Tips to easily change your coat zipper

I’m sure you’ve encountered this problem before: the zipper on your favorite coat stops working and you find yourself having to choose between throwing the coat away or spending a fortune at the tailor to replace it. Fortunately, there are simple tips for changing your coat zipper without much effort. In this article I will share with you these practical tips to save time and money.

Step 1: Choose the right zipper

To get started, it’s essential to choose a new zipper that fits your coat. When you buy a new zipper, make sure it has the same length and same type of cursor compared to what you are replacing. It is also better to choose a zipper with metal teethbecause they are more resistant than plastic ones.

Step 2: Remove the old zipper

Once you find the right zipper, it’s time to remove the old one. To do this, you will need:

1. Scissors or seam ripper: These tools will help you cut the threads that hold the zipper in place.
2. Tweezers: This tool is useful for removing small pieces of remaining thread.

Start by cutting the wires that hold the zipper in place, then use tweezers to remove any debris before detaching the old zipper.

Step 3: Place the new hinge

Now that the old zipper has been removed, it’s time to put the new one on. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Place the zipper in the opening of the coat and make sure it is aligned with fabric on both sides.
2. To keep the zipper in place, you can use sewing pins or special clips. Make sure the zipper teeth are spaced far enough apart to avoid problems when closing.

Step 4: Sew the new zipper

Once the new zipper is positioned correctly, it’s time to sew it to the coat. You will need:

• A sewing machine, with a presser foot suitable for sewing zippers
• Thread to match the coat fabric

Select the correct stitching point

Start by selecting the straight stitch on your sewing machine. This point allows you to securely attach the zipper to the fabric without stretching it too much.

Sew the first side of the zipper

Starting at the bottom of the zipper, sew along the teeth until you reach the top. To prevent machine needles from touching the metal zipper teeth and breaking, be careful to position the presser foot correctly.

Sew the second side of the zipper

After sewing one side, turn the coat over and sew the other side of the zipper. Make sure you use the same straight stitch and take the same precautions with the presser foot to avoid breaking the needles.

Step 5: Test and adjust the new zipper

Take a few minutes to test your work:

1. Close and then open the new zipper several times to check that it is working properly.
2. Check that the zipper is correctly aligned with the coat and that the fabric is not trapped between the teeth.

If you notice a problem, don’t hesitate to unstitch and reposition the zipper before resewing it.

More tips for effortless zipping

• Use a candle: Lightly rub a candle on the zipper teeth to make it easier to open and close.
• Adjust the slider: If the slider fails to grip the teeth properly, you can tighten the jaw slightly by gently pinching both sides with tweezers.

By following these tips and tricks, you will be able to easily replace the zipper on your coat without spending a fortune at the tailor. So don’t wait any longer, find your favorite coat and enjoy the cool winter days to the fullest!

About the author

Clarisse Mercier

As a sewing lover, I manage the editorial side of ZoneCouture and share my discoveries and advice around this art here.