This type of zipper is ideal for projects requiring unique or non-standard lengths.

Reversible Pull 

A reversible pull slider can be used on both sides of the item. This allows for the slider to be pulled up and down from either side. 

Reverse Pull

Sounds the same as the last one, right? Although the names are similar, they are not the same thing. Reverse zippers have a coil that is on the inside so that the outside is smooth. They are primarily used to create water and wind resistance. 

Locking Pull

The sliders of locking zippers "lock" into position. This means that even if you move other zipper components, they won't move themselves. To keep the zipper slider from moving until you pull the zipper tab, a pin that is inserted within the slider rests between the teeth.

Single Pull

With a single pull slider, only one side is pulled, and the side with the pull on it can be used to open or close the zipper. The pull tab does not lock at any position on the body.

 

Sewing Zippers 

Basics/ Tips on Zipper Installment 

• Fold zipper tape 5mm from the top stop
•  Iron the fabric edges to create a smooth working surface
• Materials Needed: Pilers, Invisible Tape, Shortening Tape, and a Zipper Foot

Precautions on Zipper Installment 

• NEVER twist the open part
• NEVER sew on the plastic part
• NEVER trim the zipper tape to avoid breakage
• Ensure both sides of the garment are aligned before zipping
• A hook-and-eye at the top stops reduces zipper strain