I have found that I have more control when I install a zipper if I can use my reg. Zig Zag foot. It's wider and provides a more stable grip between the zipper and the feed dogs. The only reason I ever used a zipper foot was because the pull would not allow the reg. foot to be used. SOLUTION: Get the zipper several inches longer than you need and sew the zipper in with the pull well above the garment edge. I have put in over a hundred closed end zippers with this method. Unzip the zipper a few inches and do a satin stitch where you want the new stop to be, and VOILA, zipper is in.
The second plus to using too long zippers is that you always have the right length available, and third plus is that the metal top stop isn't hidden to nick your needle when you finish the neckline (and cause extra bulk) |
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I love this idea. It certainly would make putting a zipper in a heck of a lot easier. Thanks for writing up this tip.
11/22/04 10:30 PM
Having always struggled with zippers this is a great suggestion. Might just go sew a dress on the strength of this one!Thanks.
11/23/04 2:21 AM
good
11/23/04 5:40 AM
I have a few 1000 yard mini cones of Gutterman thread that are too big to spin smoothly and the bobbin acts as a little bearing to keep it moving.
11/23/04 5:00 PM
Janie, good tip. I have also been buying longer than needed zippers but didn't think to still use regular foot. I'm also glad you mentioned doing a satin stitch - I hadn't thought of that, so doubly-good tip!
11/25/04 9:18 AM
Zippers are definitely a challenge to me, and this idea is fantastic! I think this will help me from being discouraged when I select a new pattern and it says ... zipper needed. Thanks so much!
1/3/05 1:51 PM
do you sew with the presser foot over the zipper teeth and just move your needle to the right or left to clear the zipper teeth? Or do you keep your foot on either side of the zipper when sewing?(Like you would with a normal zipper foot.) I too love to sew with zippers longer than needed.
1/10/05 3:34 PM
Smart, I'm going to try. GJ
3/29/05 11:15 PM
I have never been so happy to read a sewing tip as I was this one! This is definately the way I will be putting in zippers from now on. Thanks so much!!
1/5/06 2:49 AM