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Ever wondered what a continuous zip is?
Does adding a zip pull to zip tape seem daunting?
We’re here to help!
Here at Plush Addict we offer a huuuuge selection of zips for sewing to help your projects achieve the look you dreamt of!
Boring Legal Bit: If you follow any tutorial or guidance found in this post, or on this blog, you agree to be bound by our disclaimer which can be viewed here
With zipper tape choices ranging from rainbow to block colour… flat to flowery zip pulls, we’re sure to have something for your next project.
Read on for more info about what a continuous zip is, and why you might want to use one instead of a regular zip
Then… see our tutorial on how to add zip pulls to continuous zip tape… We’ve provided you with a photo tutorial, as well as a video demo at the end…
Continuous zips differ from others in that the zipper tape is sold by the metre, without zip pulls. This means you are able cut your zip to ANY size you like. It also means you can add TWO zipper pulls, cos… ya know… you have to love that look.
Waste less: As you just use the amount of zip tape you need there is an environmental benefit to continuous zipper tape; with a little planning waste can be kept to a minimum and a length, with enough pulls ordered, can become multiple zips.
Any length: Cutting zip tape to size means you can have REALLY long zips!
Multiple zip pulls: It also means you can add TWO zipper pulls to your tape, giving you a funky zip just like this one
Greater personalisation – you can mix and match the zip tape and zip pulls to your heart’s desire
Looking for info on other zip types? Then check out our Zip Types Guide Post
1. Cut the tape to the required length. Use domestic scissors to cut through the teeth.
2. Pull the bottom 10cm of the zipper teeth apart.
3. With the back of the zip pull and back of the tape facing upwards thread 1 end of the tape into the zipper from the top. To make this easier angle the teeth into the pull from the side.
4. Repeat step 4. on the other side. Both sets of teeth want to sit toward the top of the clasp.
4. Repeat step 4. on the other side. Both sets of teeth want to sit toward the top of the clasp.
5. Keeping the 2 sides of teeth level with each other, hold the zip pull between one finger/ thumb then draw the 2 sides of the tape down through the pull with the other hand. The zip pull should then begin to move up the tape.
Alternatively, you may find it easier to place the zipper pull between the prongs of a fork (check out the video below!)
draw the 2 sides of the tape down through the pull
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6. Slide the pull toward the top of the tape (without coming off the other end) then pull it back down to check the zip works.
7. If 2 zip pulls are required, repeat steps 1. To 5. from the other end of the tape.
If you find yourself struggling using this method try using a fork to hold the zip pull for you: tuck the bar of the zip between the central teeth (not the clasp where the teeth need to go).
…And if your fork won’t stay still; hold it steady with a blob of blue-tack.
Check out our video on how to attach zipper pulls to continuous zipper tape
Find our tutorial on the blog where you can learn how to sew a cushion with piping and a zip or why not try making this reading cushion?
We hope you found this tutorial useful!
Let us know how you get along in the comments below 🙂
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