A Zipper Guide: Everything You Need To Know About Zip Types

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You can watch a video I did talking you through all the different zip types here:

The Anatomy Of A Zip

First, let’s talk about the anatomy of a zip… You might find some of these terms in a tutorial and it’s useful to be aware of the parts, and the functions they serve in your zip

Different Types Of Zips

What is a closed ended zip?

What is a separating or open ended zip?

What type of zip do I need?

What’s a nylon coil zip?

What does an invisible zip look lik

Where to use a moulded plastic/chunky zip?


What are metal teeth zips?

What are continuous zips?

Check out our other post which gives you a tutorial on how to add the zipper pulls to the zipper tape on a continuous zips

What does a #3 or #5 Zip look like?

When sewing your makes, if your project doesn’t include a recommendation for the size of the zipper, you can use the table below:

Zipper Size Chart




12 thoughts on “A Zipper Guide: Everything You Need To Know About Zip Types”

  1. Wow! Thanks for all this detailed explanation. I’ll be saving this for future reference.

  2. I accidentally bought a closed zip (dual colour chunky) when I need an open zip. Is there a way to convert those?

    1. Oops! Not that I know of… thinking about the anatomy of the bottom stop of an open ended zip I’m not sure it’s possible Jane – these parts are moulded on at manufacture

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