Zips are everywhere, and many reasons make them popular. As they come in different styles, sizes, and materials, they go with any product that requires closure.
Most of all, you can’t even think of replacing zips as they are convenient and easy to use.
What Should You Check When Buying Online?
But every project has a different closure requirement. So, when you go to buy a zip, make sure you consider the following features.
Style Matters
You can choose between two styles of zippers, which are closed bottom and separating bottom.
- Closed Bottom Zippers– They feature a bar fixed at both sides of the zip base to keep the zip in one piece. You can use them in boots, dresses, handbags, tents, etc.
- Separating Zippers –They feature two finished ends that open at the bottom. These are ideal for your jackets, long coats, parkas, sportswear, hammock covers, sleeping bags, etc.
Type Available
The most common types of zippers are coil, stamped metal, and stamped plastic. So, make sure you know what type fits your needs.
- Coil Type– These are the most popular of all due to their lightweight and flexibility. They feature tight-knit teeth made of coiled polyester or nylon, either woven or stitched into the tape. Due to the flexible teeth construction, they have a subtle feel. They fit into any project, be it fashion, clothing, luggage, automobile, or sports products.
- Moulded Plastic Type– These zips are the most cost-effective and are made from acetal polymer. Their teeth are moulded or melted into the zip tape. Due to this, they look stiffer than the coil types. These are rust-proof, heat resistant, and lightweight, ideal for your parkas, sportswear, sweaters, hoodies, tote bags, and more.
- Metal Type-These zippers can be identified on jeans having a brass, silver, or gold finish. These heavy-duty zips feature metal teeth clamped onto the zip tape. They come in varying lengths and designs but are heavy compared to other types. These zips are incredibly durable and are mainly used on heavy-duty garments, workwear, luggage, etc.
- Invisible Type- They have different construction than other types. The teeth are on the backside, which makes them almost invisible. You can sew invisible zippers and their foot into your product. You can use them in skirts, tight-fitting dresses, and many other formal attires.
Size Needed for Your Project
When you check zip varieties online, you’ll come across a # symbol with a number next to it. This number indicates the length of your zip teeth. The size of your zip will depend upon your project requirements. The teeth, slider, and other elements also come in different sizes. Hence, make sure you have the correct measurements with you to select the right zip. Here is a chart for reference:
- Small-#1-#4- dresses, pants, small cushions, handbags, etc.
- Medium-#5-#7- jackets, duffel bags, purses, boots, tents, etc.
- Large– #8-#10- upholstery, workwear, vehicle covers, canvas tents, etc.
Zip Slider
The zip slider is an element that goes up and down the teeth to connect or disconnect the zipper teeth. So, you can choose a zip with a single or double slider. Some of the sliders’ options are auto-lock slider, non-locking slider, round slider, rounded zipper slider, and square slider. Zipper pulls are a great alternative to a slider, useful in products like a purse, backpack, etc., where the space is too small or difficult to reach by the sliders. Most importantly, give preference to your project requirement while choosing zippers. For example, if you require zip for boat cover, plastic zipper chains with polyester tape are ideal as plastic is lightweight and corrosion-resistant. Likewise, a concealed/invisible zip will enhance the aesthetics of your apparel, bags, and other fashion projects. So, choose the ones suitable for your product.
