Sew A Zip

I used to avoid sewing zips as I felt that it was really tricky. However, after attempting it a few times it doesn’t seem so complicated after all. It is always a bit different every time I sew it but practice definitely makes it better if not perfect!

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Steps

1. Position the zip in between both sides of the fabric pieces, right sides facing up.
2. Place the fabrics so that it completely covers the zip.
3. Pin pieces together. Please ensure that the direction of the pins is opposite to each other on either fabric sides as shown below. This is for easy pin removal when you machine sew later. If you prefer you can sew the pieces together with a simple running stitch.

4. Change your sewing machine to a zip foot.

5. Move the foot and needle closest to the zip. The zip foot can be attached to the left or right side. For example, if you choose to start from the left side of the fabric, attach the right side of the zip foot to the machine and adjust the needle to the most possible right.
6. Always remember to begin sewing where the zip handle is located.

7. Before you begin sewing, open the zip to about 2 inches (5 cm).
8. Please note that in this example there is about and inch (2.5 cm) of fabric before the zip starts.
9. Start sewing slowly and stop just before you arrive at the position of the handle. You need to avoid sewing at this position as if you continue, it will give you a “bumpy” appearance in your sewing due to the bulk around the handle.
10. Lift the foot but leave the needle securely in place in the fabric.
11. Pull the handle back closing the zip completely again.
12. Continue sewing the length of the zip.
13. Once at the end, lift the foot again and turn anti-clockwise 90 degrees to sew the edge of the zip.
14. In this case, the zip edge is about a 1/2 inch (1.3 cm). Remember to backstitch this small part of the zip.
15. Lift the foot again and turn anti-clockwise again sewing along the opposite length of the zip.
16. Stop approximately 2 inches before you reach the end (where the zip handle is).
17. As before, it may be easier if you lift the foot but leave the needle in the fabric.
18. Open the zip again making sure the handle is placed after (behind) the position of the foot and needle.
19. Put the foot down and continue sewing until the end of the zip.
20. Close back the zip and you are done!