Sewing a Centered Zipper Application

By Debbie Colgrove, About.com Guide

Learning how to sew zippers is not as difficult as you may think. Take a deep breath, take your time, baste first and follow these directs, tips and pointers to have results you are happy with.

• A centered zipper is a zipper that is sewn in with an even amount of fabric on each side of the zipper. The teeth of the zipper under the area where the fabric would create a seam if there were not a zipper.
• A centered zipper application is commonly used in the front of jackets with a seperating zipper and in the center back of a garment using an all purpose zipper.
• Most people consider a centered zipper the easiest zipper application.
• Preparing to sew a centered zipper involves preshrinking the fabric and zipper before you began any pattern layout etc.
• Many people fuss and fret because the fabric seems to twist or warp as the top stitching is sewn. This can be prevented by fusing light-weight fusible interfacing to the seam and zipper area before you begin any sewing. The fusible interfacing will stabilize the fabric, preventing it from stretching or warping as you sew.
• Commercial patterns will tell you what size zipper to purchase in the sewing notions area on the envelope. If you are not sure, measure the opening and remember that zipper sizes refer to the length of the teeth in the zipper, not the length of the tape the teeth are attached too.

Previous

• A Centered Zipper
• Getting Started
• Baste, Press and Seam Finish
• Placing the Zipper
• Basting the Second Side
• Topstitch

Next